Discovering Elas On The Water: A Coastal Culinary Haven
Nestled in the serene and picturesque setting of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Elas On The Water stands as a distinguished dining establishment offering an experience that perfectly marries exquisite cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views. Located precisely at 1 Shelter Cove Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States, this venue has cultivated a reputation for providing guests with more than just a meal; it offers a genuine slice of Lowcountry ambiance. The very essence of the restaurant is woven into its location, providing a tranquil backdrop against which culinary artistry unfolds. Whether you are a long-time resident seeking a familiar favorite or a visitor eager to sample the best of the island’s gastronomic offerings, Elas On The Water promises an encounter that resonates long after the last plate is cleared.
The philosophy driving the kitchen at Elas On The Water centers on freshness, local sourcing where possible, and a deep respect for classic preparation methods infused with contemporary flair. The menu is thoughtfully curated to reflect the bounty of the surrounding waters and the rich agricultural heritage of the region. Dining here is an immersion into the coastal lifestyle, characterized by relaxed elegance and an unwavering commitment to hospitality. Every detail, from the carefully selected wine list to the attentive service, is designed to enhance the overall sensory journey.
What truly sets Elas On The Water apart in the competitive culinary landscape of Hilton Head Island are several defining characteristics that contribute to its enduring appeal. These elements combine to create a dining destination that is both sophisticated and welcoming:
Unparalleled Waterfront Setting: The restaurant’s prime location at Shelter Cove provides diners with spectacular, unobstructed views of the water. This natural scenery acts as a dynamic, ever-changing centerpiece for any meal, making it an ideal spot for romantic evenings, significant celebrations, or simply a peaceful afternoon lunch. The sound of the water and the sight of passing boats contribute significantly to the dining atmosphere.
Commitment to Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients: A core tenet of the culinary program is the dedication to utilizing the freshest ingredients available. This often means featuring daily catches and produce that is at its peak flavor. This focus ensures that the dishes served are vibrant, authentic, and reflective of the season, providing a true taste of the South Carolina coast.
A Menu Balancing Tradition and Innovation: While honoring traditional Lowcountry flavors—perhaps featuring expertly prepared seafood staples—the chefs at Elas On The Water are not afraid to introduce creative twists. This balance appeals to purists while exciting those looking for novel gastronomic adventures. The resulting menu is both accessible and intriguing.
Exceptional Atmosphere of Relaxed Sophistication: The interior design and overall ambiance strike a perfect chord between upscale dining and the laid-back nature of island life. Guests feel comfortable lingering over their meals, enjoying the transition from bright daylight to the soft glow of evening lights reflecting off the water.
The experience at Elas On The Water is fundamentally about connection—connection to the environment, connection to quality ingredients, and connection between the staff and the patrons. It is a place where conversations flow easily, enhanced by the soothing sounds of the harbor and the consistently high quality of the food presented. The establishment understands that true fine dining transcends mere sustenance; it is about creating memorable moments.
In conclusion, Elas On The Water is more than just an address on Shelter Cove Lane; it represents a significant culinary landmark on Hilton Head Island. It successfully merges the beauty of its natural surroundings with a dedication to culinary excellence and warm service. For anyone seeking an authentic, high-quality dining experience that captures the spirit of coastal South Carolina, this venue offers a compelling invitation. It remains a steadfast destination where the view is as memorable as the flavors on the plate, promising a delightful chapter in any visit to the island.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Great wine list
Live music
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Private dining room
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Quiet
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Brunch reservations recommended
Lunch reservations recommended
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Menus
Appetizers
Tuna Two WaysUS$16.00
ELA'S CalamariUS$13.00
Mama's Fried Green TomatoesUS$10.00
Lobster NachosUS$13.00
Beef CarpaccioUS$13.00
CharcuterieUS$24.00
Hand Selected Oysters
ELA'S CrabstackUS$16.00
Tomato Basil MusselsUS$14.00
Oysters RockefellerUS$14.00
Honey Lime ShrimpUS$14.00
Roasted Carolina Beet NapoleonUS$10.00
ELA'S Classics
Ahi Tuna TartareUS$16.00
Classic Shrimp CocktailUS$14.00
ELA'S Crab Cakes
ELA'S Crab Cakes
Soups & Salads
Maine Lobster BisqueUS$11.00
Seafod GumboUS$12.00
Kumato Caprese SaladUS$11.00
Pear Arugula SaladUS$11.00
Traditional CeasarUS$10.00
Bibb Wedge SaladUS$10.00
By Land
Grilled Pork ChopUS$36.00
Veal Osso Bucco RavioliUS$30.00
Vegetarian Pasta PrimaveraUS$28.00
Malbec Braised Short RibUS$32.00
Surf & TurfUS$50.00
Linz Filet MignonUS$44.00
Brasstown New York StripUS$40.00
Black Angus Bone in RibeyeUS$52.00
Steak Enhancements
Add 4 Jumbo ShrimpUS$12.00
Add Crab CakeUS$14.00
Add 6oz Lobster TailUS$18.00
Add BearnaiseUS$4.00
Add Black Truffle Cabernet Demi GlaceUS$6.00
By Sea
Pan Seared Diver ScallopsUS$36.00
Crispy Diamond Scored FlounderUS$32.00
Seafood Scampi BucatiniUS$34.00
Pan Seared GrouperUS$35.00
Blackened Yellowfin TunaUS$34.00
Steamed LobsterUS$40.00
Low Country Shrimp & GritsUS$30.00
ELA'S Crab CakesUS$32.00
Salmon RockefellerUS$34.00
Sides
ELA'S Truffle FriesUS$10.00
Hand Cut Steak FriesUS$8.00
Yukon Gold Mashed PotatoesUS$8.00
Seasonal Local VegetablesUS$8.00
Fresh AsparagusUS$8.00
Sauteed Wild MushroomsUS$8.00
Wild Mushroom RisottoUS$12.00
Crab RisotoUS$14.00
Citrus Lobster RisottoUS$14.00
Photos
Reviews Elas On The Water
Sammie M
06-06-2026
We had a okay experience at Elas. I got the lobster ravioli and it had too much cheese. Next time I hope to try something else. Service was okay, wished waters were filled instead they have a bottle of water at each table. A lot of kids and families being loud near us too. Everyone enjoyed their meals though Hope to try again to see if it’s good.
