Skip to content
Age Bound
  • Where To Stay at 18Expand
    • When Hotels Aren’t an Option
  • Check-In FAQs
  • About UsExpand
    • Meet The Team
    • Privacy Policy for Age Bound

This page contains affiliate links. We make a small commission on bookings at no additional cost to you.

Age Bound

This page contains affiliate links. We make a small commission on bookings at no additional cost to you.

Hilton Head Island, SC: Golf Greens, Lighthouse Views & Dolphin Dreams

Published byEmily Thompson February 16, 2026February 19, 2026

Plan Your Trip to Hilton Head Island, SC

Hotels, flights, cars & tours in one place.

Find Hotels Compare Flights Rent a Car Book Tours & Activities
Powered by Stay22

Hilton Head Island offers wide sandy beaches, calm waters, tasty seafood, and outdoor fun for every type of trip—whether you want relaxed beach days or active adventures. If you want easy beach time, landmark stops like Harbour Town Lighthouse, outdoor activities, and great places to eat, Hilton Head delivers.

This guide highlights the best beaches, top landmarks, outdoor adventures, golf and family activities, arts and dining picks, and practical tips to help you plan your visit. Use it to choose activities that match your pace and make the most of your time on the island.

Top Places to Stay in Hilton Head Island, SC

Ranked
HotelRatingReviewsCheck-in/out
South Carolina Retreat with Pools and Beach Access! Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 116 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Fiddler's Cove 19I Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 113 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
1 Up Wind 1 Up Wind , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 118 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Sandcastle Court 79 79 Sandcastle Court, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.9 110 In: From 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM · Out: From 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Dancing In the Moonlight Romantic Ocean Front for Couples 40 Folly Field Road B230, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.9 100 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
My Blue Heaven Romantic Ocean Front For Couples 40 Folly Field Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.9 100 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Private Beach Access-Pet Friendly-Hot Tub!!!!!!! 3 Park Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.7 133 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: From 12:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Sandpiper 21 21 Sandpiper, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 87 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
2512 Villamare Penthouse Ocean View 1 Ocean Lane, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.7 113 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
4401 Windsor Court Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.8 79 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head 41 South Forest Beach Drive , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.5 131 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
108 Barrington Arms Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 56 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Sea Pines Resort Escape with Deck about 2 Mi to Beach! Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 55 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Hilton Head Resort 1401 663 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.4 141 In: From 4:00 PM to 11:59 PM · Out: From 12:01 AM to 10:00 AM
7 Hollyberry Lane 7 Hollyberry Lane , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 56 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Inn and Club at Harbour Town 7 Lighthouse Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.4 124 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 11:00 AM
Harborfront Hilton Head Condo with Sunset Views! Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 49 In: From 3:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
7 Port Au Prince 7 Port Au Prince , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.7 65 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
16 Night Heron 16 Night Heron Ln, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 72 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
103 North Shore Place 3 N Forest Beach Dr APT 103 , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 72 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Updated Townhome Near the Beach, Tennis, and Golf 400 William Hilton Parkway 39, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, United States of America 9.7 60 In: From 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM · Out: From 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Fazio 23 Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 46 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
2212 Villamare 2 BR Palmetto Dunes Condo 1 Ocean Lane, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.3 101 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
21 Sand Dollar 21 Sand Dollar , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.8 45 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
42 Firethorn Lane 42 Firethorn Ln, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 56 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Night Heron 10 2 Night Heron Lane, Unit #10, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.4 75 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Island Links Resort by Palmera 1 Coggins Point Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, United States of America 8.9 528 In: From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
AMAZING OCEAN VIEWS 36 Bradley Roof Top Hot Tub Sleeps 15 36 Bradley Circle, Hilton Head Island, 29926, United States of America 9.7 46 In: From 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM · Out: From 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
22 Night Heron 22 Night Heron Ln, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.5 59 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Sea Pine by AvantStay Private Modern Home Surrounded in Lush Greenery Close to Beach Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.8 41 In: From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM · Out: From 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM
1962 St Andrews Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 37 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
3 Deer Run Lane 3 Deer Run Lane, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 51 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
11 Dinghy Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.8 40 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Port Tack 17 17 Port Tack, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 49 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
7 Black Duck - Top Notch Views & Amenities in a Private Oceanfront Oasis 7 Black Duck Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.8 37 In: From 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM · Out: From 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
40 Starboard Tack Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 31 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Marriott's Barony Beach Club 5 Grasslawn Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.5 51 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Marriott's Grande Ocean 51 South Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.5 50 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
37 Battery 37 Battery Rd, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.5 50 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Ocean One 407 11 South Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.3 67 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Coral Sands Resort by Palmera 66 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 8.8 633 In: From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
85 Singleton Beach 85 Singleton Beach Rd. , Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 43 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
27 Lagoon Road Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 10.0 29 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
16 Starboard Tack Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 42 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Renovated Getaway W Tennis Pool and Beach Access Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.7 37 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
3327 Lake Forest Sea Pines 2 BR Condo 155 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.6 40 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Royal Dunes 8 Wimbledon Court, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, United States of America 9.0 121 In: From 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM · Out: From 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM
17 Night Heron 17 Night Heron Ln, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.2 70 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Battery 21 21 Battery Road, Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.3 58 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM
Sealoft 2053 Hilton Head Island, 29928, United States of America 9.9 29 In: From 4:00 PM · Out: Until 10:00 AM

