About Nala’s Beach

Silhouette of a dog standing on a surfboard.

Our Story

Sussy Palma

Stephanie Sossa | Sussy Palma | Val Plasse

Sussy Palma is a longtime Hilton Head Island resident, a passionate entrepreneur, and an unwavering lover of animals.

For more than 26 years, she called the island home while building and operating multiple successful businesses, all guided by her deep sense of community and heart for others. Above all, Sussy was a devoted pet parent and advocate, known for opening her life and her home to animals in need.

Nala’s Beach Bar and Grill grew from Sussy’s vision to create something welcoming, relaxed, and full of personality for both locals and visitors. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing in restaurants and her family roots in Costa Rica, she imagined a space that blended familiar coastal comfort with the flavors of Central and South America. Her father was a lifelong restaurateur, and that influence shaped a menu rooted in hospitality, tradition, and joy.

Guests can enjoy classic casual beach favorites like wings, pizza, burgers, and sandwiches alongside vibrant dishes inspired by Caribbean and South American cuisine, including whole fried Red Snapper and signature ceviche. Nala’s also offers gluten-free menu options and authentic coffee from Costa Rica.

Interior of a bright, colorful restaurant with wooden tables, green, orange, and blue chairs, yellow hanging lamps, and string lights on the ceiling.
People sitting at a colorful cafe, engaging in conversations, with large windows and a television screen visible in the background.
A woman with blonde hair smiling and talking at a bar in a restaurant or bar setting. She has a drink in front of her. The background shows other patrons and tropical decor.
Colorful mural of a happy dog with a beach and dunes background, framed within a circular design.
A tall glass of beer behind a large cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, cheese, bacon, and a sesame seed bun, served with fries and a small dipping cup of sauce.

The restaurant is named after Nala, a beloved rescue dog whose spirit left a lasting mark on Sussy’s life. Inspired by the Lion King character, Nala represented strength, warmth, and individuality, qualities Sussy hoped the restaurant would reflect. That same love for animals sits at the heart of Nala’s Beach, from its pet-friendly outdoor spaces to its ongoing involvement with animal-related events, activities, and fundraisers. Sussy believed deeply in supporting all animal rescues and causes, driven by the unconditional love her own pets gave her and her hope that every rescue animal could find the same sense of home and care.

Small dog with black and white fur sitting on a beach with palm trees, pineapples, coconut, and ocean in the background.

After Sussy’s unexpected passing, Nala’s Beach Bar and Grill became a way to honor her memory and the joy she brought to everyone around her. The restaurant carries forward her spirit through a welcoming beachside atmosphere where friends, families, and pets can gather, relax, and share meaningful moments.

Every detail reflects her belief in connection, kindness, and living life with heart, the same values that inspired Nala’s from the very beginning.