4. Restaurants

The Sea Shack

6 Executive Park Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
  • (843) 785-2464
  • Store is closed

The Sea Shack Menu

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  • Shawna T.

    Absolutely the best seafood we had while on the island this go around. My hubby had the shack attack fried with cheese grits and loved it. I had the popcorn shrimp platter with cole slaw and French fries. Delicious! Prices were great when compared to other restaurants, and the ambience reflects it-but it's all part of the experience! Seating is minimal and there is almost always a line. We lucked up and got behind only 2 people when we arrived on Saturday at 1:00 (in February) A line was starting to form when we left.. I would recommend going early or late to avoid the line. The line is outside too, so if it's cold outside dress warm! It's worth the wait!

    (4)

  • Brian U.

    A local favorite. Get there early, expect a line, but worth the wait. You cannot go wrong with anything you order.

    (5)

  • Lucy S.

    Fantastic seafood and southern sides. Highly recommend the Grouper and Shrimp. Anything "blackened" and "jerk" is delicious, but certainly has a kick! Standout sides include cheese grits, collards, and sweet potato cornbread. Hush puppies are also some of the best I've ever had. No bells and whistles here, but some of the freshest and best food the island has to offer.

    (5)

  • Halley S.

    We went here after our fishing boat captain raved about the food. It's nothing fancy but the meals are outstanding. You order as soon as you walk in, pay, sit down and then they bring you your food on plastic plates. The Mac and cheese side was very unique and the blackened shrimp was delicious. We tried the clam chowder and there were so many clams they were piled on the top. Coleslaw was amazing... Popcorn shrimp was light and yummy... We didn't try everything but what we did have was all A+!!!

    (5)

  • Laura D.

    Great take-out! We ordered a smorgashboard of seafood our last night on HHI from the Sea Shack. My grilled scallops were delicious, along with the collard greens and mini salad (indeed, mini). Everything was fresh, cooked well, and not too oily. Apparently the wait can be long since they don't do call ahead for take-out, but our 10 dinners came out in about 30 min (the downpour probably helped keep away the crowds). FYI - either they don't have cocktail sauce or don't know what it is. We specifically asked for cocktail and was assured it was in the bag, but all we got were a bunch of Heinz packets. Oh well.

    (4)

  • Laurie V.

    Mmm.....welll....okay. Not fantastic, but not bad. You wait on line outside. Said line does move fairly fast. Service is fairly quick. This place is not fancy and the lighting is a little too bright. The fried seafood is decent. I had the "pick two combo" with clams and crabcakes. They were both a little bland and needed gobs of cocktail sauce. I chose the fries and coleslaw as my sides. Both sides proved to be decent choices. You get a lot of food. There are only soft drinks served here. I like the crushed ice they serve. Much better than cubed. Ambiance: poor Food: decent Service: fast I wouldn't go out of my way to come back here, but it wasn't bad in a pinch. It was a rainy night (and by "rainy" I mean, POURING), so we didn't wanna go too far in the rain. This proved to be an okay choice.

    (3)

  • Vince D.

    A shack is a pretty good description of the ambiance, but not in a quaint way. Dumpster dining is a better analogy. The place is a dump and one would expect with their success that the owners could at least do some basic maintenance (fix broken furnishings, tidy up, collect trash, etc..) However, for carry-out dining this place is quite a find. The food is fresh and cooked perfectly. After a full week of dining out on our Hilton Head vacation none of the restaurants we tried had better food! Considering the atmosphere and quality of the service the prices are fair, but not a great bargain. The restaurant was just around the corner from our resort. So we returned several times. We found during peak periods, especially over the holiday weekend, the line was too long. We will probably be back again for carry-out since the food was so good, but won't go out of our way due to the unpredictable wait times, crowds and uninviting ambiance.

    (4)

  • Jen A.

    Did we miss something here?! The food was not good and our fish smelled fishy (ewwww!). I was sooooooo disappointed as I had high hopes. You do get a lot of food for the money but it just didn't have the quality or flavor I expected.

    (1)

  • David L R.

    4.5 stars The wife and I have been here on many occasions that we had not been in a while. We went for lunch today and had the popcorn shrimp as it is only one of two places on Hilton head that serve it. The food always comes out within 5 to 10 minutes and is right out of the fryer or pan or oven and everything is hot, and all cold items are cold. Not many places including the $40 per entrée items at a higher end restaurant are ever as hot and as fresh, It's really too bad that Rachael Ray had to advertise it so when all of the tourists are in town as we are local you cannot get in. Small, nothing fancy, paper plate type service but the folks are friendly and the food is always great. Highly recommended.

    (4)

  • Kay C.

    Worth the 12 hour drive to get here. Always have great food when you're at Sea Shack!!!

    (5)

  • Jaime M.

    Great food decent prices. Get here early because a line forms and they let you in as tables become available. Also dress is very casual.

    (5)

  • Tori H.

    Great fresh seafood in a non assuming location. Breading is light and enhances the seafoods flavor. Staff are friendly. Would go back again.

    (5)

  • Don H.

    The Sea Shack was the third seafood restaurant I visited in Hilton Head. I wish it would have been the first. I could have ate there a few more times. My grouper dinner was just fine. I had never enough it before so nothing to compare it to. My wife had a combo dinner (oysters, shrimp, and scallops). All fresh and good. I tasted the shrimp and ordered more. Very good meal.

    (4)

  • Steve C.

    Little pricey. $40 for 3 people. I remember it being cheaper the last time I was here. But the food was so good it was worth it. I think in a weeks stay we ate lunch here four times. Try it, you won't regret it.

    (5)

  • Suzanne S.

    This is not fresh seafood. I had Blackened Mahi Mahi and definitely not fresh. No Conche in the Conche Fritters ; (! The She Crab soup was so salty and fishy. The sweet potato cornbread was horrible bc it had way too much ground ginger no corn so I do not know why they call it cornbread. Wasabi Cucumber Dressing was good and the side salad was good also. I would not come back to this place if you have eaten fresh seafood caught fresh from the boat like they do in Florida Keys you won't be happy! They had good service and they managed the line well. For the life of me I do not know why there is a line for this place, Note so self please do not return !!

    (2)

  • Laurel F.

    Lots of character! Not a place for a romantic date but absolutely for a fun date. We enjoyed the alligator appetizers and mahi mahi/fried oyster lunch. We will definitely be repeat customers!

    (5)

  • Mel T.

    Quick, efficient service, great hole in the wall atmosphere. The food was excellent. Many places disappoint on the quality of their side dishes. Not the shack. Coleslaw, rd beans. & rice & hush puppies were awesome! Fish nuggets & crab cakes were good. The shrimp was wonderful! We had a combo platter, crab cake & shrimp with 2 sides & hush puppies. The kids had fish nuggets & fries.

    (4)

  • Phil P.

    Jerk seasoned grouper was a little over spiced but the fish was cooked well. It's hard to beat their prices. The "shack" is appropriately named for the lack of expensive atmosphere.

    (4)

  • Aurora P.

    This place isn't fancy, but the food is delicious. The blackened salmon was flavorful, and the crab cake was the best I've ever eaten. The cheddar mashed potatoes were also quite good.

    (5)

  • Amanda M.

    The food was great and reasonably priced. This was literally my first stop out of the airport on our vacation to HHI. The quick no nonsense service was exactly what I needed after 2 delayed flights. We went in on a monday evening around 8pm so the line was not out of the door (as I have heard it can be) but the restaurant was still busy. We ordered the crab cake appitizer (a must) and grilled grouper, tilapia, and flounder. Portions were perfect and all dinners came with 2 sides and hush puppies. I almost never clean my plate when dining out but I did at this place! Get the baked beans as a side if available (I think the side changes daily). Overall, sea shack had the perfect laid back vibe to start my vacation.

    (4)

  • Kerrie C.

    It is truly a shack but tasty! Lines each time I visited. Too long a line in first attempt but short enough line on second attempt. Good portions great for the price. Two thumbs up!

    (5)

  • Jonathan W.

    They were very rude never got to eat and watch out for the irate patrons in parking lot. We were asked to leave due to some seating system I did not know about. When we arrived there was no one waiting at the door only a shouting man saying he was leaving. We walked in and got in line. There was a sign that said order at the counter and we will seat you. The woman who spoked to us was rude and only mumbled that it worked had for 15 years before as we were shown the door. I had no idea what was going on but we were not treated like patrons who were there to spend money.

    (1)

  • Randy W.

    This is a great local hole in the wall. You wait in a line outside the restaurant but it's so worth it. You order at the register and self serve drinks. Buffalo shrimp po boy was great. Home made buffalo sauce and big shrimp. Wife got a blackened seafood platter and it was almost too much to eat. Very casual place. Not a lot of seating though.

    (5)

  • Kerri G.

    It's a random Thursday night and we have waited an hour and a half to place a take out order. The food is great but let's face it, this is an island with plenty of great seafood choices.

    (4)

  • Cat G.

    Delicious. Delicious in the way that only food from a shack can be. I had shrimp, sweet potato cornbread, hushpuppies, clam chowder, and of course, sweet tea. All of it was great. ALL of it. Awesome seafood is sometimes hard to find when chain restaurants and tourist traps set up shop everywhere, so I am so very grateful that we came across this place. It'snot very big, with most of the sitting room located on picnic tables outside, but if you're looking for some authentically good seafood, this place is it. I will definitely be back for more. My only suggestion is checking it out before going as it seems to have some random hours. I believe it closes between 3-5 and every time I've gone by, there's a line out the door. Like, at least 25 people long, so go with plans for a leisurely hang picnic-style rather than a quick pickup (unless you call ahead maybe?). But I take the long lines as a good sign- it's definitely confirmation that the awesome food is worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Sue S.

    The food is amazing! The atmosphere and noise level is not. Be prepared for a fairly long wait ( you stand outside and wait your turn to even talk to a hostess about seating). It was hard to converse over all the noise. BUT the seafood is amazing. We got the Shack Attack combo which included shrimp (I got mine Cajun style), scallops, oysters, tilapia and crab cake! Least favorite was the oysters but even that was good. My favorite is a toss up with the shrimp or crab cake. We actually went back a second time but this time we did carry out. That worked out great as the food was still very warm and tasty! We had the shrimp po boy sandwich....omg, AMAZING! I'd recommend carry out to avoid the lines and noise....but be sure to let the people in line know that as you walk past them or you're bound to get nasty looks.

    (4)

  • Amy D.

    Great fresh seafood at good prices. Don't expect ambiance & expect the employees to be a little gruff & blunt (reminiscent of the old Seinfield episode involving soup...). Best hot, seasoned Peel & Eat Shrimp I have had in YEARS.

    (5)

  • Suzy H.

    We come to HH every year and we come to SS at least twice. Best seafood on the island without doubt. You have to be okay with very casual and be prepared to wait but it is worth it.

    (5)

  • Hailey W.

    The food here was delicious! Especially the hush puppies. The wait is long,but it's worth it.Their seafood was cooked to perfection and was very fresh.After you get through the line the service is fairly quick.I highly recommend this place if you are visiting Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Tiffany B.

    This place is known as one of the places to get seafood on the island. Food is delicious and can be prepared fried, grilled or blackened. I had the blackened popcorn shrimp. The seasoning had a great deal of "kick" if you will and the amount if food was enough for two people or leftovers the next day. The hush puppies are to die for. One caveat, be prepared for a long wait. Doors open at 5 and the line is usually around the parking lot before they even open. We waited a full hour to get in and then another 20 min after ordering for a carry out order. It's worth the wait but just be prepared.

    (5)

  • Alan B.

    I enjoyed the peel and eat shrimp. The red rice and side salad was just enough food. I will always visit when I'm in town.

    (5)

  • Susan M.

    No, just no. I split the seafood platter with my daughter. The oysters and scallops were quite good, but the Tilapia tasted fishy and old. The crab cake was greasy, but passable. The shrimp were so tough looking and over cooked, that I didn't even try them. I complained when later dishes coming from the kitchen looked immeasurably better. To the cashier's credit, she brought more shrimp. It was fresh, but not especially tasty. The cheese grits were hard and inedible. The worst part was after the complaint, we could see the cooks arguing and pointing at us. We could not wait to leave. It takes a lot for me to complain--- in fact I think this was the first time I felt it was my duty to complain; it was just that disappointing.

    (1)

  • Tami H.

    Long wait was worth it! We enjoyed talking to people around us and browsing the menu. The Sea Shack has very little seating and it is definitely a flip flop and tank top kind of place, but that is exactly what we were looking for. The food was fantastic! Our family had a variety of grilled and blackened seafood and everyone was happy with their meal. Slaw was perfect and some of the best boiled summer squash I have had since my grandma made it for me. If you are looking for great seafood and you can handle the "dive" atmosphere, this is your place!

    (5)

  • TheHungryDad Jeff C.

    Yum! Best seafood in Hilton Head. Cheap but great tasting and fresh. get there early and make sure that you are prepared to stand in line to wait for food, but totally worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Norm H.

    Wow fresh delicious and Home made

    (5)

  • Ivy T.

    SO simple yet SO good. I'm only reluctant to give them 5 stars because honeslty anyone can make this. I'm talking steamed shrimps with bay seasoning, green beans, broccoli with cheese sauce, po boys simply prepared with lettuce, tomato, choice of seafood, and no dressing. It just goes to show you there's no need for hoity toity restaurants and their fancy fixins' and sauces. Simple, fresh, and satisfying, Your arteries don't feel clogged; leaving you with the sense of an immensely satisying and relaxing vacation. Don't get daunted by the line outside the door. They're just making sure the kitchen can keep up with the orders which I can appreciate. Who wants to sit at their table for half an hour with no food? Not this girl. The line goes by reasonaly quick. Take out orders doesn't mean you can cut the line since like I said, they're watching the capacity of the kitchen, not the number of empty tables. So wait in line like everyone else. You'll get your reward sooner than you think.

    (4)

  • Casey C.

    Been here once before this trip. Definitely over-rated. Seafood was decent. My mom and I shared the conch fritters as an appetizer and the shark attack platter for our meal. Even though our platter was "grilled", it was swimming in grease. I will say everything had great flavor and we loved the scallops. I wouldn't be this critical if we hadn't waited 90 minutes standing outside for it. And then rushed through our meal because the place only has twelves tables! Some advice for the sea shack- either expand your restaurant or at least put out some picnic tables or pass out some hush puppies for your dedicated customers waiting in line. P.S. If you're daily special is sweet potato cornbread, please don't run out by 6:30. Thanks.

    (3)

  • linda g.

    The most overrated restaurant on HHI. If you want decent, overpriced seafood served on foam plates in a dump, then this is the place for you. Go to Lowcountry Backyard or Roastfish & Cornbread instead for a real lowcountry seafood dinner. No beer and wine sold - under new management again? We have gone to this restaurant for many years.

    (2)

  • Sandy K.

    We came here for lunch to avoid the crowds at dinner and just walked in with no wait what so ever. The place looks like it's quite old but popular BC I over heard a couple the drove several hours just to eat here. You place your order at the register and they'll bring your entrees to your table. The woman working the counter was friendly and the selection here is large. You'll have options if you want your seafood fried, grilled. or blackened. I went for the fried! We started out with she crab soup - it was rich and had chunks of crab meat and tasted awesome. For my entree I choose the two combo platter of fried clams, hush puppies and fried shrimp - with sides of red rice and slaw. Everything was very good although the slaw tasted just like the Colonel Sanders! Yummy food and good service.

    (4)

  • Ashley G.

    The sea shack was rated so high while visiting Hilton head we had to try it. First off they are only open during certain times lunch and dinner. It is kind of expensive but you get a lot of food. The portions are good sized as well, the only downside is if you get if fried know it's kind of greasy, more greasy than other places. It all comes out fresh so it takes some time to get food, it's super casual on takeout plates. But it is quite delicious I do recommend but it gets busy at times, but worth the wait.

    (4)

  • Habernero P.

    Sea Shack was good food, just got there at 5:15 and had to wait 30 min to get seated. We liked the crab cakes and the hushpuppies the flavor is on target. If you are looking for ambience this place is not it. This is a dive lets face it, but the food is a good value in HH without spending a fortune. I think the locals eat here to save from spending exorbitant prices the tourist's pay and that is the formula for success bottom line from the looks of the line outside and the Bieemer's in the parking lot.

    (3)

  • Steve M.

    Painted on both the door and wall of Sea Shack are the words "not fancy but good." Perfect summation of this divey/amazing seafood joint in an unassuming office park off of 278. Prepare to wait in line to even order at the counter, but then prepare to blow the minds of your taste buds. Thats right. Taste buds. Minds. We grabbed a "Shack Attack" to split, which included fried shrimp, oysters, mahi mahi and scallops. On top of a crab cake! Our 2 included sides were Mac n Cheese and this delicious glazed sweet potato corn bread. Must try!! The shrimp were far and away superior to everything else on the plate, and I would wait in line for ANOTHER 40 minutes to have them again.

    (4)

  • Rodney L.

    First the food was excellent.My wife kept saying omg.This place is off the main road in an office complex with a few other restaurants. But everyone seems to find it just fine. The service is fast and the staff are very friendly. I heard about long lines but we went for lunch and had no wait time..We went 2 times in our 4 day trip.

    (4)

  • Amanda D.

    Great food, very laid back atmosphere. We got gator bites, oyster po' boy and mahi mahi - all excellent. The mac and cheese is also delicious. Staff was nice, clean restaurant. Definitely a place we will go back to when we visit HHI again.

    (5)

  • Sasha O.

    Don't worry about the wait. The line moves quickly and in the end it is so worth the wait. Food is consistently great. Also, don't be afraid that the bathroom is outside of the restaurant, it is surprisingly clean. We had a large party and were sat at two tables right next to each other, so still close enough that we didn't feel we weren't eating together.

    (5)

  • David C.

    If you long for the old fashion, no frills seafood spot, this place is for you. Order your favorites (we had grouper and Shack Attack) and take your seat. Your order is delivered and some of the best seafood I've had anywhere is there for your enjoyment. If you visit HHI and don't come here, you are really missing something. Saw more locals than visitors. Well worth the money, will definitely be back here.

    (5)

  • Sam S.

    This is a delightful, delicious place to visit and my favourite place so far on HHI. We had Gene's Trio and a buffalo shrimp po' boy and both were full of flavour. I love the casual atmosphere and friendly service. We would recommend to anyone who loves good seafood.

    (5)

  • Jonathan S.

    excellent fried moist and highly flavored those little hush puppies are addictive..cons needs more seating we had to wait 25 minutes just to order !..but food exceptional

    (4)

  • K H.

    Every time we make it to HHI we grab at least one meal. The service is quick and the food is fresh. We haven't had a bad experience. Shrimp with buffalo on the side is good, although their buffalo is really more of a pepper sauce. Crab cakes are a good choice. Mac and cheese isn't great. Key lime pie is some of the best on the island. We'll be back :)

    (4)

  • Nataki H.

    So we were disappointed with this place. It was edible but not good. The grouper was overcooked, crab cake was a mush of filler and crab, Mac n cheese was terrible, the shrimp in the PO-boy was tender, cole slaw and hush puppies were tasty. The price point is $12-$14 each, too much for the quality. Overall, would not return.

    (2)

  • Chris T.

    Grabbed take out from here on the way back from the beach. Even after a 30 minute drive to the hotel and being eaten out of styrofoam containers, the food remained just short of exceptional. Each dish came with fresh hush puppies and two sides, and across the board, side items were impressive--good texture to the okra and very fresh, gooey mac and cheese good enough to be its own entree, and the cakelike sweet potato cornbread was moist and flavorful. I had the jerked grouper. I never fail to eat grouper when south of the Mason-Dixon and within sight of the water. The fish was expertly blackened and well-seasoned, but much too salty. She ordered red snapper, which was grilled and had that nice sear on either side that you get when they know what they're doing. Ingredients across the board were fresh and the place had a line out the door by the time we left, mixed locals and holiday travelers. Overall, quite glad we stopped by.

    (4)

  • Ewj J.

    I tend to eat at places that are slightly off the beaten path or high end places. This is a great fish place, it is in my top fish places. I waited 30 minutes in line and it was worth it. I got the blacken shrimp and a order of fried. I was hoping for OK and got very good. I highly recommend this hole-in-wall place.

    (5)

  • Morgan J.

    Sea Shack provides a pretty generous account of food in an unpretentious setting. Yes, there is always a line, but it moves along at a decent pace and I always find a few people to chat with outside. I usually order a platter, which comes with two sides, and get it to go. It travels well and the food is tasty and filling. It's not fancy but that's not really the point of vacation, is it? And they have a great mural inside!

    (3)

  • Marty J.

    I'm a little upset that I've been coming to Hilton Head Island for so many years and just discovered The Sea Shack. The fried seafood here is some of the best I've had on the island (the fried scallops are the best I've ever had anywhere) and it's much cheaper than other restaurants, but it's also much more of a dive. The food is served on styrofoam plates with plastic cutlery and I wouldn't have it any other way. Sea Shack serves a standard variety of seafood fare and has a bunch of different fish to choose from. All of the platters can be prepared fried, grilled, or blackened and come with hushpuppies and 2 sides. There are more sides on the whiteboard inside the restaurant than what is listed on the menu. The restaurant is small and there will be a line out the door when you go for dinner, but it is worth the wait. The line on a Saturday night at 7:00 extended almost the length of the restaurant and took 40 minutes for our party of 3 to wait out. I recommend ordering the fried Shack Attack combo ($16.95 - scallops, shrimp, crab cake, oysters, and fish) on your first visit because of its variety. All of the items are lightly breaded and seasoned perfectly; two characteristics which can make or break fried seafood. Although the meal was a heap of fried goodness, it was surprisingly not greasy at all. Fried foods at the bottom of the heap didn't get soggy and all items maintained their crispiness throughout the meal. The below are listed in order from best to good: * Scallops - THE BEST I'VE EVER HAD! The scallops were nice sized and cooked perfectly. They were crispy on the outside and very light, fluffy, and not chewy at all on the inside. Because they are somehow able to keep the fried foods here from being greasy, even the middle/center of the outside fried breading remained crispy. I'm used to this part being a little mushy. If you come here, then you must order these. * Crab cakes - The crab meat to filling ratio is very large and the crab meat was quality. * Shrimp - I think the difference in fried shrimp at all seafood restaurants (Captain D's and Red Lobster excluded) is small. The fried shrimp here are just as good as other seafood restaurants. * Oysters - Fresh and nice sized. * Fish - Better than your average fried fish. I need to reiterate that the above are all better than most other restaurants because of the breading and non-greasiness. The cocktail sauce is very good and is served in large plastic bottles at each table so you won't have to keep asking for more. I did not try the tartar sauce which is also served in large plastic bottles, but another member of the group said it was not good because it was too mayo-ey. Along with the hushpuppies that come with all platters, I ordered the sweet potato corn bread and small salad as my two sides. The hushpuppies here, though not bad, are nothing to write home about. The sweet potato cornbread was more like a desert than a side. It tasted like pumpkin bread and was heavy and sweet. I think they added too much spice which left a funny aftertaste in my mouth. That being said, it was still really good and I would order it again. I got the salad because I needed some greenery with the meal I ordered. The iceberg lettuce was crispy and parmesan peppercorn dressing was good. The restaurant imposes the "one in, one out" strategy to handle seating with its long line. Be prepared to know what you want to order before you get inside the restaurant. Once you order, you get your drink (self-serve) and then sit at your designated table. By the way, they have really good ice here similar to Zaxby's ice. You give your name at the register and servers bring the food out to the tables by shouting out the name. I highly recommend dining here for a very delicious, casual, and cheap seafood meal while on the island. Because of the size of the restaurant, I would not recommend coming here with a large party. Arrive mentally prepared to wait in a line outside and you won't be disappointed. If you don't feel like waiting, try coming during lunch when most dishes are $2 cheaper.

    (5)

  • Rob M.

    This is one of the best places to eat on HHI! The food is out of this world! I had the shrimp and scallop combo and was amazing. The scallops were to die for definitely the place place for inexpensive delicious seafood.

    (5)

  • John C.

    Great place to go on bike ride. Good priced seafood. Blackened tilapia is great. Sweet potato cornbread was a little sweet for me.

    (4)

  • John M.

    No nonsense ambience and great food at great prices. Unlimited drinks at one price with tea, sweet tea and several soda brands. If you go nowhere else in Hilton Head, be sure to go here.

    (4)

  • Katie P.

    Fantastic as always! We eat here very single time we are in Hilton Head!

    (5)

  • Michael W.

    Spend 5 days in Hilton head and ate here 4 times. Nuff said. Seriously though I doubt that I would have tried this place (or even found it for that matter) were it not on the Food Network but i'm glad we did. The food was incredible and very much worth the long line we waited in to get it. Lunch line goes faster than dinner. The grilled fish was fantastic but don't go thinking you can be healthy because the hushpuppies are amazing too!

    (4)

  • Pimp D.

    Great fried seafood at reasonable prices. No frills atmosphere. Unlimited soft drinks or iced tea. The place is run down - but hey you're here for the food.

    (3)

  • Albert W.

    I had the gator nuggets, iced tea, and hush puppies. Luckily we didn't have to wait in a very long line. This is not on the main road, and seems like a place only locals know about. Prices were reasonable, and the iced tea was simply amazing. You'll have to try for yourself, but it's definitely worth it if you're in the Hilton-Head Island area!

    (5)

  • Bill P.

    This is our favorite Hilton Head Island restaurant. We eat there multiple times while vacationing on the island. They offer a variety of fresh seafood and low country side dishes. You can choose to have your seafood grilled, fried, or blackened. Our favorites are 1/2 pound peel and eat shrimp and their "shack attack" which is a combination of oysters, shrimp, scallops, fish, and crabcake. I like the shack attack blackened. Other good seafood is the jerk grouper and Gene's trio - a combination of fish prepared differently. Each meal comes with a few hush puppies and your choice of 2 sides. Mini-salad, fries, fried okra, and cole slaw are almost always offered. Other sides vary. Our favorites are stewed okra and tomatoes, summer salid, cheese grits, lima beans, and collard greens. The seafood is cooked to order but the sides are prepared in advance. They also have great she crab soup. They offer key lime pie and some variations thereof for dessert. The restaurant is off the beaten path and appears to be run down. The dining area is small and unassuming. There's usually a line outside. Waits of up to an hour are not uncommon during evenings in the peak tourist time. They allow a few parties to enter as space is available inside. You order your food at the counter. If they are busy, you may not be able to be seated then. They have a system-you will be seated at a table by the time your meal is ready-have faith and believe. This is the place if you like good, fresh seafood and the low country style sides. If you are looking for fine dining in a pristine place, look somewhere else.

    (5)

  • Jacob B.

    First off: the food is well worth the wait. Flounder, shrimp, scallops, grits, okra, cornbread, all delicious and fresh. What isn't so delightful is the service (cue story). I came with a large group (and waited quite some time for it!) but we all ordered quickly and efficiently. The manager/owner was a bit pushy, but that was completely understandable, if not expected, given how packed it was. When the food was brought out to us, a teenager in our group realized she was given oysters when she ordered scallops. The young member of swiftly whisked her plate away to replace it with scallops. However, he did not return; instead, the manager left her (apparently busy) post to brandish the oysters whilst yelling, in the middle of the rather compact seating area, "Somebody ordered these oysters. I know somebody's gonna eat them." My entire group was stunned, too wordless to be defensive. The young girl insisted she had ordered scallops, but even if she made a mistake, the behavior was uncalled for. Someone managed to take the oysters; later, the younger waiter brought out some scallops. The experience more than ruined the delicious food. The icing on the cake: everything is overpriced, even for HHI standards. Come, but don't dare step out of line or expect a reasonable price.

    (2)

  • Cody H.

    The food is great, the wait was pretty long, but I wouldn't have minded if it wasn't for the wait staff that wanted us to leave as quickly as we got in. She rolled her eyes at my wife more than once.

    (3)

  • Patricia G.

    The food was ok. Definitely fresh, but not unique. What really bothered me about it was that the combination plate items had to be cooked the same way. I wanted fried scallops and grilled shrimp, but that was not possible. Not sure why - they aren't all tossed in the same vat of oil to cook. Not impressed with the cleanliness either - there were several open containers of personal food/drink behind the counter. It was hot, so the drinks are ok I guess, but the Doritoes, not so much. I know it's a shack, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have to be clean. Very long wait in line at the door as well.

    (2)

  • Michael E.

    Food is excellent for fried and southern. You will have to stand to wait so bring something to read. The atmosphere is not fancy but who cares you come for the food.

    (4)

  • Stephanie G.

    Received 2 recommendations for this place before arriving in Hilton Head Island for vacation! We biked over from our condo for lunch, arrived before they opened and were first customers of day! Had a steady stream of customers whole time we were there. I got fried shrimp, Mac and cheese and corn on cob, couldn't find the sweet potato cornbread anywhere on the menu! Shrimp was Great, so were my sides! Hubby got the Shack Attack grilled - crab cake, oysters, fish, scallops and shrimp with fries and slaw - he really enjoyed it! Like the sign says, "not fancy, but good"! Definitely a dive, but it is AMAZING!! Order your food at counter, serve yourself drinks and pick a table, they bring food to you when ready - only about 10-15 minute wait for food. Tables are covered in red checkered vinyl tablecloths and arranged closely, nice painting on wall and several plaques with recognition from Food Network and Best Dives in America on walls as well! Give it a try, it's definitely worth eating at, go for lunch, right at 11 when they open to avoid a wait and enjoy!

    (5)

  • David B.

    Best meal we had on Hilton head. It's no frills dining on styrofoam plates and plastic utensils but the food is out of this world. We got there about 15 minutes before they opened and a line had already formed out the door. Talked to several people in line that said its their favorite food on the island. I got the fried catfish, coleslaw and cheesy grits with hush puppies and my wife for the blackened scallops with sweet potato cornbread - everything was off the charts fantastic. If you are visiting Hilton head you cannot afford to miss this place.

    (5)

  • John R.

    Must try at Hilton head. Great food great prices. Local experience.