Relax at Hilton Head’s Best Beaches

Enjoy wide sandy shores, easy parking, and family-friendly facilities. Each beach offers a unique experience: lively shopping and rentals, quiet boardwalks, surf-friendly waves, or calm spots for kids and elders.

Coligny Beach Park Essentials

Coligny Beach Park sits near Coligny Plaza, so you can walk from shops and restaurants straight to the sand. Free parking, public restrooms, outdoor showers, and chair and umbrella rentals make your visit easy.

The beach has firm, wide sand for walking, jogging, and beach games. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally, and the plaza provides simple dining and ice cream spots if you need a break from the sun.

Bring a beach mat or low chair and some shade if you plan to stay long. For quieter stretches, walk a few minutes east or west along the shore to find less crowded sand.

Folly Field Beach and Nearby Spots

Folly Field Beach features a wooden boardwalk for easy access from the parking area. Public restrooms, umbrella rentals, and beach-matted pathways help with stroller or wheelchair access.

The beach lies mid-island, making it a good stop if you’re exploring by bike. Nearby, you can bike along quiet lanes or visit local shops and casual eateries for seafood and snacks.

Folly Field is calmer than Coligny, so it’s great for relaxing, shell collecting, and watching birds in the marsh. Bring snorkeling gear to explore tide pools at low tide.

Burkes Beach and Secluded Shores

Burkes Beach is known for stronger waves and surf-friendly conditions, making it a top pick for active water time. Locals often bodyboard and surf here when the waves are right.

This smaller, local-feeling beach has limited amenities, so bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Local surf shops and lessons are available in season if you want to try bodyboarding or surfing.

For a quieter day, head north to Fish Haul Beach and Mitchelville Beach. These spots offer secluded shoreline and marsh views, ideal for kayaking, wildlife watching, and photography.

Driessen Beach Park Highlights

Driessen Beach Park, also called Bradley Beach, is family-friendly with calm waters and fewer crowds. Free parking is available, but expect a short walk from the lot to the sand.

Picnic areas and tree shade near the entrance help on hot afternoons. The gentle water entry makes this a safe choice for small children and older family members.

This park sits away from busy resort zones, so you’ll enjoy quieter stretches of beach. If you want a playground plus beach time, Driessen’s layout and neighborhood feel make it easy to combine both.

Explore Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites

Visit tall lighthouses, quiet wildlife islands, and sites that tell the island’s Civil War and Gullah history. You’ll find easy walking paths, photo spots, and signs that explain each place.

