Best Ice Cream in Hilton Head, SC

Updated 2026

By Jennifer Jeffcoat

Jennifer writes for Beachside Getaway, sharing travel tips, top things to do, and the best places to stay to help guests make the most of their Hilton Head Island vacation.

A beach day on Hilton Head Island usually ends one of two ways: watching the sunset over the water or standing in line for ice cream.

Fortunately, you have plenty of great options for both. From longtime local institutions to Coligny Plaza favorites and over-the-top milkshakes, there are plenty of places to satisfy your sweet tooth during your stay. If you're searching for the best ice cream in Hilton Head, we've rounded up a few local favorites that are worth adding to your vacation plans. 

In This Article

• Best Ice Cream Near Coligny Plaza
• The Frozen Moo
• Hilton Head Ice Cream
• Cinnamon Bear
• Rita's Italian Ice
• The MilkShake Factory
• Snow Cones by Chris
• Frequently Asked Questions

Best Ice Cream Near Coligny Plaza

Many visitors searching for ice cream on Hilton Head end up in Coligny Plaza, and for good reason. Located just steps from Coligny Beach Park, this popular shopping and dining district is packed with places to grab a frozen treat after a day in the sun.

Two of our favorite stops in the area are The Frozen Moo and Rita's Italian Ice. Both are easy to walk to from the beach and stay busy throughout the summer.

The Frozen Moo

Voted Best for Massive Flavor Selection

If you're looking for the best ice cream on Hilton Head Island, The Frozen Moo is often the first place locals recommend.

Located in Coligny Plaza, this family-owned shop is known for its huge selection of premium ice cream flavors. With more than 90 flavors available, choosing just one can be the hardest part of your visit. The portions are generous, the atmosphere is laid-back, and the location makes it an easy stop before or after spending time at the beach.

• Address: 1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
• Flavors

Hilton Head Ice Cream

Voted Best for Homemade Ice Cream

Hilton Head Ice Cream has built a loyal following thanks to its homemade ice cream, frozen yogurt, and generous mix-ins. They’ve been crafting award-winning scoops since 1982, making it a must-visit when you’re in town. 

Located on New Orleans Road, this shop is convenient for guests staying near Shipyard, Palmetto Dunes, and Forest Beach. Their flavors rotate regularly, and they don't hold back when it comes to ingredients. Chocolate chips, cookie pieces, candies, and other toppings are packed into every scoop.

• Address: 55 New Orleans Road, Suite 114, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Hours: Monday – Saturday from 12 PM – 9 PM. Closed Sunday
• Flavors

Cinnamon Bear

Voted Best Ice Cream Stop in Harbour Town

A trip to Harbour Town isn't complete without a stop at Cinnamon Bear. This longtime favorite combines ice cream, candy, gifts, and toys under one roof, making it especially popular with families. It’s also dog-friendly, so you can come in and buy your furry friend a pup-cup!

Located near the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, it's a perfect stop after dinner at Quarterdeck or an evening spent exploring Sea Pines.

The ice cream selection is huge, with more than 30 flavors, the line moves quickly, and it’s incredibly convenient, so be sure to stop by!

• Address: 149 Lighthouse Road, Suite F, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Hours: Daily from 9 AM – 9 PM
  

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Ready to Beat the Heat on Hilton Head Island?

Beachside Getaway offers vacation rentals throughout Hilton Head Island, putting you close to the beach, local restaurants, shopping, and plenty of ice cream stops. Browse our collection of Hilton Head vacation rentals and book direct for the best value on your next island getaway. 

Rita's Italian Ice

Voted Most Popular with Teenagers

Located in Coligny Plaza, Rita's is a great choice when you're craving something lighter than traditional ice cream.

Known for its Italian ice, frozen custard, and specialty frozen treats, Rita's offers dozens of flavor combinations that are especially refreshing during the summer months. Its location in one of Hilton Head's busiest spots makes it a popular stop after dinner or an afternoon at the beach.

• Address: Coligny Plaza, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Hours: Daily, 10:30 AM – 10 PM
• Flavors

The MilkShake Factory

Voted Best for Over-the-Top Milkshakes

The MilkShake Factory has quickly become a favorite stop on the north end of Hilton Head Island.

Located in Main Street Village, this shop specializes in handcrafted milkshakes loaded with mix-ins, toppings, and premium ingredients. It's a great cap after dinner at nearby restaurants like Frankie Bones, WiseGuys, Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks, Skull Creek Boathouse, or Dockside.

If you're looking for something beyond a traditional cone or cup, this is the place to go.

• Address: 1201 Main Street, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
• Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 10 PM
• Flavors

Snow Cones by Chris

Voted Most Innovative Frozen Treat

Not everyone wants ice cream, especially on the hottest days of summer. Snow Cones by Chris offers a fun alternative with more than 30 flavors, including several dye-free and sugar-free choices. Located in the Palmetto Bay Marina, it's a great spot for a sweet treat before you hop on a boat. Kids (and kids at heart) will also love seeing the gigantic Lego builds on display from the Statue of Liberty to the Titanic!

• Address: 114 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
• Open Seasonally: 7 Days a Week from 12 – 6 PM Monday through Friday and 12 – 5 PM Saturday and Sunday
• Flavors

Stay Close to Hilton Head's Best Ice Cream Shops

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No matter where you're staying on Hilton Head Island, you're never far from a great place to grab dessert. From homemade ice cream and towering milkshakes to Italian ice and snow cones, these local favorites have helped generations of visitors cool off after a day at the beach.

At Beachside Getaway, we offer vacation rentals throughout Hilton Head Island, making it easy to stay close to the attractions, restaurants, and sweet treats that make a family vacation memorable. Browse our Hilton Head vacation rentals and book direct to get the best rate on your next stay.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best ice cream shop on Hilton Head Island?

Many visitors consider The Frozen Moo one of the best ice cream shops on Hilton Head thanks to its extensive flavor selection and convenient location in Coligny Plaza.

Where can I get ice cream near Coligny Plaza?

The Frozen Moo and Rita's Italian Ice are both located in Coligny Plaza, making them popular choices after a day at Coligny Beach.

Does Hilton Head have homemade ice cream?

Yes. Hilton Head Ice Cream on New Orleans Road is known for its homemade ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Where can I get ice cream in Harbour Town?

Cinnamon Bear is one of the most popular places to get ice cream in Harbour Town. It's located near the Harbour Town Lighthouse and has been a favorite stop for families for years.

What is the best place for milkshakes on Hilton Head Island?

The MilkShake Factory in Main Street Village specializes in handcrafted milkshakes with a wide variety of flavors and toppings.

Are there alternatives to ice cream on Hilton Head?

Absolutely. Rita's Italian Ice serves Italian ice and frozen custard, while Snow Cones by Chris offers flavored shaved ice with dye-free and sugar-free options.