    (5)

  • Wendell B.

    Third visit! Local delicious seafood your way. Wait is never more than 15 minutes and worth it!

    (5)

  • Erica P.

    After a failed attempt at another restaurant, we decided to go with The Sea Shack. It holds true to their motto of Not Fancy, Just Good. Went Monday at 1115 a.m. and by 1130 it was packed. Ordered the Fried Shrimp Platter and the Shrimp and Oyster Platter. Both were delish and the hushpuppies were the closest to the ones we make at home, definitely not something straight out of the freezer. A simple place with great tasting food. The side dishes were small servings but overall the meal was great.

    (4)

  • Alex S.

    I've only been here once, on a weekday night. The line indeed goes out of the door but the wait wasn't terribly long, maybe 10-15 minutes. Then it took another 10 minutes or so to get my food. I got the gator nuggets, oysters (I was told oysters in the area are pretty good), and catfish. I read on yelp that their blackened seafood amazing, so I chose to get my food blackened. But whatever you choose (blackened, grilled, or fried), it applies to your entire order (like in a combo). For sides, I got fries and spinach. There wasn't much room there, so I got my food to-go. It's nice that they pack all the sauces you'll need when you get to-go. I got home, and all my blackened seafood was in a puddle of juices, but I guess that's expected for getting carry-out. There were ~3 hush puppies. These were good but not the best I've had. I had never had gator nuggets before, but these tasted just like chicken but different in texture. Everything else was good but I can't say it was outstanding. I was slightly disappointed the catfish was a small little fillet drowning in juices at the bottom of my tray. I probably would have liked it A LOT more if I had gotten everything fried.... I guess I'm just not a fan of blackened/grilled seafood. Also, the combo was not as much food as I was hoping for for its price, but it was filling!

    (3)

  • Justin S.

    They say its where the locals go.... Whether that is a good gimmick or the truth, it doesn't change the fact that the food is always fresh and delicious... accept for this one time when I foolishly ordered the buffalo aligator poboy... DO NOT order that. But I go everytime I go to HHI and that is the only thing I haven't liked. The fried shrimp is yumyum, blackened fish, and the sides change seasonally. If they say that it is spicy, it is BTW. EXPECT to wait in line if you are going during peak season (May-Sept). 40 minute wait from the bathroom. Once you are let inside you can order and take a table or they will help you find one.

    (4)

  • Gregory B.

    Great food, big line out the door, huge crowd inside, had fun watching ppl try to cut line because they were "locals", my cousin who owns three condos on the beach had no problem waiting for two hours with me to get take out

    (5)

  • Brad C.

    This place is literally a shack. Have been several times over the years and I remember it being pretty good. Its kind of a novelty - who waits 30 minutes in a line outside of a restaurant? We did. It was much better than I remembered. I got the shark attack fried (I know, very healthy) and it was amazing. It comes with about 5 different seafoods and they all were great. If you want really good seafood this is the place to go in Hilton Head.

    (4)

  • Lisa H.

    I ate here twice on a recent trip to Hilton Head Island. Both times I thought the food was delicious and everyone in my party both times enjoyed it very much as well. We all ordered different things at different times. Their fried shrimp is hands down amazing as are their hush puppies. Both were soooo good. Unique sides as well. I have had fries, carrots, green beans, and sweet potato cornbread which was more like a pumpkin bread than any cornbread Ive ever had but boy was it tasty.

    (5)

  • Kyle F.

    The Sea Shack is a "seafood dive," not that it takes anythign away from the restaurant unless you're not looking for that kind of place. I will give them this... they have a great selection of different seafood and you can get them all cooked a couple different ways. The thing for us was that it just wasn't good enough fpr the price and an hour wait. We had the fried grouper and fried snapper.

    (3)

  • Kristin C.

    Oh. My. God. I'm the biggest seafood snob there is, and this place is FANTASTIC. Go here. Eat lots.

    (5)

  • Don S.

    The first thing you need to know about this restaurant is that you stand in line outside to even get in to place your order at a counter. Then you set yourself and wait for the food. There is no "waiter" just a door person to slowly allow more people in as others finish eating and clear the table. If its 100 degrees outside or raining you will be outside waiting in the rain. If there is a long line which there usually is you will be outside waiting for a long time. We arrived at about 4:55 (opening time 5:00pm) on a Saturday during Ester break and were about the 7-8th group to get inside and order. This only took us about 25 minutes as the restaurant was empty before 5:00pm opening. After placing our orders at the counter we picked a table (plastic laminated table cloth) along the front of the counter. There are about 12 tables inside and 2-3 outside so that is how many people can fit in at once. I ordered grilled Red Snapper with slaw and sweet potato cornbread and my wife had grilled shrimp and scallops with slaw and okra. The food was brought out to us in about 10 minutes and was piping hot but served on styrofoam plates as we drank from styrofoam cups. I said all of that not to discourage you from dining here but rather to prepare you for the restaurant and what to expect. Now for the good part. The grilled snapper was good (not great but good) and my wires grilled scallops and shrimp were very good. The slaw is exactly the style I like which is slightly sweet and coarse shredded. The okra was also good and I saved the sweet potato cornbread for last and while good did not measure up to the previous nights version at Roastfish and Cornbread. the tab for the above was $42 total which was reasonable for the quantity and quality of the food. I suppose if it were in a nicer/newer building with waiters etc I would have expected to pay closer to $60-$70 for a similar meal. It is a staple of HHI as I understand and worth going for sure as long as you know what to expect in terms of the restaurant, serving line etc. I did notice a few potential patrons pull up in high end autos and after seeing the place they simply left without even looking in or looking at the menu. It just doesn't look like it would be very good but it is actually a good meal. Although I rated it below my previous two nights dinners in HHI I still consider it good food.

    (3)

  • Cathy B.

    Divvy little seafood joint in the middle of a business park with laminated tablecloths and order at the counter service? Even the most sophisticated of foodies will face all of that and rave about The Sea Shack. Food is phenomenal. You won't get better seafood on the island. Everything is so fresh and there are an absolutely ridiculous number of options. You can get any number of fresh seafood items grilled or fried. And the side items change daily - we had delicious hush puppies and sweet potato cornbread that was to die for. Suggest you head over a bit before it opens and get in line or you may have to wait awhile. Another option would be to order your dinner to go and take it out to the beach as a picnic to avoid the crowds. Only problem with The Sea Shack? Everything is so good and the menu is so large that it's tough to make a decision. This restaurant should not be missed by anyone visiting Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • John S.

    Great food in a basic local atmosphere. I find the food very consistent in quality and always great. One of the select few places I frequent when on HHI (5 months every year). Also, a place I always take guests for southern sea food. The main dish is fresh each day with opportunity to try various local oriented cultural sides. You may wait outside in line (which should tell you something) but worth the wait. A valued experience.

    (5)

  • Teresa L.

    This little place is awesome!!!! The ambiance isn't fancy, but the food is fresh and simply prepared (grilled, blackened, or fried). The soups are outstanding! No alcohol and no byob, either. Two sides and hush puppies come with every meal. The sides change daily. They're all good with one exception: the spinach was supposed to be sautéed. It was swimming in liquid and was soggy as could be. The blackened tuna was at least 6-10 ozs. and prepared beautifully: about 1.5 min. on each side with the center warm and red. The seasoning was not overwhelming, either. My grilled red snapper was light and flaky, cooked throughout and very moist. JUST SO FRESH!! These were each under $16 meals! Bartolotta's in Las Vegas could learn a thing or two from the kids at The Sea Shack: Get rid of the waiters with the Car Salesman attitude!! We'll come back here again and again. Wouldn't change a thing! After reading some of the other reviews, I realize how lucky we were. There was never a line and we got a table with no problem. Guess it's because it was April. Good to know!

    (5)

  • Greg S.

    Lot of buzz about this place for favorite dive restaurant seafood, but be aware of what you're getting served. We got the fried shrimp and fish platters. I asked the main person behind the counter (manager?) what the fish was: And she said tilapia (a fish that is commonly farm raised in fresh water, not in the Sea..- and often imported from Latin America. ) I also asked the gentleman seating us what the fish was- he said the fish was catfish - another freshwater fish commonly farm raised or frozen. No harm no foul on fish like this that you also get from Costco etc., but don't think you're getting Hilton Head-area fresh fish or even salt water fish !

    (3)

  • Bob W.

    We've been eating here for years. No atmosphere but great food. This visit it was bad. The grouper wss fishy; didn't even finish it. Honey glazed carrots were bitter and mushy. The cornbread was excellent. Very disappointing meal.

    (1)

  • Stacie W.

    Good takeout! When we arrived back to the condo, food was still hot and fresh. Hushpuppies were good. I had the buffalo shrimp Po boy, it was good. Bread was fresh, shrimp was fried perfectly. The buffalo seasoning was barely noticeable. Hubby had the crab cake sandwhich. He liked it, but I did NOT. I think it had an odd taste. His bread was also very fresh. Cheddar Mash was good, coleslaw was ordinary. Mini salad was MINI. Bleu cheese dressing was homemade and very good. Sweet potato cornbread was not good at all. Hubby agreed, had way too much of an overbearing spice. It had the consistency of cake and not cornbread, just downright bad. Wait was long......approximately 20 minutes. These people arent winning any awards on customer service, but seafood was good.

    (3)

  • Letty E.

    Came from having a very delicious grilled tilapia with Cole slaw and sour cream mash potatoes lunch at sea shack. Try their sweet potato cornbread if they have it as a side. Their slogan, "not fancy just good," is really true. Was surprised we didn't have to wait more than 5 minutes before having our order taken. Usually there's a 30 min plus wait. Fish was fresh and very tasty! This was an extraordinarily pleasant experience since there was no wait but its always good! Best kept secret of the island!

    (5)

  • Lindsay P.

    Went for lunch around 1:00 and only had to wait about 5 minutes. There had been a huge line the evening before. We order the fried catfish, tilapia,and popcorn shrimp. Everything was good. Definitely a hole in the wall place, but had a friendly atmosphere and they knew how to get people in and out.

    (3)

  • Howard M.

    Who knew heaven came in a styrofoam clam shell take-away box. So we were in Hilton Head and my wife swung by this place she spotted somehow and she noticed two things - a long line and a lot of what looked to be locals and a dearth of vacationers like us. A hidden gem, she thought (smart woman) So she ordered up a few Shack Attacks - some fried and some grilled with tilapia, scallops, shrimp, a crab cake and I can't remember what else. She then added on hush puppies and shrimp and a few other things. We'd been going out a lot. Being waited on is great. But there's a certain charm in eating delicious food out of the box with your wife and kids around you vying for the choicest bit off a laminated table cloth that can be wiped down quickly. The only thing I think that could have made this better was ordering the same thing and eating it on a big blanket on the beach as the sun set.

    (5)

  • Gina C.

    Not fancy, but very good seafood! Hidden from the main view of the road, but worth the time to find it. We went on a Monday night and still had to wait about 20 mins to place our order! Blackened grouper sandwich & collard green & Mac-n-cheese was awesome! Sweet potato cornbread was like eating spice cake.

    (5)

  • Joshua S.

    Good food, but a terrible place to visit on Friday or Saturday night... If you do, plan on waiting an hour or two at least. They don't accept phoned in take out orders on friday or saturday, and reservations times are approximate and can vary by more than an hour... Again, the food is good, but plan on going Mon-Thursday and stay away on the weekends...

    (3)

  • Nina P.

    SHACK ATTACK! PLENTIFUL DELICIOUS SEAFOOD FOR A STEAL! Thank you fellow Yelper's and The Food Network for putting Sea Shack on my radar - cause it was great! I'm finicky about seafood - I like classic flavors. Most importantly I want to taste the fish not some crazy shit on top! That said - we found this little place and ordered the Shack Attack Plate which was a little bit of everything including: crab cake, oysters, scallops, hush puppies, shrimp and white fish. I went fatty and got it fried! It was delicious and not greasy - fried just right. Everything was wonderful and almost too much to eat for one person! It hits the spot AND is really reasonably priced. Also had a piece of key lime pie...this is a secret closet passion of mine...finding real key lime pie anywhere outside of Florida is hard to do and the shacks was really real and tasty. Hands down great place - go here BUT warning: it's a shack not a designer interior - they spend their money on great seafood and not of fancy decor - don't let this scare you - the food is the star!

    (3)

  • Mandy M.

    Great food, but very fried, get there before they open, cinnamon potato cake is kinda gross.

    (4)

  • Tonya P.

    I read about The Sea Shack in a magazine or on chowhound.com , somewhere, I got it in my mind that is where I wanted to go. I was with my sister and mother. They are not wanderers, I will drive over the mountain and through the woods, take two trains and bus to get to the best little place for a meal. So we journey out to find this spot. Not so easy, It is in a business park, I think we ended up having to call them to find it for some reason. Maybe with a GPS, no longer should be a problem. It is well worth the journey. A fun little spot for sweet tea, tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, fried seafood and cole slaw and let's not forget hushpuppies!!!! Doesn't it make you want fried seafood right now?

    (4)

  • Jessica M.

    The Sea Shack was surprising because it was a small hole in the wall. The food was phenomenal and really the best I had while in Hilton Head!

    (5)

  • Christine P.

    If you want a fish camp experience, this is a very good fish camp. You will wait in line, so be prepared to have a good attitude about it. The salmon was not bad; the crabcake was decadent and good. The slaw was surprisingly sweet, kind of sugary. Field peas were great! The shrimp, scallops looked great. I wasn't as enamored with the hush puppies as everyone else. Solid, authentic casual, low key experience.

    (4)

  • P D.

    All good except the cornbread, tastes like a dessert cake??? Ambience is rough!

    (3)

  • Jason B.

    The food was a mix of run-of-the-mill southern staples (like mac & cheese made with American), the occasional standout (fantastic hush puppies), and of course fresh seafood (served blackened, grilled, or fried.) I had the cobia ($16), my wife the scallops ($14). We were both pleasantly surprised at both portion size and flavor. This is good stuff. The cornbread was surprising; it more resembles a spice cake than any cornbread we've ever had (and we're both from Kentucky). All of the food was passable (most of the sides, honestly) to delicious. One thing to note, and it's important - they've developed a system for handling the crowds in the small space, and even though they weren't busy when we visited for dinner (there were plenty of open tables and no line at the register), they take them seriously and enforce them. Know what you want to order when you hit the register. Don't sit down until you've ordered. Your entire party must order at the same time. If you're waiting for your party to arrive, wait outside. We watched groups of tourists wander in, hem and haw at the menu, sit down before ordering and waiting for table service - and all were approached by staff and their behavior corrected politely. If you're not OK with that sort of direct approach (and it made more than one party uncomfortable as I watched), you might want to put on your thick skin before you stop here. That being said, the food was worth the quirks and I will definitely return.

    (4)

  • Stephen M.

    I was thinking, while waiting in line for 45 minutes, this place is not going to be worth it. I was very wrong. I got a combination platter with shrimp, scallops and gator tail blackened with Cole slaw, red rice and their seafood bisque. I came out very impressed. The food made me forget the wait.

    (5)

  • Sam P.

    Probably the most over rated place I have ever eaten. Average food, high prices, and long lines. The employees were nice, but extremely proud. I wish the food was up to the level of this pride.

    (2)

  • Tom P.

    Excellent freshly prepared seafood and trimmings

    (4)

  • Tyler F.

    Wow. Really good food! I got the Mahi Mahi Sandwich with fries and cole slaw + hush puppies, and calamari as an appetizer. I couldn't be happier with any of it! The tartar sauce is also very good and I like the low cost of the drinks and the ability to fill them up yourself at will.

    (5)

  • Jamie F.

    Went to HHI to visit my parents. When they asked me what I wanted for dinner when I arrived, I said "feed me seafood." They took me to the Shack. Being the shellfish lover that I am, I ordered the Shack Attack,, grilled, with a couple of sides. Everything- and I mean everything- from the oysters, to the scallops, and the tilapia....cooked perfectly, fresher than I've ever had. It's not much for decor, and incredibly divey, but you can see the entire cooking/prep area...it's clean as a whistle. The dining area is about as clean as you can get it with that much volume. The only part I'm upset with is that I'm all the way back up North now, and no longer around the corner.

    (5)

  • Angela B.

    Was in Hilton Head with the family last week and stumbled upon this little gem (thank you, Yelp!). It doesn't look like much on the outside. True to the name, it's a small building with some picnic tables off to the side. We arrived at about 2:55. Upon walking inside, I noticed that we were their last customers as they were closing from 3-5. No matter to the friendly faces at The Sea Shack. The cashier was extremely helpful and patient while I pondered the menu. I ordered She-Crab chowder/soup and a burger platter that came with two sides. I know, I know, eating a beef patty at a place called The Sea Shack? Seems absurd. This was toward the end of my stay in Hilton Head though and I was craving some cow. Anyhow, back to the matter at hand. I chose the potatoes and cornbread for my sides then discovered that hush-puppies come with every meal. Bonus! The She-Crab soup was light and yummy with just enough salt. My burger was absolute perfection. The potatoes were lightly buttered and seasoned. Although yummy, they were the least delicious of everything. For me, it was all about the burger and the Sweet Potato CORNBREAD. This is no ordinary cornbread. It is not like traditional cornbread at all. It's sweet and spicy. Almost like a pumpkin/gingerbread hybrid. It makes me sad to think that it may be years before I can have it again. Everyone else in my party did get seafood and it was unanimous across the board -- the food was some of the best we had on our trip. Sea Shack, I'm gonna go ahead and give you five stars. I regret not being able to frequent you more while I was in the area. I'm not sure when but I will be back to visit again someday. Until then...

    (5)

  • Tony L.

    The reputation of this "shack" is bigger than the actual delivery. I enjoyed it, don't get me wrong. However...when I can make seafood at home just as good as the grilled/blackened version of the seafood at this place, there really isn't that much to talk about. The wait is long...no matter what time you go. More often than not, you will be waiting outside...even after you order your food. The menu offers a wide variety of seafood, so there will be something for everyone. The lack of local seafood that is freshly caught is odd...when you are at the beach, the draw of eating seafood is that it could have been caught that very morning. The best part of the meal was the side of baked mac and cheese. I'd recommend this place to anyone...but there really aren't that many great places for well priced seafood on Hilton Head Island to begin with...

    (3)

  • Beverly W.

    Second time will be the last. We were so impressed the first time, but this time was different. Prices are not that great and the fish was not that great either. We paid as much as in a good restaurant. The lady at the counter was loud and it made it not a pleasant experience. When it's busy, since it is so small, the voices carry and you feel like you are sitting snug up to the next table. There are too many great restaurants in and around Hilton Head to waste your time & money.

    (3)

  • Antony C.

    It's great to know that places like the Sea Shack are still around when you come back to HHI. I couldn't wait to get some of that chowder in my belly...still yummy by the way. I was with friends so we put together a sampling of our own of local catch including mahi mahi, snapper and grouper. We had them all grilled with sides of mac'n'cheese, collard greens, beans, rice and hush puppies. Still great food for the price. No frills, just gret food.

    (4)

  • Laura T.

    Just ate here two nights ago. Great spot that's hidden a bit from most of the touristy restaurants. It's not actually on Pope Ave, so don't be fooled by the address listed. I also discovered a trick to eating here: get there before 5:00 & get in line!! We were there on a Tuesday during the off-season & by 5:00 when they open, there was a line of at least 20-25 people. The place is small inside, so if you miss the 1st seating, you then have to wait for someone from the 1st seating to leave. Hubby & I each ordered the fish & shrimp platters. Great portion of food for the price ($11.50?). Came with maybe 8 fried shrimp & 2 pieces of fish, 2 sides & hush puppies. Both the shrimp & fish were lightly battered & seasoned well. The limas were really good as were the herb mashed potatoes. I'd recommend this place to anyone visting HH for the 1st time. Very nice staff. Will return!

    (5)

  • Mart B.

    Just returned from The Sea Shack! The food was exceptional, the ambiance, not so much. We went for the food as this was recommended by the locals. If you like blackened fish/seafood, this was the best I've had. The sweet potato cornbread is definitely novel, and quite tasty, as well. If you like seafood and visit HHI, this is a place you must try.

    (5)

  • Katie F.

    This was our first meal in the island, recommended by a local. Super fresh seafood and a fun atmosphere. Very casual and small. There will be a line but it's totally worth the short wait. Great local spot.

    (4)

  • Deb S.

    Wow! Finally found that great seafood shack on HHI. Excellent. Will be going here many times. Best blackened shrimp I have ever had

    (5)

  • Lisa M.

    A hidden Treasure! Definitely our favorite stop! Best Hushpuppies on the island! My family and I will go every time we visit!

    (5)

  • Adam M.

    Sea Shack is really more of a Shit Shack. $10 for a grouper sandwhich? $10 for 7 fried clams? Try cutting the prices in half, and then we'll talk. The food is not bad, and basically on par with the other restaurants on HHI that have much better service, locations, and atmospheres. I'd pass on the Shit Shack and go to the tourist traps.

    (2)

  • Jen B.

    This place was definitely worth it! We wanted a decent lunch while taking a break from the beach. We drove up to a small hole in the wall and never expected the food to be that great. It was delicious! The staff was very friendly, which is always a plus. Definitely will be re-visiting! Can't wait to have that Grilled grouper sandwich again! YUMMM!!!

    (5)

  • Trip B.

    This is one of those place that the locals love and the tourists would not be able to find. You walk up to a building that has probably stood without renovation for 50 years and wait in line for a good 10 minutes and basically order some of the freshest most homey seafood you'll ever eat. No frills gator, shrimp, and scallops are accompanied by fries, slaw and some puppies. With a lemon imbued sweet tea, it doesn't get much better. My family, fiance and I were skeptical at first, but the name says it all, it's a shack and the stuff that is served from the sea makes me hope this place remains a hidden gem. I think were OK, I have been coming to Hilton Head for 20 years before I found it.

    (5)

  • Gavin R.

    "mucho deliciouso" You feel like your at the soup nazi when you order. The seafood is fresh, well prepared and tasty. Highly recommended!

    (4)

  • H. R.

    If deciding between strawberry keylime & blueberry keylime, get the strawberry it's so good. Shrimp was shrimpy. Go for the scallops! Sweet potato cornbread spicy like gingerbread - yum! We waited an hour outside at 7pm on a monday night.

    (4)

  • Kelli A.

    Fish was fabulous. I got the flounder blackened and a crab-cake. Flounder was perfect. crab-cake had tons of crab. Hush puppies were dry and the cole slaw and butter beans were ok.

    (4)

  • Gina D.

    This is our favorite place to eat on hilton head! We have not had one item over the many times we have been here that is not wonderful. If I had to make a complaint, the side salad for take out is not so great, just lettuce and dressing. Just skip it and enjoy all their other outstanding veggies they offer. The wait is long.........but worth it!

    (5)

  • Megan C.

    We tried to go for dinner...the line was too long for me and we ate somewhere else and came back for lunch the next day. We still had to wait in line, but it wasn't out the door and gave us plenty of time to figure out what to order. I typically overlook popcorn shrimp....but the Sea Shack makes popcorn shrimp worth eating. The breading they use is light and allows you to actually taste the shrimp....something I've never experienced before. The conch fritters were really tasty as was the crab cake. The ultimate highlight of the lunch was my side of baby lima beans. Amazingly good. I don't remember ever having lima beans before...I've always been under the impression that they are not good. I think it they were life changing. I'm now on a mission to replicate these amazing beans. On a side note this place is really tricky to find...don't get frustrated trying to find it or waiting in line...the food is worth it. Also this place isn't remotely fancy, relaxing, romantic etc...so if that is what you want don't eat here.

    (4)

  • Art C.

    Almost an intolerable wait for the food, but pretty much worth it. Snapper and grouper was good and fresh. Kids food was questionable quality with a burnt burger. Will come back because it is the sea shack and it has been better than this in the past.

    (4)

  • Geoffrey E.

    We returned here this summer after enjoying our experience thoroughly a couple of years ago (as you'll see by my review below). This year, the food just didn't seem to be as good. Additionally, we now have a small child and tend to do carry out a lot. I tried to call in my order (on a weeknight) and was told that I would need to come down and wait in line to do a carryout order. This didn't seem to make much sense, as the hold up (the line) at this place is mostly because of the relatively few number of places to sit inside, not a holdup at the cooking line. It really pissed me off that I had to go down and stand in the sweltering heat for 30 minutes to get carry out. Not because I had to stand in line so much, but mostly because it just doesn't make sense from a business stand point. They could sell more over priced food and wouldn't have to clean up after people. A word of warning - if you're thinking of carryout from this place, don't do it - the food really loses something between the restaurant and your hotel room. Go and eat there, or don't go at all.

    (3)

  • Melody R.

    This place had great reviews so we went. First of all, it is a dive which is fine if the food is great. Well it's not! I had a fried fish lunch that was greasy and fishy tasting. The sides were very ordinary, similar to what you get in your grocery store deli case.

    (2)

  • Noah E.

    This is the not-so-hidden secret on Hilton Head. The first time we got there (we went multiple times on our trip), we showed up at 4:30 and realized it wasn't open until 5pm. We did a quick errand and returned about 4:50-4:55. The line was 40 deep and we ended up waiting an hour to get food. That said, the food was awesome. I had the blackened grouper sandwich while the others had fish n' chips and fried shrimp. My non-fried choice ended up being very tasty. The fish n' chips were outstanding...real fish pieces with great batter. Not your standard fish n' chips. We got a blueberry key lime pie to take home which was out of this world. The second trip was a little less incredible, but good. Slightly quicker in terms of time to order but i'd put my shrimp burger as good (not excellent). The strawberry key lime was a definite step down from the first time. Overall 4 stars...

    (4)

  • Will S.

    Shimp Burger was hot and tasty - Absolutely Perfect; The best around. Blackened Mahi sandwich was good too. Hush Puppies (2 each order) were crispy and good, a little milder than than the ones at Hudsons. This was lunch time. I've heard this referred to as a "local's secret", but it's no secret - be prepared to stand in line. If the line is not out the door and into the parking lot, you picked the right time to go.

    (5)

  • Derek W.

    No worth the hype for basic fried seafood.

    (2)

  • John W.

    Absolutely the best seafood for the price on the island.. Good portions for the main entrees. The sides aren't as good as the main food... However still pretty good... The 45 minute wait is worth it... When it's your turn to order , be ready or no seafood for you ...

    (5)

  • Julia W.

    That's some good eats. A must go when I'm in Hilton Head. Took a while to find, I actually had to go into a local bank on the main road to ask for directions, the teller in turn called his friend because he didn't know. lol. Turn onto Executive St, it's down the road! I got a delicious combo of gator bites, oysters, and scallops! With sides of coleslaw and mac and cheese. The combo meats I chose all had to be cooked one way, I got fried; my friend's combo were grilled. Both delicious! *My fried oysters got gold stars. Amazing. The sweet tea is good, but super sugary - they have unsweetened too. Free tables were scarce, but lucky enough I grabbed one just after ordering! You don't go for the service, so don't get discouraged when they yell at you for making the line the wrong way or standing in the wrong place....it's just their way.

    (4)

  • michelle e.

    My husband and I first discovered the Sea Shack last year and i must say this is a staple for when we are in Hilton Head. We love the food. The atmosphere is laid back and the people are very friendly.

    (4)

  • Devin N.

    Went there on a Wednesday evening in September around 630-700 PM. About a 30 minute wait. Definitely not a fancy place. Had plastic picnic table liners on the tables. Squeeze bottles of tartar sauce and cocktail sauce. Staff was very friendly. I had the Shack Attack and my wife had the Calamari. The calamari was very good. Not chewy and fell apart nicely in your mouth. In the Shack Attack everything was great except the crab cakes were a little soggy. The shrimp and the scallops were awesome. The hush puppies tasted great and were sweet. Total for the whole meal for the two of us was 28 dollars. We had water instead of soda and did not order dessert. Of note, our map said the place was on Pope, but it is actually off of pope on the executive drive.

    (4)

  • Josh F.

    The Sea Shack is a very popular place. Lines form before opening. It can take an hour to get in. The food features fresh seafood. I had the Shark Attack which includes shrimp, scallops, fish, crab cake, and oysters. O don't like oysters and they let mr substitute clams. My wife loves the Clam Po Boy and She-Crab soup. The quality and quantity of food is good. The eating area is functional, a little cramped, and as far from fancy as you can get. The prices are very reasonable.

    (4)

  • Whitney B.

    Get it fried. Although the grilled scallops were very good. Don't be fooled by the sweet potato cornbread... It does not taste like cornbread, more like cake. A must try while you are on HHI. Mix the sweet tea with the unsweetened and you'll be in southern heaven.

    (4)

  • Bradford B.

    Good place for price, super long line. look to pictures for menu I added

    (3)

  • Amanda L.

    Long lines, dive atmosphere, but good food at a great price! We came here around 6 on a weekday nite and the line was pretty long. Once we got in, we were happy to see that the place maintains a good sense of humour. We got one of the chalkboard specials - the Jerk Grouper, which was nice and spicy fresh grouper. They have tasty little hushpuppies and their mac n' cheese was to die for - I would've ordered a whole plate of it! We also ordered the blackened Shack Attack - the crabcake was a bit mushy, wasn't a fan of the oysters, tilapia was delicious, but the scallops were amazing! The sundried tomato and okra stew was surprisingly good. Grouper sandwich was ok, but a bit too much roll. Sweet potato fries were thin, crispy fried, and addictive. The blackened swordfish was good too.

    (4)

  • David C.

    Good food cheap. Found the Sea Shack from Yelp reviews and went on a Friday around 11am. No line when we arrived but that quickly changed as Noon rolled around. Had a great crab cake, salmon, sweet potato fries and some hush puppies. The salmon and crab cake were seasoned just right and the crab cake was one of the best I've had. I hadn't gotten hush puppies for years but they were as good as I remember. We rode bikes from our hotel a few miles away along the beach which made for a great afternoon. The Sea Shack is located about 3/4 mile from the Pope Street entrance to the beaches and there are bike paths the whole way.

