BEST BARS IN HILTON HEAD:
YOUR GUIDE TO THE TOP DRINKING SPOTS
Hilton Head Island's nightlife is as diverse as its natural beauty, offering everything from casual beach bars with live music to upscale cocktail lounges and intimate jazz clubs. The island's bar scene is concentrated around areas like Coligny Plaza, Shelter Cove, and the South Forest Beach area, each offering a unique vibe.
Top Picks in Hilton Head
Cool Cats Lounge
Cool Cats Lounge is a popular dive bar on Hilton Head Island, known for its local crowd and friendly atmosphere. They offer affordable well drinks and a great jukebox, making it a fun spot for a casual night out. They also serve simple bar food like Tombstone pizza and White Castles cheeseburgers.
Well drinks
Hinchey's Chicago Bar and Grill
Hinchey's Chicago Bar and Grill is a family-friendly sports bar offering a wide variety of American dishes at reasonable prices. With numerous TVs, it's an ideal spot to catch a game, enjoy a casual meal, or grab a drink with friends.
Grouper Sandwich|Spinach artichoke dip|Italian beef sandwich
Hurricane Bar
Hurricane Bar is an outdoor bar attached to Black Marlin, offering its own bar area and alcoholic daiquiri machine. It's known for its lively atmosphere, outdoor games like Jenga and foosball, and happy hour specials.
Frozen Daiquiris
All Hilton Head Bars
Kind of Blue
Kind of Blue offers a unique blend of live jazz and blues music with exquisite culinary creations. It's an intimate setting perfect for music and food enthusiasts looking for a sophisticated night out.
Pool Bar Jim’s
Pool Bar Jim's is a family-owned and operated oceanfront bar and grill with over 40 years of history on Hilton Head Island. They are famous for their extensive drink menu, especially their frozen cocktails like the Lava Flow.
Reilley's Grill & Bar
Reilley's Grill & Bar has been a Hilton Head staple for over 34 years, offering a sophisticated yet warm ambiance reminiscent of a Boston pub. They serve delicious steaks, seafood, pasta, and sandwiches, with a popular outdoor patio and live music.
The Boardroom
The Boardroom is a lively music venue offering craft cocktails and performances by nationally acclaimed artists. It features a nice patio with live music and an indoor bar space, creating a vibrant late-night atmosphere.
The Jazz Corner
The Jazz Corner is an iconic and award-winning jazz club and restaurant on Hilton Head Island, offering a blend of elite performances, exquisite flavors, and warm hospitality. It's a sanctuary for music and food enthusiasts, providing a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere.
The Lodge
The Lodge was a casual spot known for its extensive beer menu and American comfort food like burgers and wings. It was a popular choice for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of brews.
The Quarterdeck
The Quarterdeck was a casual restaurant with a bar, offering seafood, steaks, and American cuisine. It was known for its prime location right on the water, providing scenic views of the marina and lighthouse.
The Rooftop at Poseidon
The Rooftop at Poseidon is a vibrant nightlife spot offering a rooftop bar experience with live music and a DJ. It's known for its lively atmosphere and happy hour specials, making it a popular destination for those looking to dance and socialize.
The Sandbar Beach Eats
The Sandbar Beach Eats is a casual, touristy bar with a beach vibe that offers seafood, tacos, and a lively atmosphere. It has outdoor and indoor seating, live music, and happy hour specials. The restaurant is not on the water but is conveniently located near the beach with a coastal atmosphere created through music and decor.
Tiki Hut
Tiki Hut is Hilton Head's only beachfront bar, offering live music, tropical cocktails, and stunning beach views. It's a lively spot perfect for groups looking to enjoy a casual atmosphere by the ocean.
Bar Districts & Neighborhoods
Hilton Head Island
The main area for nightlife on the island, with a wide variety of bars ranging from casual to upscale.
Best for: A little bit of everything
Shelter Cove
A waterfront area with a mix of restaurants and bars, offering beautiful views of the marina.
Best for: Upscale dining and cocktails
South Forest Beach
Home to the iconic Tiki Hut, this area is all about beachfront fun and a relaxed, vacation vibe.
Best for: Beachfront bars and live music
Suggested Bar Crawl Route
A curated walking order through Hilton Head's top bars — start early, end late.
Cool Cats Lounge
Hilton Head Island
Mon-Sun 3:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Hinchey's Chicago Bar and Grill
Hilton Head Island
Mon-Sun 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM
Hurricane Bar
Hilton Head Island
Mon-Sun 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Kind of Blue
Hilton Head Island
Closed 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Pool Bar Jim’s
Hilton Head Island
Mon-Sun 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Reilley's Grill & Bar
Hilton Head Island
Mon-Sun 11:30 AM - 1:30 AM
Pro tip: Start around 7–8 PM at stop #1 and allow 45–60 minutes per venue. Use rideshare between stops that are more than 10 minutes apart.
Local Tips for Bar Hopping in Hilton Head
- 1Consider using ride-sharing services or taxis, especially if you plan to visit multiple bars, as parking can be limited in popular areas.
- 2Many bars offer happy hour specials, particularly in the late afternoon and early evening. Check their websites or call ahead for current deals.
- 3Dress codes are generally casual on Hilton Head Island, but some upscale establishments might prefer smart casual attire.
Frequently Asked Questions
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