You’re walking down the sand near Singleton Beach, the sun is beating down, and suddenly you see this splash of bright, neon-colored wood sitting right on the dunes. It looks like something out of a 1980s Caribbean postcard. That is Coco’s on the Beach Hilton Head Island, and honestly, it’s one of the few places left that hasn’t been "resort-ified" into a bland, corporate version of paradise.
Most people actually miss it.
They drive right past the entrance because, well, the entrance is kind of a riddle. If you don't know the trick to getting there, you'll end up circling William Hilton Parkway wondering if the GPS is glitching. But for the locals and the lucky tourists who stay at the Hilton Head Resort, it’s the go-to spot for a cold drink and a view that doesn't cost $400 a night.
The Secret Entry to Coco’s on the Beach Hilton Head Island
Basically, you can’t just pull up and park at the bar. It doesn't work that way.
Coco's is located at the very end of a long boardwalk that stretches over the marsh from the Hilton Head Resort at 663 William Hilton Parkway. When you pull up to the guardhouse, just tell them you’re headed to Coco’s. They’ll usually charge you $5 for a parking pass, but here’s the kicker: they give you a coupon. You take that voucher to the bar, and they take $5 off your bill. It’s a wash.
The walk is about a quarter-mile.
On a hot July day, that boardwalk can feel like a trek across the Sahara, but there’s a little golf cart shuttle that runs back and forth. If you see it, wave it down. If not, the walk over the salt marsh is actually pretty stunning if you’re into birdwatching or just want to see the "real" Lowcountry before you hit the sand.
Why the Location Matters
- Beach Access: You are literally steps from the ocean.
- Volleyball: There is a permanent sand court right out front that gets serious during the summer.
- The Vibe: It’s rustic. There are no fancy tablecloths here. You’re sitting on wooden stools, likely with sand in your shoes.
What to Eat: Peanut Butter Burgers and Fried Bologna
If you’re looking for a kale salad or a deconstructed scallop, you are in the wrong place. Coco’s on the Beach Hilton Head Island is about "elevated" snack bar food. Everything is made to order in a tiny kitchen, which means when it’s busy—and it gets busy on holiday weekends—you’re going to wait.
I’ve seen the line 20 people deep. It might take 45 minutes for a burger.
But people wait for the Peanut Butter Burger. It sounds like a dare, right? It’s a beef patty topped with peanut butter, grape jelly, and Sriracha. It’s sweet, salty, and spicy in a way that shouldn't work but absolutely does.
Then there’s the fried bologna sandwich. It’s a thick cut, seared on the grill, and served on a bun. It’s pure nostalgia. If you want something a bit more "coastal," the Hurricane Shrimp Po' Boy is usually the winner. The shrimp are crispy, the bread is fresh, and it’s the perfect size to eat while watching a volleyball game.
The Drinks: "Coco Can't Drive"
The bartenders here don't mess around.
The signature drink is the Coco Can't Drive. It’s a frozen concoction that is notoriously strong. They also serve "Buckets"—literal plastic buckets filled with rum punch or piña coladas. It’s the kind of place where the drinks are double shots by default, so maybe don’t plan on doing much for the rest of the afternoon.
If you aren't into the heavy stuff, they have a solid selection of beer and standard margaritas. It’s the kind of spot where you can walk up in your swimsuit, grab a drink, and take it right down to your beach chair. Just don't bring glass on the beach; the local authorities are pretty strict about that.
A Quick Reality Check on the Amenities
Honestly, don't expect luxury. The restrooms are basic. The seating is mostly high-top stools without backs. If you have mobility issues, the walk and the seating might be a challenge, though the shuttle helps.
Also, a heads-up for dog owners: despite being a "beach bar," Coco’s generally doesn't allow dogs on the deck. Hilton Head beach rules for dogs change depending on the season anyway, but for the actual bar area, it's usually a no-go for Fido.
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Seasonal Realities: When to Visit
Coco’s isn't a year-round operation.
They usually open up in March as the weather turns and close down by the end of October. In the peak of summer (May through August), they are open 7 days a week, often from 10:00 AM until about 10:00 PM.
However, they are very "weather dependent." If a tropical storm is rolling in or it’s a random cold Tuesday in October, don't be surprised if the shutters are up.
| Month | Typical Hours |
|---|---|
| March | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| April/May | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| June/July/August | 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| September | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| November - February | Closed for the season |
How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit
If you want the best experience at Coco’s on the Beach Hilton Head Island, don't go at 1:00 PM on a Saturday in July. You’ll be standing in the sun for an hour just to get a hot dog.
Go for an early lunch around 11:30 AM or wait until the dinner crowd starts to thin out around 7:00 PM. The sunsets from the boardwalk are some of the best on the island.
Also, bring cash for the parking guard just in case their card reader is acting up—it happens more than you'd think. And remember to keep your receipt! That $5 credit only works if you actually show the paper to the bartender.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the Weather: If it's raining, they're likely closed or very empty.
- Park at Hilton Head Resort: Use the 663 William Hilton Pkwy entrance and ask for the Coco's pass.
- Wait for the Shuttle: If the boardwalk looks long, the golf cart is your best friend.
- Order the Peanut Butter Burger: Even if you're skeptical, just try it once.
- Bring your Beach Gear: Since you're already there, use the boardwalk to access Singleton Beach for the day.