    (4)

  • E K.

    We got the grilled shrimp & crab cake combo and the fried shack attack combo platter which had seemingly one of everything on their menu. The place is truly a dive but such great food. The coleslaw was amazing. The hush puppies weren't the best we ever had but they were still very good. The crab cakes were good sized and we barely touched our fries. If we go back I'd skip fries and just get a double side of coleslaw. We were there on vacation so cholesterol wasn't our top priority, but looking back it's a good thing we found this place our last day on the island. We couldn't survive eating like that too often!! We arrived close to closing time and it was packed. By the time we finished eating the staff had cleaned up every other table except for ours and one other party. They definitely give you a push out the door at closing but the fresh ingredients made up for the indifference in service.

    (4)

  • Miranda J.

    We went at 12 on a Wednesday and there was no line. However, we went then because of the gigantic line we saw the night before. Which also told us this place was good. Popcorn scallops, fried shrimp, fried fish, and hushpuppies were all perfect. Lightly breaded and great quality. French fries and macaroni & cheese were good, but I have had better. All in all though, I came for the fish and it was fantastic. Best seafood I've had in Hilton Head by far, may be best seafood I've ever had at a restaurant. A little expensive but completely worth it. Charming!

    (4)

  • Marcus O.

    i love the sea shack. everyone we bring here loves it too.

    (5)

  • Alan B.

    This place is gross and nasty. Greasy food, greasy tablecloths... highly overrated.

    (1)

  • Bart W.

    Just to give you an idea of how good the food is, we ate here 2 out of our first 3 nights. It probably would have been 3 for 3, but one of the days was Sunday and they're closed on Sundays. In our two visits, among our family we tried the scallops (both fried and grilled), shrimp, popcorn shrimp, conch fritters, calamari, mahi and shrimp burger. All were excellent. Calamari was just good, but we didn't exactly go there to have calamari..... Must try the sweet potato cornbread. Hush puppies were great.

    (5)

  • M E.

    A staple of Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Sean D.

    It was 95 degrees in the shade. There was a line out the door. I was holding a 5 month old baby. We were told to wait outside. When five people had left the line about a minute later we stepped inside. We were in no way blocking the flow for customers. The same gentleman walked over and asked people to wait outside until told to enter. I assumed he was speaking to the people behind me since we were not only in no way impeding the flow, but because I was holding a baby and it was sweltering outside. He then tapped me on the shoulder and said, "I need you to wait outside." There was no reason to treat my family this way. I will also mention that the evening before I saw a line out the door. When I went inside to get a menu and ask what the line was about (I didn't know if it was some sort of sale, or some other promotion) the woman working the register looked at me like I had two heads and said with an attitude "because we have good food." Hilton Head is a tourist community. Many of the people who live there seem to have accepted that and appreciate the people who come and pour millions of dollars into their community each year. However, there are some delusional people on that island that seem to believe they'd be doing just fine without all of us pesky tourists and treat us accordingly. Sea Shack is clearly owned and run by the delusional folks and they will treat you that way. So, if you just can't live without a fast food place specializing in seafood and you don't mind being treated like a piece of cattle Sea Shack is the place for you. If you would like to send a message to a business that couldn't survive without tourists but treats tourists horribly I implore you to drive past Sea Shack and spend your money at a Long John Silver's instead.

    (1)

  • Richard Y.

    The Sea Shack was one of the first places I went on my recent trip to Hilton Head, and I can say that I am assuredly a fan. The restaurant itself is fairly hard to find, tucked back on a back road, you really have to go looking to find it. I have been there multiple times now, and I must say that it does not fail to disappoint. Of course, there is the absurdly long wait, and the rudeness of the people that sometimes frequent it. All that aside, however, it is really the best place for sea food on the island.

    (4)

  • Stefanie G.

    We went here summer of 2012 and I'm sure this shack will be around for years to come! They have a line all day but is worth the wait if you want local seafood. It is literally a shack in size, very divey but with a large menu of all the seafood you'd expect. Portions are good sized too. I had scallops and enjoyed them; we had a large party and no complaints! The crab cake was also delicious there.

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    Best Place for Fresh Fish on the Island. Dont be scared off by the lines as they now make you lineup outside most of the time so the inside is not crowded- it moves quick. For those complaining about the prices this is fresh fish and seafood with homemade southern sides- NOT LONG JOHN SIVLERS. Perfect place to take a out of town'r to lunch

    (5)

  • Gerry G.

    Great local food. Gator bites are excellent and the gumbo is tasty! As they say - a little hard to find but worth it.

    (4)

  • Tony A.

    My favorite restaurant. I try to eat here multiple times each time I visit Hilton Head. I always get the Shack Attack Combo, blackened. I also love their sweet tea and their crused ice! My friend loves the She Crab soup. Usually has a line to get in. You can not call in an order, you have to wait in line even for takeout orders. If the line is at the end of the building, that is about an hour wait until you get your food. Decent prices for a seafood restaurant in a resort town. The place is a dive, but that gives it great character.

    (5)

  • Q L.

    Got to the restaurant at 4:30 and there were plenty of cars already in the parking lot. Everyone started to line up at 4:45. I was able to get through the door before they closed in on the folks behind me. Placed my to go order and waited back outside the building for my name to be called. Ordered two platters and a quart of clam chowder. All for $36. Enough to feed 4 of us with leftovers. The restaurant really needs to rethink how they have folks line up. It was cold today and no fun to line up outside. There was plenty of space in the restaurant but I guess they didn't want anyone standing around.

    (4)

  • Tricia W.

    Well worth the wait. We arrived around 6 pm and had a 30 min. wait. My grouper on a sandwich was cooked perfectly and the Mac and cheese side was yummy. The sweet potato cornbread was more like a spice cake and was ok. Portions are generous and seafood tastes fresh! Much better than any of the fancier or more expensive seafood places we have tried on the island.

    (4)

  • Derek C.

    This is another one of those places where it is all about the food. And they do a great job! You have to look for it as it is off the beaten path, just off the main highway, kinda of hidden in an area that you might not expect to find a restaurant. You walk in and there is one of those old Coca-Cola menu boards with the letters pushed in. I got grilled gator nuggets (I liked that I had a choice to get everything grill along with the option for blackened or fried) and an oyster po-boys with grits and corn on the cob. It was all delicious! I would definitely go back if I find myself in Hilton Head again.

    (5)

  • L C.

    This address, like many on HH, is wrong. I'll try to find the correct one. Sea Shack was probably the most recommended place I found in my searches for quality eateries in HH. I've gotten pickier about where I eat, because while I'm no chef, I'm increasingly able to create at least rudimentary renditions of my cravings at home for a lot less money than it costs to go out. I'd rather go out and get something that I can't make myself. So.... Sea Shack was kind of disappointing. We didn't realize there was a line, but there was, and even though we got there at 4:45 we still had to wait until about 5:15 to go inside just to order. A kind of obnoxious girl was acting as bouncer because all the ordering is done at the counter, which causes a back-up. Also the whole Rachael Ray $40/day hype has made it a big desination. Someone on Chowhound commented that one would think a Sea Shack on an island would have local seafood, but apparently it's not, which is a shame. I got a crabcake sandwich, which came with hush puppies, applesauce, and garlic mash. I quickly discarded the huge, unnecessary kaiser roll and ate the crabcake on its own... which was really a thin patty and not particularly flavorful. (Don't crabcakes come with some special crabcake sauce?) The sides were more enjoyable, except the hush puppies, which tasted just like balls of fried fryness. Shrimp were nothing special, nor were the collard greens, and interestingly enough, the blackened chicken sandwich was better than either of the seafood dishes. Eh. It is really cheap, and I overheard that if you go for a late lunch, you won't end up with a wait. Worth a try, I suppose. As for me, I'd go to the Piggly Wiggly and get shrimp steamed and enjoy them poolside instead of in this place!

    (3)

  • Talluah C.

    Came for the seafood - didn't know I'd meet the Sea Hag! Yes, the place is a dive. I can deal with that. You may have to wait a bit. I can also deal with that. What I can't deal with is someone being so completely rude. The lady working the counter is a nasty, mean, witch. Being a first time customer I didn't know the program. I didn't properly hear her when she said "Get your drinks at the end of the counter, we'll bring your food out to you". I asked "are the cups at the end of the counter or do we get them from you"? She then yells at me "Get your drinks at the end of the counter, we'll bring your food out to you". I could not believe she yelled at me. I was shocked. I just stared at her and said "I am so sorry for asking a question" and moved on. I was ready to just cancel the order and leave, but my Dad had already given her his credit card and was signing the the bill. I also think the fact that I'm not the least bit southern, may have been against me. Our food came pretty fast and it was good, but I was so upset by the counter lady's behavior that I really did not enjoy it. The mashed potatoes were weird. The hush puppies were really good. My Dad ordered the gumbo and he did not care for it. My daughter ordered fish and chips and she liked it. I had Grouper. It was pretty good, but I've had better in Naples, FL. Don't bother eating here. There are so many good restaurants on Hilton Head Island that are glad to have your business. I just don't understand why someone is so nasty?

    (1)

  • Gennyfer S.

    Don't waste your time, or precious fried seafood qouta, anywhere else - The Sea Shack is the real deal. We discovered it quite by accident on an evening bike ride searching for a dinner spot. When we saw the LONG line (in October no less) we figured it HAD to be good and it was!

    (4)

  • Angel B.

    Please don't go here. My selfish self wants to write a bad review so this place won't be so busy. But all the other positive reviews are true. This is a great find with good seafood. We arrived at 4:55 p.m. and a crowd had already gathered for the 5 p.m. dinner opening. Our food -- frog legs, alligator nuggets, grilled scallops, grilled oysters, mac and cheese, hushed puppies, and sweet tea -- came quickly and hot. The hush puppies were cooked perfectly, moist, and flavorful. The macaroni and cheese was home baked and delicious. I expected much worse. The scallops were big and plentiful, as were the oysters. The Sea Shack proclains itself as not fancy, just good. It's true. It's got atmosphere--but not the kind you'd expect from a fine dining seafood restaurant. It has low-key, no frills personality, absolutely perfect. My family and I will definitely be returning during our next Hilton Head visit.

    (5)

  • Maggie L.

    The Sea Shack is one of those great hole in the wall places with cranky employees, plastic checkered tablecloths, and good food at a fair price. I had the Shack Attack which is a huge plate with a fish fillet, a crab cake, 3 shrimp, 3 oysters, 3 scallops, 3 hush puppies and two sides. The scallops were my favorite. I was only able to eat about half. I opted to get it blackened. It was too salty for my taste so I'd go for grilled or fried next time. My husband had fried grouper. It was very lightly breaded and not greasy at all. It was quite good. They have their regular menu and also a blackboard with specials. They had a bunch of different fish to choose from. Like the other reviewers have said, get there early. We got there at a great time. No line and one table left. A line quickly formed behind us so we lucked out. We will definitely go back.

    (4)

  • Carrol G.

    The Hush puppies were awesome. Menu is huge, something for everyone. very reasonable, quick service, nice selection of side items, great food. I was too full to try the home-made key lime, but it sure looked good. Definitely a place I will visit everytime.

    (4)

  • Jimmy S.

    What a score this place was! It's a small place with picnic tables outside. You wait in line like at a cafeteria and order. For the most part, you get some kind of fish dish (you can get anything grilled, blackened, or fried) and 2 sides. The menu changes each day and is written on a chalkboard. It gets pretty busy at lunch time so you wait at your table and they bring your food out to you after about 15-20 minutes. I got a fried grouper sandwich with mac 'n cheese and a green bean mix. My girl got a fried shrimp platter with cole slaw and sweet potato fries. We started off with a she-crab soup. I can't believe that there would be so many superlatives to a place so unassuming. Sea Shack boasts: 1. The best cole slaw I've ever had. 2. The best she-crab soup I've ever had. 3. The best fried grouper sandwich I've ever had. & I'm pretty picky when it comes to seafood. This place is really that good. The she-crab soup was spicy and full of big bites of crab and tons of veggies. The fried grouper sandwich was light, flaky, big and the bun and condiments were fresh and tasty. +1 Star for the 5 different types of hot sauce on the table. My girls fried shrimp were amazing (and substantial) and the bean medley I got was fantastic. Really, everything we ate there was very good. If one is in Hilton Head, Sea Shack needs to be on your short list of places to go.

    (5)

  • Jim V.

    This place rocks shrimp is fresh and out of this world I really like the atmosphere worth the wait

    (5)

  • Jonny C.

    The Sea Shack is the quintessential seafood dive. If you like a wide array of fried seafood (popcorn shrimp, tilapia, and much more), you will not be disappointed. They also offer everything either grilled or blackened, but I can't bring myself to have my seafood anyway besides fried when I eat here. However, friends and family who have opted for these healthier methods of preparation assure me that they are just as tasty. The sides are hit or miss (though thankfully more hit), and they offer some really fine sweet tea as well. Hushpuppies are included with every meal, but unfortunately they're not that great (too hard on the outside). So what else makes for a quintessential dive besides great food? Low prices? Check. Minimal attention spent on furnishings and decoration? Check. Mediocre service? Check! The guy taking your order (the owner) never smiles, and tends to be pretty impatient; once you order and find a seat, it'll take a while for them to bring you your food (and once they do, you'll never see them again). It doesn't matter, though, because the food is so damn good, and because, well, the place is a dive, so that's what you should expect. Finally, my fellow Yelpers have noted that the lines at the Sea Shack can be horrendous. They're right, but fortunately the long lines are avoidable. The most important thing is to not come for dinner. It wouldn't even occur to me to do so. I think of this place as strictly a lunch venue. Second, don't come at peak lunchtime. Hold off until one o'clock, or even a little later if you can, and the line shouldn't be that bad. Who knows; it might not even be out the door!

    (4)

  • Todd P.

    Don't bother with overpriced tourist traps like The Salty Dog Cafe...even though The Sea Shack isn't on the water, this is the real deal when it comes to fresh seafood cooked right. I probably had the best fried clams I've ever had here and would definitely go back. No frills, tight on space, hard to find and crowded, but well worth it.

    (5)

  • Eric S.

    Meh. The people were very nice, but for an hour wait on a Wednesday, we expected better. Nothing particularly bad, but also nothing that made us want to come back.

    (2)

  • Phil V.

    Love this place. I recommend coming during lunch to beat the packed dinner crowd. The blackend grouper is a must, slaw is pretty good as well.

    (4)

  • Giggli T.

    I love this place. The atmosphere isn't good, yes, but it's really good food and that's why I always go here on a trip to HHI.

    (4)

  • Leslie T.

    OMG! Yes, it is in a biz park district; yes it is a "dive"; yes, they have some of the best seafood on Hilton Head Island; and yes, I am a jaded foodie who ate there twice during a week's vaca on Hilton Head! (and I rarely go back to the same place twice while on vacation as I like to try all the great restaurants that I have read about in any particular area)...I went for lunch, so I don't know about the lines out the door that people are complaining about on here. I never waited for my food. The portions are ridiculously large (unless you are ridiculously large as well and need to eat a ton of food at one sitting) as they give you a choice of two sides and throw in a couple of awesomely delicious hush puppies to boot! I had some leftovers for munchies later! On my first visit, I was solo and had the grilled shrimp po' boy with a sauteed spinach and a sweet potato cornbread side. I cannot go on about how wonderful both sides were, honestly. The spinach was cooked like greens are usually cooked in the south and the cornbread, well the cornbread....mouth orgasm, folks. The po' boy roll was fresh, the lettuce and tomato fresh (and NOT crappy iceberg lettuce) and everyone there was really friendly. I sat outside as I found the air conditioning to be too cold for me and a "wait person" brought my order outside for me when it was ready. The second time I went back was again for lunch with a friend and she is now a fan as well. She had the popcorn shrimp plate with two sides (the heavenly homemade sweet potato cornbread and coleslaw) and I again had a po' boy, but this time with grilled scallops, and my sides were sweet potato cornbread and butter beans (which were awesome). Go, folks, go!

    (4)

  • Sheila R.

    The ambiance is divey, but the food is first-class! Had the oyster po-boy with sweet potato cornbread; both were excellent! There can be a long wait; we only waited about 10 minutes at 1:00 on a Monday afternoon.

    (5)

  • Kim C.

    This place is outstanding. We were in Hilton Head for a week, and I had heard of this place, and read the reviews here so we decided to give it a go. First of all, we went on a nasty, rainy day - which was a GREAT idea. It was lunchtime on a weekday in August, and we only waited in line about 10 minutes! One of the great things is that everything that you order can be fried, grilled, or blackened. I love the options. And its a great deal. I think the most pricey thing on the menu is about $14! My husband got the flounder, grilled, with cole slaw and fries. He said it was awesome, though he wasn't a big fan of the cole slaw. I had the chicken sandwich, fried, with fries. The sandwich was awesome (I'm not much of a seafood fan myself!) All in all, it is a dive with great food. So what if you have to wait a while? I say its worth it.

    (4)

  • Andy D.

    Just got back from a weekender in Hilton Head. The only reason we stopped to eat at the Sea Shack was because of the Yelp reviews. Contrary to what we read, we didn't have to wait at all to get in. We came right after the first dinner push at around 8pm and right before the second push since they close at 10pm. This place is the real deal....it is nothing fancy, but the food is delicious! Anytime I'm on the coast, I always look for a local seafood place to get a good meal. Sure, there is one HUGE tourist trap for seafood in Hilton Head, but this hole in the wall is where it's at. My wife and I shared our two dinners. She got the 1/2 lb fried shrimp special and I got the 1/2 lb peel and eat shrimp. Hushpuppies, fries, mac and cheese, and cole slaw as our sides. It was a nice portion of food! We probably should have stopped eating, but we couldn't help it. The texture of the fried shrimp were perfect. Crunchy and crisp yet not overcooked and rubbery. The peel and eat were seasoned superbly in low country crab seasoning. We couldn't decide which we liked better. The hushpuppies were also a nice treat! I think I could eat an entire meal of those with their cocktail sauce which is in an easy squeeze bottle at your table. I'm definitely going back to this place again and probably multiple times on the next trip.

    (5)

  • Ernie C.

    Waited outside for about 45 minutes on a Tuesday night in August. Must say, that even though the prices are reasonable, I probably wouldn't stand in line again. Got the crab cake (terrible) and salmon (ok) platter with salad and fries for $14.95. The She Crab soup was TERRIBLE and very salty. My wife enjoyed her blackened shrimp, but again, nothing special. I might go back for a cheap lunch, but would not stand in line.

    (2)

  • Norman B.

    Other reviews cover the excellent quality of the food and the rushed service. Though I must emphasize that we were not rushed while sitting at the table and being served. The quality in our groups opinion was closer to four star, but is the hassle really worth it? Maybe for a one time visit - yes. We were glad that we went, but we won't go back. There are other places with good food where you don't have to wait in line for over an hour to get seated and sit at table with oil cloth and an atmosphere that was not only noisy, but crowded. It is because of the surroundings and the way we expected the food to be that it only got three stars from us.

    (3)

  • Jeanne W.

    The Sea Shack is what its name suggests...fresh seafood served in a shack. As we waited in line outside the shack next to parked cars and adjacent restrooms, chatting with friendly locals and tourists, I had flashbacks of Seinfield's "Soup Nazi" (except the Sea Shack folks are very friendly). The food is notoriously great and customers are willing to work for it. The Shack has a procedure: wait outside in line, enter when invited by the waiter, read the menu from a chalkboard, order, pay, and have a seat until your food is ready. The shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, grouper, and cole slaw were scrumptious. Best of all, dining at the shack was a unique experience and a great story to tell the rest of the family when you get home. Don't miss it!

    (5)

  • Adam A.

    Clams were prepackaged. Don't get clams

    (2)

  • Barbara D.

    I would come back to Hilton Head for the sole reason of eating at Sea Shack again. While this place is a bit of a hole in the wall, it was the best food I had eaten on the entire island during my vacation last week. I ordered the grilled oyster po boy with sweet potato fries and sweet potato cornbread. That was one of the best po boy's I've ever eaten and I love that they give you the option of having your meat grilled, fried or blackened (most everywhere else automatically gives it to you fried). The sweet potato fries were a delight but the sweet potato cornbread wasn't quite what I expected it to be. It tasted more like pumpkin bread (everyone in our party came to the same conclusion). Regardless, it was still tasty. My bf ordered fried oysters with green beans and mac & cheese and our friends ordered the shark attack. All was devoured in less than 10 minutes. This place is food heaven!

    (5)

  • Sarah P.

    Absolutely worth the stars! Found this place from a trip advisory for best hole-in-the-walls and it definitely has character. The advisory also warned us of the "sea nazi" but she made extra efforts to smile and even joked of her new nickname. All of the food was terrific...we ate it blackened. Definitely recommend the snapper and cornbread (more of a spice cake). The scallops were perfectly cooked. One of my new favorite restaurants. We're coming back tomorrow for more!

    (5)

  • R M.

    Had already heard raves about it from friends, and it lived up to the hype. Great selection of fresh fish, prepared fried, grilled or blackened, and all were relatively inexpensive. Had the blackened tilapia, chose fries and the apple cornbread. Hushpuppies came along with all orders. Everything but the cornbread was fantastic. Also tried a bite of the crunchy filet from the 'fish and chips,' and a spoon of the delicious mashed potatoes. Both also good. Go straight to the order line, they seat you. Wait staff was great, all around excellent experience. Nothing better for your money on the island.

    (5)

  • aya i.

    With all the chain restaurants on Hilton Head, we weren't sure what to eat that we couldn't get back in California. We found The Sea Shack on Yelp and decided we had to find the place. It was GOOD. My husband and I had some kind of Shack Combo that you can choose to get fried, grilled and blackened. My husband got fried and I went for grilled. The meal included tilapia, oysters, scallops, shrimp, hush puppies ... maybe more, I can't remember... Yum. It was delicious. If we're ever back at Hilton Head we're going to The Shack.

    (4)

  • Roy C.

    I was looking forward to the Sea Shack based on the other Yelp reviews. But what I found was and nasty shack and below par food. There wasn't a line so I felt like were were very lucky. I also had a cup of the shrimp bisque which was way over spiced. I don't eat fried food so I decided to try the grilled chilean sea bass as my entre. This was greasy and had a spongy texture, the worst sea bass ever. My girlfriend went with the fried shrimp which she said were nothing special. . I think I'm a little picky about my food, but this place is like a Waffle House for seafood.

    (2)

  • Robert C.

    The Soup Nazi!! That's the first thing I thought when I tasted this place's New England Clam Chowder. Amazing. This is a hidden not-so-secret place in Hilton Head. Why this is the seafood equivalent of the Soup Nazi? You wait in line to place your order and there are plenty of little tables you can eat at. The lady behind the counter is fairly rude, kicks the line out the door if it gets too crowded, kicks people out who sit down before ordering, and is rude enough to highlight the tip section of the credit card place, even though the staff does nothing but take your order and bring you your food. You get your own refills and take up your own trash when you're done. I think the cashier intentionally takes orders slow to make sure there are enough tables available for people. That being said about the service, I'd eat here EVERY DAY and be happy because the food is so damn good. My wife hates seafood and was in heaven from a great grilled chicken sandwich, sweet potato fries, a mini-salad, and hush-puppies. I got a pound of glorious peel-and-eat shrimp and the soup. I can't imagine why people would complain about this place. It is difficult to find and hidden behind a couple other places, you don't just "stumble" across this place. Go here for the food, expect the lines and bad service to be part of the experience.

    (5)

  • Abby O.

    This place has great local seafood made fresh. It is one of the few restaurants in Hilton Head that is not a tourist hub. There are lines out the door everyday, but it is well worth the wait. We ate three times while we were in Hilton Head and had a wonderful meal every time.

    (5)

  • Marv B.

    Local favorite, and cheap.

    (4)

  • brandi d.

    Called in for take out. Walked up and a huge line greeted me. Luckily I was able to walk right in and get my food fifteen minutes after calling it in. Inside was hot and a few tables were open despite the long line outside. Split calamari appetizer, combo of crabcake (only got one), gator nuggets, and popcorn shrimp with my best friend. Combo came with fries and hushpuppies. All food was good, besides the crabcake which was barely edible. It was more than we could eat.

    (4)

  • Foodie T.

    Great place to eat. The fish is very good --mostly fried but you can get it grilled or blackened as well. The sides are great -- fried okra, collard greens, mac and cheese. Get extra sides as they are the best here. The process for ordering and getting your food is very efficient but not fast. I'd go back if not for the line. Took a little longer to get in than other places on a Saturday night but not an extraordinary wait.

    (4)

  • Anthony P.

    It has to be one of the best seafood restaurants that I had the pleasure to eat at in the US. Great portions, fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. Get there at 4:45pm so that you are not standing in line too long! We loved the hushpuppies and macaroni and cheese! My wife thought the tartar sauce was out of this world!

    (5)

  • Wizzy H.

    Came here last year for lunch and loved it! Now when we come down we always make a stop there. Love the alligator bites! Can't wait to get back.

    (5)

  • Clint U.

    "We want DINNER!!!!" "I remember Rachael Rey eating here on ther $40 a day show. Let's eat there." "Rachael Ray?????" I muttered. Between her and Martha Stewart (before her OCD penny pinching demise) they endorsed 87% of Amercia's gross national products. "Can you get some references so we can make sure this isn't a set up?" "I did. I Googled the place and it had a lot of good reviews," retorted one of my internet savvy kid. Away we went......... The Sea Shack.....is a shack. A very unpretentious, run down, hole in the wall place with a line outside longer than the restaurant itself. Many in line are seasonal repeat customers in this Time Share Heaven (or Hell depending on the traffic) island community. I found out that this place was very quiet until RR made her way here and advertised them to millions of viewers. Now the lines won't stop. We waited 20 minutes to get in. Not too bad at 6 pm on a weekday. So how was the food? To my surprise, FABULOUS. Here is how it went: 1. Fried and breaded alligator chuncks: I wanted my kids to try this at least once in their life. 75% took me up on it. It was just great. It has a texture between chicken and catfish, with a very mild flavor. The meat was as moist as fresh catfish but had the body of tender chicken. Excelllent preparation: 5 stars 2. Fried frog legs: I also wanted my kids to try it. 50% were takers. LIke eating small chicken wings. The meat had a texture between fish and chicken, but more like fish. The meat was very very moist like well prepared fish. Mild flavor closer to a white fish but had some body like chicken wings. Just great as is without any sauce. 5 stars 3. Fried oysters: Some of the best I have had and prepared perfectly. Not overcooked but not raw. The breading was browned and crunchy: 5 stars 4. Blackened and grilled scallops: About an inch in diameter, these scallops were again done perfectly. Grilled and carmelized on the outside, moist and very tender on the inside. Not under or over cooked.. Done perfectly to my tastes. 5 stars 5. Blackened talapia: Done perfectly again. Not overcooked and just done past rawness. Very moist and tender flesh. 5 stars 6. Crabcakes: I am spoiled by Maryland. These were not good crabcakes. Too much filler, crab meat was shredded. Not much crab flavor: 2 stars 7. Blackened shrimp: Medium sized, good spice and done correctly. I would have liked larger sized shrimp. 4 stars 8. Sweet potato fries: Why can't more restaurants serve this? They were just great. Hard to get these perfect because sweet potatoes do not like to stay crispy. 4 stars 9. Fried okra: It is hard to made distinguished okra. Fried okra is fried okra. You either love em or hate em. 4 stars. 10. Cole slaw: Good solid, traditional rendition of this dish. 4 stars Overall: This is a 5 star place. The value was exceptional for this part of town. The largest seafood platter with 2 sides was $15. Highly recommended. And I guess I need to pay more attention to Rachael Ray's places to eat....

    (5)

  • Peter M.

    Their mantra is "not fancy - just good". Excellent, inexpensive, tasty "Seafood Dive". Well worth the effort to find them hidden away - watchout for the potholes in the parking lot.

    (4)

  • Georgia B.

    Ate there with my friends, and we each had a fish that was better than the next. I had cobia, caught fresh that day...yum! There is a long line, yes, but it moves pretty fast. I don't think they serve alcohol, which may be a turn off to some. But man, the food is worth it!

    (4)

  • Paulette C.

    Tried for the first time on our recent visit to Hilton head We ate with another couple we met on the island highly recommended this restaurant Seafood was excellent but you have to wait outside in the heat for a while probably an hour because it's very small inside But excellent because it's a local place highly recommend

    (5)

  • Kimberly J.

    This is my favorite seafood restaurant on the island. Very good food and a casual atmosphere. It can get busy so be prepared to wait a little. Don't be turned off by the line outside, it doesn't take long to make it inside. The only reason I didn't give the Sea a Shack 4 stars is the drinks. No alcohol and Pepsi products. I'm a Coke girl. Now this is not the place for a nice healthy meal. The best items are fried and breaded. The servings are big enough to take half your meal home and the food is reasonably priced. The Sea Shack is not open on Sundays.

    (4)

  • Nikki S.

    THE FOOD IS AMAZING- We had a grouper sandwich with FF and sweet potato cornbread, and a fried shrimp poboy with FF and slaw- we wish we could fit more into our stomachs. The reason this gets 4 stars is for poor customer service. We did not feel welcomed, in fact when we walked in the door we were met by a disgruntled employee who asked us what we were doing and we replied " about to order " she said- " were you next in line?" We said "yes" then she scolded us we can't just be walking inside like this because all these other people outside might follow us in..,, there are NO signs asking customers to wait outside- even tho we had been waiting outside for 30 mins without complaining. When we got to the counter I asked if they had grouper nuggets and the cashier said "this ain't McDonald's we don't cut out grouper up" Good food tho.

    (4)

  • Mike L.

