With so many things to do in Hilton Head, you’ll need your coffee to get the day started well. I recommend checking out some of the gourmet coffee flavors and southern hospitality at these local Hilton Head Island coffee shops.
Hilton Head Island has perfected the South Carolina coffee scene. With a variety of quaint shops offering selections such as cold brew, lattes, and espresso drinks, you’ll find no shortage of great coffee here. A few of my favorites are Hilton Head Social Bakery, French Kiss Bakery, and The Purple Cow.
In this article, I’ll break down a list of the 10 best coffee shops in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina so you can find your new, favorite Lowcountry cafe!
Table of 10 Best Coffee Shops in Hilton Head
| Menu | Rating | Features | |
| Carolina Coffee and Crumbs | Link Here |  (4.4) / 430+ Google reviews | -Beachfront Views -Specialty Drinks -Coffee Cocktails -Free Wifi -Signature Breakfast/Lunch |
| Hilton Head Social Bakery | Link Here | (4.4) / 430+ Google reviews | -Harbor Views -Organic Coffee -French Cuisine and Pastries -Free Wifi |
| The Coffee Shop Near Me and French Kiss Bakery | Link Here | (4.3) / 230+ Google reviews | -Locally Owned -Fast Service -Fresh Pastries and Desserts |
| Java Burrito Company | Link Here |  (4.8)/ 1,800+ Google reviews | -Locally sourced, organic ingredients -Vegan and vegetarian options -Fair Trade Coffee -Mexican flare with breakfast burritos, tacos, and -quesadillas |
| The Purple Cow | Link Here | (4.4)/ 390+ Google reviews | -Cozy atmosphere -Locally owned -Mini Cheesecakes, customizable donuts, savory breakfast sandwiches -Sells out before the end of the day |
| Watusi Cafe | Link Here | (4.5)/ 1,050+ Google reviews | -Family owned -Locally sourced, organic ingredients -Vegetarian and vegan options -Seasonal menus |
| Sweet Al’s Cafe | Link Here |  (4.4) / 230+ Google reviews | -Beautiful outdoor seating |
| The French Bakery | Link Here | (4.0) /747 Google reviews | -French bakery and European cuisine -Locally owned -Free Wifi |
| Corner Perk Brunch Cafe | Link Here | (4.5) /1,039 Google reviews | -Classic breakfast skillets, toasts -Great atmosphere -Reasonable prices |
| School Grounds Coffee | Link Here | (4.7) /117 Google reviews | -Historical site -Locally owned and operated -Freshly baked pastries and unique coffee choices |
List of Best Local Coffee Shops in Hilton Head Island, SC
1. Carolina Coffee and Crumbs
The Scene: This Hilton Head cafe is a great place to take in all that the island has to offer. Perhaps before you head out on a dolphin boat tour or other HHI water activity, grab an iced coffee.
It’s located across from Coligny Beach, so you can enjoy the salty breeze and free wifi while you get your daily dose of caffeine.
Dining Options: Carolina Coffee and Crumbs offers tons of delicious food such as breakfast sandwiches, traditional coffees, and specialty drinks like the S’mores Latte.
If you’re looking for something a little stronger to start your morning, you can also check out their coffee cocktails.
Location: 101 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
2. Hilton Head Social Bakery
The Scene: Hilton Head Social Bakery is an authentic french cafe offering fair trade, organic coffee, and unique lunch flavors.
The Chef: In fact, the bakery is owned by French chef Philippe Feret, who grew up working in his father’s bakery in Paris, so he knows a thing or two about a good pastry.
Located right by Shelter Cove Harbor and Marina, making this is the perfect spot to enjoy a classic drip coffee and a chocolate croissant.
Location: Harbourside Ln Building 1, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
3. The Coffee Shop Near Me and French Kiss Bakery
You’ll find this tiny little coffee shop and french bakery just around the corner from Carolina Coffee and Crumbs. More than likely, you’ll be able to see the long lines forming outside with locals and visitors waiting for their tasty treats.
