Groin pain is a common presentation usually associated with inguinal hernias, thus a clinician will rarely consider hip pathology. We present the case of a 51-year-old man with right groin pain and imaging-confirmed right inguinal hernia. His atypical symptoms and signs however led to us pursuing other differentials; he was subsequently diagnosed with a Cam-type femoral acetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome. Through this case study and literature review, we aim to increase awareness amongst general surgeons regarding this uncommon differential of FAI syndrome- a painful condition associated with morphological characteristics of the proximal femur and/or acetabulum. A thorough history and examination in patients with groin pain is essential in the diagnostic algorithm to accurately diagnose FAI syndrome. This will facilitate orthopaedic referral, appropriately manage pain symptoms, as well as prevent unnecessary hernioplasties and possible complications.