    Let me start off with the wait. I waited and hour and half in line to be seated. I ordered the fish and shrimp dinner. I was asked if I wanted it blackened or fried. I wanted fried shrimp with blackened fish. I was told that I had to pick one or the other. I don't understand why ? I chose the blackened. My sides were cabbage and black bean chutney. The shrimp and fish were overly seasoned. Completely took away from the taste of the fish. The cabbage was okay and so were the beans. Hush puppies were okay as well. For my family of four, food and drinks we paid $70.00. I came away with an okay dining experience. I expected a unique flavor to their food due to their high reviews. Nothing special in my opinion. The long wait in the elements. Getting bit by mosquitoes and sweating it's not worth the wait. I've checked this place as a place I wanted to visit, but I won't be back.

    (3)

  • Kim M.

    Simply amazing. Fast counter service. Food is delicious, hot, perfectly seasoned. We are gluten free and there were plenty of options for us o chose from. The grilled fish and shrimp were moist. A must visit on the island.

    (5)

  • Toni W.

    This is a super casual spot. We visited during February at lunch time, so there was no wait at all. Easy in, easy out. We ordered at the counter, and food was at our table in less than five minutes. The food was excellent - the oyster po'boy was the highlight of the meal (although the spicy buffalo shrimp po'boy was excellent, too). The stewed okra and tomatoes were fabulous. The hush puppies were so good that my father ordered more. Unfortunately, no one in our group tried the sweet potato cornbread - I would bet it was fantastic. It was a great lunch spot. We enjoyed it!

    (4)

  • David B.

    As my family's first trip to HHI, it has been one of exploring and trying new things. Thanks to Yelp and several recommendations back home, it didn't take long for The Sea Shack to appear on our radar. It was everything we expected and more. If "local" and quality of food over ambience are important to you, then this is the place to visit for good seafood. We arrived a little past 4:30pm to a line that stretched down the side of the building. After opening at 5:00, we waiting an additional 45 minutes to get called in out of the sweltering heat. Within a few minutes we had ordered, gotten drinks and were seated at a table. The wait ended up being well worth it. The po boy (fried shrimp) was terrific and the blackened scallops were outstanding. Our kids had the fried fish / fried shrimp and it was excellent as well. This place gets five stars because of the great food and portion sizes and it's charm. Hope to be back soon!

    (5)

  • Kyle W.

    The Sea Shack is a must for my wife's family who has been coming down to HHI for 25+ years. I've been down here once a year for the past 5 years and we have stopped to eat here for lunch every year. The restaurant is open for lunch and then for dinner. They close down between 3 and 5 before they start serving dinner. I can't comment on the dinner, or if it is any different as we have only ever showed up for lunch. The "motto" of the Sea Shack, if you will, is "Not Fancy, But Good!" and it fits. You can tell the building is very old and there is nothing fancy about place or the tables inside, but it sure is good food. We have never been here when there hasn't been a line outside of the door. They like to do things a certain way here and they will only let in a certain number of people at a time, hence the line out the door. The waitress/owner (not sure who she is but she is here every single year) will come outside and let in parties one at a time as she is the one that takes the order as well. She typically lets people in based on the amount of seating available it seems. There aren't that many tables inside (15 maybe?) and a couple tables outside. It's worth the wait. This most recent adventure I ordered the fish & chips. It came with three large pieces of fish, fries, and one side for about $10. It was very good sized for a lunch portion. The only thing I could complain about was my side of macaroni and cheese, it was still cold on the inside while the outside was hot. However, the fish and fries were very good. I have to give a special mention to the hush puppies as they have little bits of corn on the side. So good! Definitely check it out if you get the chance and don't be afraid to ask if you aren't sure what you are doing on your first visit! It is my favorite sea food place on the island that we go to. Looking forward to going back next year!

    (4)

  • Kathy R.

    Fresh and delicious seafood. Had to wait a bit to get in the door but was worth the wait. Scallops, oysters and shrimp were fantastic. Will definitely return.

    (5)

  • Misty W.

    Great food. Order when you walk in. Space is limited so go at off hours. The seafood is fresh! They also offer several vegetables as sides. The location is kind of hidden Ono don't miss it. It's really worth the trip.

    (5)

  • Jim W.

    My family and I had a delicious lunch here on a weekend getaway to Hilton Head. We'd heard great things about the seafood; not so great things about the wait to get in. Thankfully, when you're here on a blustery February day, you get all of the former, none of the latter. My oyster po-boy was top notch, really one of the best I've ever had. The buffalo shrimp po-boy was good and spicy. Even the chicken fingers my son had were crispy and tasty. And the hush puppies - oh my! The only drawback - it was a little pricey, especially for lunch. Just the price you pay for Hilton Head, I guess. Nom nom nom...

    (4)

  • April A.

    This place was pretty good. I got the shrimp po boy' it was and it was really good, however, I wish it had more shrimp than bread. The hush puppies were solid and the sweet tea perfect! I would come back, but It would not be the 1st place I will have to stop by the next time I return.

    (4)

  • Joseph T.

    The Sea Shack on Hilton Head Island has the best Sea Food around nothing fancy just home cooking low country style.

    (5)

  • Sharon L.

    We wanted hush puppies, so we ventured out for lunch and landed at the Sea Shack. It is exactly as the name implies- a shack type eatery. Be prepared to wait and follow their process. Lunch for me and the spouse was blackened mahi sandwich, which was perfectly seasoned. I had a side mini salad with wasabi dressing. It packs a mild punch. The grilled shrimp also came favorable and cooked perfect and plump. The real stars were - the hush puppies. Little mouthfuls of corn touched goodness. A tad a sweetness, but not overpowering. Another surprise was the sweet potato cornbread. Not typical. Each piece a dense square dressed with a honey glaze. More a dessert than a main course companion. Best meal we've had this trip to the island.

    (5)

  • Mike H.

    Came at lunch time on a Saturday, just a short line no real wait. The place is a hair bigger than a hole in the wall. Order at the counter and food is brought to your table. Probably not the healthiest of meals - our whole group order fried something-or-other - but darn if it wasn't all very good. Large portion of fried shrimp. Fish-n-chips was delicious. Best surprise - sweet potato corn bread, yum! Some of the other sides were just average but nothing sub-par.

    (4)

  • Jeremy S.

    The fried oysters and scallops are the best I've had. I also had the flounder and shrimp. The fish was fine and the shrimp were very good. A ton of food for sure. Good amount for the money. Some folks would easily share plates. I'm in that category though we each ordered our own, not knowing. My son had popcorn shrimp. These were the same sized shrimp that came on my plate but without the tails. He had a good many of them and 2 sides. Was a large kids meal but he ate it all. The sides were good too. Not great but good. So the bad part is that you'll wait to eat here. We showed up on a Wednesday before they opened at 5p and there was a line clear across the parking lot. I waited over an hour to get inside the door and then another 20 or so to eat. Take away is no faster. No call in orders accepted so you have to wait in line with the folks dining in. There are probably only 10-15 tables so things go at an island pace. All in all it was worth it. Can't believe it but it was. I will add that the restaurant is is terrible condition. I don't mind eating in a dive, in fact i expect to at many of these seafood spots at the beach. But on my way out i noted a drain in the floor of the dining room was backing up (just a little) into the dining room. Gross. There was also a knat problem there the night we dined. Still, it's one of the best meals on the island.

    (4)

  • PJ S.

    Nice portions of fresh seafood. Honestly the food quality measures up to some of the fancier places in town - but because you are eating off a plastic plate and in a very humble building the price is much cheaper. Wish i would have found this place earlier in my vacation. I would have eaten here every night.

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    We came here based on Yelp reviews. It's a little hole-in-the-wall local place, but you know they're doing something right with the line of people waiting. There were about a dozen people in line OUTSIDE the restaurant when my family arrived. The locals standing in line in front of us were very excited because they said it was the shortest they'd ever seen the line. They said normally the line is wrapped around the building. We ordered and took our food to go so we could eat sooner than waiting for a table inside. The food was fresh and excellent! I had shrimp and scallops that were MUCH better than I had the next night at a touristy restaurant in Harbor Town. I would say GO EARLY before the line gets too long, and just take the food to go.

    (4)

  • Melvyn H.

    The Shack Attack is enough to feed two people. Love the hush puppies. Seafood is very fresh, fast service once you get into the building.

    (4)

  • Shannon P.

    This is a must do on the island! Yummy seafood owned by locals. Food is very fresh and cooked to perfection! Our family had the soft shelled crab, fried and steamed scallops, gator, shrimp, tilapia, crab cakes, clams and oysters. All very good! The sweet tea is made to perfection! The prices are great and the dining is casual. Great place to take kids! This is were the locals eat for good reason!

    (5)

  • Jay M.

    Excellent seafood. Excellent price. The wait is long, an hour and a half, around 7:00. There were 10 of us and all of us had different platters and everyone loved the seafood. One comment, don't get the hamburger. :) Pretty sure it was not 100% beef. The blackened is spicy but so tasty. Definitely will be back.

    (4)

  • Brad A.

    Once again, a return trip to HHI and are turn trip to Sea Shack. Lunch always easier to slide into and if you're willing to do carry out it's a piece of cake. Blackened Mahi some of the best I've had and the sweet potato cornbread is worth going back all by itself. Hasn't been a hidden gem in years, but it is awesome!

    (5)

  • Michael S.

    The food was good, but the people were not nice. We had shrimp, crab cakes and flounder on separate plates and all were very good. They were fried, but with a light batter that had good flavor. The fries and other sides like field peas were good too. The counter servers acted put out when we asked a few questions. They were making homemade key lime pie, but it was just okay.

    (4)

  • Katie H.

    OH MY GOODNESS, there are no words to describe how good the meal I had was. I ordered fish and chips and it's definitely the best fish and chips of my life. it's a bit of a wait, but it's honestly worth it. people line up for a reason- this is fire. the food was so good, I would come back for more very consistently.

    (5)

  • Barb B.

    If you enjoy Diners, Drive-ins and Dives / you'll love this place! Great seafood, fast service, and long lines during evening hours. We enjoyed the wide variety of seafood at affordable prices -from you-peel shrimp to tilapia and snapper and Mahi Mahi. The hush puppies were a fun addition to each meal. The atmosphere was vintage dive - but the food was TERRIFIC!

    (5)

  • Beverly L.

    Wowzer! Why go all the way to Hudson's when the Sea Shack is so close, and so delish! Fried oysters, shrimp and scallops were perfectly prepared, tender and juicy. The folks inside were friendly and efficient and helpful for first timers. The sides were also fabulous, with the sweet potato cornbread winning the day! As Arnold said, "We'll be back!"

    (5)

  • Melissa B.

    The food tastes much better than the place looks. My husband had the fried fish and fries, and I had the grilled platter. The grilled oysters were perfect, and so were the shrimp, scallops, and fish. The oysters just stood out in my mind as having the perfect sea flavor with a little tangy twist from lemon I believe. My son loved the hush puppies. Collards were perfect!!! Will be back!!!

    (5)

  • Karalynn N.

    Every summer, I always have to visit the Sea Shack. Let me say, it never disappoints. The place is nothing fancy or extravagant, but the home feeling of deep fried seafood and close to the beach makes it a perfect meal/snack for a summer day (when it's not raining). The fried popcorn shrimp with hush puppies is the staple for me. I always tell myself I want to try everything, but that seems to fill the craving I have for anything fried. (Since I am not much of a fan of fried food). Though, I am not going to lie, but the deep fried oyster po'boy always gets me for just a taste. It's a solid taste in a sandwich that I have yet to have better in California.

    (4)

  • Gus B.

    The food is supposed to be good but I may never know. The line is RIDICULOUS and they do NOT accept call in for take-out. Whatever.

    (3)

  • Elizabeth B.

    Sea shack is a must for lunch. I love the buffalo shrimp po boy. Sides and sweet tea are great.

    (5)

  • Ira K.

    Our favorite little hole in the wall seafood restaurant. Worth the wait if there's a line.

    (5)

  • Matt S.

    I would highly recommend the homemade key lime pie. It was on point. The crab cake sandwich melts in your mouth.

    (4)

  • Nancy W.

    A real dive, but the food was great and it seems that January is the time to be there. No lines, no waiting at 5 PM Had the blackened scallops. Spicy as heck, but great. Red rice good too along with the hush puppies. I doubt I will ever be back to Hilton Head Island, but if we did come back, this would be a definite stop.

    (5)

  • Jeff W.

    Got there about 7:30 and we had to wait outside in the rain for about 15 minutes but once we get the food it was well worth the wait. It's a small place but the seafood is the best I've had in a while. I had the Shak Attack. It had fish, oysters, scallops, and shrimp. The fish was Ok but everything else was awesome. We will eat there again the next time we are in HH

    (5)

  • Jacqueline B.

    The first night my daughter, her friend, and I were in Hilton Head we met a couple who raved about this place. I read the reviews... The biggest complaint was the wait...which turned out to be a long line...but, I decided there was a line for something. As we waited in line...through the window I saw customers dipping ice with a scoop for their beverages, then replacing the scoop in the ice bin. Ecoli? Not for me... To the Salty Dog we went.. Sure we spent more...but, if we get food poisoning here...they can afford the medical bills.

    (1)

  • Mark H.

    If you are staying in Hilton Head, you must try this place. The food is fresh and excellent! Fried, grilled or blackened options exist for all of the seafood. Be sure to check out the board near the entrance for the daily specials and sides. The only downside (and reason for my four star and not five star rating)...the wait will be long if you try to go during a typical dinner time. Don't let this deter you from going...just be prepared. We arrived at 5:40pm (Thursday, mid-July) and waited an hour and 40 minutes. The line extended out the door, past the end of the building and into the parking lot (no waiting list). Unfortunately, there's minimal seating inside. To give the staff credit, they do a great job moving people through the restaurant. The demand is just unbelievable. As my wife remarked, it must be disappointing for the restaurant across the parking lot that they don't have the same demand. I guess a long line of people is a good problem to have if people are willing to wait. We will definitely be back!

    (4)

  • Lauren B.

    I'm still somewhat new to the seafood world but couldn't leave Hilton Head without hitting up a great Southern seafood restaurant. On our last night, we decided to venture to The Sea Shack. At 5:30 on a Thursday night in early June (not quite super primetime tourist season), we had about a 50 minute wait. And we agreed, it was worth the wait! I got the fried popcorn shrimp and crab cake combo with hush puppies (yum!!), applesauce and seasoned rice. My boyfriend got the fried alligator appetizer and frog leg entrée with cheese grits (yum!!) and sweet potato corn bread. The fried alligator was a pleasant surprise, and probably my favorite food out of all the items we ordered. Everything was fresh, affordable and delicious! Some more details: This is definitely off the beaten path and is a place to check out if you want to get a different experience than the more chain-like restaurants across the island. Hole-in-the-wall, for sure! The line doesn't move toooooo quickly, but the staff does a great job making sure you get a table once you're inside and ordering (which was an unexpected surprise!) The menu gets a little confusing -- the menu online doesn't necessarily match the menu in the window while waiting in line which doesn't necessarily match the menu on the whiteboard inside which doesn't necessarily match the menu near the cash register. PHEW. Lots of decisions to be made due to so many great sounding combo meals. It's best to know what you want when you get to the cash register. There are lots of people waiting, and you'll probably have plenty of time to decide on what you want -- so be sure to be ready when it's your turn to order!

    (5)

  • Richard B.

    The food was good. The process to order was confusing. They have a good variety of side items on their menu.

    (4)

  • C L.

    We came here for lunch and we had the following: popcorn shrimp, crab cake, fish and chips and calamari platter. We also got cheeseburger. Everything was very good except the calamari. We thought the fish and chips was the best fish and chips we've ever had. The southern sweet tea was good too. It's a solid 4 but skip the calamari- order it somewhere. Among the sides we like the collard green, Mac and cheese ( awesome according to my kids) and fries. Didn't care too much for sweet potato corn bread. We are split on the hush puppies, 2 likes, 2 don't like and 1 ok. We will go back if we visit the area again.

    (4)

  • Cheezwhiz R.

    Seafood anyway you want it fried grilled and blacked. People have been coming here for years. The seafood is good and resonable. It's very rustic and adds to the charm. Just remember the line goes way out the door during the season. Is it worth going out of your way not so much.

    (3)

  • Ben N.

    TL:DR -Fried/blackened/grilled anything on the menu -Board is updated with local catch, including... GATOR NUGGETS -January - off season was still busy! -Best seafood for the price Review: We come to HH once a year for a work retreat, and it just so happened we came across this place (pretty divey) based on the positive yelp reviews. We were not disappointed. We ordered Shrimp - both blackened and fried, blackened salmon, red rice, fries, and the obligatory hush puppies. Everything tasted great, the service was friendly, and the chef was super nice. She allowed us to change our shrimp order mid-cooking. We will definitely be coming back here.

    (4)

  • David S.

    Great food at great prices. Always busy so expect to wait. We often take out as seating is limited, but get there at least 30 minutes before the restaurant opens.

    (4)

  • Shane C.

    Local beach hang out vibe. Lovely southern charm, amazing staff. Loved the crushed-ice especially. :-)

    (5)

  • Diane C.

    A hidden gem with awesome food. Be prepared to wait in line. All Po-boys are great & have great homemade desserts.

    (5)

  • Elizabeth B.

    PRO - The Sea Shack serves up some incredible seafood! I ambitiously ordered The Shark Attack Combo and loved the crab-meat-packed crab cake, fish, and shrimp. I also loved their hush puppies and key lime pie. Yum yum yum! CONS - This is not the place to casually hang out and order slowly. The staff expects you to be snappy, and if you're not, expect to get some serious attitude. We attempted to dine here with 10 people, which is a terrible idea. The outside picnic tables were buggy while the inside was crowded and tight. I'd love to get food from here again, but if we're in town with a large group, we'll definitely be getting takeout.

    (4)

  • Alex S.

    I had the fried calamari which was very good. Their hush puppies were the best part, better than most I have had.

    (4)

  • David H.

    If there's better seafood in Hilton Head I haven't found it. Very fresh and cooked perfectly

    (5)

  • Jillian A.

    I get super serious when it comes to researching where to eat on vacation. There have been times in the past in the days before Yelp where I have been burned. We only had one thing on our minds on our vacation to Hilton Head Island; seafood. Not only did Yelp suggest the Sea Shack, but literature that we received from our hotel also suggested it. This place is tucked away off of one of the main roads on that side of the island, but it was still easy to find. We pulled up and saw the line of people out front. I've waited in longer lines for food before. The husband and I were not intimidated, but we sure heard our fair share of complaints from other tourists in line. To that, I just shake my head. We didn't even wait for more than 15 minutes before we were let in to place an order and sit down. The menu is posted on the window as you wait in line, so I had more than enough time to think about what I wanted. We saw that they had Conch Fritters on the menu, which we are very fond of. We knew right away we would start with that. What complicated things was when we were let in, they had a dry erase board with very attractive specials. That changed everything, so I reconsidered my choice. You can choose to have your seafood fried, grilled, or blackened. I ordered the Red Snapper Blackened with Mac'n'Cheese and French Fries, and the husband ordered Scallops Blackened with Coleslaw and French Fries. The Conch Fritters that we started with were fantastic with large chunks of Conch in the fritter. On the seafood, the Red Snapper was supremely delicious, fresh, and meaty. The quality of the fish was five stars alone. The same goes for the Scallops. We had Scallops at a VERY popular place in Sea Pines which didn't even compare to the Scallops at Sea Shack. Tender, meaty, well cooked Scallops. However, the Mac'n'Cheese was pretty awful, dry, and tasteless. French Fries were frozen so I do not have a comment on that. The Coleslaw was great. Hushpuppies, THE BEST. If I had the choice The Sea Shack would of received a 4.5 star rating. What really killed it for me was the lack of thought or preparation in their side dishes. I know that seafood is the star of the show, but having a good overall experience makes all the difference.

    (4)

  • Craig S.

    Bad lunch there today....don't order the popcorn shrimp, tasted like rubber, absolutely horrible, I ate 3 and gave back to the cashier. Good waste of $$.

    (1)

  • Christina K.

    Sometimes, the hype is bigger than the event. Such is the place for the Sea Shack. From reading the reviews, we were salivating at some good if not great seafood served in a homey place. This place was off the backside of a main road, so use your GPS to find it. It looks like a rundown outdated motel that was converted to a restaurant and having rad the previous reviews, I was prepared for this. Also, the bathrooms are on the outside of the restaurant, not a porta potty like I had first imagined, but more like a gas station style bathroom. We were worried that there would be a huge line and wait, but during our visit, there were only about 4 other diners there. We walked into the menu, literally, it is a white dry erase board hung up on the wall in front of the door. The cashier and the counter is to your immediate right. Maybe it was because we were letting our eyes adjust from the sunlight outside to the dimness of the Shack, but the cashier said, in a not too overly friendly voice that the menu was also taped to the counter in front of him. I moved over and saw that it was like a smidgen of what was on the board and since I wanted to see everything they offered I moved back to the board which caused him to sigh... really, really loud which greatly annoyed me. We decided on the fried scallops for apps and I had the shark attack combo with a side salad and cornbread. The scallop app was very small, about 4-5 pieces for $9. Although good, it just was pricey. My meal on the other hand was overflowing the styrofoam plate. The fried seafood was flavorful, not overly greasy although the fish was just eh to me. I really, really regret ordering the cornbread because it was dense and tasted like carrot cake. If you're saying hunh? I was too and could only take 1 bite of it which was a waste cause they gave me a huge corner piece. If you like carrot cake, then by all means you'd probably love this. We had decided to sit outside for our meal and enjoy the beautiful weather. After our meal, we both agreed that it was just OK, not mind blowing but filling for what it was. When we went to throw all of our styrofoam plates away back inside, the cashier with the attitude didn't even say thanks or bye. Just stared at us from behind the counter.... so, thanks for living up to the southern hospitality there bub. Not the best meal ever, but not a total waste either.

    (3)

  • Teressa L.

    We come every year. This year we wait outside before they opened. Took an hour to place our order. Our group was too big for a table, so got it to go. They consistently have good seafood whether fried or broiled. It's small, so be open to take out. Read the menu and know what you want before getting up to the counter. They run a tight ship and want to move the line quickly! They do the grouper and scallops here right every time. I love the side choices....changes all the time, but the baby lima's are awesome! Desserts are good too. But after all the meals out on the island over 2 weeks....Sea Shack was the best hands down. Come early to get in line before opening.....

    (4)

  • Charlie W.

    Walked in around noon on a moderately busy Saturday afternoon. Was told they were too busy and my family had to stand outside by the parking lot and wait until we could order food. Really? Buh bye! Please learn some kindness and efficiency. I don't care how good the food is - treat customers well and learn to accommodate busy times. I won't be back.

    (1)

  • Sungjae J.

    came here after reading some reviews because it was pretty close to where we were staying in HHI. decor is meh... I had the tilapia plate and some fried scallops. fried scallops were pretty good but everything else was just ok. This place is kinda hidden from the road and if I wasn't looking for this place, I would never have found it.

    (3)

  • Gabe S.

    Food was great. A better lunch spot than a nice sit down dinner but the seafood is prepared well. There was a line out the door at noon so try to get there a little early. Great outdoor picnic tables for kids. People and staff are very nice. Shrimp and crab cakes were my favorite. Seasoning was good on everything.

    (4)

  • Ashley C.

    This is my dads favorite place to eat when we comes to visit. If you like REAL seafood with great flavor, come here. Its a hole in the wall and you have to show up before it opens and wait in line if you want to eat, but its worth it. Fried or grilled, best seafood on the whole island :)

    (4)

  • Big C.

    Oh yeah! Usually a very long wait unless you get lucky but they have some great fresh seafood for great prices. Awesome she crab soup, fried seafood, and shrimp po boy! I don't think you can go wrong with anything here

    (5)

  • Penny T.

    This is a standby tradition when visiting Hilton Head. Be prepared for lines out the door during heavy tourism times - best to arrive before opening. I have had blackened scallops and blackened shrimp numerous times; always good. Today I left my comfort zone and had blackened red snapper (local and fresh). Oh my gosh I may be ordering fish from now on. Good size, light and flaky and definitely not fishy tasting. Sides of green salad and black bean chutney were tasty, too. Loved my meal. Try this place!

    (4)

  • Jackie K.

    Great home style food! Hush puppies and mac n cheese rock! My boyfriend and I split a 3 choice combo with shrimp, calamari, and crab cake plus 2 sides and the hush puppies. Pretty great price for everything you got!

    (5)

  • Scott R.

    We went past this place one night and the line was 75 feet long to get so I had to go back and try it There was no line when we went back they have a very small dinning are so they only bring you in as the tables empty out The place is a dump the staff is totally unfriendly unless you are a local But the food was great and fresh so if you can look past all of the obstacles I would go back PS bring your fly swatter You can't beat the prices either

    (3)

  • C C.

    Shrimp po boy was good but not the best I've ever had. I prefer fried seafood that has more of a flour coating rather than cornmeal. Fries and cole slaw were decent but not great. However, the hushpuppies were really good. I'd go back but would order something else next time. The fact that they serve Pepsi products is also a big downer for me as well.

    (3)

  • Ivan C.

    By far the best and freshest seafood on the island for your buck! Try the Gene's Trio (for all you spice lovers, get it blackened) and make sure to get the sweet potato cornbread! I love this place and every time I come to the island I make sure to make at least 2 stops (can't just come once!).

    (5)

  • Melanie R.

    This was my second visit (went last year). I recommend ONLY for lunch. This is not fine dining...there are barely enough tables, and I don't think they serve alcohol. Most everything comes fried or blackened. The fish/shrimp combos are good, and the hushpuppies are delicious. Seriously though..you could probably find much better dining in Hilton Head. Don't wait in line for it!! If you must go, do it on an off beat hour.

    (3)

  • Jay B.

    I had to give five stars because it is so unique. The ambiance is not upper class. It is the exact opposite! There is a long, usually hour long, wait outdoors in the heat and humidity. There is not a view. It has the best food at the best prices by a very long shot. You will love it. At least, I do and those in line with me agree. Some for the fourth time in a week.

    (5)

  • Debbie I.

    Recently ate at the Sea Shack while vacationing in Hilton Head. The food is okay, but the atmosphere is terrible. The man that took our order behind the counter was rude and impatient. The lady that seated us was also rude and very unfriendly. Our family felt like we had been herded through the line, and the people working there wanted us to eat fast and get out so they could herd the next group of people through. Not worth it.

    (2)

  • Toni Y.

    Excellent meal! At our table, we had fish & chips, crab cakes, scallops, and popcorn shrimp. Sides: macaroni & cheese, cabbage, sautéed zucchini & summer squash, and mini salad. Everyone liked it all, except one person didn't like the hush puppies (I thought they were delicious). Nothing fancy, plastic ware & plates, but that did not take away from this meal or experience at all. Sweet tea was great too. Portions were substantial! Completely understandable why there was a line out the door, but we got in in less than 10 minutes. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is how crowded it is due to close quarters & lots of people. That's a great problem to have & indicative of the great food!

    (4)

  • Danny V.

    For no nonsense good seafood the Sea Shack was perfect for lunch. Had the fried platter-crab cakes, scallops, shrimps, fish and oysters. These ladies know how to cook without over frying everything. Will be back next time I'm am in Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Robert W.

    The seafood is fresh and tasty. Everyone in my party had the combination platter and it was very large portions. I had mine blacken and it was fantastic. Be prepared to wait because the lines are long but it's worth it.

    (4)

  • Dennis L.

    We really enjoyed this place. The legendary line is actually ok--they enter the door so that the tables are not outnumbered by diners. Food...it is great. Fried is ok--I suggest broiled foods there. The crab cake was a touch disappointing (too soft / blended). Deserts are home made. Can't beat that! Service at the counter is reminiscent if the Soup Nazi. Be sure to know what you want when you come in--should be easy as menus are posted in the windows by the line outside. --worth the wait.

    (4)

  • Brandon C.

    Food was good. There is no way I would wait 1-2 hours like some of the reviewers have mentioned. We went at lunch and didn't have but a 5-10 mins wait. Parking both your car and your rear end are difficult. Very little seating inside. If you don't like small places and lots of people, this is not your place. I think I would have enjoyed this more if I had ordered carry out.

    (3)

  • Maria M.

    Fantastic! Will come again soon! Love it! I had the peel and eat shrimp My kids had the fish and popcorn shrimp. All fantastic

    (5)

  • Missy B.

    The wait was about 35-45 minutes but it was worth every minute. I had a fried sampler platter that was very lightly breaded and delicious us. Great food with descent prices. If I was a local I would be there often unfortunately I live too far away.

    (5)

  • Regina S.

    If you want fried seafood then this is worth checking out. However, we prefer grilled/broiled and I would not recommend.

    (2)

  • Michele A.

    Stopped by for late lunch after several hours at the beach (on a Monday, mid/late May). Out of the way place, doesn't look like much from the outside, but the food is great. I had 1/2lb blackened shrimp with sweet potato corn bread and something else (can't remember, I ate it, just don't remember what it was). The shrimp was amazing, nice and spicy. I didn't care for the corn bread, but that's just me; the piece was huge though. My BFF had blackened shrimp po'boy with collard greens. She said her sandwich was amazing and the greens were very good. They have free refills on drinks, plenty of seating inside when we came (though I bet it's standing room only right at lunch or dinner). Definitely worth seeking this place out.

    (5)

  • Jeff Z.

    Great, hole-in-the-wall, local seafood joint. As mentioned in the other reviews, lines out the door are common (and its worth the wait). We had the Snack Attack (combo of shrimp, fish, oysters, scallops, and a crabcake) and a Gene's combo (tilapia, snapper, and mahi mahi). It was all wonderful. Best fried oysters and crabcake we ever had. The sides and hushpuppies were excellent as well.

    (5)

  • Jason C.

    Amazing. It is a hole in the wall place but man good food. I had the buffalo shrimp. The sauce tasted great and definite kick. The jerk grouper was the icing on the cake. Sandwich like none other. Go on off peak times. You will get a line. Only down side fries were just okay.

    (4)

  • Jillian A.

