Hilton Head Island is famous for its scenic beaches, golf courses, and friendly vibe, but it also shines when it comes to dinner experiences. The island’s waterways provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable meals, especially when combined with stunning sunsets and fresh Lowcountry cuisine. We’re particularly fond of the Sunset Dinner Cruise, which offers a blend of scenic sailing and gourmet dining—what’s better than watching the sun dip behind Harbour Town while enjoying a three-course meal? Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to dine in style, Hilton Head has options that will make your evening memorable.
While many visitors opt for casual seafood joints, the dinner cruises stand out for their combination of scenic views, delicious food, and relaxed atmosphere. From traditional Lowcountry boils to hibachi-style cuisine, there’s something for every preference. Our favorites include cruises that combine a good meal with dolphin sightings and picturesque sunsets, ensuring your night is both tasty and visually stunning.
1. Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dinner Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a classic and highly-rated experience. With a 4.4/5 rating from over 200 reviews, it’s clear this cruise hits the right notes. For around $106 per person, you get a 2-hour journey aboard a comfortable vessel that sails through the Intracoastal waterways. The highlight is a three-course dinner prepared fresh by award-winning chefs at the Sea Pines Resort, with options for both outdoor and indoor seating.
The route takes you past Daufuskie Island and Bull Creek, offering spectacular sunset views over the unspoiled estuaries. Keep an eye out for dolphins, which often play around the boat, adding a bit of magic to the evening. As you approach Harbour Town, the iconic lighthouse lights up, creating a perfect photo moment. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere makes this cruise suitable for couples, families, or groups celebrating special moments.
Guests consistently praise the quality of the food, the friendly service, and the panoramic sunset scenery. One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Spectacular sunset and delicious meal. Highly recommend going early to get the best views.” This cruise offers great value for a laid-back yet luxurious evening on the water.
Bottom line: If you want a reliable, scenic dinner cruise with excellent food and dolphin sightings, this is a top pick.
2. Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise
The Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise ranks just slightly higher with a 4.5/5 rating from 120 reviews. Priced at $106 per person, it’s nearly identical in duration and setting to the number 1 option but distinguishes itself with a slightly more intimate experience aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town.
This cruise features a three-course meal prepared by the chefs of Sea Pines Resort. You can customize your meal by sharing your preferences during booking, ensuring dietary needs are met. The cruise navigates Calibogue Sound, where the views of South Carolina’s islands and salt marshes are stunning, especially at sunset. During the trip, you will likely cruise past Daufuskie Island, offering a glimpse of the unspoiled coastline.
Reviews highlight the delicious food, peaceful ambiance, and opportunity to see dolphins. One guest shared, “The food was really good, and the sunset was spectacular,” emphasizing the quality of the experience. The relaxed pace and friendly crew make it ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet flavorful evening.
Bottom line: Slightly more intimate and customizable, this cruise suits travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic dinner with a personal touch.
3. Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise
For a more unique dining take, the Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise offers a fun twist at number 3. With a 4.0/5 rating from 70 reviews, this cruise combines scenic sailing with all-you-can-eat hibachi cuisine. Priced at approximately $128 per person, it’s slightly more expensive but delivers a lively and flavorful experience.
On this custom catamaran, you’ll enjoy unlimited hibachi-style entrees—chicken, steak, shrimp, and vegetables—along with salad and fried rice. Beverages like beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase, letting you tailor your evening. As the boat cruises around Hilton Head Island, the combination of sizzling food, music, and sunset views creates a lively, interactive atmosphere.
Guests rave about the entertaining crew and the quality of the hibachi dishes. One reviewer described it as “a really fun cruise with great food and friendly staff.” It’s particularly suited for groups who want a more energetic, casual dinner with the bonus of a scenic sunset.
Bottom line: If you’re after a spirited, flavor-packed evening on the water, this cruise offers a lively alternative to traditional dinner cruises.
