Hilton Head Island is a favorite for its scenic waterway views, calm Intracoastal waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s also a prime spot for dinner tours that combine delicious food with breathtaking sunsets and wildlife sightings. Whether you prefer a relaxed cruise with a three-course meal, a private dolphin-watching adventure, or a lively hibachi experience, Hilton Head offers options that will make your evening special. These tours stand out for their quality, reviews, and the unique experiences they provide, making them ideal for anyone wanting to combine sightseeing and fine dining.
In this guide, we’ll explore the five best dinner tours on Hilton Head Island. From classic sunset dinner cruises to private dolphin excursions, each offers a different way to enjoy the island’s waters while satisfying your appetite. Check out the details below to find the perfect fit for your next evening out.
1. Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dinner Cruise
At number 1, this Sunset Dinner Cruise offers a leisurely two-hour sail through the Intracoastal waterways with a three-course dinner prepared fresh by award-winning chefs at the Sea Pines Resort. The cruise’s main appeal lies in its spectacular sunset views over Harbour Town and the chance to spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Guests can opt for indoor or outdoor seating, making it adaptable to weather conditions.
What makes this cruise stand out is the quality of the food and the relaxed atmosphere. Several reviews mention how the dinner was delicious, with highlights like tender chicken, rich desserts, and the calm vibe that feels like a private charter. The cruise offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and gourmet dining, with a rating of 4.4/5 from 177 reviews.
The cruise’s value is clear: for $106 per person, you get a memorable two-hour experience with photo-worthy sunset views and the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. It’s well-suited for couples or small groups wanting a romantic, relaxed evening on the water. The main caveat is parking, as some guests found it tight, so arriving early helps.
Bottom Line: This cruise provides a scenic, laid-back dinner experience with excellent food and sunset views, ideal for a peaceful evening with loved ones.
2. Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise
Coming in at number 2, this Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Harbour Town offers an equally compelling two-hour journey with a carefully curated three-course meal. The focus here is on the cruise’s scenic route, which covers the Calibogue Sound and nearby islands, including Daufuskie Island, visible from the water. The dinner menu features options like roasted pork loin and blackened mahi mahi, with guests asked to specify preferences at booking.
Guests consistently praise the easy, relaxing atmosphere and the spectacular sunset, often described as a “pretty much guaranteed” highlight. The opportunity to observe dolphins and the iconic Harbour Town lighthouse as you cruise back adds to the experience. The reviews give a 4.5/5 rating from 120 reviews, emphasizing the quality of both the food and service.
Pricing at $106 per person provides good value, especially considering the scenic route, the quality of the meal, and the chance to see wildlife. This tour is perfect for couples celebrating anniversaries or anyone seeking a romantic dinner with a view. Be aware that some spicy dishes might not suit all, but overall, it’s a solid choice for an enjoyable evening.
Bottom Line: A well-rated dinner cruise that combines scenic waterway views with tasty food, making it a top pick for romantic outings.
3. Private Hilton Head Dolphin Tour with Waterfront Dining Stop
At number 3, this private dolphin-watching tour offers a personalized experience for up to six people. It lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes and includes wildlife sightings, eco-education, and one or two stops at local restaurants along the way. Departing from Palmetto Bay Marina, the tour explores Broad Creek and Calibogue Sound, giving up-close views of Daufuskie Island and Harbour Town.
What sets this tour apart is the completely customized nature—you can ask your captain about the ecosystem, look for dolphins, birds, and turtles, and stop at a restaurant on Daufuskie Island, which is only accessible by boat. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the reviews reflect that, with perfect 5-star ratings and comments like “Sarah was very friendly and knowledgeable” and “the best part of our vacation.”
Pricing at $413.02 per group makes it more of an investment—ideal for families or groups wanting an exclusive, intimate outing. The trip is especially suited for wildlife lovers, eco-enthusiasts, or those celebrating a special occasion. Keep in mind the cost and that booking early is recommended.
Bottom Line: A private, flexible dolphin tour that combines wildlife, ecosystem insights, and optional waterfront dining—great for a bespoke Hilton Head adventure.
4. Hilton Head Island: Dolphin Watching 3-Course Dinner Cruise
Number 4 on our list is the Dolphin Watching 3-Course Dinner Cruise, a shorter option at 1.5 hours, priced at $70 per person. This cruise offers a delicious dinner menu served on a private table while you cruise around Hilton Head Island’s waters. The focus here is on dolphin sightings—and many reviews mention spotting wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins swimming close to the boat.
The dinner includes a three-course menu that features fresh salads, moist chicken, rich desserts, and options that cater to families with kids. Guests can select upper or lower deck seating with fantastic water views, and drinks can be purchased onboard to enhance the experience. The rating of 4.4/5 from 28 reviews indicates good value and satisfaction among travelers.
This cruise is perfect for families or anyone wanting a shorter yet engaging wildlife-focused dinner experience. Its affordability makes it accessible for a quick yet memorable outing. Some reviews mentioned the boat was clean, and the food was “amazing,” making it a dependable choice for a relaxed evening.
Bottom Line: A family-friendly dolphin cruise with dinner that’s short on time but long on fun—ideal for those on a schedule or traveling with kids.
5. Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise
Rounding out the list, the Sunset Hibachi Dinner Cruise offers a lively and interactive dining experience aboard a custom catamaran. For about 2 hours, you’ll enjoy all-you-can-eat hibachi-style food, featuring chicken, steak, shrimp, and vegetables, along with salad and fried rice. Beverages like beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase to complement the meal.
This cruise is distinctive because it combines dining with entertainment—the chefs prepare your food at the table, and the cruise’s upbeat atmosphere is perfect for groups looking for a fun night out. Priced at $127.86 per person and rated at 4.0/5 from 70 reviews, it offers a casual, joyful experience with the bonus of watching the sun set over Hilton Head.
It’s well-suited for those who want a more interactive, energetic dinner, especially if you enjoy hibachi and live music. Some reviews mention the crew being “very pleasant and entertaining,” making it a good choice for groups or families seeking a lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: An engaging, all-you-can-eat hibachi cruise that combines great food with a festive vibe—perfect for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a fun night out.
How to Choose Your Hilton Head Dinner Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, group size, and preferences. If you want a relaxed, scenic cruise with fine dining, the Sunset Dinner Cruise (Tour #1 or #2) is ideal. For a more personalized experience, the private dolphin tour (#3) offers exclusivity and eco-learning. Families and those on a tighter schedule might prefer the dolphin viewing cruise (#4), while groups seeking an interactive, lively meal should consider the Hibachi Dinner Cruise (#5).
Booking early is recommended, especially for private tours or popular sunset cruises. Think about the type of experience you want—romantic, family-friendly, wildlife-focused, or lively—and pick the tour that best matches your interests.
Final Thoughts
Hilton Head Island’s dinner tours offer a wide variety of ways to enjoy the water, wildlife, and cuisine. For a classic, sunset-viewing experience with gourmet food, the Sunset Dinner Cruise (#1) is hard to beat. If you’re after a tailored adventure that combines wildlife sightings with a private dining stop, the private dolphin tour (#3) stands out. For families or those on a budget, the dolphin watching cruise (#4) offers a shorter, affordable option, while groups craving fun and entertainment will enjoy the Hibachi Dinner Cruise (#5).
No matter which you choose, securing your spot early will help ensure a smooth, memorable evening. These tours showcase Hilton Head’s waters at their best—make sure you experience one during your visit.
Enjoy your Hilton Head dinner tour adventure—each one provides a unique way to see the island from its shimmering waters while indulging in delicious food. Book early, and prepare for a memorable night!