    I get super serious when it comes to researching where to eat on vacation. There have been times in the past in the days before Yelp where I have been burned. We only had one thing on our minds on our vacation to Hilton Head Island; seafood. Not only did Yelp suggest the Sea Shack, but literature that we received from our hotel also suggested it. This place is tucked away off of one of the main roads on that side of the island, but it was still easy to find. We pulled up and saw the line of people out front. I've waited in longer lines for food before. The husband and I were not intimidated, but we sure heard our fair share of complaints from other tourists in line. To that, I just shake my head. We didn't even wait for more than 15 minutes before we were let in to place an order and sit down. The menu is posted on the window as you wait in line, so I had more than enough time to think about what I wanted. We saw that they had Conch Fritters on the menu, which we are very fond of. We knew right away we would start with that. What complicated things was when we were let in, they had a dry erase board with very attractive specials. That changed everything, so I reconsidered my choice. You can choose to have your seafood fried, grilled, or blackened. I ordered the Red Snapper Blackened with Mac'n'Cheese and French Fries, and the husband ordered Scallops Blackened with Coleslaw and French Fries. The Conch Fritters that we started with were fantastic with large chunks of Conch in the fritter. On the seafood, the Red Snapper was supremely delicious, fresh, and meaty. The quality of the fish was five stars alone. The same goes for the Scallops. We had Scallops at a VERY popular place in Sea Pines which didn't even compare to the Scallops at Sea Shack. Tender, meaty, well cooked Scallops. However, the Mac'n'Cheese was pretty awful, dry, and tasteless. French Fries were frozen so I do not have a comment on that. The Coleslaw was great. Hushpuppies, THE BEST. If I had the choice The Sea Shack would of received a 4.5 star rating. What really killed it for me was the lack of thought or preparation in their side dishes. I know that seafood is the star of the show, but having a good overall experience makes all the difference.

    (4)

  • Craig S.

    Bad lunch there today....don't order the popcorn shrimp, tasted like rubber, absolutely horrible, I ate 3 and gave back to the cashier. Good waste of $$.

    (1)

  • Christina K.

    Sometimes, the hype is bigger than the event. Such is the place for the Sea Shack. From reading the reviews, we were salivating at some good if not great seafood served in a homey place. This place was off the backside of a main road, so use your GPS to find it. It looks like a rundown outdated motel that was converted to a restaurant and having rad the previous reviews, I was prepared for this. Also, the bathrooms are on the outside of the restaurant, not a porta potty like I had first imagined, but more like a gas station style bathroom. We were worried that there would be a huge line and wait, but during our visit, there were only about 4 other diners there. We walked into the menu, literally, it is a white dry erase board hung up on the wall in front of the door. The cashier and the counter is to your immediate right. Maybe it was because we were letting our eyes adjust from the sunlight outside to the dimness of the Shack, but the cashier said, in a not too overly friendly voice that the menu was also taped to the counter in front of him. I moved over and saw that it was like a smidgen of what was on the board and since I wanted to see everything they offered I moved back to the board which caused him to sigh... really, really loud which greatly annoyed me. We decided on the fried scallops for apps and I had the shark attack combo with a side salad and cornbread. The scallop app was very small, about 4-5 pieces for $9. Although good, it just was pricey. My meal on the other hand was overflowing the styrofoam plate. The fried seafood was flavorful, not overly greasy although the fish was just eh to me. I really, really regret ordering the cornbread because it was dense and tasted like carrot cake. If you're saying hunh? I was too and could only take 1 bite of it which was a waste cause they gave me a huge corner piece. If you like carrot cake, then by all means you'd probably love this. We had decided to sit outside for our meal and enjoy the beautiful weather. After our meal, we both agreed that it was just OK, not mind blowing but filling for what it was. When we went to throw all of our styrofoam plates away back inside, the cashier with the attitude didn't even say thanks or bye. Just stared at us from behind the counter.... so, thanks for living up to the southern hospitality there bub. Not the best meal ever, but not a total waste either.

    (3)

  • Teressa L.

    We come every year. This year we wait outside before they opened. Took an hour to place our order. Our group was too big for a table, so got it to go. They consistently have good seafood whether fried or broiled. It's small, so be open to take out. Read the menu and know what you want before getting up to the counter. They run a tight ship and want to move the line quickly! They do the grouper and scallops here right every time. I love the side choices....changes all the time, but the baby lima's are awesome! Desserts are good too. But after all the meals out on the island over 2 weeks....Sea Shack was the best hands down. Come early to get in line before opening.....

    (4)

  • Charlie W.

    Walked in around noon on a moderately busy Saturday afternoon. Was told they were too busy and my family had to stand outside by the parking lot and wait until we could order food. Really? Buh bye! Please learn some kindness and efficiency. I don't care how good the food is - treat customers well and learn to accommodate busy times. I won't be back.

    (1)

  • Suzanne S.

    This is not fresh seafood. I had Blackened Mahi Mahi and definitely not fresh. No Conche in the Conche Fritters ; (! The She Crab soup was so salty and fishy. The sweet potato cornbread was horrible bc it had way too much ground ginger no corn so I do not know why they call it cornbread. Wasabi Cucumber Dressing was good and the side salad was good also. I would not come back to this place if you have eaten fresh seafood caught fresh from the boat like they do in Florida Keys you won't be happy! They had good service and they managed the line well. For the life of me I do not know why there is a line for this place, Note so self please do not return !!

    (2)

  • Laurel F.

    Lots of character! Not a place for a romantic date but absolutely for a fun date. We enjoyed the alligator appetizers and mahi mahi/fried oyster lunch. We will definitely be repeat customers!

    (5)

  • Mel T.

    Quick, efficient service, great hole in the wall atmosphere. The food was excellent. Many places disappoint on the quality of their side dishes. Not the shack. Coleslaw, rd beans. & rice & hush puppies were awesome! Fish nuggets & crab cakes were good. The shrimp was wonderful! We had a combo platter, crab cake & shrimp with 2 sides & hush puppies. The kids had fish nuggets & fries.

    (4)

  • Phil P.

    Jerk seasoned grouper was a little over spiced but the fish was cooked well. It's hard to beat their prices. The "shack" is appropriately named for the lack of expensive atmosphere.

    (4)

  • Aurora P.

    This place isn't fancy, but the food is delicious. The blackened salmon was flavorful, and the crab cake was the best I've ever eaten. The cheddar mashed potatoes were also quite good.

    (5)

  • Amanda M.

    The food was great and reasonably priced. This was literally my first stop out of the airport on our vacation to HHI. The quick no nonsense service was exactly what I needed after 2 delayed flights. We went in on a monday evening around 8pm so the line was not out of the door (as I have heard it can be) but the restaurant was still busy. We ordered the crab cake appitizer (a must) and grilled grouper, tilapia, and flounder. Portions were perfect and all dinners came with 2 sides and hush puppies. I almost never clean my plate when dining out but I did at this place! Get the baked beans as a side if available (I think the side changes daily). Overall, sea shack had the perfect laid back vibe to start my vacation.

    (4)

  • Kerrie C.

    It is truly a shack but tasty! Lines each time I visited. Too long a line in first attempt but short enough line on second attempt. Good portions great for the price. Two thumbs up!

    (5)

  • Jonathan W.

    They were very rude never got to eat and watch out for the irate patrons in parking lot. We were asked to leave due to some seating system I did not know about. When we arrived there was no one waiting at the door only a shouting man saying he was leaving. We walked in and got in line. There was a sign that said order at the counter and we will seat you. The woman who spoked to us was rude and only mumbled that it worked had for 15 years before as we were shown the door. I had no idea what was going on but we were not treated like patrons who were there to spend money.

    (1)

  • Randy W.

    This is a great local hole in the wall. You wait in a line outside the restaurant but it's so worth it. You order at the register and self serve drinks. Buffalo shrimp po boy was great. Home made buffalo sauce and big shrimp. Wife got a blackened seafood platter and it was almost too much to eat. Very casual place. Not a lot of seating though.

    (5)

  • Kerri G.

    It's a random Thursday night and we have waited an hour and a half to place a take out order. The food is great but let's face it, this is an island with plenty of great seafood choices.

    (4)

  • Cat G.

    Delicious. Delicious in the way that only food from a shack can be. I had shrimp, sweet potato cornbread, hushpuppies, clam chowder, and of course, sweet tea. All of it was great. ALL of it. Awesome seafood is sometimes hard to find when chain restaurants and tourist traps set up shop everywhere, so I am so very grateful that we came across this place. It'snot very big, with most of the sitting room located on picnic tables outside, but if you're looking for some authentically good seafood, this place is it. I will definitely be back for more. My only suggestion is checking it out before going as it seems to have some random hours. I believe it closes between 3-5 and every time I've gone by, there's a line out the door. Like, at least 25 people long, so go with plans for a leisurely hang picnic-style rather than a quick pickup (unless you call ahead maybe?). But I take the long lines as a good sign- it's definitely confirmation that the awesome food is worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Sue S.

    The food is amazing! The atmosphere and noise level is not. Be prepared for a fairly long wait ( you stand outside and wait your turn to even talk to a hostess about seating). It was hard to converse over all the noise. BUT the seafood is amazing. We got the Shack Attack combo which included shrimp (I got mine Cajun style), scallops, oysters, tilapia and crab cake! Least favorite was the oysters but even that was good. My favorite is a toss up with the shrimp or crab cake. We actually went back a second time but this time we did carry out. That worked out great as the food was still very warm and tasty! We had the shrimp po boy sandwich....omg, AMAZING! I'd recommend carry out to avoid the lines and noise....but be sure to let the people in line know that as you walk past them or you're bound to get nasty looks.

    (4)

  • Amy D.

    Great fresh seafood at good prices. Don't expect ambiance & expect the employees to be a little gruff & blunt (reminiscent of the old Seinfield episode involving soup...). Best hot, seasoned Peel & Eat Shrimp I have had in YEARS.

    (5)

  • Suzy H.

    We come to HH every year and we come to SS at least twice. Best seafood on the island without doubt. You have to be okay with very casual and be prepared to wait but it is worth it.

    (5)

  • Hailey W.

    The food here was delicious! Especially the hush puppies. The wait is long,but it's worth it.Their seafood was cooked to perfection and was very fresh.After you get through the line the service is fairly quick.I highly recommend this place if you are visiting Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Tiffany B.

    This place is known as one of the places to get seafood on the island. Food is delicious and can be prepared fried, grilled or blackened. I had the blackened popcorn shrimp. The seasoning had a great deal of "kick" if you will and the amount if food was enough for two people or leftovers the next day. The hush puppies are to die for. One caveat, be prepared for a long wait. Doors open at 5 and the line is usually around the parking lot before they even open. We waited a full hour to get in and then another 20 min after ordering for a carry out order. It's worth the wait but just be prepared.

    (5)

  • Alan B.

    I enjoyed the peel and eat shrimp. The red rice and side salad was just enough food. I will always visit when I'm in town.

    (5)

  • Susan M.

    No, just no. I split the seafood platter with my daughter. The oysters and scallops were quite good, but the Tilapia tasted fishy and old. The crab cake was greasy, but passable. The shrimp were so tough looking and over cooked, that I didn't even try them. I complained when later dishes coming from the kitchen looked immeasurably better. To the cashier's credit, she brought more shrimp. It was fresh, but not especially tasty. The cheese grits were hard and inedible. The worst part was after the complaint, we could see the cooks arguing and pointing at us. We could not wait to leave. It takes a lot for me to complain--- in fact I think this was the first time I felt it was my duty to complain; it was just that disappointing.

    (1)

  • Tami H.

    Long wait was worth it! We enjoyed talking to people around us and browsing the menu. The Sea Shack has very little seating and it is definitely a flip flop and tank top kind of place, but that is exactly what we were looking for. The food was fantastic! Our family had a variety of grilled and blackened seafood and everyone was happy with their meal. Slaw was perfect and some of the best boiled summer squash I have had since my grandma made it for me. If you are looking for great seafood and you can handle the "dive" atmosphere, this is your place!

    (5)

  • TheHungryDad Jeff C.

    Yum! Best seafood in Hilton Head. Cheap but great tasting and fresh. get there early and make sure that you are prepared to stand in line to wait for food, but totally worth the wait.

    (5)

  • Ivy T.

    SO simple yet SO good. I'm only reluctant to give them 5 stars because honeslty anyone can make this. I'm talking steamed shrimps with bay seasoning, green beans, broccoli with cheese sauce, po boys simply prepared with lettuce, tomato, choice of seafood, and no dressing. It just goes to show you there's no need for hoity toity restaurants and their fancy fixins' and sauces. Simple, fresh, and satisfying, Your arteries don't feel clogged; leaving you with the sense of an immensely satisying and relaxing vacation. Don't get daunted by the line outside the door. They're just making sure the kitchen can keep up with the orders which I can appreciate. Who wants to sit at their table for half an hour with no food? Not this girl. The line goes by reasonaly quick. Take out orders doesn't mean you can cut the line since like I said, they're watching the capacity of the kitchen, not the number of empty tables. So wait in line like everyone else. You'll get your reward sooner than you think.

    (4)

  • Casey C.

    Been here once before this trip. Definitely over-rated. Seafood was decent. My mom and I shared the conch fritters as an appetizer and the shark attack platter for our meal. Even though our platter was "grilled", it was swimming in grease. I will say everything had great flavor and we loved the scallops. I wouldn't be this critical if we hadn't waited 90 minutes standing outside for it. And then rushed through our meal because the place only has twelves tables! Some advice for the sea shack- either expand your restaurant or at least put out some picnic tables or pass out some hush puppies for your dedicated customers waiting in line. P.S. If you're daily special is sweet potato cornbread, please don't run out by 6:30. Thanks.

    (3)

  • linda g.

    The most overrated restaurant on HHI. If you want decent, overpriced seafood served on foam plates in a dump, then this is the place for you. Go to Lowcountry Backyard or Roastfish & Cornbread instead for a real lowcountry seafood dinner. No beer and wine sold - under new management again? We have gone to this restaurant for many years.

    (2)

  • Sandy K.

    We came here for lunch to avoid the crowds at dinner and just walked in with no wait what so ever. The place looks like it's quite old but popular BC I over heard a couple the drove several hours just to eat here. You place your order at the register and they'll bring your entrees to your table. The woman working the counter was friendly and the selection here is large. You'll have options if you want your seafood fried, grilled. or blackened. I went for the fried! We started out with she crab soup - it was rich and had chunks of crab meat and tasted awesome. For my entree I choose the two combo platter of fried clams, hush puppies and fried shrimp - with sides of red rice and slaw. Everything was very good although the slaw tasted just like the Colonel Sanders! Yummy food and good service.

    (4)

  • Ashley G.

    The sea shack was rated so high while visiting Hilton head we had to try it. First off they are only open during certain times lunch and dinner. It is kind of expensive but you get a lot of food. The portions are good sized as well, the only downside is if you get if fried know it's kind of greasy, more greasy than other places. It all comes out fresh so it takes some time to get food, it's super casual on takeout plates. But it is quite delicious I do recommend but it gets busy at times, but worth the wait.

    (4)

  • Habernero P.

    Sea Shack was good food, just got there at 5:15 and had to wait 30 min to get seated. We liked the crab cakes and the hushpuppies the flavor is on target. If you are looking for ambience this place is not it. This is a dive lets face it, but the food is a good value in HH without spending a fortune. I think the locals eat here to save from spending exorbitant prices the tourist's pay and that is the formula for success bottom line from the looks of the line outside and the Bieemer's in the parking lot.

    (3)

  • Steve M.

    Painted on both the door and wall of Sea Shack are the words "not fancy but good." Perfect summation of this divey/amazing seafood joint in an unassuming office park off of 278. Prepare to wait in line to even order at the counter, but then prepare to blow the minds of your taste buds. Thats right. Taste buds. Minds. We grabbed a "Shack Attack" to split, which included fried shrimp, oysters, mahi mahi and scallops. On top of a crab cake! Our 2 included sides were Mac n Cheese and this delicious glazed sweet potato corn bread. Must try!! The shrimp were far and away superior to everything else on the plate, and I would wait in line for ANOTHER 40 minutes to have them again.

    (4)

  • Rodney L.

    First the food was excellent.My wife kept saying omg.This place is off the main road in an office complex with a few other restaurants. But everyone seems to find it just fine. The service is fast and the staff are very friendly. I heard about long lines but we went for lunch and had no wait time..We went 2 times in our 4 day trip.

    (4)

  • Amanda D.

    Great food, very laid back atmosphere. We got gator bites, oyster po' boy and mahi mahi - all excellent. The mac and cheese is also delicious. Staff was nice, clean restaurant. Definitely a place we will go back to when we visit HHI again.

    (5)

  • Sasha O.

    Don't worry about the wait. The line moves quickly and in the end it is so worth the wait. Food is consistently great. Also, don't be afraid that the bathroom is outside of the restaurant, it is surprisingly clean. We had a large party and were sat at two tables right next to each other, so still close enough that we didn't feel we weren't eating together.

    (5)

  • David C.

    If you long for the old fashion, no frills seafood spot, this place is for you. Order your favorites (we had grouper and Shack Attack) and take your seat. Your order is delivered and some of the best seafood I've had anywhere is there for your enjoyment. If you visit HHI and don't come here, you are really missing something. Saw more locals than visitors. Well worth the money, will definitely be back here.

    (5)

  • Sam S.

    This is a delightful, delicious place to visit and my favourite place so far on HHI. We had Gene's Trio and a buffalo shrimp po' boy and both were full of flavour. I love the casual atmosphere and friendly service. We would recommend to anyone who loves good seafood.

    (5)

  • Jonathan S.

    excellent fried moist and highly flavored those little hush puppies are addictive..cons needs more seating we had to wait 25 minutes just to order !..but food exceptional

    (4)

  • K H.

    Every time we make it to HHI we grab at least one meal. The service is quick and the food is fresh. We haven't had a bad experience. Shrimp with buffalo on the side is good, although their buffalo is really more of a pepper sauce. Crab cakes are a good choice. Mac and cheese isn't great. Key lime pie is some of the best on the island. We'll be back :)

    (4)

  • Nataki H.

    So we were disappointed with this place. It was edible but not good. The grouper was overcooked, crab cake was a mush of filler and crab, Mac n cheese was terrible, the shrimp in the PO-boy was tender, cole slaw and hush puppies were tasty. The price point is $12-$14 each, too much for the quality. Overall, would not return.

    (2)

  • Chris T.

    Grabbed take out from here on the way back from the beach. Even after a 30 minute drive to the hotel and being eaten out of styrofoam containers, the food remained just short of exceptional. Each dish came with fresh hush puppies and two sides, and across the board, side items were impressive--good texture to the okra and very fresh, gooey mac and cheese good enough to be its own entree, and the cakelike sweet potato cornbread was moist and flavorful. I had the jerked grouper. I never fail to eat grouper when south of the Mason-Dixon and within sight of the water. The fish was expertly blackened and well-seasoned, but much too salty. She ordered red snapper, which was grilled and had that nice sear on either side that you get when they know what they're doing. Ingredients across the board were fresh and the place had a line out the door by the time we left, mixed locals and holiday travelers. Overall, quite glad we stopped by.

    (4)

  • Ewj J.

    I tend to eat at places that are slightly off the beaten path or high end places. This is a great fish place, it is in my top fish places. I waited 30 minutes in line and it was worth it. I got the blacken shrimp and a order of fried. I was hoping for OK and got very good. I highly recommend this hole-in-wall place.

    (5)

  • Norm H.

    Wow fresh delicious and Home made

    (5)

  • Morgan J.

    Sea Shack provides a pretty generous account of food in an unpretentious setting. Yes, there is always a line, but it moves along at a decent pace and I always find a few people to chat with outside. I usually order a platter, which comes with two sides, and get it to go. It travels well and the food is tasty and filling. It's not fancy but that's not really the point of vacation, is it? And they have a great mural inside!

    (3)

  • Marty J.

    I'm a little upset that I've been coming to Hilton Head Island for so many years and just discovered The Sea Shack. The fried seafood here is some of the best I've had on the island (the fried scallops are the best I've ever had anywhere) and it's much cheaper than other restaurants, but it's also much more of a dive. The food is served on styrofoam plates with plastic cutlery and I wouldn't have it any other way. Sea Shack serves a standard variety of seafood fare and has a bunch of different fish to choose from. All of the platters can be prepared fried, grilled, or blackened and come with hushpuppies and 2 sides. There are more sides on the whiteboard inside the restaurant than what is listed on the menu. The restaurant is small and there will be a line out the door when you go for dinner, but it is worth the wait. The line on a Saturday night at 7:00 extended almost the length of the restaurant and took 40 minutes for our party of 3 to wait out. I recommend ordering the fried Shack Attack combo ($16.95 - scallops, shrimp, crab cake, oysters, and fish) on your first visit because of its variety. All of the items are lightly breaded and seasoned perfectly; two characteristics which can make or break fried seafood. Although the meal was a heap of fried goodness, it was surprisingly not greasy at all. Fried foods at the bottom of the heap didn't get soggy and all items maintained their crispiness throughout the meal. The below are listed in order from best to good: * Scallops - THE BEST I'VE EVER HAD! The scallops were nice sized and cooked perfectly. They were crispy on the outside and very light, fluffy, and not chewy at all on the inside. Because they are somehow able to keep the fried foods here from being greasy, even the middle/center of the outside fried breading remained crispy. I'm used to this part being a little mushy. If you come here, then you must order these. * Crab cakes - The crab meat to filling ratio is very large and the crab meat was quality. * Shrimp - I think the difference in fried shrimp at all seafood restaurants (Captain D's and Red Lobster excluded) is small. The fried shrimp here are just as good as other seafood restaurants. * Oysters - Fresh and nice sized. * Fish - Better than your average fried fish. I need to reiterate that the above are all better than most other restaurants because of the breading and non-greasiness. The cocktail sauce is very good and is served in large plastic bottles at each table so you won't have to keep asking for more. I did not try the tartar sauce which is also served in large plastic bottles, but another member of the group said it was not good because it was too mayo-ey. Along with the hushpuppies that come with all platters, I ordered the sweet potato corn bread and small salad as my two sides. The hushpuppies here, though not bad, are nothing to write home about. The sweet potato cornbread was more like a desert than a side. It tasted like pumpkin bread and was heavy and sweet. I think they added too much spice which left a funny aftertaste in my mouth. That being said, it was still really good and I would order it again. I got the salad because I needed some greenery with the meal I ordered. The iceberg lettuce was crispy and parmesan peppercorn dressing was good. The restaurant imposes the "one in, one out" strategy to handle seating with its long line. Be prepared to know what you want to order before you get inside the restaurant. Once you order, you get your drink (self-serve) and then sit at your designated table. By the way, they have really good ice here similar to Zaxby's ice. You give your name at the register and servers bring the food out to the tables by shouting out the name. I highly recommend dining here for a very delicious, casual, and cheap seafood meal while on the island. Because of the size of the restaurant, I would not recommend coming here with a large party. Arrive mentally prepared to wait in a line outside and you won't be disappointed. If you don't feel like waiting, try coming during lunch when most dishes are $2 cheaper.

    (5)

  • Rob M.

    This is one of the best places to eat on HHI! The food is out of this world! I had the shrimp and scallop combo and was amazing. The scallops were to die for definitely the place place for inexpensive delicious seafood.

    (5)

  • John C.

    Great place to go on bike ride. Good priced seafood. Blackened tilapia is great. Sweet potato cornbread was a little sweet for me.

    (4)

  • John M.

    No nonsense ambience and great food at great prices. Unlimited drinks at one price with tea, sweet tea and several soda brands. If you go nowhere else in Hilton Head, be sure to go here.

    (4)

  • Katie P.

    Fantastic as always! We eat here very single time we are in Hilton Head!

    (5)

  • Michael W.

    Spend 5 days in Hilton head and ate here 4 times. Nuff said. Seriously though I doubt that I would have tried this place (or even found it for that matter) were it not on the Food Network but i'm glad we did. The food was incredible and very much worth the long line we waited in to get it. Lunch line goes faster than dinner. The grilled fish was fantastic but don't go thinking you can be healthy because the hushpuppies are amazing too!

    (4)

  • Pimp D.

    Great fried seafood at reasonable prices. No frills atmosphere. Unlimited soft drinks or iced tea. The place is run down - but hey you're here for the food.

    (3)

  • Albert W.

    I had the gator nuggets, iced tea, and hush puppies. Luckily we didn't have to wait in a very long line. This is not on the main road, and seems like a place only locals know about. Prices were reasonable, and the iced tea was simply amazing. You'll have to try for yourself, but it's definitely worth it if you're in the Hilton-Head Island area!

    (5)

  • Bill P.

    This is our favorite Hilton Head Island restaurant. We eat there multiple times while vacationing on the island. They offer a variety of fresh seafood and low country side dishes. You can choose to have your seafood grilled, fried, or blackened. Our favorites are 1/2 pound peel and eat shrimp and their "shack attack" which is a combination of oysters, shrimp, scallops, fish, and crabcake. I like the shack attack blackened. Other good seafood is the jerk grouper and Gene's trio - a combination of fish prepared differently. Each meal comes with a few hush puppies and your choice of 2 sides. Mini-salad, fries, fried okra, and cole slaw are almost always offered. Other sides vary. Our favorites are stewed okra and tomatoes, summer salid, cheese grits, lima beans, and collard greens. The seafood is cooked to order but the sides are prepared in advance. They also have great she crab soup. They offer key lime pie and some variations thereof for dessert. The restaurant is off the beaten path and appears to be run down. The dining area is small and unassuming. There's usually a line outside. Waits of up to an hour are not uncommon during evenings in the peak tourist time. They allow a few parties to enter as space is available inside. You order your food at the counter. If they are busy, you may not be able to be seated then. They have a system-you will be seated at a table by the time your meal is ready-have faith and believe. This is the place if you like good, fresh seafood and the low country style sides. If you are looking for fine dining in a pristine place, look somewhere else.

    (5)

  • Jacob B.

    First off: the food is well worth the wait. Flounder, shrimp, scallops, grits, okra, cornbread, all delicious and fresh. What isn't so delightful is the service (cue story). I came with a large group (and waited quite some time for it!) but we all ordered quickly and efficiently. The manager/owner was a bit pushy, but that was completely understandable, if not expected, given how packed it was. When the food was brought out to us, a teenager in our group realized she was given oysters when she ordered scallops. The young member of swiftly whisked her plate away to replace it with scallops. However, he did not return; instead, the manager left her (apparently busy) post to brandish the oysters whilst yelling, in the middle of the rather compact seating area, "Somebody ordered these oysters. I know somebody's gonna eat them." My entire group was stunned, too wordless to be defensive. The young girl insisted she had ordered scallops, but even if she made a mistake, the behavior was uncalled for. Someone managed to take the oysters; later, the younger waiter brought out some scallops. The experience more than ruined the delicious food. The icing on the cake: everything is overpriced, even for HHI standards. Come, but don't dare step out of line or expect a reasonable price.

    (2)

  • Cody H.

    The food is great, the wait was pretty long, but I wouldn't have minded if it wasn't for the wait staff that wanted us to leave as quickly as we got in. She rolled her eyes at my wife more than once.

    (3)

  • Patricia G.

    The food was ok. Definitely fresh, but not unique. What really bothered me about it was that the combination plate items had to be cooked the same way. I wanted fried scallops and grilled shrimp, but that was not possible. Not sure why - they aren't all tossed in the same vat of oil to cook. Not impressed with the cleanliness either - there were several open containers of personal food/drink behind the counter. It was hot, so the drinks are ok I guess, but the Doritoes, not so much. I know it's a shack, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have to be clean. Very long wait in line at the door as well.

    (2)

  • Michael E.

    Food is excellent for fried and southern. You will have to stand to wait so bring something to read. The atmosphere is not fancy but who cares you come for the food.

    (4)

  • Stephanie G.

    Received 2 recommendations for this place before arriving in Hilton Head Island for vacation! We biked over from our condo for lunch, arrived before they opened and were first customers of day! Had a steady stream of customers whole time we were there. I got fried shrimp, Mac and cheese and corn on cob, couldn't find the sweet potato cornbread anywhere on the menu! Shrimp was Great, so were my sides! Hubby got the Shack Attack grilled - crab cake, oysters, fish, scallops and shrimp with fries and slaw - he really enjoyed it! Like the sign says, "not fancy, but good"! Definitely a dive, but it is AMAZING!! Order your food at counter, serve yourself drinks and pick a table, they bring food to you when ready - only about 10-15 minute wait for food. Tables are covered in red checkered vinyl tablecloths and arranged closely, nice painting on wall and several plaques with recognition from Food Network and Best Dives in America on walls as well! Give it a try, it's definitely worth eating at, go for lunch, right at 11 when they open to avoid a wait and enjoy!

    (5)

  • David B.

    Best meal we had on Hilton head. It's no frills dining on styrofoam plates and plastic utensils but the food is out of this world. We got there about 15 minutes before they opened and a line had already formed out the door. Talked to several people in line that said its their favorite food on the island. I got the fried catfish, coleslaw and cheesy grits with hush puppies and my wife for the blackened scallops with sweet potato cornbread - everything was off the charts fantastic. If you are visiting Hilton head you cannot afford to miss this place.

    (5)

  • John R.

    Must try at Hilton head. Great food great prices. Local experience.

    (5)

  • Wendell B.

    Third visit! Local delicious seafood your way. Wait is never more than 15 minutes and worth it!

    (5)

  • Erica P.

    After a failed attempt at another restaurant, we decided to go with The Sea Shack. It holds true to their motto of Not Fancy, Just Good. Went Monday at 1115 a.m. and by 1130 it was packed. Ordered the Fried Shrimp Platter and the Shrimp and Oyster Platter. Both were delish and the hushpuppies were the closest to the ones we make at home, definitely not something straight out of the freezer. A simple place with great tasting food. The side dishes were small servings but overall the meal was great.

    (4)

  • Alex S.

