Where to eat Mexican

Hilton Head Island is a destination renowned for miles of beautiful sandy beaches, golf, tennis, watersports, shopping, festivals and…. We could go on. It was rated the #1 Island in the US again by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine. Hilton Head can be an affordable destination for a large family getaway and is an easily accessible place for millions to drive to, as it is right off I-95. At Beachside Getaway, we’re proud to offer affordable, pet-friendly vacation rentals, as well as luxury vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island. When you get here, there are plenty of things to do (just browse all our blog post topics or info pages on our website) but among the many things you’ll want to do – go out to eat! We have you covered with the best restaurants on Hilton Head Island while on vacation!
Mexican cuisine is a fan favorite and today on our blog we are rounding up all the great Mexican restaurants on Hilton Head Island. Been here before? Still check out this post as there are new spots popping up! Mexican tends to be more affordable than some other cuisines and is often lively with atmosphere. Mexican also tends to be faster than other cuisines and tends to cater to picky children eaters.
Here is our round up of the best Mexican places to eat on Hilton Head!
NEW: Papi Tequila, Crab Restaurant Group.
Located in Reilly’s Plaza on the South End of Hilton Head Island, near Sea Pines Circle. The restaurant is in the old One Hot Mamas, if you are familiar. Hilton Head’s newest restaurant has arrived! Papi Tequila is officially open, serving up bold flavors, fresh cocktails, and a great atmosphere. It’s time for margaritas and tacos! Visit: https://www.instagram.com/papitequila_hhi/ and make a reservation online.
Holy Tequila, https://holytequila.com, SERG Group Restaurants.
Voted Hilton Head’s best Mexican restaurant, this is Mexican cuisine with a twist. We love their family style take out menu which is ideal for a vacation crowd that wants good food, but doesn’t want to sit out at a restaurant. From a fajita bar to go to family enchiladas, check out their family style menu here: https://holytequila.com/familystyle/. We love this for a night out on the town, too. The décor is festive and it’s always a lively scene!
Mi Tierra Mexican
With several locations in HHI and Bluffton, Mi Tierra is a local’s favorite and a long standing tradition on HHI. Promising the best margaritas on Hilton Head, Mi Tierra has classic and authentic Mexican dishes, too. Take out is available. There are extensive kids menu options! Mi Tierra is also available on Door Dash, which can be helpful after a long day at the beach. Be sure to try authentic dishes like their poblano chicken or chili rellenos, in addition to staples like chicken quesadillas and fajitas.
Cactus Street Cantina: 1407 Main Street.
Located on the North end of the Island at Main Street Shops, near Hilton Head Plantations front entrance, you will find this hidden, small gem in the shopping plaza. A great lunch spot (often used by locals for business), this has a more local vibe than the others previously mentioned and to us, feels a bit more like a lunch destination that a dinner destination. We love their incredible bowls. Tuna lovers should try their tuna bowl. We also love that this restaurant gives back and a portion of their monthly proceeds goes to a non-profit in our area. https://cactusstreetcantina.com
Fiesta Fresh
A fast-casual restaurant in two locations on Hilton Head, this is your go-to for quick and delicious Mexican favorites. Visit New Orleans Road in Orleans Court adjacent to Fountain Center in a single story stucco retail shopping center, or Port Royal Plaza on the North end of the island. Our favorite is the gringo burrito, that contains chicken, rice, beans, cheese and guac! (Is it time for lunch, yet?)
Santa Fe Café
For Southwestern cuisine that is elevated and sophisticated, be sure to check out Santa Fe Café, located mid-island near Palmetto Dunes. This is an island tradition and a very upscale, special dining experience – we cannot recommend it more highly. Their upstairs, rooftop cantina has an intimate feel. Their painted desert soup is legendary and the parmesan-encrusted Grouper has been on the menu for 23+ years, as an indication of it’s true popularity. For Mexican dishes, check out the Fajitas. Visit their website to learn more and make a reservation! https://santafehhi.com
San Miguel’s, Shelter Cove Harbor.
Proving that there is no shortage of Mexican restaurants on Hilton Head Island, be sure to visit San Miguel’s for a lively experience on the water. Overlooking the water and marina at Shelter Cove, most of the dining is outdoors. Shelter Cove hosts Tuesday Night fireworks during the summer and this is a popular pre-fireworks destination. First come, first served, you cannot make a reservation but are able to put your name in and walk around the shops at the marina while you wait. They also have a great outdoor bar and often have live music! Visit: https://www.sanmiguels.com