The Best Places to Get Local Food on Hilton Head Island

Seafood is part of Hilton Head Island’s heritage, and it’s easy to understand why. We’re surrounded by bountiful waters and spoiled with generations of skilled fishers who know how to source the best seafood, often delivering it from the dock to your dish on the same day. If you’re a seafood “afishionado”, make sure you pack your appetite when you visit Hilton Head Island.

Start your seafood search by checking out The Quarterdeck at The Sea Pines Resort, which recently underwent major renovations. It’s located next to the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse and offers a rooftop oyster bar, among other amenities. Of course, for many, the real hook here is the Quarterdeck Market, located on the first floor, where you can buy your own fresh and local seafood to take home, cooked or raw, to enjoy as you like. Next, head to Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, which boasts locally caught seafood and ingredients that pay homage to the land and water that shape us. And if you want to see our fishers at work, grab a table at Hudson’s On The Dock, and watch the fresh harvest arrive dockside as the shrimp boats roll in. As one of the oldest seafood restaurants on the Island, this is where visitors and locals alike come for a hearty feast.

Sipping a cold drink on a warm day is one of life’s simple pleasures — especially when you’re enjoying time with friends at a local establishment. Luckily, here on Hilton Head Island, you’ll find a burgeoning brewing and distillery scene that’s full of flavor, character, and love for the community.

Start your tasting adventure at Hilton Head Distillery, where every bottle of spirits is produced on island using locally sourced and specialty ingredients. From the Ghost Pirate Gold Rum and Hilton Head Vodka to the Sherry Cask Single Malt Whiskey and Atlantic Bourbon, there’s a story behind every pour here.

Next, swing by Side Hustle Brewing Co. for award-winning craft beers and an easygoing atmosphere. With a rotating tap, snacks, and a beer garden, Side Hustle could easily become your main source of fun and revelry on Hilton Head Island.

And if you’re into something with a little retro flair, Local Legend Brewing Company is the spot for you. This new addition to Hilton Head Island serves up pints alongside classic arcade games like NBA Jam, pinball machines like Jaws, and good, old-fashioned foosball, billiards, shuffleboard, and more. Grab a drink and some “Southern Popcorn” (fried okra, shishito peppers, and Texas petal sauce), and settle in for an afternoon of fun.

A stroll around a farmers market is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This is especially true when you're on vacation. Every Tuesday, join the community from 9:00 AM - 1 PM at Coastal Discovery Museum’s Hilton Head Island Farmers Market. Be sure to take some time to chat with the friendly vendors and farmers to learn more about their fresh produce, baked goods, drinks, and specialty goods. Or, just give a quick smile and hello as you browse. 

The Hilton Head Community Market takes place every Saturday in Shelter Cove — a perfect stop before a beach day. And over at The Shops at Sea Pines Center, the Farmers and Makers Market adds live music to the mix, so you can shop and sample to the sounds of local musicians.