    I've only been here once, on a weekday night. The line indeed goes out of the door but the wait wasn't terribly long, maybe 10-15 minutes. Then it took another 10 minutes or so to get my food. I got the gator nuggets, oysters (I was told oysters in the area are pretty good), and catfish. I read on yelp that their blackened seafood amazing, so I chose to get my food blackened. But whatever you choose (blackened, grilled, or fried), it applies to your entire order (like in a combo). For sides, I got fries and spinach. There wasn't much room there, so I got my food to-go. It's nice that they pack all the sauces you'll need when you get to-go. I got home, and all my blackened seafood was in a puddle of juices, but I guess that's expected for getting carry-out. There were ~3 hush puppies. These were good but not the best I've had. I had never had gator nuggets before, but these tasted just like chicken but different in texture. Everything else was good but I can't say it was outstanding. I was slightly disappointed the catfish was a small little fillet drowning in juices at the bottom of my tray. I probably would have liked it A LOT more if I had gotten everything fried.... I guess I'm just not a fan of blackened/grilled seafood. Also, the combo was not as much food as I was hoping for for its price, but it was filling!

    (3)

  • Justin S.

    They say its where the locals go.... Whether that is a good gimmick or the truth, it doesn't change the fact that the food is always fresh and delicious... accept for this one time when I foolishly ordered the buffalo aligator poboy... DO NOT order that. But I go everytime I go to HHI and that is the only thing I haven't liked. The fried shrimp is yumyum, blackened fish, and the sides change seasonally. If they say that it is spicy, it is BTW. EXPECT to wait in line if you are going during peak season (May-Sept). 40 minute wait from the bathroom. Once you are let inside you can order and take a table or they will help you find one.

    (4)

  • Gregory B.

    Great food, big line out the door, huge crowd inside, had fun watching ppl try to cut line because they were "locals", my cousin who owns three condos on the beach had no problem waiting for two hours with me to get take out

    (5)

  • Brad C.

    This place is literally a shack. Have been several times over the years and I remember it being pretty good. Its kind of a novelty - who waits 30 minutes in a line outside of a restaurant? We did. It was much better than I remembered. I got the shark attack fried (I know, very healthy) and it was amazing. It comes with about 5 different seafoods and they all were great. If you want really good seafood this is the place to go in Hilton Head.

    (4)

  • Lisa H.

    I ate here twice on a recent trip to Hilton Head Island. Both times I thought the food was delicious and everyone in my party both times enjoyed it very much as well. We all ordered different things at different times. Their fried shrimp is hands down amazing as are their hush puppies. Both were soooo good. Unique sides as well. I have had fries, carrots, green beans, and sweet potato cornbread which was more like a pumpkin bread than any cornbread Ive ever had but boy was it tasty.

    (5)

  • Kyle F.

    The Sea Shack is a "seafood dive," not that it takes anythign away from the restaurant unless you're not looking for that kind of place. I will give them this... they have a great selection of different seafood and you can get them all cooked a couple different ways. The thing for us was that it just wasn't good enough fpr the price and an hour wait. We had the fried grouper and fried snapper.

    (3)

  • Kristin C.

    Oh. My. God. I'm the biggest seafood snob there is, and this place is FANTASTIC. Go here. Eat lots.

    (5)

  • Don S.

    The first thing you need to know about this restaurant is that you stand in line outside to even get in to place your order at a counter. Then you set yourself and wait for the food. There is no "waiter" just a door person to slowly allow more people in as others finish eating and clear the table. If its 100 degrees outside or raining you will be outside waiting in the rain. If there is a long line which there usually is you will be outside waiting for a long time. We arrived at about 4:55 (opening time 5:00pm) on a Saturday during Ester break and were about the 7-8th group to get inside and order. This only took us about 25 minutes as the restaurant was empty before 5:00pm opening. After placing our orders at the counter we picked a table (plastic laminated table cloth) along the front of the counter. There are about 12 tables inside and 2-3 outside so that is how many people can fit in at once. I ordered grilled Red Snapper with slaw and sweet potato cornbread and my wife had grilled shrimp and scallops with slaw and okra. The food was brought out to us in about 10 minutes and was piping hot but served on styrofoam plates as we drank from styrofoam cups. I said all of that not to discourage you from dining here but rather to prepare you for the restaurant and what to expect. Now for the good part. The grilled snapper was good (not great but good) and my wires grilled scallops and shrimp were very good. The slaw is exactly the style I like which is slightly sweet and coarse shredded. The okra was also good and I saved the sweet potato cornbread for last and while good did not measure up to the previous nights version at Roastfish and Cornbread. the tab for the above was $42 total which was reasonable for the quantity and quality of the food. I suppose if it were in a nicer/newer building with waiters etc I would have expected to pay closer to $60-$70 for a similar meal. It is a staple of HHI as I understand and worth going for sure as long as you know what to expect in terms of the restaurant, serving line etc. I did notice a few potential patrons pull up in high end autos and after seeing the place they simply left without even looking in or looking at the menu. It just doesn't look like it would be very good but it is actually a good meal. Although I rated it below my previous two nights dinners in HHI I still consider it good food.

    (3)

  • Cathy B.

    Divvy little seafood joint in the middle of a business park with laminated tablecloths and order at the counter service? Even the most sophisticated of foodies will face all of that and rave about The Sea Shack. Food is phenomenal. You won't get better seafood on the island. Everything is so fresh and there are an absolutely ridiculous number of options. You can get any number of fresh seafood items grilled or fried. And the side items change daily - we had delicious hush puppies and sweet potato cornbread that was to die for. Suggest you head over a bit before it opens and get in line or you may have to wait awhile. Another option would be to order your dinner to go and take it out to the beach as a picnic to avoid the crowds. Only problem with The Sea Shack? Everything is so good and the menu is so large that it's tough to make a decision. This restaurant should not be missed by anyone visiting Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • John S.

    Great food in a basic local atmosphere. I find the food very consistent in quality and always great. One of the select few places I frequent when on HHI (5 months every year). Also, a place I always take guests for southern sea food. The main dish is fresh each day with opportunity to try various local oriented cultural sides. You may wait outside in line (which should tell you something) but worth the wait. A valued experience.

    (5)

  • Teresa L.

    This little place is awesome!!!! The ambiance isn't fancy, but the food is fresh and simply prepared (grilled, blackened, or fried). The soups are outstanding! No alcohol and no byob, either. Two sides and hush puppies come with every meal. The sides change daily. They're all good with one exception: the spinach was supposed to be sautéed. It was swimming in liquid and was soggy as could be. The blackened tuna was at least 6-10 ozs. and prepared beautifully: about 1.5 min. on each side with the center warm and red. The seasoning was not overwhelming, either. My grilled red snapper was light and flaky, cooked throughout and very moist. JUST SO FRESH!! These were each under $16 meals! Bartolotta's in Las Vegas could learn a thing or two from the kids at The Sea Shack: Get rid of the waiters with the Car Salesman attitude!! We'll come back here again and again. Wouldn't change a thing! After reading some of the other reviews, I realize how lucky we were. There was never a line and we got a table with no problem. Guess it's because it was April. Good to know!

    (5)

  • Greg S.

    Lot of buzz about this place for favorite dive restaurant seafood, but be aware of what you're getting served. We got the fried shrimp and fish platters. I asked the main person behind the counter (manager?) what the fish was: And she said tilapia (a fish that is commonly farm raised in fresh water, not in the Sea..- and often imported from Latin America. ) I also asked the gentleman seating us what the fish was- he said the fish was catfish - another freshwater fish commonly farm raised or frozen. No harm no foul on fish like this that you also get from Costco etc., but don't think you're getting Hilton Head-area fresh fish or even salt water fish !

    (3)

  • Bob W.

    We've been eating here for years. No atmosphere but great food. This visit it was bad. The grouper wss fishy; didn't even finish it. Honey glazed carrots were bitter and mushy. The cornbread was excellent. Very disappointing meal.

    (1)

  • Stacie W.

    Good takeout! When we arrived back to the condo, food was still hot and fresh. Hushpuppies were good. I had the buffalo shrimp Po boy, it was good. Bread was fresh, shrimp was fried perfectly. The buffalo seasoning was barely noticeable. Hubby had the crab cake sandwhich. He liked it, but I did NOT. I think it had an odd taste. His bread was also very fresh. Cheddar Mash was good, coleslaw was ordinary. Mini salad was MINI. Bleu cheese dressing was homemade and very good. Sweet potato cornbread was not good at all. Hubby agreed, had way too much of an overbearing spice. It had the consistency of cake and not cornbread, just downright bad. Wait was long......approximately 20 minutes. These people arent winning any awards on customer service, but seafood was good.

    (3)

  • Letty E.

    Came from having a very delicious grilled tilapia with Cole slaw and sour cream mash potatoes lunch at sea shack. Try their sweet potato cornbread if they have it as a side. Their slogan, "not fancy just good," is really true. Was surprised we didn't have to wait more than 5 minutes before having our order taken. Usually there's a 30 min plus wait. Fish was fresh and very tasty! This was an extraordinarily pleasant experience since there was no wait but its always good! Best kept secret of the island!

    (5)

  • Lindsay P.

    Went for lunch around 1:00 and only had to wait about 5 minutes. There had been a huge line the evening before. We order the fried catfish, tilapia,and popcorn shrimp. Everything was good. Definitely a hole in the wall place, but had a friendly atmosphere and they knew how to get people in and out.

    (3)

  • Howard M.

    Who knew heaven came in a styrofoam clam shell take-away box. So we were in Hilton Head and my wife swung by this place she spotted somehow and she noticed two things - a long line and a lot of what looked to be locals and a dearth of vacationers like us. A hidden gem, she thought (smart woman) So she ordered up a few Shack Attacks - some fried and some grilled with tilapia, scallops, shrimp, a crab cake and I can't remember what else. She then added on hush puppies and shrimp and a few other things. We'd been going out a lot. Being waited on is great. But there's a certain charm in eating delicious food out of the box with your wife and kids around you vying for the choicest bit off a laminated table cloth that can be wiped down quickly. The only thing I think that could have made this better was ordering the same thing and eating it on a big blanket on the beach as the sun set.

    (5)

  • Gina C.

    Not fancy, but very good seafood! Hidden from the main view of the road, but worth the time to find it. We went on a Monday night and still had to wait about 20 mins to place our order! Blackened grouper sandwich & collard green & Mac-n-cheese was awesome! Sweet potato cornbread was like eating spice cake.

    (5)

  • Joshua S.

    Good food, but a terrible place to visit on Friday or Saturday night... If you do, plan on waiting an hour or two at least. They don't accept phoned in take out orders on friday or saturday, and reservations times are approximate and can vary by more than an hour... Again, the food is good, but plan on going Mon-Thursday and stay away on the weekends...

    (3)

  • Nina P.

    SHACK ATTACK! PLENTIFUL DELICIOUS SEAFOOD FOR A STEAL! Thank you fellow Yelper's and The Food Network for putting Sea Shack on my radar - cause it was great! I'm finicky about seafood - I like classic flavors. Most importantly I want to taste the fish not some crazy shit on top! That said - we found this little place and ordered the Shack Attack Plate which was a little bit of everything including: crab cake, oysters, scallops, hush puppies, shrimp and white fish. I went fatty and got it fried! It was delicious and not greasy - fried just right. Everything was wonderful and almost too much to eat for one person! It hits the spot AND is really reasonably priced. Also had a piece of key lime pie...this is a secret closet passion of mine...finding real key lime pie anywhere outside of Florida is hard to do and the shacks was really real and tasty. Hands down great place - go here BUT warning: it's a shack not a designer interior - they spend their money on great seafood and not of fancy decor - don't let this scare you - the food is the star!

    (3)

  • Mandy M.

    Great food, but very fried, get there before they open, cinnamon potato cake is kinda gross.

    (4)

  • Tonya P.

    I read about The Sea Shack in a magazine or on chowhound.com , somewhere, I got it in my mind that is where I wanted to go. I was with my sister and mother. They are not wanderers, I will drive over the mountain and through the woods, take two trains and bus to get to the best little place for a meal. So we journey out to find this spot. Not so easy, It is in a business park, I think we ended up having to call them to find it for some reason. Maybe with a GPS, no longer should be a problem. It is well worth the journey. A fun little spot for sweet tea, tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, fried seafood and cole slaw and let's not forget hushpuppies!!!! Doesn't it make you want fried seafood right now?

    (4)

  • Jessica M.

    The Sea Shack was surprising because it was a small hole in the wall. The food was phenomenal and really the best I had while in Hilton Head!

    (5)

  • Christine P.

    If you want a fish camp experience, this is a very good fish camp. You will wait in line, so be prepared to have a good attitude about it. The salmon was not bad; the crabcake was decadent and good. The slaw was surprisingly sweet, kind of sugary. Field peas were great! The shrimp, scallops looked great. I wasn't as enamored with the hush puppies as everyone else. Solid, authentic casual, low key experience.

    (4)

  • P D.

    All good except the cornbread, tastes like a dessert cake??? Ambience is rough!

    (3)

  • Jason B.

    The food was a mix of run-of-the-mill southern staples (like mac & cheese made with American), the occasional standout (fantastic hush puppies), and of course fresh seafood (served blackened, grilled, or fried.) I had the cobia ($16), my wife the scallops ($14). We were both pleasantly surprised at both portion size and flavor. This is good stuff. The cornbread was surprising; it more resembles a spice cake than any cornbread we've ever had (and we're both from Kentucky). All of the food was passable (most of the sides, honestly) to delicious. One thing to note, and it's important - they've developed a system for handling the crowds in the small space, and even though they weren't busy when we visited for dinner (there were plenty of open tables and no line at the register), they take them seriously and enforce them. Know what you want to order when you hit the register. Don't sit down until you've ordered. Your entire party must order at the same time. If you're waiting for your party to arrive, wait outside. We watched groups of tourists wander in, hem and haw at the menu, sit down before ordering and waiting for table service - and all were approached by staff and their behavior corrected politely. If you're not OK with that sort of direct approach (and it made more than one party uncomfortable as I watched), you might want to put on your thick skin before you stop here. That being said, the food was worth the quirks and I will definitely return.

    (4)

  • Stephen M.

    I was thinking, while waiting in line for 45 minutes, this place is not going to be worth it. I was very wrong. I got a combination platter with shrimp, scallops and gator tail blackened with Cole slaw, red rice and their seafood bisque. I came out very impressed. The food made me forget the wait.

    (5)

  • Sam P.

    Probably the most over rated place I have ever eaten. Average food, high prices, and long lines. The employees were nice, but extremely proud. I wish the food was up to the level of this pride.

    (2)

  • Tom P.

    Excellent freshly prepared seafood and trimmings

    (4)

  • Tyler F.

    Wow. Really good food! I got the Mahi Mahi Sandwich with fries and cole slaw + hush puppies, and calamari as an appetizer. I couldn't be happier with any of it! The tartar sauce is also very good and I like the low cost of the drinks and the ability to fill them up yourself at will.

    (5)

  • Jamie F.

    Went to HHI to visit my parents. When they asked me what I wanted for dinner when I arrived, I said "feed me seafood." They took me to the Shack. Being the shellfish lover that I am, I ordered the Shack Attack,, grilled, with a couple of sides. Everything- and I mean everything- from the oysters, to the scallops, and the tilapia....cooked perfectly, fresher than I've ever had. It's not much for decor, and incredibly divey, but you can see the entire cooking/prep area...it's clean as a whistle. The dining area is about as clean as you can get it with that much volume. The only part I'm upset with is that I'm all the way back up North now, and no longer around the corner.

    (5)

  • Sungjae J.

    came here after reading some reviews because it was pretty close to where we were staying in HHI. decor is meh... I had the tilapia plate and some fried scallops. fried scallops were pretty good but everything else was just ok. This place is kinda hidden from the road and if I wasn't looking for this place, I would never have found it.

    (3)

  • Gabe S.

    Food was great. A better lunch spot than a nice sit down dinner but the seafood is prepared well. There was a line out the door at noon so try to get there a little early. Great outdoor picnic tables for kids. People and staff are very nice. Shrimp and crab cakes were my favorite. Seasoning was good on everything.

    (4)

  • Ashley C.

    This is my dads favorite place to eat when we comes to visit. If you like REAL seafood with great flavor, come here. Its a hole in the wall and you have to show up before it opens and wait in line if you want to eat, but its worth it. Fried or grilled, best seafood on the whole island :)

    (4)

  • Big C.

    Oh yeah! Usually a very long wait unless you get lucky but they have some great fresh seafood for great prices. Awesome she crab soup, fried seafood, and shrimp po boy! I don't think you can go wrong with anything here

    (5)

  • Penny T.

    This is a standby tradition when visiting Hilton Head. Be prepared for lines out the door during heavy tourism times - best to arrive before opening. I have had blackened scallops and blackened shrimp numerous times; always good. Today I left my comfort zone and had blackened red snapper (local and fresh). Oh my gosh I may be ordering fish from now on. Good size, light and flaky and definitely not fishy tasting. Sides of green salad and black bean chutney were tasty, too. Loved my meal. Try this place!

    (4)

  • Jackie K.

    Great home style food! Hush puppies and mac n cheese rock! My boyfriend and I split a 3 choice combo with shrimp, calamari, and crab cake plus 2 sides and the hush puppies. Pretty great price for everything you got!

    (5)

  • Scott R.

    We went past this place one night and the line was 75 feet long to get so I had to go back and try it There was no line when we went back they have a very small dinning are so they only bring you in as the tables empty out The place is a dump the staff is totally unfriendly unless you are a local But the food was great and fresh so if you can look past all of the obstacles I would go back PS bring your fly swatter You can't beat the prices either

    (3)

  • C C.

    Shrimp po boy was good but not the best I've ever had. I prefer fried seafood that has more of a flour coating rather than cornmeal. Fries and cole slaw were decent but not great. However, the hushpuppies were really good. I'd go back but would order something else next time. The fact that they serve Pepsi products is also a big downer for me as well.

    (3)

  • Ivan C.

    By far the best and freshest seafood on the island for your buck! Try the Gene's Trio (for all you spice lovers, get it blackened) and make sure to get the sweet potato cornbread! I love this place and every time I come to the island I make sure to make at least 2 stops (can't just come once!).

    (5)

  • Melanie R.

    This was my second visit (went last year). I recommend ONLY for lunch. This is not fine dining...there are barely enough tables, and I don't think they serve alcohol. Most everything comes fried or blackened. The fish/shrimp combos are good, and the hushpuppies are delicious. Seriously though..you could probably find much better dining in Hilton Head. Don't wait in line for it!! If you must go, do it on an off beat hour.

    (3)

  • Jay B.

    I had to give five stars because it is so unique. The ambiance is not upper class. It is the exact opposite! There is a long, usually hour long, wait outdoors in the heat and humidity. There is not a view. It has the best food at the best prices by a very long shot. You will love it. At least, I do and those in line with me agree. Some for the fourth time in a week.

    (5)

  • Debbie I.

    Recently ate at the Sea Shack while vacationing in Hilton Head. The food is okay, but the atmosphere is terrible. The man that took our order behind the counter was rude and impatient. The lady that seated us was also rude and very unfriendly. Our family felt like we had been herded through the line, and the people working there wanted us to eat fast and get out so they could herd the next group of people through. Not worth it.

    (2)

  • Toni Y.

    Excellent meal! At our table, we had fish & chips, crab cakes, scallops, and popcorn shrimp. Sides: macaroni & cheese, cabbage, sautéed zucchini & summer squash, and mini salad. Everyone liked it all, except one person didn't like the hush puppies (I thought they were delicious). Nothing fancy, plastic ware & plates, but that did not take away from this meal or experience at all. Sweet tea was great too. Portions were substantial! Completely understandable why there was a line out the door, but we got in in less than 10 minutes. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is how crowded it is due to close quarters & lots of people. That's a great problem to have & indicative of the great food!

    (4)

  • Danny V.

    For no nonsense good seafood the Sea Shack was perfect for lunch. Had the fried platter-crab cakes, scallops, shrimps, fish and oysters. These ladies know how to cook without over frying everything. Will be back next time I'm am in Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Robert W.

    The seafood is fresh and tasty. Everyone in my party had the combination platter and it was very large portions. I had mine blacken and it was fantastic. Be prepared to wait because the lines are long but it's worth it.

    (4)

  • Dennis L.

    We really enjoyed this place. The legendary line is actually ok--they enter the door so that the tables are not outnumbered by diners. Food...it is great. Fried is ok--I suggest broiled foods there. The crab cake was a touch disappointing (too soft / blended). Deserts are home made. Can't beat that! Service at the counter is reminiscent if the Soup Nazi. Be sure to know what you want when you come in--should be easy as menus are posted in the windows by the line outside. --worth the wait.

    (4)

  • Brandon C.

    Food was good. There is no way I would wait 1-2 hours like some of the reviewers have mentioned. We went at lunch and didn't have but a 5-10 mins wait. Parking both your car and your rear end are difficult. Very little seating inside. If you don't like small places and lots of people, this is not your place. I think I would have enjoyed this more if I had ordered carry out.

    (3)

  • Maria M.

    Fantastic! Will come again soon! Love it! I had the peel and eat shrimp My kids had the fish and popcorn shrimp. All fantastic

    (5)

  • Missy B.

    The wait was about 35-45 minutes but it was worth every minute. I had a fried sampler platter that was very lightly breaded and delicious us. Great food with descent prices. If I was a local I would be there often unfortunately I live too far away.

    (5)

  • Regina S.

    If you want fried seafood then this is worth checking out. However, we prefer grilled/broiled and I would not recommend.

    (2)

  • Michele A.

    Stopped by for late lunch after several hours at the beach (on a Monday, mid/late May). Out of the way place, doesn't look like much from the outside, but the food is great. I had 1/2lb blackened shrimp with sweet potato corn bread and something else (can't remember, I ate it, just don't remember what it was). The shrimp was amazing, nice and spicy. I didn't care for the corn bread, but that's just me; the piece was huge though. My BFF had blackened shrimp po'boy with collard greens. She said her sandwich was amazing and the greens were very good. They have free refills on drinks, plenty of seating inside when we came (though I bet it's standing room only right at lunch or dinner). Definitely worth seeking this place out.

    (5)

  • Jeff Z.

    Great, hole-in-the-wall, local seafood joint. As mentioned in the other reviews, lines out the door are common (and its worth the wait). We had the Snack Attack (combo of shrimp, fish, oysters, scallops, and a crabcake) and a Gene's combo (tilapia, snapper, and mahi mahi). It was all wonderful. Best fried oysters and crabcake we ever had. The sides and hushpuppies were excellent as well.

    (5)

  • Jason C.

    Amazing. It is a hole in the wall place but man good food. I had the buffalo shrimp. The sauce tasted great and definite kick. The jerk grouper was the icing on the cake. Sandwich like none other. Go on off peak times. You will get a line. Only down side fries were just okay.

    (4)

  • Shawna T.

    Absolutely the best seafood we had while on the island this go around. My hubby had the shack attack fried with cheese grits and loved it. I had the popcorn shrimp platter with cole slaw and French fries. Delicious! Prices were great when compared to other restaurants, and the ambience reflects it-but it's all part of the experience! Seating is minimal and there is almost always a line. We lucked up and got behind only 2 people when we arrived on Saturday at 1:00 (in February) A line was starting to form when we left.. I would recommend going early or late to avoid the line. The line is outside too, so if it's cold outside dress warm! It's worth the wait!

    (4)

  • Brian U.

    A local favorite. Get there early, expect a line, but worth the wait. You cannot go wrong with anything you order.

    (5)

  • Lucy S.

    Fantastic seafood and southern sides. Highly recommend the Grouper and Shrimp. Anything "blackened" and "jerk" is delicious, but certainly has a kick! Standout sides include cheese grits, collards, and sweet potato cornbread. Hush puppies are also some of the best I've ever had. No bells and whistles here, but some of the freshest and best food the island has to offer.

    (5)

  • Halley S.

    We went here after our fishing boat captain raved about the food. It's nothing fancy but the meals are outstanding. You order as soon as you walk in, pay, sit down and then they bring you your food on plastic plates. The Mac and cheese side was very unique and the blackened shrimp was delicious. We tried the clam chowder and there were so many clams they were piled on the top. Coleslaw was amazing... Popcorn shrimp was light and yummy... We didn't try everything but what we did have was all A+!!!

    (5)

  • Laura D.

    Great take-out! We ordered a smorgashboard of seafood our last night on HHI from the Sea Shack. My grilled scallops were delicious, along with the collard greens and mini salad (indeed, mini). Everything was fresh, cooked well, and not too oily. Apparently the wait can be long since they don't do call ahead for take-out, but our 10 dinners came out in about 30 min (the downpour probably helped keep away the crowds). FYI - either they don't have cocktail sauce or don't know what it is. We specifically asked for cocktail and was assured it was in the bag, but all we got were a bunch of Heinz packets. Oh well.

    (4)

  • Laurie V.

    Mmm.....welll....okay. Not fantastic, but not bad. You wait on line outside. Said line does move fairly fast. Service is fairly quick. This place is not fancy and the lighting is a little too bright. The fried seafood is decent. I had the "pick two combo" with clams and crabcakes. They were both a little bland and needed gobs of cocktail sauce. I chose the fries and coleslaw as my sides. Both sides proved to be decent choices. You get a lot of food. There are only soft drinks served here. I like the crushed ice they serve. Much better than cubed. Ambiance: poor Food: decent Service: fast I wouldn't go out of my way to come back here, but it wasn't bad in a pinch. It was a rainy night (and by "rainy" I mean, POURING), so we didn't wanna go too far in the rain. This proved to be an okay choice.

    (3)

  • Vince D.

    A shack is a pretty good description of the ambiance, but not in a quaint way. Dumpster dining is a better analogy. The place is a dump and one would expect with their success that the owners could at least do some basic maintenance (fix broken furnishings, tidy up, collect trash, etc..) However, for carry-out dining this place is quite a find. The food is fresh and cooked perfectly. After a full week of dining out on our Hilton Head vacation none of the restaurants we tried had better food! Considering the atmosphere and quality of the service the prices are fair, but not a great bargain. The restaurant was just around the corner from our resort. So we returned several times. We found during peak periods, especially over the holiday weekend, the line was too long. We will probably be back again for carry-out since the food was so good, but won't go out of our way due to the unpredictable wait times, crowds and uninviting ambiance.

    (4)

  • Jen A.

    Did we miss something here?! The food was not good and our fish smelled fishy (ewwww!). I was sooooooo disappointed as I had high hopes. You do get a lot of food for the money but it just didn't have the quality or flavor I expected.

    (1)

  • David L R.

    4.5 stars The wife and I have been here on many occasions that we had not been in a while. We went for lunch today and had the popcorn shrimp as it is only one of two places on Hilton head that serve it. The food always comes out within 5 to 10 minutes and is right out of the fryer or pan or oven and everything is hot, and all cold items are cold. Not many places including the $40 per entrée items at a higher end restaurant are ever as hot and as fresh, It's really too bad that Rachael Ray had to advertise it so when all of the tourists are in town as we are local you cannot get in. Small, nothing fancy, paper plate type service but the folks are friendly and the food is always great. Highly recommended.

    (4)

  • Kay C.

    Worth the 12 hour drive to get here. Always have great food when you're at Sea Shack!!!

    (5)

  • Jaime M.

    Great food decent prices. Get here early because a line forms and they let you in as tables become available. Also dress is very casual.

    (5)

  • Tori H.

    Great fresh seafood in a non assuming location. Breading is light and enhances the seafoods flavor. Staff are friendly. Would go back again.

    (5)

  • Don H.

    The Sea Shack was the third seafood restaurant I visited in Hilton Head. I wish it would have been the first. I could have ate there a few more times. My grouper dinner was just fine. I had never enough it before so nothing to compare it to. My wife had a combo dinner (oysters, shrimp, and scallops). All fresh and good. I tasted the shrimp and ordered more. Very good meal.

    (4)

  • Steve C.

    Little pricey. $40 for 3 people. I remember it being cheaper the last time I was here. But the food was so good it was worth it. I think in a weeks stay we ate lunch here four times. Try it, you won't regret it.

    (5)

  • Angela B.

    Was in Hilton Head with the family last week and stumbled upon this little gem (thank you, Yelp!). It doesn't look like much on the outside. True to the name, it's a small building with some picnic tables off to the side. We arrived at about 2:55. Upon walking inside, I noticed that we were their last customers as they were closing from 3-5. No matter to the friendly faces at The Sea Shack. The cashier was extremely helpful and patient while I pondered the menu. I ordered She-Crab chowder/soup and a burger platter that came with two sides. I know, I know, eating a beef patty at a place called The Sea Shack? Seems absurd. This was toward the end of my stay in Hilton Head though and I was craving some cow. Anyhow, back to the matter at hand. I chose the potatoes and cornbread for my sides then discovered that hush-puppies come with every meal. Bonus! The She-Crab soup was light and yummy with just enough salt. My burger was absolute perfection. The potatoes were lightly buttered and seasoned. Although yummy, they were the least delicious of everything. For me, it was all about the burger and the Sweet Potato CORNBREAD. This is no ordinary cornbread. It is not like traditional cornbread at all. It's sweet and spicy. Almost like a pumpkin/gingerbread hybrid. It makes me sad to think that it may be years before I can have it again. Everyone else in my party did get seafood and it was unanimous across the board -- the food was some of the best we had on our trip. Sea Shack, I'm gonna go ahead and give you five stars. I regret not being able to frequent you more while I was in the area. I'm not sure when but I will be back to visit again someday. Until then...

    (5)

  • Tony L.

    The reputation of this "shack" is bigger than the actual delivery. I enjoyed it, don't get me wrong. However...when I can make seafood at home just as good as the grilled/blackened version of the seafood at this place, there really isn't that much to talk about. The wait is long...no matter what time you go. More often than not, you will be waiting outside...even after you order your food. The menu offers a wide variety of seafood, so there will be something for everyone. The lack of local seafood that is freshly caught is odd...when you are at the beach, the draw of eating seafood is that it could have been caught that very morning. The best part of the meal was the side of baked mac and cheese. I'd recommend this place to anyone...but there really aren't that many great places for well priced seafood on Hilton Head Island to begin with...

    (3)

  • Beverly W.

