As the sun sets over the sandy shores of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, locals and travelers ditch the island’s well-manicured golf courses and beautiful beaches for the exciting nightlife. With everything from waterfront pubs to music-fueled watering holes, Hilton Head has a diverse range of bars. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a few specialty cocktails in a trendy setting or hang out with a more rowdy crowd, the island has everything and more. Check these top seven picks to experience some of the best bars on Hilton Head Island.
One of the best bars on Hilton Head Island can be found at Coligny Beach, the most popular place to lounge by the ocean. Previously part of the beachside Marriott Grande Ocean Resort, Pool Bar Jim’s has relocated to a different section of the beach behind The Sea Crest Resort. The much-loved beach bar was created by local man Jim Lisenby who is best known for dreaming up hundreds of tropical cocktails and frozen drinks. During your visit to Coligny Beach, take a midday break and sample some of Jim’s famous concoctions.
Connected to the Black Marlin restaurant, the Hurricane Bar has a beautiful outdoor patio, which overlooks Broad Creek. This bar on the south end of the island is known for serving colorful slushie-like alcoholic drinks. Stop in after a long day on the beach and enjoy a variety of frozen daiquiris, chilled shots and the famous Hurricane drink. On the outdoor patio, patrons can play one of the many available games, including Foosball, Connect 4 and super-sized Jenga.
For anyone searching for a more upscale atmosphere than the typical beach bars, a trip to Twisted Cork Cocktail & Wine Bar is in order. Talented bartenders whip up unique cocktails like a lavender martini or strawberry margarita, or patrons can choose to order from a long list of wines and craft beers. Pair your libations with a charcuterie board, one of the many flatbreads, or a few shareable tapas including baked goat cheese dip and a smoked salmon plate.
The Jazz Corner is one of the best bars on Hilton Head Island to visit if you’re hoping to see live music. Designed to conjure up the vibe of an old-school big city jazz club, this unique bar and restaurant is open every night from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. Unwind with a few drinks as you listen to talented jazz musicians play a range of classic hits and modern tunes.
After soaking up the sun at Coligny Beach, you’ll be looking for a nearby place to grab a tasty bite to eat and a couple of beers. Head to the Sandbar Beach Eats for traditional beach snacks and meals like nachos topped with guacamole and beer cheese or sweet potato tots. Located in the Coligny Beach Plaza, this eatery isn’t located right on the water, but you can sit on the beautiful outdoor patio or escape the South Carolina heat inside the beachy establishment.
Part of the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, the Buoy Bar is located right next to the hotel’s pool, which sits just steps away from the ocean. While drinks and food can be a bit pricey because of the setting, the unique decor and proximity to the beach make this a favorite bar on Hilton Head. Take a dip in the pool or unwind in a lounge chair with a cool daiquiri in hand.
