Why You’ll Love The Quarterdeck: A Hidden Gem in Harbour Town, Hilton Head Island
Why Quarterdeck Restaurant is a Must-Visit in Harbour Town, Hilton Head
Nestled within the picturesque Harbour Town area, Quarterdeck Restaurant offers a fantastic meal and a wonderful experience. With its stunning views of the marina and the Harbour Town Lighthouse, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a cold drink with a view, Quarterdeck has something to offer.
We recently took a family trip to Hilton Head and celebrated my son’s 16th birthday at Quarterdeck. It is a lovely restaurant, the food is amazing, and the views are gorgeous!
A Prime Location in Harbour Town
The picturesque view of the water and the bustling marina adds a scenic touch to your dining experience. It’s perfect for both daytime meals and sunset dinners. After our meal, we explored the marina, visited the pier, and walked to the top of the Harbourtown Lighthouse.
Harbour Town is one of the most beloved spots on Hilton Head Island, and this restaurant is located at its heart. Charming shops, boat docks, and beautiful landscapes surround Quarterdeck. You can do a little shopping, explore the area, or relax in one of the big red rocking chairs located all over Harbour Town.
Delicious Seafood and Southern Specialties: A Menu to Savor
Photo Above: Bone-In Ribeye with Fries and veggies
Pictured Above: Filet Mignon (8-ounce filet, truffled fingerling potatoes, ember-roasted local vegetables, bordelaise sauce)
Above Photo: Baby Gem Wedge Salad
Photo Above: Street Corn Elote Fingers
Above Photo: Blackened Springer Mountain Farms Chicken Alfredo
One of the biggest draws of Quarterdeck is its extensive menu, which features an array of seafood dishes and Southern specialties. From shrimp and grits to fresh fish tacos, there’s no shortage of delicious options that showcase the local flavors of Hilton Head Island. If you’re a seafood lover, you can’t miss the grilled shrimp, seared scallops, or the famous Lowcountry boil.
But the options aren’t limited to seafood. Quarterdeck also serves up mouth-watering steaks, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.
My husband ordered the Ribeye, my daughter ordered the Blackened Chicken Alfredo, and I ordered the Baby Gem Wedge Salad. Other family members ordered Shrimp and Grits, The Burger, The Filet Mignon, The Fish Sandwich, and the Chicken Sandwich – and everything was delicious.
We also ordered the Alligator Bites and the Street Corn Elote Fingers for appetizers. My son got a free brownie with ice cream for his birthday, and we ordered extras to share. They were all amazing!
If you want to be bougie on a budget, visit Quarterdect before 4 p.m. You can get a burger, fish sandwich, or fried chicken sandwich for $20 or less.
Pictured Above: Burger with fries (under $20 served only at lunch before 4 p.m.)
Above Photo: Fried Chicken Sandwich with fries (under $20 served only at lunch before 4 p.m.)
Above Photo: Fish Sandwich with fries (under $20 served only at lunch before 4 p.m.)
Celebrate a Birthday at Quarterdeck
We celebrated my son’s 16th Birthday here at Quarterdeck. The restaurant offers a free Qd’s South Carolina Turtle Brownie. It’s served warm with Häagen-Dazs vanilla ice cream, warm caramel, and chocolate sauce with salted pecans. We ordered extras for our group, and everyone said it was delicious.
They also offer a key lime pie and a chocolate cake (with Grand Marnier and whipped chocolate ganache-YUM!) on their dessert menu.
When making your reservation, please tell them that you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary. If using the Resy APP, there is an option to let them know what you are celebrating. We had over 9 people in our party, so I told them when I reserved our table over the phone.
Best Views for Outdoor Dining in Hilton Head Island
If you’re looking to enjoy your meal while taking in some of the best views on Hilton Head Island, the outdoor seating at Quarterdeck is a must. The spacious patio overlooks the Harbour Town Marina, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the boats gliding by as you dine. I loved all of the warm breezes out on the deck – it was so peaceful!
You can make a reservation for dinner in the evening and watch the sun set – it’s beautiful and very romantic!
Family-Friendly Atmosphere at Quarterdeck Restaurant
Quarterdeck isn’t just for couples or solo travelers – it’s a family-friendly spot too! The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for families visiting Hilton Head Island. Kids will love the variety of options on the children’s menu, and the outdoor seating area gives them plenty of space to move around while you enjoy your meal. Plus, the stunning views will keep everyone entertained!
Harbour Town has a playground near the parking lot if the kids need to get some wiggles out before or after dinner.
What to Expect When Visiting Quarterdeck: Hours and Reservations
To make the most of your visit to Quarterdeck, it’s a good idea to check the restaurant’s hours ahead of time. They’re usually open daily for lunch and dinner, but seasonal variations may apply.
While the restaurant often welcomes walk-ins, it’s recommended to make a reservation during peak seasons, particularly for outdoor seating with the best views. We went to the restaurant’s website and made a reservation there through Resy. They also offer reservations on the OpenTable APP. You might have to call if you have a reservation for 8+ people.
FAQs About Quarterdeck Restaurant
1. Does Quarterdeck have vegetarian options?
Yes! While it specializes in seafood, there are vegetarian-friendly options available, including salads and vegetable sides.
2. Does Quarterdeck have gluten-free options?
Yes! Quarterdeck offers gluten-free dishes like salads and steaks (with potatoes and veggies). The menu items are listed GF for gluten-free.
3. Is there parking near Quarterdeck in Harbour Town?
Yes, there is ample parking near the restaurant, though it can get crowded during peak times.
4. What are the best times to visit Quarterdeck?
For the best experience, visit around sunset to enjoy the beautiful views or come early to avoid crowds.
Quarterdeck Market
If you want to order something to go, you can order at the Quarterdeck Market, located inside the restaurant. You can also grab some Häagen-Dazs ice cream or a souvenir in this cute little shop.
What You Can Get at the Market, Gift Shop, and Ice Cream Shop:
- Sandwiches, Tacos, and Baskets
- Fresh Seafood
- Ice Cream, Milkshakes, and Italian Ice
- Kid’s Meals
- Snacks and Drinks
- Souvenirs
- Sea Pines Resort and Quarterdeck-branded merchandise
Dining at Quarterdeck Restaurant in Hilton Head Island, SC is more than just a meal — it’s an experience that combines fresh Lowcountry seafood, breathtaking waterfront views, and the charm of Harbour Town. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner, a family-friendly lunch, or a memorable evening by the water, Quarterdeck delivers on every level.
As one of the best restaurants in Hilton Head, it’s the perfect place to end a day exploring Sea Pines Resort and the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Add Quarterdeck to your Hilton Head vacation itinerary, and you’ll see why it’s a must-visit for both locals and travelers.
Be sure to make reservations, especially during peak season, so you don’t miss the chance to enjoy one of Hilton Head’s most iconic dining experiences.
You might also like:
Visiting The Sandbox Children’s Museum in Hilton Head, SC
Top Free Things to Do in Hilton Head: Coastal Discovery Museum
How to Tier Match Hilton Honors to MSC Cruises: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let's Be Friends! Follow Me:
Related Posts
About The Author
KristyB
Wife. Mom. Graphic Designer. Photographer. Professional Nap Taker. Part-time Traveler (with kids in tow, of course!)