    Second time will be the last. We were so impressed the first time, but this time was different. Prices are not that great and the fish was not that great either. We paid as much as in a good restaurant. The lady at the counter was loud and it made it not a pleasant experience. When it's busy, since it is so small, the voices carry and you feel like you are sitting snug up to the next table. There are too many great restaurants in and around Hilton Head to waste your time & money.

    (3)

  • Antony C.

    It's great to know that places like the Sea Shack are still around when you come back to HHI. I couldn't wait to get some of that chowder in my belly...still yummy by the way. I was with friends so we put together a sampling of our own of local catch including mahi mahi, snapper and grouper. We had them all grilled with sides of mac'n'cheese, collard greens, beans, rice and hush puppies. Still great food for the price. No frills, just gret food.

    (4)

  • Laura T.

    Just ate here two nights ago. Great spot that's hidden a bit from most of the touristy restaurants. It's not actually on Pope Ave, so don't be fooled by the address listed. I also discovered a trick to eating here: get there before 5:00 & get in line!! We were there on a Tuesday during the off-season & by 5:00 when they open, there was a line of at least 20-25 people. The place is small inside, so if you miss the 1st seating, you then have to wait for someone from the 1st seating to leave. Hubby & I each ordered the fish & shrimp platters. Great portion of food for the price ($11.50?). Came with maybe 8 fried shrimp & 2 pieces of fish, 2 sides & hush puppies. Both the shrimp & fish were lightly battered & seasoned well. The limas were really good as were the herb mashed potatoes. I'd recommend this place to anyone visting HH for the 1st time. Very nice staff. Will return!

    (5)

  • Mart B.

    Just returned from The Sea Shack! The food was exceptional, the ambiance, not so much. We went for the food as this was recommended by the locals. If you like blackened fish/seafood, this was the best I've had. The sweet potato cornbread is definitely novel, and quite tasty, as well. If you like seafood and visit HHI, this is a place you must try.

    (5)

  • Katie F.

    This was our first meal in the island, recommended by a local. Super fresh seafood and a fun atmosphere. Very casual and small. There will be a line but it's totally worth the short wait. Great local spot.

    (4)

  • Deb S.

    Wow! Finally found that great seafood shack on HHI. Excellent. Will be going here many times. Best blackened shrimp I have ever had

    (5)

  • Lisa M.

    A hidden Treasure! Definitely our favorite stop! Best Hushpuppies on the island! My family and I will go every time we visit!

    (5)

  • Adam M.

    Sea Shack is really more of a Shit Shack. $10 for a grouper sandwhich? $10 for 7 fried clams? Try cutting the prices in half, and then we'll talk. The food is not bad, and basically on par with the other restaurants on HHI that have much better service, locations, and atmospheres. I'd pass on the Shit Shack and go to the tourist traps.

    (2)

  • Jen B.

    This place was definitely worth it! We wanted a decent lunch while taking a break from the beach. We drove up to a small hole in the wall and never expected the food to be that great. It was delicious! The staff was very friendly, which is always a plus. Definitely will be re-visiting! Can't wait to have that Grilled grouper sandwich again! YUMMM!!!

    (5)

  • Trip B.

    This is one of those place that the locals love and the tourists would not be able to find. You walk up to a building that has probably stood without renovation for 50 years and wait in line for a good 10 minutes and basically order some of the freshest most homey seafood you'll ever eat. No frills gator, shrimp, and scallops are accompanied by fries, slaw and some puppies. With a lemon imbued sweet tea, it doesn't get much better. My family, fiance and I were skeptical at first, but the name says it all, it's a shack and the stuff that is served from the sea makes me hope this place remains a hidden gem. I think were OK, I have been coming to Hilton Head for 20 years before I found it.

    (5)

  • Gavin R.

    "mucho deliciouso" You feel like your at the soup nazi when you order. The seafood is fresh, well prepared and tasty. Highly recommended!

    (4)

  • H. R.

    If deciding between strawberry keylime & blueberry keylime, get the strawberry it's so good. Shrimp was shrimpy. Go for the scallops! Sweet potato cornbread spicy like gingerbread - yum! We waited an hour outside at 7pm on a monday night.

    (4)

  • Kelli A.

    Fish was fabulous. I got the flounder blackened and a crab-cake. Flounder was perfect. crab-cake had tons of crab. Hush puppies were dry and the cole slaw and butter beans were ok.

    (4)

  • Gina D.

    This is our favorite place to eat on hilton head! We have not had one item over the many times we have been here that is not wonderful. If I had to make a complaint, the side salad for take out is not so great, just lettuce and dressing. Just skip it and enjoy all their other outstanding veggies they offer. The wait is long.........but worth it!

    (5)

  • Megan C.

    We tried to go for dinner...the line was too long for me and we ate somewhere else and came back for lunch the next day. We still had to wait in line, but it wasn't out the door and gave us plenty of time to figure out what to order. I typically overlook popcorn shrimp....but the Sea Shack makes popcorn shrimp worth eating. The breading they use is light and allows you to actually taste the shrimp....something I've never experienced before. The conch fritters were really tasty as was the crab cake. The ultimate highlight of the lunch was my side of baby lima beans. Amazingly good. I don't remember ever having lima beans before...I've always been under the impression that they are not good. I think it they were life changing. I'm now on a mission to replicate these amazing beans. On a side note this place is really tricky to find...don't get frustrated trying to find it or waiting in line...the food is worth it. Also this place isn't remotely fancy, relaxing, romantic etc...so if that is what you want don't eat here.

    (4)

  • Art C.

    Almost an intolerable wait for the food, but pretty much worth it. Snapper and grouper was good and fresh. Kids food was questionable quality with a burnt burger. Will come back because it is the sea shack and it has been better than this in the past.

    (4)

  • Geoffrey E.

    We returned here this summer after enjoying our experience thoroughly a couple of years ago (as you'll see by my review below). This year, the food just didn't seem to be as good. Additionally, we now have a small child and tend to do carry out a lot. I tried to call in my order (on a weeknight) and was told that I would need to come down and wait in line to do a carryout order. This didn't seem to make much sense, as the hold up (the line) at this place is mostly because of the relatively few number of places to sit inside, not a holdup at the cooking line. It really pissed me off that I had to go down and stand in the sweltering heat for 30 minutes to get carry out. Not because I had to stand in line so much, but mostly because it just doesn't make sense from a business stand point. They could sell more over priced food and wouldn't have to clean up after people. A word of warning - if you're thinking of carryout from this place, don't do it - the food really loses something between the restaurant and your hotel room. Go and eat there, or don't go at all.

    (3)

  • Melody R.

    This place had great reviews so we went. First of all, it is a dive which is fine if the food is great. Well it's not! I had a fried fish lunch that was greasy and fishy tasting. The sides were very ordinary, similar to what you get in your grocery store deli case.

    (2)

  • Noah E.

    This is the not-so-hidden secret on Hilton Head. The first time we got there (we went multiple times on our trip), we showed up at 4:30 and realized it wasn't open until 5pm. We did a quick errand and returned about 4:50-4:55. The line was 40 deep and we ended up waiting an hour to get food. That said, the food was awesome. I had the blackened grouper sandwich while the others had fish n' chips and fried shrimp. My non-fried choice ended up being very tasty. The fish n' chips were outstanding...real fish pieces with great batter. Not your standard fish n' chips. We got a blueberry key lime pie to take home which was out of this world. The second trip was a little less incredible, but good. Slightly quicker in terms of time to order but i'd put my shrimp burger as good (not excellent). The strawberry key lime was a definite step down from the first time. Overall 4 stars...

    (4)

  • Will S.

    Shimp Burger was hot and tasty - Absolutely Perfect; The best around. Blackened Mahi sandwich was good too. Hush Puppies (2 each order) were crispy and good, a little milder than than the ones at Hudsons. This was lunch time. I've heard this referred to as a "local's secret", but it's no secret - be prepared to stand in line. If the line is not out the door and into the parking lot, you picked the right time to go.

    (5)

  • Derek W.

    No worth the hype for basic fried seafood.

    (2)

  • John W.

    Absolutely the best seafood for the price on the island.. Good portions for the main entrees. The sides aren't as good as the main food... However still pretty good... The 45 minute wait is worth it... When it's your turn to order , be ready or no seafood for you ...

    (5)

  • Julia W.

    That's some good eats. A must go when I'm in Hilton Head. Took a while to find, I actually had to go into a local bank on the main road to ask for directions, the teller in turn called his friend because he didn't know. lol. Turn onto Executive St, it's down the road! I got a delicious combo of gator bites, oysters, and scallops! With sides of coleslaw and mac and cheese. The combo meats I chose all had to be cooked one way, I got fried; my friend's combo were grilled. Both delicious! *My fried oysters got gold stars. Amazing. The sweet tea is good, but super sugary - they have unsweetened too. Free tables were scarce, but lucky enough I grabbed one just after ordering! You don't go for the service, so don't get discouraged when they yell at you for making the line the wrong way or standing in the wrong place....it's just their way.

    (4)

  • michelle e.

    My husband and I first discovered the Sea Shack last year and i must say this is a staple for when we are in Hilton Head. We love the food. The atmosphere is laid back and the people are very friendly.

    (4)

  • Devin N.

    Went there on a Wednesday evening in September around 630-700 PM. About a 30 minute wait. Definitely not a fancy place. Had plastic picnic table liners on the tables. Squeeze bottles of tartar sauce and cocktail sauce. Staff was very friendly. I had the Shack Attack and my wife had the Calamari. The calamari was very good. Not chewy and fell apart nicely in your mouth. In the Shack Attack everything was great except the crab cakes were a little soggy. The shrimp and the scallops were awesome. The hush puppies tasted great and were sweet. Total for the whole meal for the two of us was 28 dollars. We had water instead of soda and did not order dessert. Of note, our map said the place was on Pope, but it is actually off of pope on the executive drive.

    (4)

  • Josh F.

    The Sea Shack is a very popular place. Lines form before opening. It can take an hour to get in. The food features fresh seafood. I had the Shark Attack which includes shrimp, scallops, fish, crab cake, and oysters. O don't like oysters and they let mr substitute clams. My wife loves the Clam Po Boy and She-Crab soup. The quality and quantity of food is good. The eating area is functional, a little cramped, and as far from fancy as you can get. The prices are very reasonable.

    (4)

  • Whitney B.

    Get it fried. Although the grilled scallops were very good. Don't be fooled by the sweet potato cornbread... It does not taste like cornbread, more like cake. A must try while you are on HHI. Mix the sweet tea with the unsweetened and you'll be in southern heaven.

    (4)

  • Bradford B.

    Good place for price, super long line. look to pictures for menu I added

    (3)

  • Amanda L.

    Long lines, dive atmosphere, but good food at a great price! We came here around 6 on a weekday nite and the line was pretty long. Once we got in, we were happy to see that the place maintains a good sense of humour. We got one of the chalkboard specials - the Jerk Grouper, which was nice and spicy fresh grouper. They have tasty little hushpuppies and their mac n' cheese was to die for - I would've ordered a whole plate of it! We also ordered the blackened Shack Attack - the crabcake was a bit mushy, wasn't a fan of the oysters, tilapia was delicious, but the scallops were amazing! The sundried tomato and okra stew was surprisingly good. Grouper sandwich was ok, but a bit too much roll. Sweet potato fries were thin, crispy fried, and addictive. The blackened swordfish was good too.

    (4)

  • David C.

    Good food cheap. Found the Sea Shack from Yelp reviews and went on a Friday around 11am. No line when we arrived but that quickly changed as Noon rolled around. Had a great crab cake, salmon, sweet potato fries and some hush puppies. The salmon and crab cake were seasoned just right and the crab cake was one of the best I've had. I hadn't gotten hush puppies for years but they were as good as I remember. We rode bikes from our hotel a few miles away along the beach which made for a great afternoon. The Sea Shack is located about 3/4 mile from the Pope Street entrance to the beaches and there are bike paths the whole way.

    (4)

  • E K.

    We got the grilled shrimp & crab cake combo and the fried shack attack combo platter which had seemingly one of everything on their menu. The place is truly a dive but such great food. The coleslaw was amazing. The hush puppies weren't the best we ever had but they were still very good. The crab cakes were good sized and we barely touched our fries. If we go back I'd skip fries and just get a double side of coleslaw. We were there on vacation so cholesterol wasn't our top priority, but looking back it's a good thing we found this place our last day on the island. We couldn't survive eating like that too often!! We arrived close to closing time and it was packed. By the time we finished eating the staff had cleaned up every other table except for ours and one other party. They definitely give you a push out the door at closing but the fresh ingredients made up for the indifference in service.

    (4)

  • Miranda J.

    We went at 12 on a Wednesday and there was no line. However, we went then because of the gigantic line we saw the night before. Which also told us this place was good. Popcorn scallops, fried shrimp, fried fish, and hushpuppies were all perfect. Lightly breaded and great quality. French fries and macaroni & cheese were good, but I have had better. All in all though, I came for the fish and it was fantastic. Best seafood I've had in Hilton Head by far, may be best seafood I've ever had at a restaurant. A little expensive but completely worth it. Charming!

    (4)

  • Marcus O.

    i love the sea shack. everyone we bring here loves it too.

    (5)

  • Alan B.

    This place is gross and nasty. Greasy food, greasy tablecloths... highly overrated.

    (1)

  • Bart W.

    Just to give you an idea of how good the food is, we ate here 2 out of our first 3 nights. It probably would have been 3 for 3, but one of the days was Sunday and they're closed on Sundays. In our two visits, among our family we tried the scallops (both fried and grilled), shrimp, popcorn shrimp, conch fritters, calamari, mahi and shrimp burger. All were excellent. Calamari was just good, but we didn't exactly go there to have calamari..... Must try the sweet potato cornbread. Hush puppies were great.

    (5)

  • M E.

    A staple of Hilton Head.

    (5)

  • Sean D.

    It was 95 degrees in the shade. There was a line out the door. I was holding a 5 month old baby. We were told to wait outside. When five people had left the line about a minute later we stepped inside. We were in no way blocking the flow for customers. The same gentleman walked over and asked people to wait outside until told to enter. I assumed he was speaking to the people behind me since we were not only in no way impeding the flow, but because I was holding a baby and it was sweltering outside. He then tapped me on the shoulder and said, "I need you to wait outside." There was no reason to treat my family this way. I will also mention that the evening before I saw a line out the door. When I went inside to get a menu and ask what the line was about (I didn't know if it was some sort of sale, or some other promotion) the woman working the register looked at me like I had two heads and said with an attitude "because we have good food." Hilton Head is a tourist community. Many of the people who live there seem to have accepted that and appreciate the people who come and pour millions of dollars into their community each year. However, there are some delusional people on that island that seem to believe they'd be doing just fine without all of us pesky tourists and treat us accordingly. Sea Shack is clearly owned and run by the delusional folks and they will treat you that way. So, if you just can't live without a fast food place specializing in seafood and you don't mind being treated like a piece of cattle Sea Shack is the place for you. If you would like to send a message to a business that couldn't survive without tourists but treats tourists horribly I implore you to drive past Sea Shack and spend your money at a Long John Silver's instead.

    (1)

  • Richard Y.

    The Sea Shack was one of the first places I went on my recent trip to Hilton Head, and I can say that I am assuredly a fan. The restaurant itself is fairly hard to find, tucked back on a back road, you really have to go looking to find it. I have been there multiple times now, and I must say that it does not fail to disappoint. Of course, there is the absurdly long wait, and the rudeness of the people that sometimes frequent it. All that aside, however, it is really the best place for sea food on the island.

    (4)

  • Stefanie G.

    We went here summer of 2012 and I'm sure this shack will be around for years to come! They have a line all day but is worth the wait if you want local seafood. It is literally a shack in size, very divey but with a large menu of all the seafood you'd expect. Portions are good sized too. I had scallops and enjoyed them; we had a large party and no complaints! The crab cake was also delicious there.

    (5)

  • Chris C.

    Best Place for Fresh Fish on the Island. Dont be scared off by the lines as they now make you lineup outside most of the time so the inside is not crowded- it moves quick. For those complaining about the prices this is fresh fish and seafood with homemade southern sides- NOT LONG JOHN SIVLERS. Perfect place to take a out of town'r to lunch

    (5)

  • Gerry G.

    Great local food. Gator bites are excellent and the gumbo is tasty! As they say - a little hard to find but worth it.

    (4)

  • Tony A.

    My favorite restaurant. I try to eat here multiple times each time I visit Hilton Head. I always get the Shack Attack Combo, blackened. I also love their sweet tea and their crused ice! My friend loves the She Crab soup. Usually has a line to get in. You can not call in an order, you have to wait in line even for takeout orders. If the line is at the end of the building, that is about an hour wait until you get your food. Decent prices for a seafood restaurant in a resort town. The place is a dive, but that gives it great character.

    (5)

  • Q L.

    Got to the restaurant at 4:30 and there were plenty of cars already in the parking lot. Everyone started to line up at 4:45. I was able to get through the door before they closed in on the folks behind me. Placed my to go order and waited back outside the building for my name to be called. Ordered two platters and a quart of clam chowder. All for $36. Enough to feed 4 of us with leftovers. The restaurant really needs to rethink how they have folks line up. It was cold today and no fun to line up outside. There was plenty of space in the restaurant but I guess they didn't want anyone standing around.

    (4)

  • Tricia W.

    Well worth the wait. We arrived around 6 pm and had a 30 min. wait. My grouper on a sandwich was cooked perfectly and the Mac and cheese side was yummy. The sweet potato cornbread was more like a spice cake and was ok. Portions are generous and seafood tastes fresh! Much better than any of the fancier or more expensive seafood places we have tried on the island.

    (4)

  • Derek C.

    This is another one of those places where it is all about the food. And they do a great job! You have to look for it as it is off the beaten path, just off the main highway, kinda of hidden in an area that you might not expect to find a restaurant. You walk in and there is one of those old Coca-Cola menu boards with the letters pushed in. I got grilled gator nuggets (I liked that I had a choice to get everything grill along with the option for blackened or fried) and an oyster po-boys with grits and corn on the cob. It was all delicious! I would definitely go back if I find myself in Hilton Head again.

    (5)

  • L C.

    This address, like many on HH, is wrong. I'll try to find the correct one. Sea Shack was probably the most recommended place I found in my searches for quality eateries in HH. I've gotten pickier about where I eat, because while I'm no chef, I'm increasingly able to create at least rudimentary renditions of my cravings at home for a lot less money than it costs to go out. I'd rather go out and get something that I can't make myself. So.... Sea Shack was kind of disappointing. We didn't realize there was a line, but there was, and even though we got there at 4:45 we still had to wait until about 5:15 to go inside just to order. A kind of obnoxious girl was acting as bouncer because all the ordering is done at the counter, which causes a back-up. Also the whole Rachael Ray $40/day hype has made it a big desination. Someone on Chowhound commented that one would think a Sea Shack on an island would have local seafood, but apparently it's not, which is a shame. I got a crabcake sandwich, which came with hush puppies, applesauce, and garlic mash. I quickly discarded the huge, unnecessary kaiser roll and ate the crabcake on its own... which was really a thin patty and not particularly flavorful. (Don't crabcakes come with some special crabcake sauce?) The sides were more enjoyable, except the hush puppies, which tasted just like balls of fried fryness. Shrimp were nothing special, nor were the collard greens, and interestingly enough, the blackened chicken sandwich was better than either of the seafood dishes. Eh. It is really cheap, and I overheard that if you go for a late lunch, you won't end up with a wait. Worth a try, I suppose. As for me, I'd go to the Piggly Wiggly and get shrimp steamed and enjoy them poolside instead of in this place!

    (3)

  • Talluah C.

    Came for the seafood - didn't know I'd meet the Sea Hag! Yes, the place is a dive. I can deal with that. You may have to wait a bit. I can also deal with that. What I can't deal with is someone being so completely rude. The lady working the counter is a nasty, mean, witch. Being a first time customer I didn't know the program. I didn't properly hear her when she said "Get your drinks at the end of the counter, we'll bring your food out to you". I asked "are the cups at the end of the counter or do we get them from you"? She then yells at me "Get your drinks at the end of the counter, we'll bring your food out to you". I could not believe she yelled at me. I was shocked. I just stared at her and said "I am so sorry for asking a question" and moved on. I was ready to just cancel the order and leave, but my Dad had already given her his credit card and was signing the the bill. I also think the fact that I'm not the least bit southern, may have been against me. Our food came pretty fast and it was good, but I was so upset by the counter lady's behavior that I really did not enjoy it. The mashed potatoes were weird. The hush puppies were really good. My Dad ordered the gumbo and he did not care for it. My daughter ordered fish and chips and she liked it. I had Grouper. It was pretty good, but I've had better in Naples, FL. Don't bother eating here. There are so many good restaurants on Hilton Head Island that are glad to have your business. I just don't understand why someone is so nasty?

    (1)

  • Gennyfer S.

    Don't waste your time, or precious fried seafood qouta, anywhere else - The Sea Shack is the real deal. We discovered it quite by accident on an evening bike ride searching for a dinner spot. When we saw the LONG line (in October no less) we figured it HAD to be good and it was!

    (4)

  • Angel B.

    Please don't go here. My selfish self wants to write a bad review so this place won't be so busy. But all the other positive reviews are true. This is a great find with good seafood. We arrived at 4:55 p.m. and a crowd had already gathered for the 5 p.m. dinner opening. Our food -- frog legs, alligator nuggets, grilled scallops, grilled oysters, mac and cheese, hushed puppies, and sweet tea -- came quickly and hot. The hush puppies were cooked perfectly, moist, and flavorful. The macaroni and cheese was home baked and delicious. I expected much worse. The scallops were big and plentiful, as were the oysters. The Sea Shack proclains itself as not fancy, just good. It's true. It's got atmosphere--but not the kind you'd expect from a fine dining seafood restaurant. It has low-key, no frills personality, absolutely perfect. My family and I will definitely be returning during our next Hilton Head visit.

    (5)

  • Maggie L.

    The Sea Shack is one of those great hole in the wall places with cranky employees, plastic checkered tablecloths, and good food at a fair price. I had the Shack Attack which is a huge plate with a fish fillet, a crab cake, 3 shrimp, 3 oysters, 3 scallops, 3 hush puppies and two sides. The scallops were my favorite. I was only able to eat about half. I opted to get it blackened. It was too salty for my taste so I'd go for grilled or fried next time. My husband had fried grouper. It was very lightly breaded and not greasy at all. It was quite good. They have their regular menu and also a blackboard with specials. They had a bunch of different fish to choose from. Like the other reviewers have said, get there early. We got there at a great time. No line and one table left. A line quickly formed behind us so we lucked out. We will definitely go back.

    (4)

  • Carrol G.

    The Hush puppies were awesome. Menu is huge, something for everyone. very reasonable, quick service, nice selection of side items, great food. I was too full to try the home-made key lime, but it sure looked good. Definitely a place I will visit everytime.

    (4)

  • Jimmy S.

    What a score this place was! It's a small place with picnic tables outside. You wait in line like at a cafeteria and order. For the most part, you get some kind of fish dish (you can get anything grilled, blackened, or fried) and 2 sides. The menu changes each day and is written on a chalkboard. It gets pretty busy at lunch time so you wait at your table and they bring your food out to you after about 15-20 minutes. I got a fried grouper sandwich with mac 'n cheese and a green bean mix. My girl got a fried shrimp platter with cole slaw and sweet potato fries. We started off with a she-crab soup. I can't believe that there would be so many superlatives to a place so unassuming. Sea Shack boasts: 1. The best cole slaw I've ever had. 2. The best she-crab soup I've ever had. 3. The best fried grouper sandwich I've ever had. & I'm pretty picky when it comes to seafood. This place is really that good. The she-crab soup was spicy and full of big bites of crab and tons of veggies. The fried grouper sandwich was light, flaky, big and the bun and condiments were fresh and tasty. +1 Star for the 5 different types of hot sauce on the table. My girls fried shrimp were amazing (and substantial) and the bean medley I got was fantastic. Really, everything we ate there was very good. If one is in Hilton Head, Sea Shack needs to be on your short list of places to go.

    (5)

  • Jim V.

    This place rocks shrimp is fresh and out of this world I really like the atmosphere worth the wait

    (5)

  • Jonny C.

    The Sea Shack is the quintessential seafood dive. If you like a wide array of fried seafood (popcorn shrimp, tilapia, and much more), you will not be disappointed. They also offer everything either grilled or blackened, but I can't bring myself to have my seafood anyway besides fried when I eat here. However, friends and family who have opted for these healthier methods of preparation assure me that they are just as tasty. The sides are hit or miss (though thankfully more hit), and they offer some really fine sweet tea as well. Hushpuppies are included with every meal, but unfortunately they're not that great (too hard on the outside). So what else makes for a quintessential dive besides great food? Low prices? Check. Minimal attention spent on furnishings and decoration? Check. Mediocre service? Check! The guy taking your order (the owner) never smiles, and tends to be pretty impatient; once you order and find a seat, it'll take a while for them to bring you your food (and once they do, you'll never see them again). It doesn't matter, though, because the food is so damn good, and because, well, the place is a dive, so that's what you should expect. Finally, my fellow Yelpers have noted that the lines at the Sea Shack can be horrendous. They're right, but fortunately the long lines are avoidable. The most important thing is to not come for dinner. It wouldn't even occur to me to do so. I think of this place as strictly a lunch venue. Second, don't come at peak lunchtime. Hold off until one o'clock, or even a little later if you can, and the line shouldn't be that bad. Who knows; it might not even be out the door!

    (4)

  • Todd P.

    Don't bother with overpriced tourist traps like The Salty Dog Cafe...even though The Sea Shack isn't on the water, this is the real deal when it comes to fresh seafood cooked right. I probably had the best fried clams I've ever had here and would definitely go back. No frills, tight on space, hard to find and crowded, but well worth it.

    (5)

  • Giggli T.

    I love this place. The atmosphere isn't good, yes, but it's really good food and that's why I always go here on a trip to HHI.

    (4)

  • Roy C.

    I was looking forward to the Sea Shack based on the other Yelp reviews. But what I found was and nasty shack and below par food. There wasn't a line so I felt like were were very lucky. I also had a cup of the shrimp bisque which was way over spiced. I don't eat fried food so I decided to try the grilled chilean sea bass as my entre. This was greasy and had a spongy texture, the worst sea bass ever. My girlfriend went with the fried shrimp which she said were nothing special. . I think I'm a little picky about my food, but this place is like a Waffle House for seafood.

    (2)

  • Paulette C.

    Tried for the first time on our recent visit to Hilton head We ate with another couple we met on the island highly recommended this restaurant Seafood was excellent but you have to wait outside in the heat for a while probably an hour because it's very small inside But excellent because it's a local place highly recommend

    (5)

  • Leslie T.

    OMG! Yes, it is in a biz park district; yes it is a "dive"; yes, they have some of the best seafood on Hilton Head Island; and yes, I am a jaded foodie who ate there twice during a week's vaca on Hilton Head! (and I rarely go back to the same place twice while on vacation as I like to try all the great restaurants that I have read about in any particular area)...I went for lunch, so I don't know about the lines out the door that people are complaining about on here. I never waited for my food. The portions are ridiculously large (unless you are ridiculously large as well and need to eat a ton of food at one sitting) as they give you a choice of two sides and throw in a couple of awesomely delicious hush puppies to boot! I had some leftovers for munchies later! On my first visit, I was solo and had the grilled shrimp po' boy with a sauteed spinach and a sweet potato cornbread side. I cannot go on about how wonderful both sides were, honestly. The spinach was cooked like greens are usually cooked in the south and the cornbread, well the cornbread....mouth orgasm, folks. The po' boy roll was fresh, the lettuce and tomato fresh (and NOT crappy iceberg lettuce) and everyone there was really friendly. I sat outside as I found the air conditioning to be too cold for me and a "wait person" brought my order outside for me when it was ready. The second time I went back was again for lunch with a friend and she is now a fan as well. She had the popcorn shrimp plate with two sides (the heavenly homemade sweet potato cornbread and coleslaw) and I again had a po' boy, but this time with grilled scallops, and my sides were sweet potato cornbread and butter beans (which were awesome). Go, folks, go!

    (4)

  • Sheila R.

    The ambiance is divey, but the food is first-class! Had the oyster po-boy with sweet potato cornbread; both were excellent! There can be a long wait; we only waited about 10 minutes at 1:00 on a Monday afternoon.

    (5)

  • Kim C.

    This place is outstanding. We were in Hilton Head for a week, and I had heard of this place, and read the reviews here so we decided to give it a go. First of all, we went on a nasty, rainy day - which was a GREAT idea. It was lunchtime on a weekday in August, and we only waited in line about 10 minutes! One of the great things is that everything that you order can be fried, grilled, or blackened. I love the options. And its a great deal. I think the most pricey thing on the menu is about $14! My husband got the flounder, grilled, with cole slaw and fries. He said it was awesome, though he wasn't a big fan of the cole slaw. I had the chicken sandwich, fried, with fries. The sandwich was awesome (I'm not much of a seafood fan myself!) All in all, it is a dive with great food. So what if you have to wait a while? I say its worth it.

    (4)

  • Eric S.

    Meh. The people were very nice, but for an hour wait on a Wednesday, we expected better. Nothing particularly bad, but also nothing that made us want to come back.

    (2)

  • Phil V.

    Love this place. I recommend coming during lunch to beat the packed dinner crowd. The blackend grouper is a must, slaw is pretty good as well.

    (4)

  • Andy D.

    Just got back from a weekender in Hilton Head. The only reason we stopped to eat at the Sea Shack was because of the Yelp reviews. Contrary to what we read, we didn't have to wait at all to get in. We came right after the first dinner push at around 8pm and right before the second push since they close at 10pm. This place is the real deal....it is nothing fancy, but the food is delicious! Anytime I'm on the coast, I always look for a local seafood place to get a good meal. Sure, there is one HUGE tourist trap for seafood in Hilton Head, but this hole in the wall is where it's at. My wife and I shared our two dinners. She got the 1/2 lb fried shrimp special and I got the 1/2 lb peel and eat shrimp. Hushpuppies, fries, mac and cheese, and cole slaw as our sides. It was a nice portion of food! We probably should have stopped eating, but we couldn't help it. The texture of the fried shrimp were perfect. Crunchy and crisp yet not overcooked and rubbery. The peel and eat were seasoned superbly in low country crab seasoning. We couldn't decide which we liked better. The hushpuppies were also a nice treat! I think I could eat an entire meal of those with their cocktail sauce which is in an easy squeeze bottle at your table. I'm definitely going back to this place again and probably multiple times on the next trip.