Harbour Town Lighthouse & Marina

The Harbour Town Lighthouse stands at the marina and is one of Hilton Head’s most photographed landmarks. Climb the 114 steps for views of Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Sea Pines.

Inside, a small museum displays photos and artifacts about Sea Pines history and early island development. The area around the lighthouse has shops, a restaurant, and a yacht basin where you can watch boats and often enjoy live music or local events. Plan for tickets and check hours, as this spot fills up on sunny afternoons and during regattas.

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pinckney Island sits between Hilton Head and the mainland and offers over 4,000 acres of salt marsh, maritime forest, and tidal creeks. Walk or bike on quiet unpaved roads and trails to see deer, wading birds, and osprey.

Bring water, bug spray, and binoculars for birdwatching. The refuge has no visitor center, so use maps at trailheads and follow posted rules to protect wildlife. Park near the bridge off Jarvis Creek Road and plan a 2–3 hour loop for the best viewing and photography.

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

Mitchelville was the first self-governed town for formerly enslaved people in the U.S., created during the Civil War. At Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, see interpretive panels, walking paths, and reconstructed features that explain daily life, schools, and churches from that community.

The park sits near Fort Howell and Beach City Road, so you can pair visits. Guided tours from Gullah-led groups add deep cultural context about the Gullah people, their crafts, and their role in island history. Wear comfortable shoes; the paths are short but uneven.

Stoney-Baynard Plantation and Ruins

The Stoney-Baynard Plantation ruins in Sea Pines show foundation walls, chimneys, and remnants of antebellum architecture. The site marks where plantation life and later Union occupation shaped Hilton Head during the 1800s.

Interpretive signs describe the Stoney and Baynard families, the plantation layout, and the house fire that left the ruins. Access the area from Plantation Drive and visit nearby Sea Pines attractions like the Shell Ring and Old Lawton Rice Field. Respect the site and follow posted rules to protect the fragile remains.

Immerse in Outdoor Activities and Nature Adventures

Explore miles of bike paths, walk marsh boardwalks, launch a kayak into calm creeks, and spot shorebirds and painted buntings. Many trails and tours start near Sea Pines and Calibogue Sound, with options for guided or self-led outings.

Biking the Island Trails

Hilton Head has over 60 miles of paved and leisure pathways linking neighborhoods, beaches, parks, and shops. Rent a bike from local shops or Adventure Hilton Head and choose routes by distance and scenery—family-friendly flats near Coligny Park or longer rides around Sea Pines and Jarvis Creek Park.

Follow the blue-and-white path signs and look for shaded stretches through maritime forest. Bring water, sunscreen, and a light lock. For sand and surf, detour to the beach access points; for nature stops, ride toward the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve Discoveries

Sea Pines Forest Preserve features boardwalks, bridle paths, and the Sea Pines Shell Ring for history and nature in one spot. Walk the trails to reach the observation deck and fishing docks, then use the preserve map to find the shell ring—an ancient oyster midden that tells part of the island’s past.

Paths range from easy loops to longer nature walks through shady pine and palmetto. Spot turtles and wading birds near ponds. The preserve also runs guided programs at times; check local listings for ranger-led tours or nature walks.

Kayaking, Boating, and Paddle Tours

Calibogue Sound, Jarvis Creek, and the island’s marsh creeks offer calm water for kayaks, skiffs, and stand-up paddleboards. Book a guided tour with Saltmarsh Paddle Tours or other outfitters for dolphin sightings, oyster beds, and shallow-water exploration.

You can also rent a two-person skiff and explore quieter channels on your own. For a scenic option, choose a sunset cruise out of Harbour Town. Bring a dry bag, water, and a tide chart; low tide can expose mudflats and change your route. Wear life jackets, sun protection, and carry a phone in a waterproof case.