Price per person
$100+
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Reservation required
Group size
5-8 people
Kathy Warr
21-05-2026
We work with Hilton and came to visit Hilton Beachfront Resort and golf Palmetto Dunes. We walked and drove by Ela's daily and we also enjoyed your reviews. You folks are spot on with menu choices, service and the view. We will definitely be back. Thank you More
Frank Bruno
04-05-2026
Year's ago, ELA'S on the Water was known as Harbour Masters. It was the #1 Hilton Head fine dining restaurant. Great location with panoramic view to watch the boats come and go while enjoying prime cuisine. It was sold and operated under … More
Debra Wood
03-05-2026
Our first evening in Hilton Head, ELA’S on the Water was recommended to us as the place to go. We had reservations at a lovely table by a window. … More
Amy McLellan
21-04-2026
Had a wonderful dining experience. Mosier was our server and she was absolutely excellent. I had stuffed salmon, asparagus and mashed potatoes.We had a capreese salad. Also at the table was a steak dish that was excellent. We had … More
Tamsyn Simon
17-04-2026
We chose ELA’s on the Water for our anniversary dinner, and it was the perfect choice. From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the warm, attentive service. The food and drinks were absolutely fabulous—beautifully prepared, full of flavor, and artfully presented.
The waterfront views were breathtaking, especially as the sun began to set, creating a perfect backdrop for our celebration. We also enjoyed the live music, which added to the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
ELA’s delivered on every level—delicious cuisine, stunning scenery, and outstanding service. It was a memorable dining experience we’ll cherish and one we’d gladly recommend to anyone visiting Hilton Head.
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Noise level
Moderate noise
Bruce Beck
14-04-2026
Had a wonderful anniversary dinner at Ella's. Service and food was top notch! Great atmosphere nearby the harbor. They have both indoor and outdoor seating..nice views! More
Caitlin Mauk
10-04-2026
My family and I went for Sunday brunch and everything was perfection. This is our second time coming, and we’ll be sure to return for dinner again soon!
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
Shanaaz Eisenberg
12-03-2026
Delaney our server was excellent and we enjoyed the ambiance on the quiet Monday night we felt we had the full attention of the restaurateurs. Food was exceptional and we now have Elas in our top 2 favs on HHI!💕
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Steve Karl
05-02-2026
We stopped for brunch on a Thursday. They were not busy and we were seated immediately. We chose the outdoor seating and the views of the harbor are wonderful. Our server was attentive and friendly. I ordered the oyster eggs Benedict. It came with potatoes and fruit. My wife had the fish and chips. My wife said the fish and chips were very good. My Benedict was also good, although the eggs were overpoached. I like the yolks runny, mine were hard. Still it was tasty. The weather was nice and we just enjoyed the moment for a while. All in all, a relaxing meal.
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Not sure
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Wait time
No wait
Nicole Glover
20-01-2026
I had a great experience at Ella’s on the Water. The crab cake was delicious—fresh, well-seasoned, and cooked perfectly. My French 75 was mixed to perfection, light and refreshing.
The restaurant sits right on the marina, and the views were absolutely amazing. Between the food, the drinks, and the scenery, it was such a relaxing and enjoyable meal. I’ll definitely be back!