    (5)

  • Ernie C.

    Waited outside for about 45 minutes on a Tuesday night in August. Must say, that even though the prices are reasonable, I probably wouldn't stand in line again. Got the crab cake (terrible) and salmon (ok) platter with salad and fries for $14.95. The She Crab soup was TERRIBLE and very salty. My wife enjoyed her blackened shrimp, but again, nothing special. I might go back for a cheap lunch, but would not stand in line.

    (2)

  • Norman B.

    Other reviews cover the excellent quality of the food and the rushed service. Though I must emphasize that we were not rushed while sitting at the table and being served. The quality in our groups opinion was closer to four star, but is the hassle really worth it? Maybe for a one time visit - yes. We were glad that we went, but we won't go back. There are other places with good food where you don't have to wait in line for over an hour to get seated and sit at table with oil cloth and an atmosphere that was not only noisy, but crowded. It is because of the surroundings and the way we expected the food to be that it only got three stars from us.

    (3)

  • Jeanne W.

    The Sea Shack is what its name suggests...fresh seafood served in a shack. As we waited in line outside the shack next to parked cars and adjacent restrooms, chatting with friendly locals and tourists, I had flashbacks of Seinfield's "Soup Nazi" (except the Sea Shack folks are very friendly). The food is notoriously great and customers are willing to work for it. The Shack has a procedure: wait outside in line, enter when invited by the waiter, read the menu from a chalkboard, order, pay, and have a seat until your food is ready. The shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, grouper, and cole slaw were scrumptious. Best of all, dining at the shack was a unique experience and a great story to tell the rest of the family when you get home. Don't miss it!

    (5)

  • Adam A.

    Clams were prepackaged. Don't get clams

    (2)

  • Barbara D.

    I would come back to Hilton Head for the sole reason of eating at Sea Shack again. While this place is a bit of a hole in the wall, it was the best food I had eaten on the entire island during my vacation last week. I ordered the grilled oyster po boy with sweet potato fries and sweet potato cornbread. That was one of the best po boy's I've ever eaten and I love that they give you the option of having your meat grilled, fried or blackened (most everywhere else automatically gives it to you fried). The sweet potato fries were a delight but the sweet potato cornbread wasn't quite what I expected it to be. It tasted more like pumpkin bread (everyone in our party came to the same conclusion). Regardless, it was still tasty. My bf ordered fried oysters with green beans and mac & cheese and our friends ordered the shark attack. All was devoured in less than 10 minutes. This place is food heaven!

    (5)

  • Sarah P.

    Absolutely worth the stars! Found this place from a trip advisory for best hole-in-the-walls and it definitely has character. The advisory also warned us of the "sea nazi" but she made extra efforts to smile and even joked of her new nickname. All of the food was terrific...we ate it blackened. Definitely recommend the snapper and cornbread (more of a spice cake). The scallops were perfectly cooked. One of my new favorite restaurants. We're coming back tomorrow for more!

    (5)

  • R M.

    Had already heard raves about it from friends, and it lived up to the hype. Great selection of fresh fish, prepared fried, grilled or blackened, and all were relatively inexpensive. Had the blackened tilapia, chose fries and the apple cornbread. Hushpuppies came along with all orders. Everything but the cornbread was fantastic. Also tried a bite of the crunchy filet from the 'fish and chips,' and a spoon of the delicious mashed potatoes. Both also good. Go straight to the order line, they seat you. Wait staff was great, all around excellent experience. Nothing better for your money on the island.

    (5)

  • aya i.

    With all the chain restaurants on Hilton Head, we weren't sure what to eat that we couldn't get back in California. We found The Sea Shack on Yelp and decided we had to find the place. It was GOOD. My husband and I had some kind of Shack Combo that you can choose to get fried, grilled and blackened. My husband got fried and I went for grilled. The meal included tilapia, oysters, scallops, shrimp, hush puppies ... maybe more, I can't remember... Yum. It was delicious. If we're ever back at Hilton Head we're going to The Shack.

    (4)

  • Kimberly J.

    This is my favorite seafood restaurant on the island. Very good food and a casual atmosphere. It can get busy so be prepared to wait a little. Don't be turned off by the line outside, it doesn't take long to make it inside. The only reason I didn't give the Sea a Shack 4 stars is the drinks. No alcohol and Pepsi products. I'm a Coke girl. Now this is not the place for a nice healthy meal. The best items are fried and breaded. The servings are big enough to take half your meal home and the food is reasonably priced. The Sea Shack is not open on Sundays.

    (4)

  • Robert C.

    The Soup Nazi!! That's the first thing I thought when I tasted this place's New England Clam Chowder. Amazing. This is a hidden not-so-secret place in Hilton Head. Why this is the seafood equivalent of the Soup Nazi? You wait in line to place your order and there are plenty of little tables you can eat at. The lady behind the counter is fairly rude, kicks the line out the door if it gets too crowded, kicks people out who sit down before ordering, and is rude enough to highlight the tip section of the credit card place, even though the staff does nothing but take your order and bring you your food. You get your own refills and take up your own trash when you're done. I think the cashier intentionally takes orders slow to make sure there are enough tables available for people. That being said about the service, I'd eat here EVERY DAY and be happy because the food is so damn good. My wife hates seafood and was in heaven from a great grilled chicken sandwich, sweet potato fries, a mini-salad, and hush-puppies. I got a pound of glorious peel-and-eat shrimp and the soup. I can't imagine why people would complain about this place. It is difficult to find and hidden behind a couple other places, you don't just "stumble" across this place. Go here for the food, expect the lines and bad service to be part of the experience.

    (5)

  • Abby O.

    This place has great local seafood made fresh. It is one of the few restaurants in Hilton Head that is not a tourist hub. There are lines out the door everyday, but it is well worth the wait. We ate three times while we were in Hilton Head and had a wonderful meal every time.

    (5)

  • Marv B.

    Local favorite, and cheap.

    (4)

  • brandi d.

    Called in for take out. Walked up and a huge line greeted me. Luckily I was able to walk right in and get my food fifteen minutes after calling it in. Inside was hot and a few tables were open despite the long line outside. Split calamari appetizer, combo of crabcake (only got one), gator nuggets, and popcorn shrimp with my best friend. Combo came with fries and hushpuppies. All food was good, besides the crabcake which was barely edible. It was more than we could eat.

    (4)

  • Foodie T.

    Great place to eat. The fish is very good --mostly fried but you can get it grilled or blackened as well. The sides are great -- fried okra, collard greens, mac and cheese. Get extra sides as they are the best here. The process for ordering and getting your food is very efficient but not fast. I'd go back if not for the line. Took a little longer to get in than other places on a Saturday night but not an extraordinary wait.

    (4)

  • Anthony P.

    It has to be one of the best seafood restaurants that I had the pleasure to eat at in the US. Great portions, fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere. Get there at 4:45pm so that you are not standing in line too long! We loved the hushpuppies and macaroni and cheese! My wife thought the tartar sauce was out of this world!

    (5)

  • Wizzy H.

    Came here last year for lunch and loved it! Now when we come down we always make a stop there. Love the alligator bites! Can't wait to get back.

    (5)

  • Clint U.

    "We want DINNER!!!!" "I remember Rachael Rey eating here on ther $40 a day show. Let's eat there." "Rachael Ray?????" I muttered. Between her and Martha Stewart (before her OCD penny pinching demise) they endorsed 87% of Amercia's gross national products. "Can you get some references so we can make sure this isn't a set up?" "I did. I Googled the place and it had a lot of good reviews," retorted one of my internet savvy kid. Away we went......... The Sea Shack.....is a shack. A very unpretentious, run down, hole in the wall place with a line outside longer than the restaurant itself. Many in line are seasonal repeat customers in this Time Share Heaven (or Hell depending on the traffic) island community. I found out that this place was very quiet until RR made her way here and advertised them to millions of viewers. Now the lines won't stop. We waited 20 minutes to get in. Not too bad at 6 pm on a weekday. So how was the food? To my surprise, FABULOUS. Here is how it went: 1. Fried and breaded alligator chuncks: I wanted my kids to try this at least once in their life. 75% took me up on it. It was just great. It has a texture between chicken and catfish, with a very mild flavor. The meat was as moist as fresh catfish but had the body of tender chicken. Excelllent preparation: 5 stars 2. Fried frog legs: I also wanted my kids to try it. 50% were takers. LIke eating small chicken wings. The meat had a texture between fish and chicken, but more like fish. The meat was very very moist like well prepared fish. Mild flavor closer to a white fish but had some body like chicken wings. Just great as is without any sauce. 5 stars 3. Fried oysters: Some of the best I have had and prepared perfectly. Not overcooked but not raw. The breading was browned and crunchy: 5 stars 4. Blackened and grilled scallops: About an inch in diameter, these scallops were again done perfectly. Grilled and carmelized on the outside, moist and very tender on the inside. Not under or over cooked.. Done perfectly to my tastes. 5 stars 5. Blackened talapia: Done perfectly again. Not overcooked and just done past rawness. Very moist and tender flesh. 5 stars 6. Crabcakes: I am spoiled by Maryland. These were not good crabcakes. Too much filler, crab meat was shredded. Not much crab flavor: 2 stars 7. Blackened shrimp: Medium sized, good spice and done correctly. I would have liked larger sized shrimp. 4 stars 8. Sweet potato fries: Why can't more restaurants serve this? They were just great. Hard to get these perfect because sweet potatoes do not like to stay crispy. 4 stars 9. Fried okra: It is hard to made distinguished okra. Fried okra is fried okra. You either love em or hate em. 4 stars. 10. Cole slaw: Good solid, traditional rendition of this dish. 4 stars Overall: This is a 5 star place. The value was exceptional for this part of town. The largest seafood platter with 2 sides was $15. Highly recommended. And I guess I need to pay more attention to Rachael Ray's places to eat....

    (5)

  • Peter M.

    Their mantra is "not fancy - just good". Excellent, inexpensive, tasty "Seafood Dive". Well worth the effort to find them hidden away - watchout for the potholes in the parking lot.

    (4)

  • Georgia B.

    Ate there with my friends, and we each had a fish that was better than the next. I had cobia, caught fresh that day...yum! There is a long line, yes, but it moves pretty fast. I don't think they serve alcohol, which may be a turn off to some. But man, the food is worth it!

    (4)

  • Nikki S.

    THE FOOD IS AMAZING- We had a grouper sandwich with FF and sweet potato cornbread, and a fried shrimp poboy with FF and slaw- we wish we could fit more into our stomachs. The reason this gets 4 stars is for poor customer service. We did not feel welcomed, in fact when we walked in the door we were met by a disgruntled employee who asked us what we were doing and we replied " about to order " she said- " were you next in line?" We said "yes" then she scolded us we can't just be walking inside like this because all these other people outside might follow us in..,, there are NO signs asking customers to wait outside- even tho we had been waiting outside for 30 mins without complaining. When we got to the counter I asked if they had grouper nuggets and the cashier said "this ain't McDonald's we don't cut out grouper up" Good food tho.

    (4)

  • Mike L.

    Let me start off with the wait. I waited and hour and half in line to be seated. I ordered the fish and shrimp dinner. I was asked if I wanted it blackened or fried. I wanted fried shrimp with blackened fish. I was told that I had to pick one or the other. I don't understand why ? I chose the blackened. My sides were cabbage and black bean chutney. The shrimp and fish were overly seasoned. Completely took away from the taste of the fish. The cabbage was okay and so were the beans. Hush puppies were okay as well. For my family of four, food and drinks we paid $70.00. I came away with an okay dining experience. I expected a unique flavor to their food due to their high reviews. Nothing special in my opinion. The long wait in the elements. Getting bit by mosquitoes and sweating it's not worth the wait. I've checked this place as a place I wanted to visit, but I won't be back.

    (3)

  • Kim M.

    Simply amazing. Fast counter service. Food is delicious, hot, perfectly seasoned. We are gluten free and there were plenty of options for us o chose from. The grilled fish and shrimp were moist. A must visit on the island.

    (5)

  • Toni W.

    This is a super casual spot. We visited during February at lunch time, so there was no wait at all. Easy in, easy out. We ordered at the counter, and food was at our table in less than five minutes. The food was excellent - the oyster po'boy was the highlight of the meal (although the spicy buffalo shrimp po'boy was excellent, too). The stewed okra and tomatoes were fabulous. The hush puppies were so good that my father ordered more. Unfortunately, no one in our group tried the sweet potato cornbread - I would bet it was fantastic. It was a great lunch spot. We enjoyed it!

    (4)

  • Jim W.

    My family and I had a delicious lunch here on a weekend getaway to Hilton Head. We'd heard great things about the seafood; not so great things about the wait to get in. Thankfully, when you're here on a blustery February day, you get all of the former, none of the latter. My oyster po-boy was top notch, really one of the best I've ever had. The buffalo shrimp po-boy was good and spicy. Even the chicken fingers my son had were crispy and tasty. And the hush puppies - oh my! The only drawback - it was a little pricey, especially for lunch. Just the price you pay for Hilton Head, I guess. Nom nom nom...

    (4)

  • David B.

    As my family's first trip to HHI, it has been one of exploring and trying new things. Thanks to Yelp and several recommendations back home, it didn't take long for The Sea Shack to appear on our radar. It was everything we expected and more. If "local" and quality of food over ambience are important to you, then this is the place to visit for good seafood. We arrived a little past 4:30pm to a line that stretched down the side of the building. After opening at 5:00, we waiting an additional 45 minutes to get called in out of the sweltering heat. Within a few minutes we had ordered, gotten drinks and were seated at a table. The wait ended up being well worth it. The po boy (fried shrimp) was terrific and the blackened scallops were outstanding. Our kids had the fried fish / fried shrimp and it was excellent as well. This place gets five stars because of the great food and portion sizes and it's charm. Hope to be back soon!

    (5)

  • Kyle W.

    The Sea Shack is a must for my wife's family who has been coming down to HHI for 25+ years. I've been down here once a year for the past 5 years and we have stopped to eat here for lunch every year. The restaurant is open for lunch and then for dinner. They close down between 3 and 5 before they start serving dinner. I can't comment on the dinner, or if it is any different as we have only ever showed up for lunch. The "motto" of the Sea Shack, if you will, is "Not Fancy, But Good!" and it fits. You can tell the building is very old and there is nothing fancy about place or the tables inside, but it sure is good food. We have never been here when there hasn't been a line outside of the door. They like to do things a certain way here and they will only let in a certain number of people at a time, hence the line out the door. The waitress/owner (not sure who she is but she is here every single year) will come outside and let in parties one at a time as she is the one that takes the order as well. She typically lets people in based on the amount of seating available it seems. There aren't that many tables inside (15 maybe?) and a couple tables outside. It's worth the wait. This most recent adventure I ordered the fish & chips. It came with three large pieces of fish, fries, and one side for about $10. It was very good sized for a lunch portion. The only thing I could complain about was my side of macaroni and cheese, it was still cold on the inside while the outside was hot. However, the fish and fries were very good. I have to give a special mention to the hush puppies as they have little bits of corn on the side. So good! Definitely check it out if you get the chance and don't be afraid to ask if you aren't sure what you are doing on your first visit! It is my favorite sea food place on the island that we go to. Looking forward to going back next year!

    (4)

  • Kathy R.

    Fresh and delicious seafood. Had to wait a bit to get in the door but was worth the wait. Scallops, oysters and shrimp were fantastic. Will definitely return.

    (5)

  • Misty W.

    Great food. Order when you walk in. Space is limited so go at off hours. The seafood is fresh! They also offer several vegetables as sides. The location is kind of hidden Ono don't miss it. It's really worth the trip.

    (5)

  • April A.

    This place was pretty good. I got the shrimp po boy' it was and it was really good, however, I wish it had more shrimp than bread. The hush puppies were solid and the sweet tea perfect! I would come back, but It would not be the 1st place I will have to stop by the next time I return.

    (4)

  • Joseph T.

    The Sea Shack on Hilton Head Island has the best Sea Food around nothing fancy just home cooking low country style.

    (5)

  • Sharon L.

    We wanted hush puppies, so we ventured out for lunch and landed at the Sea Shack. It is exactly as the name implies- a shack type eatery. Be prepared to wait and follow their process. Lunch for me and the spouse was blackened mahi sandwich, which was perfectly seasoned. I had a side mini salad with wasabi dressing. It packs a mild punch. The grilled shrimp also came favorable and cooked perfect and plump. The real stars were - the hush puppies. Little mouthfuls of corn touched goodness. A tad a sweetness, but not overpowering. Another surprise was the sweet potato cornbread. Not typical. Each piece a dense square dressed with a honey glaze. More a dessert than a main course companion. Best meal we've had this trip to the island.

    (5)

  • Mike H.

    Came at lunch time on a Saturday, just a short line no real wait. The place is a hair bigger than a hole in the wall. Order at the counter and food is brought to your table. Probably not the healthiest of meals - our whole group order fried something-or-other - but darn if it wasn't all very good. Large portion of fried shrimp. Fish-n-chips was delicious. Best surprise - sweet potato corn bread, yum! Some of the other sides were just average but nothing sub-par.

    (4)

  • Jeremy S.

    The fried oysters and scallops are the best I've had. I also had the flounder and shrimp. The fish was fine and the shrimp were very good. A ton of food for sure. Good amount for the money. Some folks would easily share plates. I'm in that category though we each ordered our own, not knowing. My son had popcorn shrimp. These were the same sized shrimp that came on my plate but without the tails. He had a good many of them and 2 sides. Was a large kids meal but he ate it all. The sides were good too. Not great but good. So the bad part is that you'll wait to eat here. We showed up on a Wednesday before they opened at 5p and there was a line clear across the parking lot. I waited over an hour to get inside the door and then another 20 or so to eat. Take away is no faster. No call in orders accepted so you have to wait in line with the folks dining in. There are probably only 10-15 tables so things go at an island pace. All in all it was worth it. Can't believe it but it was. I will add that the restaurant is is terrible condition. I don't mind eating in a dive, in fact i expect to at many of these seafood spots at the beach. But on my way out i noted a drain in the floor of the dining room was backing up (just a little) into the dining room. Gross. There was also a knat problem there the night we dined. Still, it's one of the best meals on the island.

    (4)

  • PJ S.

    Nice portions of fresh seafood. Honestly the food quality measures up to some of the fancier places in town - but because you are eating off a plastic plate and in a very humble building the price is much cheaper. Wish i would have found this place earlier in my vacation. I would have eaten here every night.

    (5)

  • Kevin S.

    We came here based on Yelp reviews. It's a little hole-in-the-wall local place, but you know they're doing something right with the line of people waiting. There were about a dozen people in line OUTSIDE the restaurant when my family arrived. The locals standing in line in front of us were very excited because they said it was the shortest they'd ever seen the line. They said normally the line is wrapped around the building. We ordered and took our food to go so we could eat sooner than waiting for a table inside. The food was fresh and excellent! I had shrimp and scallops that were MUCH better than I had the next night at a touristy restaurant in Harbor Town. I would say GO EARLY before the line gets too long, and just take the food to go.

    (4)

  • Melvyn H.

    The Shack Attack is enough to feed two people. Love the hush puppies. Seafood is very fresh, fast service once you get into the building.

    (4)

  • Shannon P.

    This is a must do on the island! Yummy seafood owned by locals. Food is very fresh and cooked to perfection! Our family had the soft shelled crab, fried and steamed scallops, gator, shrimp, tilapia, crab cakes, clams and oysters. All very good! The sweet tea is made to perfection! The prices are great and the dining is casual. Great place to take kids! This is were the locals eat for good reason!

    (5)

  • Jay M.

    Excellent seafood. Excellent price. The wait is long, an hour and a half, around 7:00. There were 10 of us and all of us had different platters and everyone loved the seafood. One comment, don't get the hamburger. :) Pretty sure it was not 100% beef. The blackened is spicy but so tasty. Definitely will be back.

    (4)

  • Brad A.

    Once again, a return trip to HHI and are turn trip to Sea Shack. Lunch always easier to slide into and if you're willing to do carry out it's a piece of cake. Blackened Mahi some of the best I've had and the sweet potato cornbread is worth going back all by itself. Hasn't been a hidden gem in years, but it is awesome!

    (5)

  • Michael S.

    The food was good, but the people were not nice. We had shrimp, crab cakes and flounder on separate plates and all were very good. They were fried, but with a light batter that had good flavor. The fries and other sides like field peas were good too. The counter servers acted put out when we asked a few questions. They were making homemade key lime pie, but it was just okay.

    (4)

  • Katie H.

    OH MY GOODNESS, there are no words to describe how good the meal I had was. I ordered fish and chips and it's definitely the best fish and chips of my life. it's a bit of a wait, but it's honestly worth it. people line up for a reason- this is fire. the food was so good, I would come back for more very consistently.

    (5)

  • Barb B.

    If you enjoy Diners, Drive-ins and Dives / you'll love this place! Great seafood, fast service, and long lines during evening hours. We enjoyed the wide variety of seafood at affordable prices -from you-peel shrimp to tilapia and snapper and Mahi Mahi. The hush puppies were a fun addition to each meal. The atmosphere was vintage dive - but the food was TERRIFIC!

    (5)

  • Beverly L.

    Wowzer! Why go all the way to Hudson's when the Sea Shack is so close, and so delish! Fried oysters, shrimp and scallops were perfectly prepared, tender and juicy. The folks inside were friendly and efficient and helpful for first timers. The sides were also fabulous, with the sweet potato cornbread winning the day! As Arnold said, "We'll be back!"

    (5)

  • Melissa B.

    The food tastes much better than the place looks. My husband had the fried fish and fries, and I had the grilled platter. The grilled oysters were perfect, and so were the shrimp, scallops, and fish. The oysters just stood out in my mind as having the perfect sea flavor with a little tangy twist from lemon I believe. My son loved the hush puppies. Collards were perfect!!! Will be back!!!

    (5)

  • Karalynn N.

    Every summer, I always have to visit the Sea Shack. Let me say, it never disappoints. The place is nothing fancy or extravagant, but the home feeling of deep fried seafood and close to the beach makes it a perfect meal/snack for a summer day (when it's not raining). The fried popcorn shrimp with hush puppies is the staple for me. I always tell myself I want to try everything, but that seems to fill the craving I have for anything fried. (Since I am not much of a fan of fried food). Though, I am not going to lie, but the deep fried oyster po'boy always gets me for just a taste. It's a solid taste in a sandwich that I have yet to have better in California.

    (4)

  • Gus B.

    The food is supposed to be good but I may never know. The line is RIDICULOUS and they do NOT accept call in for take-out. Whatever.

    (3)

  • Elizabeth B.

    Sea shack is a must for lunch. I love the buffalo shrimp po boy. Sides and sweet tea are great.

    (5)

  • Ira K.

    Our favorite little hole in the wall seafood restaurant. Worth the wait if there's a line.

    (5)

  • Matt S.

    I would highly recommend the homemade key lime pie. It was on point. The crab cake sandwich melts in your mouth.

    (4)

  • Nancy W.

    A real dive, but the food was great and it seems that January is the time to be there. No lines, no waiting at 5 PM Had the blackened scallops. Spicy as heck, but great. Red rice good too along with the hush puppies. I doubt I will ever be back to Hilton Head Island, but if we did come back, this would be a definite stop.

    (5)

  • Jeff W.

    Got there about 7:30 and we had to wait outside in the rain for about 15 minutes but once we get the food it was well worth the wait. It's a small place but the seafood is the best I've had in a while. I had the Shak Attack. It had fish, oysters, scallops, and shrimp. The fish was Ok but everything else was awesome. We will eat there again the next time we are in HH

    (5)

  • Jacqueline B.

    The first night my daughter, her friend, and I were in Hilton Head we met a couple who raved about this place. I read the reviews... The biggest complaint was the wait...which turned out to be a long line...but, I decided there was a line for something. As we waited in line...through the window I saw customers dipping ice with a scoop for their beverages, then replacing the scoop in the ice bin. Ecoli? Not for me... To the Salty Dog we went.. Sure we spent more...but, if we get food poisoning here...they can afford the medical bills.

    (1)

  • Mark H.

    If you are staying in Hilton Head, you must try this place. The food is fresh and excellent! Fried, grilled or blackened options exist for all of the seafood. Be sure to check out the board near the entrance for the daily specials and sides. The only downside (and reason for my four star and not five star rating)...the wait will be long if you try to go during a typical dinner time. Don't let this deter you from going...just be prepared. We arrived at 5:40pm (Thursday, mid-July) and waited an hour and 40 minutes. The line extended out the door, past the end of the building and into the parking lot (no waiting list). Unfortunately, there's minimal seating inside. To give the staff credit, they do a great job moving people through the restaurant. The demand is just unbelievable. As my wife remarked, it must be disappointing for the restaurant across the parking lot that they don't have the same demand. I guess a long line of people is a good problem to have if people are willing to wait. We will definitely be back!

    (4)

  • Ben N.

    TL:DR -Fried/blackened/grilled anything on the menu -Board is updated with local catch, including... GATOR NUGGETS -January - off season was still busy! -Best seafood for the price Review: We come to HH once a year for a work retreat, and it just so happened we came across this place (pretty divey) based on the positive yelp reviews. We were not disappointed. We ordered Shrimp - both blackened and fried, blackened salmon, red rice, fries, and the obligatory hush puppies. Everything tasted great, the service was friendly, and the chef was super nice. She allowed us to change our shrimp order mid-cooking. We will definitely be coming back here.

    (4)

  • David S.

    Great food at great prices. Always busy so expect to wait. We often take out as seating is limited, but get there at least 30 minutes before the restaurant opens.

    (4)

  • Lauren B.

    I'm still somewhat new to the seafood world but couldn't leave Hilton Head without hitting up a great Southern seafood restaurant. On our last night, we decided to venture to The Sea Shack. At 5:30 on a Thursday night in early June (not quite super primetime tourist season), we had about a 50 minute wait. And we agreed, it was worth the wait! I got the fried popcorn shrimp and crab cake combo with hush puppies (yum!!), applesauce and seasoned rice. My boyfriend got the fried alligator appetizer and frog leg entrée with cheese grits (yum!!) and sweet potato corn bread. The fried alligator was a pleasant surprise, and probably my favorite food out of all the items we ordered. Everything was fresh, affordable and delicious! Some more details: This is definitely off the beaten path and is a place to check out if you want to get a different experience than the more chain-like restaurants across the island. Hole-in-the-wall, for sure! The line doesn't move toooooo quickly, but the staff does a great job making sure you get a table once you're inside and ordering (which was an unexpected surprise!) The menu gets a little confusing -- the menu online doesn't necessarily match the menu in the window while waiting in line which doesn't necessarily match the menu on the whiteboard inside which doesn't necessarily match the menu near the cash register. PHEW. Lots of decisions to be made due to so many great sounding combo meals. It's best to know what you want when you get to the cash register. There are lots of people waiting, and you'll probably have plenty of time to decide on what you want -- so be sure to be ready when it's your turn to order!

    (5)

  • Richard B.

    The food was good. The process to order was confusing. They have a good variety of side items on their menu.

    (4)

  • C L.

    We came here for lunch and we had the following: popcorn shrimp, crab cake, fish and chips and calamari platter. We also got cheeseburger. Everything was very good except the calamari. We thought the fish and chips was the best fish and chips we've ever had. The southern sweet tea was good too. It's a solid 4 but skip the calamari- order it somewhere. Among the sides we like the collard green, Mac and cheese ( awesome according to my kids) and fries. Didn't care too much for sweet potato corn bread. We are split on the hush puppies, 2 likes, 2 don't like and 1 ok. We will go back if we visit the area again.

    (4)

  • Cheezwhiz R.

    Seafood anyway you want it fried grilled and blacked. People have been coming here for years. The seafood is good and resonable. It's very rustic and adds to the charm. Just remember the line goes way out the door during the season. Is it worth going out of your way not so much.

    (3)

  • Shane C.

    Local beach hang out vibe. Lovely southern charm, amazing staff. Loved the crushed-ice especially. :-)

    (5)

  • Diane C.

    A hidden gem with awesome food. Be prepared to wait in line. All Po-boys are great & have great homemade desserts.

    (5)

  • Elizabeth B.

    PRO - The Sea Shack serves up some incredible seafood! I ambitiously ordered The Shark Attack Combo and loved the crab-meat-packed crab cake, fish, and shrimp. I also loved their hush puppies and key lime pie. Yum yum yum! CONS - This is not the place to casually hang out and order slowly. The staff expects you to be snappy, and if you're not, expect to get some serious attitude. We attempted to dine here with 10 people, which is a terrible idea. The outside picnic tables were buggy while the inside was crowded and tight. I'd love to get food from here again, but if we're in town with a large group, we'll definitely be getting takeout.

    (4)

  • Alex S.

    I had the fried calamari which was very good. Their hush puppies were the best part, better than most I have had.

    (4)

  • David H.

    If there's better seafood in Hilton Head I haven't found it. Very fresh and cooked perfectly

    (5)

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Map

Opening Hours

  • Mon :11:00 am - 3:00pm

Specialities

  • Takes Reservations : No
    Delivery : No
    Take-out : Yes
    Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
    Good For : Lunch
    Parking : Private Lot
    Bike Parking : Yes
    Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
    Good for Kids : Yes
    Good for Groups : No
    Attire : Casual
    Ambience : Divey
    Noise Level : Average
    Alcohol : No
    Outdoor Seating : Yes
    Wi-Fi : No
    Has TV : No
    Waiter Service : No
    Caters : No

The Sea Shack

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