Wildlife Watching and Birding Hotspots

Hilton Head is home to many bird species, including painted buntings, wading birds, and migratory shorebirds. Audubon Newhall Preserve and the Sea Pines Forest Preserve are top spots for birding and short boardwalk walks close to marsh habitat.

Bring binoculars and a field guide for painted buntings in shrubby areas and shorebirds along mudflats. Guided bird walks and weekly tours sometimes run at Newhall for beginners. For dolphins and marine life, watch from a kayak or a guided boat tour in Calibogue Sound—early morning trips often show the most activity.

Golf, Sports, and Family Fun

Hilton Head offers world-class golf, outdoor sports, animal encounters, and hands-on family attractions. Choose from famous courses, pony rides in Sea Pines, arcade and escape challenges, or playgrounds for kids.

Play at Top Golf Courses

If you golf, Harbour Town Golf Links should be on your list. This renowned course in Sea Pines hosts the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage each spring. The course offers guided tee times, short-game clinics, and views of the iconic red-and-white lighthouse near the 18th green.

Palmetto Dunes features three distinct Robert Trent Jones–designed layouts and miles of beachfront for a post-round walk. Oyster Reef Golf Club has tree-lined fairways and water hazards that test your shot-making.

Many courses rent clubs, run junior programs, and offer family-friendly tee options. Book tee times early during peak season and ask about cart paths for easier walking with kids.

Horseback Riding and Lawton Stables

Lawton Stables in Sea Pines offers guided trail rides through maritime forest and marsh edges. Staff provide mounted instruction, helmets, and a short safety briefing before you ride.

Rides range from one-hour family trails to longer options for experienced riders. Kids can try pony rides and grooming sessions. The stables also host seasonal pony events and occasional nature rides for bird watching.

Call ahead for reservations and share your group’s experience level. Stables may limit weight or age for safety, so confirm requirements when you book.

Adventure Parks and Escape Rooms

Hilton Head offers active fun and brain-teasing challenges. Adventure Cove and similar mini-golf centers feature two 18-hole courses and arcades that kids enjoy. Find glow golf, family packages, and prize games for extra fun.

For indoor puzzles, book Hilton Head Escape Room for timed, themed games for families and small groups. Rooms vary in difficulty and usually seat 2–8 players; younger kids can join with adult supervision. Escapes last about 60 minutes.

Check online for special family deals, birthday packages, and multi-attraction passes to save on combined visits.

Family Parks and Playgrounds

Pinckney Island and the Coastal Discovery Museum offer outdoor days with trails, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing. See marsh birds, fiddler crabs, and quiet lagoons while walking easy paths.

Town parks like Shelter Cove and Jarvis Creek Park have playgrounds, splash areas, and open green spaces for frisbee or kites. Many parks host weekend events, outdoor concerts, and movie nights in season.

Bring sunscreen, water, and binoculars for birding. Most parks have restroom access and nearby parking, but space can fill on busy summer weekends, so arrive early.

Discover Arts, Culture, and Local History

Experience hands-on history, Gullah culture, and lively music venues that bring Hilton Head’s story to life. Walk historic grounds, taste regional foods, and hear live jazz or orchestral music in intimate settings.

Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn

Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn to explore the island’s plants, wildlife, and human history. The museum sits on the former Honey Horn Plantation and features historic buildings, live oak gardens, and nature trails for self-guided walks.

Join guided tours, see exhibits about Lowcountry ecology, and check their calendar for outdoor programs like bird walks and family-friendly events. The on-site trails and marsh overlooks help you spot wading birds and native plants while you learn about local conservation work.

The museum offers hands-on workshops and seasonal demonstrations that connect you to island life. The Honey Horn site explains agriculture, maritime life, and the people who shaped Hilton Head.

Gullah Heritage and Festivals

Learn about Gullah history through museums, guided tours, and community events along the Gullah Geechee Corridor. Visit the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island and take a Gullah Heritage Trail tour led by descendants who share language, crafts, and foodways.