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservations not required
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot
JD Chez
07-12-2025
We had a table of eight (8) for dinner and our server Karen was so helpful, courteous and professional. She and the staff at our table were always checking on us and providing a five (5) 🌟 performance. … More
kavita kalpee
06-12-2025
My husband and I do date night here when visiting from Florida. Not only is the ambiance wonderful but the chef has consistently prepared and plated delicious dishes for us. I always have the scallops and it never disappoints. My hubby’s … More
Jennifer Hubner
23-11-2025
This was quite a gem to find! It is tucked away and has amazing, romantic views. You can sit inside in the bar area on outside on the deck. The deck views are absolutely breath-taking. The menu has a lot of options and the appetizer choices … More
Alison Mueller
26-10-2025
We celebrated my parents’ 50th anniversary here, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Our group of 12 had a wonderful dinner. The views were stunning, the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was just right for a special occasion. … More
Michelle John
20-10-2025
Absolutely beautiful waterfront restaurant! Went here to celebrate our 15th anniversary and it did not disappoint! Our server Kumar was excellent, very knowledgeable and quick! I had the fried calamari as an appetizer and it was over … More
Melissa Williams
14-10-2025
We dined in on a Friday night so it was relatively busy especially for off season. Many parties were celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. There is an elevator that can take you up to the restaurant on the second floor, but many parties are seated on the third floor and there is no elevator to get to that level. We waited almost 90 minutes to get our entrees. The appetizers came out in about 30 to 40 minutes. Ela's crab stack was just a pile of steamed crab meat. It needed some crackers or toasted bread with it. The pear Salad was in no way a pear Salad. It was an arugula salad with many almonds and a handful of cranberries. There were thinly sliced pieces of pear placed on the corners of the plate. The pears were not in the salad and were not juicy. They tasted like hard skinny pieces of unripened pear. That was a disappointment. The scallops had bacon on them. It was most likely roasted in the oven and was overcooked and hard as a rock. I was almost afraid it was going to break my tooth. The Grouper was dry and sort of tough. It was only supposed to be seared. The green beans were oily. We have eaten here several other times, but not in a long time. This was the worst meal we have had at this restaurant. For the price, it definitely wasn't worth it.
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Reservations recommended
Noise level
Moderate noise
fan xiuping
12-10-2025
ELA’s on the water always need a reservation ! When I called on Easter Sunday, they told me they are always very busy! The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seatings. … More
Stephanie
08-10-2025
I made a reservation at Ela’s for 7:30pm and specifically noted that I would prefer outdoor seating and that I would have a stroller with me. When we arrived, we were told outdoor seating wasn’t available and that strollers aren’t … More
Tara Dunn
29-09-2025
We made a reservation for 9pm through Open Table. We were contacted by the restaurant at 6:30pm and they left a voicemail saying they had reservations available at 8pm & 8:30pm if we were interested we could call back. We wanted to keep our … More
Janna Price
22-09-2025
Food was amazing. Absolutely zero complaints. Service was quite slow but I think the AC wasn’t working? We were dripping in sweat just sitting there. Our waiter obviously was too. No one acknowledged it and we definitely would have eaten … More
Nicole Marie, MFA
10-08-2025
Incredible family Easter Dinner at Ella's! The food is fresh, delicious, and the service is exceptional. We enjoyed the peaceful Marina views at Sunset. The drinks are Mixology perfection! Highly recommended.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Cynthia Jackson
28-07-2025
In town for business and randomly chose Ela’s on the Water due to OpenTable ratings. Great choice! Beautiful atmosphere.. can’t wait to come back when it’s warm enough to sit outside! Karen was our waitress and truly did a phenomenal … More
SarahandEddie Sproul
14-07-2025
Extremely happy with the service and food. Great candle lit environment creating just the right ambience. Views were amazing, food came out cooked perfectly. Perfect date night out showing everything that is great out on the island. Would recommend to everyone. More
Diane Ramos
30-06-2025
A beautiful place on the water. We got a crab cake as an appetizer. It was tiny and there was too much breading. The Oysters Rockefeller were ok but it seemed the cheese on top wasn't fresh as it didn't melt. The surf and turf was fantastic, the ribeye was as well. The tuna entree was loved, as well as the short ribs entree. Our server was ok, just going through the motions.
Price per person
$100+
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Surf & Turf, Key Lime Pie, Blackened Yellowfin Tuna, Water View
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Amber Stokes
28-06-2025
Our family was visiting for 2 weeks and we ate at Ela’s twice. Both meals were fantastic, the food was delicious, the service was exceptional (David and Mosia AND all of the supporting staff) and sitting outside looking at the water was so … More
Zengale Rodriguez
27-06-2025
Nicely located overlooking the marina. Karen, our server was very good. The food was amazing. The pear salad was very good and fresh. The lobster bisque was the best I ever had. We sat outside and could enjoy the sunset hour while having a nice glass of wine. I absolutely recommend this place and will return More
#Inspirational Nurse_RN Tiara
19-06-2025
Looking a intimate date night this is a must. The atmosphere was perfect for an intimate dinner the restaurant was on the marina, beautiful views of the water, they played live music they offer full bar service the drinks was out of this … More
Dennis Maloney
16-06-2025
We took a chance and showed up without a reservation. The weather had been rainy most of the day and we thought people might stay indoors. We were wrong about that. The place was crowded but fortunately for us there was one table left. That … More
Nathan McCord
22-05-2025
David was an excellent server! The views were amazing. The food was scrumptious. A wonderful experience all around.
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Parking options
Free parking lot
Wheelchair accessibility
There is an elevator to get wheelchairs to the 2nd floor.
Reviews Elas On The Water