Hilton Head Island, August 9, 2025
News Summary
As summer fades, Hilton Head Island shines with an exciting array of drinks that captivated visitors and locals alike. This season’s highlights include the indulgent Mudslide from Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar, the unique Lowcountry Mule at Alexander’s Restaurant, and the refreshing Cookies n Cream milkshake from The Milkshake Factory. Newcomers like Starbird HHI offer high-quality cocktails, while coffee lovers find solace with the Decaf Iced Latte from Origin Coffee Bar. Discover these must-try beverages that enhance the charm of Hilton Head Island as the season transitions.
Hilton Head Summer Sips: A Review of the Best Drinks Experienced This Season
As the summer season winds down and children return to school, Hilton Head Island continues to be a vibrant destination for beachgoers and locals alike. Throughout this summer, vacationers and residents have enjoyed an array of delicious beverages, showcasing the island’s unique culinary scene. This report highlights the standout drinks that have defined the summer experience on Hilton Head Island.
Top Beachside Drink: Mudslide at Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar
One of the top contenders for the best summer drink is the Mudslide from Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar, located at Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort. This beachfront restaurant offers a delightful array of options including daiquiris, cold beers, and burgers. The Mudslide is particularly noteworthy, served frozen and crafted with chocolate, coffee, Irish liqueurs, and vanilla vodka. This indulgent drink has become a favorite among beachgoers looking to unwind by the waves.
Notable New Speakeasy: Starbird HHI
Another highlight of this summer is the opening of a new speakeasy, Starbird HHI, in Wexford Village. The venue is quickly gaining popularity for its high-quality cocktails and meticulous attention to detail in preparation. Patrons can expect an inviting atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks that showcase local flavors.
Favorite New Milkshake: Cookies n Cream at The Milkshake Factory
A delicious addition to Hilton Head’s summer offerings is the Cookies n Cream milkshake from The Milkshake Factory, which opened in early June in the Main Street shops. This milkshake is made to order with carefully crafted ice cream, providing a fresh and delightful treat perfect for hot summer days.
Signature Cocktail: Lowcountry Mule at Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar
For those in search of a refreshing cocktail, the Lowcountry Mule at Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar, located in Palmetto Dunes, has stood out this season. This drink features Burnt Church Cucumber Vodka, fresh lime juice, and Regatta ginger beer, served in a traditional copper mug with a tajin-salted rim, making it a unique take on the classic mule and a must-try for visitors.
Best Coffee: Decaf Iced Latte at Origin Coffee Bar
As the temperature rises, coffee lovers have been flocking to Origin Coffee Bar, which recently opened on the north end of Hilton Head Island. The Decaf Iced Latte, made with caramel, boasts a cold and creamy consistency that provides a refreshing boost any time of day.
As summer comes to a close, there’s a palpable excitement for fall celebrations and continued exploration of the island’s culinary delights. Residents and visitors can look forward to more innovative beverages as the holiday season approaches. Hilton Head’s unique ecosystem and its popularity as a wedding destination will ensure that the vibrant social scene continues into the cooler months.
Brooke, a Hilton Head local, has been sharing her tips and experiences related to local drinks and dining options on social media, particularly through her Instagram profile @hifromhhi.
FAQ
What are the top drinks to try on Hilton Head Island this summer?
The top drinks include the Mudslide from Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar, the Cookies n Cream milkshake from The Milkshake Factory, the Lowcountry Mule at Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar, and the Decaf Iced Latte from Origin Coffee Bar.
Where is Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar located?
Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar is situated at Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort.
What makes the Lowcountry Mule unique?
The Lowcountry Mule features Burnt Church Cucumber Vodka, fresh lime juice, and Regatta ginger beer, and is served in a copper mug with a tajin-salted rim, offering a distinct twist on the traditional cocktail.
What new location offers high-quality cocktails in Hilton Head?
Starbird HHI, located in Wexford Village, is a new speakeasy known for its meticulously prepared cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
Key Features of Hilton Head Summer Drinks
| Drink Name | Location | Main Ingredients | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mudslide | Jamaica Joe’z Beach Bar | Chocolate, coffee, Irish liqueurs, vanilla vodka | Frozen, dessert-style drink |
| Lowcountry Mule | Alexander’s Restaurant and Wine Bar | Burnt Church Cucumber Vodka, lime juice, ginger beer | Served in copper mug, tajin-salted rim |
| Cookies n Cream | The Milkshake Factory | Cream, cookies | Made to order with crafted ice cream |
| Decaf Iced Latte | Origin Coffee Bar | Caramel, espresso, milk | Cold, creamy consistency |
| High-quality Cocktails | Starbird HHI | Varied, high-quality ingredients | Meticulous preparation, speakeasy atmosphere |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island Reflects on Summer’s Best Drinks and Eateries
Tracer Coffee Launches in Charleston with Focus on Sustainability
Hilton Head: The Ideal Family Beach Escape for Charlotte Families
Hilton Head Island Welcomes The Bank: New Entertainment Venue Opens
Raphael Maleh Opens Munchies Late Night Cafe Bar and Grill
Hilton Head Island Celebrates 4th of July with Fireworks
Downtown L.A. Bars and Restaurants Struggle Amid Curfew and Protests
Tiki Hut Beach Bar Ranked Third Best in the US
Tiki Hut Beach Bar Earns Top Spot in National Rankings
South Carolina Aquarium Hosts Monthly Networking Event
Additional Resources
- Eat It and Like It: Memorable Summer Sips at Hilton Head Island
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Charlotte Parent: Weekender on Hilton Head
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island news
- Garden & Gun: Culinary Brilliance Born of the Coast
- Google Scholar: Hilton Head Island summer drinks
- Eat It and Like It: What’s New on Hilton Head Island Summer 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Island Packet: Local News on Hilton Head
- Google News: Hilton Head summer drinks

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.