The Scene: Although there is no indoor seating, you can enjoy your coffee and pastries within the outdoor seating on the patio or walk across the street for a beach picnic.
Location: 1 N Forest Beach Dr Unit 1A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
4. Java Burrito Company
The Scene: Java Burrito is one of the best restaurants to try if you are looking for an authentically local coffee experience. I mean, who wouldn’t want a breakfast burrito with their chai latte?
Located on the south end of the island, Java Burrito prides itself on quality ingredients. The coffee bar features organic coffee beans, local milk, and organic cane sugar syrups.
The friendly staff is dedicated to making this Mexican grille one of the top coffee spots on Hilton Head Island, and they are well on their way!
Location: 1000 William Hilton Pkwy Suite J6, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
5. The Purple Cow
The Scene: This quirky little coffee bar is one of the best of Hilton Head when it comes to all things sweet.
Food Items: Alongside a good cup of coffee, the bakery also serves a variety of cakes, cookies, cupcakes, and donuts. Be sure to check their Facebook page, as the menu changes daily.
Location: 24G Palmetto Bay Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
6. Watusi Cafe
The Scene: Watusi Cafe is a family-owned, local restaurant offering certified organic, fair trade coffee and a diverse menu of great food including gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Locals will tell you they have some of the best breakfast items on the whole island.
This cozy spot is the perfect place to enjoy morning meals. Try a seasonal latte to really soak in the local flavors!
The breakfast menu features:
- South Carolina-sourced meats
- fresh fruits and veggies.
Location: 71 Pope Ave Suite E, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
7. Sweet Al’s Cafe
The Scene: Sweet Al’s Cafe a staple of Hilton Head Island. It’s a great place to go if you want to enjoy outdoor seating and a delicious cappuccino.
The coffee is simple and strong, but the breakfast, sandwiches, and desserts are what truly make this cafe something special.
Location: 1 N Forest Beach Dr Unit 1A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
8. The French Bakery
The Scene: The French Bakery is a locally owned European-inspired cafe. Enjoy a nitro cold brew or something from the wine bar as you overlook Broad Creek from the patio.
Normandy crepes with creamy cheddar cheese sauce are a must if you’re going for breakfast.
Location: 28 Shelter Cove Ln UNIT 120, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
9. Corner Perk Brunch Cafe
The Scene: Although this spot is technically not in Hilton Head Island, it still deserves a spot on our list of the best coffee shops in the area. Currently, they have locations in Bluffton and Port Royal.
Awards: Corner Perk says it is “more than a coffee shop,” which is proven by their long list of awards such as:
- The Island Packet’s “Readers Choice” award
- Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce’s “Small Business of the Year” distinction
Location: 1297 May River Rd #101, Bluffton, SC 29910
10. School Grounds Coffee
This hidden gem is another that is outside the lines of Hilton Head Island, but worth the effort of a ferry ride to experience.
The History: This Daufuskie Island cafe is full of history. Author Pat Conroy taught students in this one-room schoolhouse and later wrote the book The Water is Wide about his experiences.
The Menu: The menu changes daily, so come with an open mind and stomach. Fresh-baked cookies, muffins, and other bakery items are all a hit.
Try one of the espresso milkshakes or ask for a “coffee surprise” and let the owners work their magic.
Location: 201 School Rd, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915
Summary to Best Coffee Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island is home to many great restaurants, including the perfect coffee shops. If you want to slow down and enjoy the delicious flavors of locally sourced organic beans, you’ll have no trouble doing so here.
Some of the best coffee shops in Hilton Head Island are Watusi Cafe, The Purple Cow and Carolina Coffee and Crumbs. If you want to truly experience all that the island has to offer when it comes to good coffee and treats, I recommend trying each of the places on this list.
Planning a vacation to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina? Check out these other articles on the best pizza shops at Hilton Head and RV Parks and Campgrounds.