Attend events like the Taste of Gullah and local festivals featuring traditional cooking, storytelling, and arts. These gatherings highlight recipes such as shrimp and grits and Lowcountry boil, plus demonstrations of sweetgrass basket weaving and Gullah storytelling.

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park and interpretive sites show how formerly enslaved people built a self-governing town. Touring these sites gives you insight into the Gullah community’s resilience and cultural influence on the island.

Performing Arts and Music Venues

Enjoy live performances from small jazz clubs to orchestra concerts. The Jazz Corner hosts nightly jazz shows with dinners and brings national and regional jazz artists up close.

The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina and the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra present Broadway-style shows, plays, and classical concerts throughout the year.

Check venue calendars before you go, as special events and festival programming often fill quickly. These venues offer a steady lineup of music and theater during your stay.

Savor Dining, Shopping, and Nightlife

Enjoy fresh seafood, casual beach bars, and local shops within easy walking or biking distance. Eat at dockside restaurants, grab pastries or daiquiris near Coligny, and catch live music or a magic show in Shelter Cove.

Coligny Plaza and Local Eateries

Coligny Plaza, steps from Coligny Beach, combines cafés, souvenir shops, and quick bites. Stop at Hilton Head Social Bakery for croissants and tarts, then browse kiosks selling beach gear and local art.

For dinner, try Tin & Tallow for a burger or a nearby bistro for small plates. Outdoor seating lets you people-watch while you eat. Coligny hosts seasonal events and live music on the plaza, making it lively after sunset.

Practical tips:

  • Parking: metered lots and nearby public parking.
  • Hours: many shops open early for breakfast and stay late in summer.
  • Wheelchair access: main paths and beach mats at some entrances.

Shelter Cove Shopping and Events

Shelter Cove Towne Centre anchors the marina area with waterfront views and a mix of shops and restaurants. Walk the Harbor Boardwalk for boats, then browse boutiques at Shelter Cove Community Park and the Village at Wexford.

Find family-friendly events and concerts on the park lawn. The Comedy Magic Cabaret runs shows nearby, and local festivals often use this space. For a relaxed drink, choose places with outdoor patios facing the marina.

What to expect:

  • Dining range: casual seafood to sit-down American fare.
  • Regular events: outdoor concerts, markets, and holiday festivals.
  • Strolling: easy walking paths connect shops, the marina, and the park.

Seafood Restaurants and Local Favorites

Hilton Head’s seafood scene centers on waterfront restaurants that serve daily-caught fish and Lowcountry classics. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is a long-running favorite for fried shrimp, steamed oysters, and views over Port Royal Sound.

Find smaller joints and taverns that focus on fresh catch and local recipes. For a different night out, visit Hilton Head Distillery for tastings or head to Comedy Magic Cabaret for dinner and a show. Lowcountry Backyard offers Southern sides and comfort dishes if you want home-style cooking.

Ordering tips:

  • Ask for the catch of the day for the freshest options.
  • Expect outdoor seating with sunset views at dockside spots.
  • Make reservations for weekend evenings, especially during peak season.

Island Hopping and Excursions

Plan trips that mix nature, history, and time on the water. Visit a quiet barrier island, join a guided boat tour, or explore a nearby historic town for food and local culture.

Day Trips to Daufuskie Island

Take a ferry or private boat to Daufuskie Island for a slow, uncrowded day away from Hilton Head. The island has no bridges, so you’ll arrive by water and find sandy roads, small galleries, and a few eateries. Bring cash or a credit card—services are limited and some spots prefer cash.

Guided tours often include historic Gullah culture sites and old oyster shell paths. Rent a golf cart to see the island at your own pace. Watch for shorebirds and live oaks draped in Spanish moss along quiet beaches.

Boat Tours and Fishing Charters

Choose a dolphin-watching cruise, sunset tour, or a private charter to get on the water. Shared boat tours often leave from Harbour Town or Coligny Plaza and last 1–2 hours. They show local wildlife, lowcountry scenery, and the Harbour Town Lighthouse.

