Where to get a margarita on Hilton Head Island

Margaritas are a favorite amongst vacationers all over the world and Hilton Head Island is no exception. Margaritas are often made with fresh lime juice and ice, providing a cool, tangy, and refreshing flavor, perfect for warm weather and right now, it’s hot on Hilton Head Island! (Hello, July!) 

The sweet and tangy combination of tequila, lime, and often a touch of orange liqueur creates a well-balanced sweet and tart flavor profile that appeals to many palates and margaritas can be easily customized with different fruits, flavors, and spice levels making them appealing. 

Now that you are suddenly wanting a margarita (thanks to this post), you’ll naturally want to know… where’s the best place to get a margarita on Hilton Head Island?  If you are looking for the perfect margarita on Hilton Head, here’s where you should try: 

Papi Tequilla - now open on Hilton Head! Located in Reilley's Plaza on Hilton Head (7A Greenwood Drive), this is part of the Crab Family of restaurants (think The Crazy Crab and Benny's Seafood). The list of tequillas is quite impressive so you know that the margaritas are going to be interesting and varied. Check them out onlne: https://www.papitequilahhi.com/ 

Frosty Frog Café – Known for their lively atmosphere and strong margaritas. This is a fun, lively environment perfect for hanging out with friends or family in Coligny Plaza. Visit their website for menus and and even events: https://www.frostyfrog.com/frosty-events-2

The Skull Creek Boathouse – Offers waterfront views and tasty cocktails, including margaritas. This restaurant is located on the North End of Hilton Head Island and offers views of Skull Creek. We love their seafood and steaks, plus great sushi rolls and ceviche, and who doesn’t want their margarita with a side of an ocean view? https://www.skullcreekboathouse.com

Reilley’s North End Pub – A casual spot with a good selection of drinks, Reilley’s is a well-visited spot among locals, as well as tourists. This location is central on the island to many of our vacation rentals located in Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes. You’ll find Reilley’s near the Sea Pines Circle.  https://reilleyshiltonhead.com

Santa Fe Café – Now with a second location open, Santa Fe Café is a legendary restaurant on Hilton Head that offers Tex-Mex cuisine fused with an island vibe and delicious margaritas and other cocktails.  Located near Palmetto Dunes and many of our vacation rentals, we love this spot for lunch or for dinner. In the months where it’s not so hot (or cold), you can sit out on their iconic rooftop deck. The atmosphere is ideal and the drinks are delicious. Sometimes you will also find live music! https://www.santafehhi.com

San Miguel’s is renowned for their margaritas, in fact they have won “Best Margarita on Hilton Head Island”, so you know it will be good!  There is always something going on at San Miguel's and Shelter Cove Harbour with Live Outdoor Entertainment Every Night from 5:30 - 8:30 pm until October 31 and weather permitting. You can see their line up by visiting here: https://www.sanmiguels.com 

Looking for a twist on a margarita? Check out these options spotted on many of menus on Hilton Head Island or try them at your vacation rental. Most of our vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island come equipped with a blender, so all you need is this inspiration, the grocery & liquor store, and a recipe! 

• Frozen Mango Margarita: Blended with fresh mango or mango puree for a sweet, tropical twist.
• Blood Orange Margarita: Made with blood orange juice, giving it a vibrant color and a slightly tart flavor.
• Cucumber Margarita: Infused with fresh cucumber slices for a refreshing, cool taste.
• Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita: Combines sweet pineapple with a spicy kick of jalapeño peppers.
• Strawberry Basil Margarita: Features fresh strawberries and basil leaves for a fragrant, fruity flavor.
• Lavender Margarita: Uses lavender syrup or infused lavender for a floral note.
• Grapefruit Margarita: Made with fresh grapefruit juice for a tangy, citrusy flavor.
• Watermelon Margarita: Blended with fresh watermelon or juice for a summery, juicy drink.
• Coconut Margarita: Incorporates coconut cream or coconut water for a tropical vibe.
• Smoked Margarita: Uses smoked salt or a smoked rim, sometimes with a smoky mezcal instead of tequila, for a rich, complex flavor.

Cheers to your next margarita on Hilton Head!