South Carolina’s Hilton Head Island is steeped in magical views. Views of the Atlantic. Views of the Calibogue Sound. Views of a place called Shark Bank, a Calibogue shoal boaters know all too well. And views of the various creeks and waterways that carefully slice into the landscape, creating spots here and there that glisten as the sun reflects upon the water.
Whether you are among the nearly 40,000 people who call this 12-mile barrier island home or you're visiting, there's no doubt the effect of leaving your worries on the mainland has on your psyche.
And don't think for even a moment that you need to be over there on the Atlantic side of the island to enjoy the full effect of the Hilton Head charm. If you've never dined at Hudson's Seafood on the Docks (pictured - and located on the backside of the island), then you are in for a sweet experience. But before you arrive for your seafood, you'll be treated to views that live up to the hype of beautiful, charming, magical Hilton Head Island...
From the moment you leave the mainland in South Carolina and cross Mackay Creek on Fording Island Road, you may begin to feel your worries melt away.
You might think that those who live on the island eventually get used to it and might begin to forget just how wonderful it is to cross this body of water en route to the island. And if you did, you'd be wrong. When you live on a barrier island in South Carolina, you never lose that feeling when you cross that last body of water on your way home.
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On your way to Hudson's Seafood on the Docks, as you enjoy the views and think of the delicious feast ahead, you're likely to take the shortest route to the restaurant.
This would be a hard left onto Squire Pope Road. And just ahead on the left is a little park known as Green Shell Park. Stop if you have a few extra moments. The serenity here is worth the effort. Once you've had your fill (if that's possible!) hop back in the car because Hudson's is just ahead on the left.
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The restaurant has enormous indoor seating capacity, if that's the route you choose.
Huge windows on all of the water-facing walls allow for amazing views from most, if not all, of the indoor tables. But the outdoor seating (seen here) is the place to be in our humble opinion.
During the spring, fall, and yes, even some of the winter months, the weather can be positively perfect for dining on the docks.
The website details how the waters surrounding the restaurant allow for the best catch and also dictate the fresh fish available on the menu throughout the day, as well as the season, in general.
With menu items that range from fish and chips, to blackened, grilled, or fried fillets, plus seafood pastas, a catch of the day, crab cakes, soft shell crab, and so much more, you're sure to find more then one item you can't live without.
Just be sure to leave room for the dessert... or have your wait staff box it up so you can have it when you get home.
Seafood with a view… and a scenic drive, to boot! What more could you ask for?
Hudson’s Seafood on the Docks has been a Hilton Head Island dining institution since 1967. It’s open seven days a week and does not take reservations. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis… and is positively worth the wait.
Restaurant hours are: Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Brunch is served on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn more and see the full menu by visiting the Hudson’s Seafood on the Docks website.