If you want to fish, book a fishing charter that matches your experience. Half-day and full-day trips target species like redfish, trout, and flounder in inshore waters. Charters supply rods, bait, and local knowledge. Check if your trip includes cleaning and packaging your catch.

Exploring Historic Bluffton

Drive or take a short shuttle to Historic Bluffton for art, history, and dining on the mainland. Queen Street has galleries, cafés, and the Heyward House museum, which shares local history from plantation times through the 20th century.

Stroll the bluff for views of the May River and Spanish-mossed trees. Try Lowcountry dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup at a local restaurant. Bluffton often hosts farmers markets and arts events on weekends, so check a calendar before you go.

Visitor Tips and Getting Around

Plan where you’ll stay, how to arrive, and when to visit to make the most of your time. Focus on neighborhoods that match your activities, book transport in advance, and check event dates so you don’t miss festivals or busy weekends.

Where to Stay in Hilton Head

Choose a spot that fits your plans: Sea Pines for golf, Shelter Cove for harbor views and boat access, or Coligny for quick beach and shopping walks. Vacation rentals and beachfront resorts are common—pick a rental near bike paths if you plan to ride a lot.

If you bring family or pets, look for kid-friendly resorts and pet-accessible beach rules. Book early for spring and summer, and compare nightly rates and resort fees. Use maps to check drive times to Harbour Town and major beaches before you book.

Amenities to look for: on-site parking, bike storage, beachfront access, and kitchen facilities for longer stays. If you want quieter evenings, avoid properties near busy plazas or tournament venues.

Getting to Hilton Head Island

Fly into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) for the closest major flights; it’s about a 45–60 minute drive to the island. Rent a car at the airport or use shuttle services and ride-hailing apps; a car helps if you want to explore nearby Bluffton and Savannah.

If you drive from Atlanta or Charleston, expect 3.5–4.5 hours depending on traffic. Island roads get busy during peak season and events, so plan morning or late-afternoon travel to avoid congestion. Once on the island, biking is easy—there are over 60 miles of paths—and many places offer bike rentals.

Parking at popular beaches fills early. Check parking fees and rules at Coligny Beach Park and Harbour Town before you go. For day trips to Savannah, allow extra time for tolls and traffic.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Hilton Head hosts year-round events that can shape your trip. The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival draws crowds in spring; plan lodging and dining reservations early if you visit during the festival weekend. The RBC Heritage golf tournament in April also raises demand for rooms and increases traffic.

Summer brings family activities, outdoor concerts, and farmers markets in Bluffton. Fall and winter offer milder weather and fewer crowds—good for golf and nature walks. Check local calendars before you travel to confirm dates and any ticket requirements.

Book accommodations and transport well ahead for major festivals. If you prefer a quieter visit, target shoulder seasons like late spring (after peak spring break) or fall to avoid the busiest weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enjoy family beaches, bike trails, dolphin tours, and top seafood spots. Shop at Coligny Plaza, visit Harbour Town Lighthouse, and try kayaking or guided nature tours around the island.

What are the top family-friendly activities in Hilton Head Island?

Take the kids to Coligny Beach Park for sand play and shallow water.
Ride bikes on the island’s 60+ miles of paved paths for easy, safe family trips.

Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum for hands-on exhibits and nature trails.
Book a dolphin-watching boat tour to see wildlife without long hikes.

Where can I find the best seafood restaurants on Hilton Head Island?

Harbour Town and Shelter Cove have several waterfront seafood restaurants with local catch.
Bluffton and the South Beach area also offer longstanding local seafood spots and casual fish shacks.

Look for places serving Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits, oysters, and fried green tomatoes.
Check menus for daily catch and local sourcing to find fresher options.

Are there any unique outdoor adventures to experience in Hilton Head?

Try guided kayaking through salt marshes to see birds and marine life up close.
Book a stand-up paddleboard trip in calm creeks for a peaceful water workout.

