ELA’s on the Water sits on the second floor above Shelter Cove Harbour at 1 Shelter Cove Lane, and the view is the draw. Many tables look across the marina, and there is a garden-style patio outside for good weather. Reviewers say it works best for a special dinner, and it is also one of the better places on the island for Sunday brunch.

What to Order at ELA’s on the Water

The menu is seafood and steaks. Reviewers keep naming the crab cakes and crab stack, lobster ravioli, grouper, calamari and shrimp and grits, and the kitchen runs a daily feature, often blackened snapper. There is a serious wine list and a bar with live music on weekends. Brunch is the other reason to come, with eggs Benedict, a jumbo lump crab omelette, French toast and mimosas or Bloody Marys. The menu button above opens the current menus.

Reservations and Seating

ELA’s takes reservations through OpenTable, and the reserve button above goes straight to it. Book ahead for weekend evenings and for the summer fireworks nights at Shelter Cove, when the harbour fills. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. daily and brunch runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday through Friday. The main dining room is upstairs and has an elevator; the third-floor seating has none. A few reviewers find service slow when it is busy, so allow time.

Getting There

ELA’s is at 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, in Shelter Cove Harbour. More places to eat are on the Hilton Head restaurants page, and the Hilton Head dining guide sorts them by meal and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ELA’s on the Water take reservations?

Yes. Book through OpenTable using the reserve button on this page. Reservations are worth making on weekends and on summer fireworks nights.

Does ELA’s have brunch?

Yes. Brunch runs 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday through Friday, and dinner is served daily from 5 p.m.

Does ELA’s have water views?

Yes. It overlooks Shelter Cove Harbour, and many tables and the outdoor patio look out over the boats.

Is there live music at ELA’s?

The restaurant lists live music on weekends at the bar and through the restaurant.

Is ELA’s wheelchair accessible?

The main dining room is on the second floor and reviewers say an elevator serves it. The third-floor seating has no elevator.

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