Confections and Collections- Family Fun on Hilton Head Island

Summer brings lots of families to Hilton Head in search of beach time, pool time and of course, to indulge in cold concoctions.  Most restaurants and bars can help the adults find a frosty adult beverage but sometimes finding an entertaining family friendly hang out is a bit harder.  Thankfully, there are two very unique spots on the island that families will enjoy visiting to share a cold treat and browse some unique collectibles as well!

Sno Cones by Chris

Chris Suddath, owner of Sno Cones by Chris, is a local legend at Hilton Head.  He is passionate about crafting his sno cone syrups from scratch without high fructose corn syrup.  All of his syrups are dairy and nut free and several are also dye free.  They are served over a mound of crushed ice in his Palmetto Bay Marina shop.  Rockin’ Root Beer, Blue Raspberry, Pina Colada, and Carribean Getaway are some of his top syrupy sellers.  Diners can personalize their sno cones by selecting a combination of syrups to create their favorite flavor profile.  Looking for a sugar free option?  Chris can make that happen in a matter of minutes!  When asked about his favorite syrup combo, Chris said it’s a mix of the Fuzzy Navel with Peach and Orange combined with cream because it “tastes just like summer.”

Sno Cones with a great view! (photo: Brooke Peck)

Possibly more impressive than the freshly made sno cones is that Chris is also a Lego Master!  His shop is surrounded by his brick creations… many that he dreamed up and built on his own accord (aka not from a box with instructions).  He has erected his own massive Eiffel Tower, a monstrous Titanic replica, plus a large variety of motorized creatures that bring a smile to everyone.  Visitors can expect to see Disney characters, sports paraphernalia and an impressive lighthouse collection… all made from Legos!  As a brick building feen, Chris is constantly designing new builds to add to his display cases which makes each visit to his sno cone shop feel exciting and new.  Go visit Chris for a refreshing sno cone but stay for the Lego creations… they are the cherry on top!

Pro tip: Ask for a Snocard on your next visit and after buying six sno cones, you get the 7th free!

Sno Cones by Chris
Palmetto Bay Marina
114 Helmsman Way
Hilton Head, SC 29928
snoconesbychris.com

Captain Jax

Collectors, gamers and sweet treat lovers will all enjoy a stop at Captain Jax on Palmetto Bay Rd.  The colorful walls are lined with collectible comic books and vintage video games.  Captain Jax is a newer establishment on the island with this being their second summer open to guests.  

Many dessert shops serve ice cream, milkshakes and candy, which Captain Jax has, but they also have a unique offering: miniature pancakes. (pictured above) These tiny confections are made from scratch then topped with chilled fruit, your choice of sauce, whipped cream and powdered sugar.  They are available all day which makes for a tasty breakfast treat at any time!  Another popular menu item are milkshakes made from hand scooped Bluebell Ice Cream.  They are freshly blended and served with a large straw so you don’t leave any of the ice cream goodies at the bottom of the cup.

Captain Jax is a popular gathering location for Pokemon card traders and Magic: The Gathering fans.  Both groups are invited to monthly meet ups to mingle, trade and play with other enthusiasts.  It’s also a great spot to enjoy a game of chess, play some classic video games, or peruse nostalgic action figures on display.  Stop by to check out their impressive collections and enjoy a summertime treat!

Captain Jax
24 Palmetto Bay Rd Suite G
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
captainjax.com

Brooke is a Hilton Head local and shares her best tips for island eats, drinks, events, activities and fun with her @hifromhhi Instagram followers.

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