Charter a fishing trip for inshore or nearshore fishing.
Explore Sea Pines Forest Preserve for shaded trails, wildlife, and canoeing.

What are the must-visit beaches while vacationing in Hilton Head?

Coligny Beach Park is popular for families, amenities, and easy parking.
Burkes Beach and Folly Field offer quieter stretches and good local surf.

South Beach and the Sea Pines beaches give scenic views and nearby dining.
Look for beaches with public access and restrooms if you travel with kids.

Can you recommend some good spots for shopping on the island?

Coligny Plaza near Coligny Beach has a mix of boutiques, galleries, and eateries.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre and Harbour Town offer waterfront shops and souvenirs.

Visit boutique shops in Sea Pines and local art galleries in the island’s village centers.
For local goods, check farmers markets and small craft stores.

What historical sites or cultural attractions should I not miss in Hilton Head?

Visit Harbour Town Lighthouse for local history and a harbor view.
Explore the Coastal Discovery Museum to learn about Lowcountry ecology and history.

See historic sites in nearby Bluffton for antebellum homes and art galleries.
Join guided cultural tours that explain Gullah culture and island heritage.

Emily_Thompson

Emily Thompson

Emily Thompson, the dynamic founder and CEO of AgeBound, is not just a businesswoman but also an avid rock climber and amateur photographer. Her love for travel was ignited during a gap year exploring Southeast Asia. Facing age-related barriers in her early travel days, Emily was inspired to create AgeBound. She holds a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Tourism Management and is a certified yoga instructor. Emily combines her diverse interests and skills to lead AgeBound in breaking age barriers and empowering young travelers.

More About Our Team
In This Article
  • Relax at Hilton Head's Best Beaches
    • Coligny Beach Park Essentials
    • Folly Field Beach and Nearby Spots
    • Burkes Beach and Secluded Shores
    • Driessen Beach Park Highlights
  • Explore Iconic Landmarks and Historic Sites
    • Harbour Town Lighthouse & Marina
    • Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
    • Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
    • Stoney-Baynard Plantation and Ruins
  • Immerse in Outdoor Activities and Nature Adventures
    • Biking the Island Trails
    • Sea Pines Forest Preserve Discoveries
    • Kayaking, Boating, and Paddle Tours
    • Wildlife Watching and Birding Hotspots
  • Golf, Sports, and Family Fun
    • Play at Top Golf Courses
    • Horseback Riding and Lawton Stables
    • Adventure Parks and Escape Rooms
    • Family Parks and Playgrounds
  • Discover Arts, Culture, and Local History
    • Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn
    • Gullah Heritage and Festivals
    • Performing Arts and Music Venues
  • Savor Dining, Shopping, and Nightlife
    • Coligny Plaza and Local Eateries
    • Shelter Cove Shopping and Events
    • Seafood Restaurants and Local Favorites
  • Island Hopping and Excursions
    • Day Trips to Daufuskie Island
    • Boat Tours and Fishing Charters
    • Exploring Historic Bluffton
  • Visitor Tips and Getting Around
    • Where to Stay in Hilton Head
    • Getting to Hilton Head Island
    • Seasonal Events and Festivals
  • Frequently Asked Questions
    • What are the top family-friendly activities in Hilton Head Island?
    • Where can I find the best seafood restaurants on Hilton Head Island?
    • Are there any unique outdoor adventures to experience in Hilton Head?
    • What are the must-visit beaches while vacationing in Hilton Head?
    • Can you recommend some good spots for shopping on the island?
    • What historical sites or cultural attractions should I not miss in Hilton Head?

This page contains affiliate links. We make a small commission on bookings at no additional cost to you.

© 2026 Age Bound

  • About
  • Team
  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Disclaimer
Scroll to top
  • Where To Stay at 18
    • When Hotels Aren’t an Option
  • Check-In FAQs
  • About Us
    • Meet The Team
    • Privacy Policy for Age Bound