During the summer, Hilton Head Island diners are all on the search for dinner with a view.  Because of this, wait times can get really long at popular waterfront restaurants.  But, did you know that several water adjacent spots offer reservations?  Reservations are a great way to reduce wait times and spend more time at the beach or pool!  

I put together a guide to help visitors and islanders map out their waterfront dining plans with a list of places that take reservations.  Most of the list takes reservations online through OpenTable or Resy unless otherwise noted.

Restaurants with a Water View

Ela’s on the Water is located in Shelter Cove Marina and offers indoor and outdoor seating.  Strolling along the marina after dinner is a wonderful outing.

Sunset Grille (must call for reservations) is off the beaten path and located on the north end of the island in the Hilton Head Harbor RV Resort. It’s perched on the second floor (no elevator) and overlooks the pool and Skull Creek with excellent sunset views.  Be sure to save room for dessert!

41 Up Roof (above Benny’s Coastal Kitchen) just started taking reservations a couple of weeks ago.  This rooftop bar offers a small plates menu along with a variety of cocktails, mocktails, wine, and craft beers.  Live music is very common and its a great place to enjoy a sunset over Skull Creek.

Family Friendly Water Front Restaurants

Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek is a popular spot for families with young kids.  They offer reservations, an indoor aquarium, and a small playground right next to the marsh.  Come for the views, live music and stay to play!

Skullcreek Dockside offers large cartoon shark cups for kiddos to enjoy and take home as souvenirs.  A kids menu is available for kiddos 10 and under.  The main draw is an outdoor play space for kids of all ages including ping pong, a shrimp boat playground, and foosball tables! (photo of the view above).

Fishcamp on Broad Creek offers indoor reservations but outdoor tables are first come first serve.  Kids love playing with their giant connect four game, climbing in and out of the boat, and listening to live music while enjoying marsh views and breezes.

Benny’s Coastal Kitchen is a newer addition to this list and offers a fun outside area with swings, ping pong, and outdoor games… while overlooking Skull Creek!

Cheers to less time waiting for a table this summer!

Brooke is a Hilton Head local and shares her best tips for island eats, drinks, events, activities and fun with her @hifromhhi Instagram followers.

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