From fresh Lowcountry seafood to casual beachside bites, the dining scene near Forest Beach has something for every appetite. Here's where locals and repeat visitors love to eat.
Coligny Plaza tip: Coligny Plaza is the dining and shopping hub closest to Forest Beach — it's walkable or bikeable from most Forest Beach rentals and has over a dozen restaurants, cafés, and bars.
Sourced from FoodHiltonHead.com
Walkable or bikeable from most Forest Beach rentals. Hours and details change — confirm before visiting.
The most popular breakfast spot near Forest Beach. Cast-iron skillets, omelets, and Southern-style brunch in a casual, welcoming setting. Expect a wait on summer weekends — arrive before 9 AM or plan for a late breakfast.
Walkable from South Forest Beach; short bike ride from North Forest Beach
A beloved Coligny Beach institution serving frozen drinks, casual bites, and good vibes steps from the sand. The quintessential Hilton Head beach bar experience — no reservation needed.
Steps from Coligny Beach Park entrance
A South Pacific-themed café where the drinks are cold, the food is satisfying, and the island spirit is always in full swing. A fun, casual spot beloved by visitors and locals alike.
Coligny Plaza area
A beloved Forest Beach sandwich shop serving generously stuffed subs, wraps, and casual fare. Right in the Forest Beach neighborhood — the go-to for a quick, satisfying meal that won't break the bank.
In Forest Beach — walkable from many rentals
Chicago-style and classic pizza, pasta, and Italian-American favorites at Coligny Square. Casual, family-friendly, and convenient — a short walk from most South Forest Beach rentals.
Coligny Square, walkable from South Forest Beach
A lively sports bar and grill on Pope Avenue serving American comfort food, wings, Chicago-style specialties, and cold beer with plenty of TVs for game day.
Pope Avenue, short walk or bike from Forest Beach
A rooftop bar atop the Courtyard by Marriott on Pope Avenue, offering craft cocktails, light bites, and sweeping views of the South End. One of the island's best spots for a sunset drink.
Pope Avenue, short walk from South Forest Beach
A South End craft brewery with a full kitchen, beer garden, shuffleboard, arcade games, and excellent food — including standout vegan and vegetarian options. Great for families and groups.
Short drive or bike ride from Forest Beach
A South End staple beloved for its hand-tossed brick oven pizzas, hearty Italian-American classics, and the kind of warm, neighborhood atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.
Short drive or bike ride from Forest Beach
The island's go-to spot for a proper breakfast. Fluffy omelets, fresh-squeezed juice, and stacks of pancakes served in a cheerful, no-fuss setting. Lines form early — and they're worth every minute.
Short drive from Forest Beach
A South End Neapolitan pizzeria turning out beautifully blistered wood-fired pies with house-made dough, San Marzano tomatoes, and locally sourced toppings — serious pizza in a casual, welcoming setting.
Short drive from Forest Beach
A beloved South End breakfast and lunch spot serving honest Southern home cooking — fluffy biscuits, creamy grits, hearty egg plates, and daily specials made with genuine care.
Short drive from Forest Beach
The island's most popular Mexican restaurant — creative tacos, strong margaritas, and a lively atmosphere. The Baja fish tacos and Korean BBQ tacos are both excellent.
Short drive from Forest Beach
A family-friendly Italian staple near Shelter Cove serving hand-tossed pizzas, house-made pastas, and classic Italian-American comfort food in a warm, welcoming setting.
Mid-island near Shelter Cove — short drive from Forest Beach
A casual beachfront bar and grill at Folly Field Beach on the North End, serving cold drinks, burgers, fish tacos, and island-style bar food with outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe.
Folly Field Beach, North End — 10–15 min drive from Forest Beach
Restaurant data sourced from FoodHiltonHead.com. Hours and details change — verify before visiting.
Whatever you're in the mood for, Forest Beach has you covered.
The two most-recommended seafood dinners near Forest Beach are Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks (off Squire Pope Road at Skull Creek) and Skull Creek Boathouse (also on Skull Creek). Both are a 10–15 minute drive from Forest Beach, both fill up fast in summer, and both are worth calling ahead for. Fishcamp on Broad Creek is a quieter alternative with a similar waterfront feel. The Salty Dog Café at South Beach Marina is a longer drive but a Hilton Head institution — go for the atmosphere as much as the food.
Local picks:
Coconut Joe's Beach Grill and Frosty Frog Café are both at Coligny Beach Park — steps from the sand and reliably no-reservation. Coconut Joe's handles burgers, sandwiches, and beach-day plates; Frosty Frog is the spot for frozen drinks and casual bites. Coligny Café on Coligny Circle is a solid all-day option for families who want something quick without leaving the neighborhood. For pizza, Giuseppi's near Shelter Cove is a short drive from most Forest Beach rentals.
Local picks:
Skillets Café & Grill on Coligny Circle is the most popular breakfast spot near Forest Beach — expect a wait on summer weekends, so arrive before 9 AM or plan for a late breakfast. Corner Perk Coffee has a location on Pope Avenue and is a good quick stop before the beach. The Juice Hive on William Hilton Parkway is a short drive for smoothies and açaí bowls. Coligny Café opens early and handles coffee and lighter morning plates without the Skillets wait.
Local picks:
For a proper dinner out, the two most-recommended options near Forest Beach are Poseidon at Shelter Cove Harbour (about 15 minutes by car, waterfront, reservations essential) and Michael Anthony's on Pope Avenue — one of the island's most consistent upscale kitchens and closer to Forest Beach than most. Harbour Town Grill inside Sea Pines requires a gate pass but pairs well with a Lighthouse visit. Frankie Bones on William Hilton Parkway is a reliable choice for Italian-American fare without the Sea Pines detour.
Local picks:
Make reservations in peak season. July and August are extremely busy on Hilton Head. Popular restaurants fill up fast — book ahead, especially for dinner.
Try the Lowcountry classics. She-crab soup, shrimp and grits, and boiled peanuts are regional staples you won't want to miss. Look for them on menus throughout the island.
Bike to Coligny. Most Forest Beach rentals are within easy biking distance of Coligny Plaza. Skip the parking hassle and ride over for lunch or dinner.
Happy hour is worth it. Many waterfront restaurants offer excellent happy hour specials in the late afternoon — a great way to enjoy the views without the full dinner price tag.
Looking for places to eat during your Forest Beach vacation? Start with the Coligny area when planning breakfast, a casual lunch, or dinner after a day at the beach. Browse FoodHiltonHead.com's Coligny dining guide for ideas to add to your vacation plans.
Restaurant availability, hours, and menus change — confirm details directly before your visit.
Forest Beach vacation rentals put you within walking or biking distance of Coligny Plaza and the island's best restaurants.