4. Hilton Head Island: Hibachi Dinner Cruise
The Hibachi Dinner Cruise is a relaxed 2-hour cruise offering hibachi-style cuisine on Hilton Head’s waterways. At $117 per person and a 4.4/5 rating from 16 reviews, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a blend of scenic sailing and a fun, all-you-can-eat dinner.
This cruise focuses on providing a laid-back setting aboard a custom catamaran, where you can indulge in hibachi entrees while enjoying panoramic views of Hilton Head’s coast. The menu features a variety of meats and vegetables, cooked fresh onboard. Beverages are available to purchase, and the sunset backdrop provides a stunning visual to accompany your meal.
Reviews highlight the stunning scenery and relaxed vibe, perfect for couples or families looking for a casual, enjoyable evening. While the food gets high praise, the main draw is the atmosphere—combining good eats with the calming waters.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a laid-back, hibachi-style dinner with scenic water views, without the formality of traditional cruises.
5. Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head
Sailing aboard the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise is number 5. Priced at $148 per person with a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 1 review, this cruise features a chef-curated Southern feast focused on a classic Lowcountry boil.
On this journey, you’ll indulge in fresh Carolina shrimp, andouille sausage, corn, and potatoes, all served on the luxurious catamaran Ohana. The cruise offers a relaxed, elegant setting, perfect for romantic evenings or family gatherings. As you dine, watch the sunset over salt marshes, with a good chance of dolphin sightings.
This experience emphasizes both authentic Southern flavors and scenic tranquility, making it stand out. Reviewers praise the delicious food and peaceful environment, with one noting it’s “a perfect blend of relaxed elegance and local flavor.”
Bottom line: For a high-quality, Lowcountry seafood feast in a calm, scenic setting, this cruise delivers a memorable night.
$148.00 per person
6. Hilton Head Island: Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise
The Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise offers a 2-hour trip with traditional flavors. Although the review count is missing, the experience promises a hearty meal of local shrimp and sausage, with 2 complimentary drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks—onboard the Bonjour.
This cruise is best suited for travelers wanting a classic Southern meal with easygoing, scenic sailing. The focus is on authentic lowcountry flavors and relaxed comfort. The spacious seating and shaded areas make it a good choice for families or those seeking a laid-back evening with good food and scenic views.
Bottom line: An excellent, budget-conscious choice for lovers of traditional Lowcountry cuisine in a casual setting.
$118 per person
7. Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise
Lastly, the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise is a straightforward, scenic cruise with a focus on authentic flavors and relaxing waters. Priced at $128 per person, it offers a hearty Lowcountry boil served hot on the deck of the Bonjour, with two complimentary drinks and stunning sunset views.
Although it has no reviews yet, it provides an excellent option for those wanting to experience local cuisine in a breezy, scenic environment. The cruise’s relaxed and inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for couples, families, or friends looking to enjoy a flavorful meal on the water.
Bottom line: For an authentic Lowcountry seafood experience with scenic serenity, this cruise is worth considering.
$148.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hilton Head Dinner Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, preferred style, and what kind of scenery or cuisine you most enjoy. For a classic sunset cruise with fine dining, the Sunset Dinner Cruise and the Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise offer reliable, scenic experiences. If you prefer a lively, casual vibe with unlimited hibachi, then the Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise is ideal. For seafood lovers seeking a more authentic local flavor, the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruises provide hearty, scenic options.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and seating. Consider the length of the cruise—most are around 2 hours—and plan for any dietary preferences or special occasions.
Final Thoughts
Hilton Head Island offers an impressive range of dinner cruises and water-based experiences that combine stunning scenery with delicious food. Whether you’re drawn to a romantic sunset cruise, a lively hibachi night, or a traditional Lowcountry boil, there’s an option for every taste. The top choices, like the Sunset Dinner Cruise and the Lowcountry Boil, stand out for their blend of scenic views, quality cuisine, and overall value.
To get the most out of your trip, think about what atmosphere you prefer—peaceful and intimate or lively and casual—and book early to reserve your spot. Hilton Head’s dinner experiences promise more than just a meal—they’re an opportunity to see the island from a whole new perspective.