Hilton Head Island is a truly idyllic destination. With 12 miles of pristine beaches, a wealth of unique history, vibrant culture, and championship golf courses, this quaint beach town has been a popular vacation spot since the 1960s.
The area has so much to offer, from unrivaled natural recreation to contemporary nightlife. Once you book your cozy cottage, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip.
If you’re looking to truly maximize your island experience, consider these top 14 things to do in Hilton Head!
1. Bum out at the Beach
Coligny Beach is the largest and most popular beach on Hilton Head. Some other options that are certainly worth a stop are:
If you happen to be on vacation with Fido, the beach will hold even more appeal. Many of South Carolina’s local beaches are dog-friendly, but be advised – there are rules to follow, including when dogs are allowed their beach time!
If animals on the beach are your thing, be sure to spend some time on Daufuskie Island, one of the last remaining places you can ride horseback on the beach! Many of these beaches offer convenient access, making them ideal for a day of sun and sand.
2. Have a Relaxing Day in Town
When you just can’t settle on one option, do it all! Places like Shelter Cove Towne Centre and The Village at Wexford offer a little bit of this and a little bit of that. With shops, restaurants, entertainment, and some of the most Instagrammable spots in the area, you’re sure to find something fun for everyone in your group.
Keep an eye out for special events like musical performances, car cruises, and outdoor movie nights!
3. Ride a Bike or Take a Hike
Hilton Head Island is only twelve miles long by five miles wide. There are nearly sixty miles of public pathways and trails to explore, making Hilton Head one of America’s most friendly biking communities.
Not only is it easily accessible by bike, but that may be one of the best ways to see the area uninhibited. Beaches, forests, and marshes set the scene to welcome all levels of trailblazers.
4. Enjoy Some Edutainment at the Coastal Discovery Museum
Battle the vacation brain drain with cleverly disguised educational experiences for the ultimate parental win. The kids will have so much fun at this top thing for kids to do in Hilton Head that they won’t even realize they’re learning!
Visit the Marsh Tacky horses and study their rich Spanish heritage at the Coastal Discovery Museum, where you’ll also find lush native gardens, forested pathways, wildlife habitats, and tours that the whole family can enjoy. Visitors can also learn about the local marine life through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
If the youngest members of your crew need to work off some energy, make time for hands-on bonding at The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum, where kids and parents can explore a variety of activities together for an entertaining educational experience.
5. Meet The Wild Residents
Hilton Head is prime real estate for diverse wildlife species due to our thriving ecosystem, but our designated preserves and refuges are the best way to get back to nature on the island! Guided nature tours are available to help visitors explore the island’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
The 4,053-acre Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge consists mostly of salt marsh, freshwater ponds, and forest, spread across a chain of five islands. Fabulous photo ops abound, as well as fruitful fishing spots and 14 miles of meandering trails. Make it a scavenger hunt as you seek out more than 250 species of birds, white-tailed deer, bobcats, foxes, and alligators.
Encircling a scenic pond and several walking trails, the 50-acre Audubon Newhall Nature Preserve is significantly smaller in size than the Pinckney Refuge, but it’s epic in nature – literally. Daily guided tours introduce guests to several distinct ecosystems and their inhabitants.
6. Test Your Limits
Make it an extreme vacation when you seek out exhilarating adventures. Adventure Hilton Head offers thrilling activities like zip-lining, high ropes courses, and go-kart tracks for an adrenaline-packed experience.
H2O Sports at Harbour Town Marina invites you to pick your passion: parasailing, paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking, sailing, tubing, water skiing, and more.
7. Go on a Day Trip
While Hilton Head Island offers plenty to see and do, its surrounding areas are equally captivating and worth exploring.
Savannah, Georgia
Just a 45-minute drive away, Savannah, Georgia, enchants visitors with its historic architecture, charming squares, and vibrant art scene. Wander through the cobblestone streets and soak in the Southern charm that defines this beautiful city.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort, South Carolina, is a picturesque town that boasts historic homes, art galleries, and a scenic waterfront, making it a perfect day trip destination.
Charleston, South Carolina
For those willing to venture a bit further, Charleston, South Carolina, is a 2.5-hour drive away. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and thriving food scene, Charleston is a must-visit for any traveler. Take a tour to soak up the magic of this fascinating city.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island, Georgia, located about an hour from Hilton Head, offers a relaxed beach town atmosphere with beautiful beaches and a historic lighthouse.
Daufuskie Island
Daufuskie Island, just a short ferry ride away, provides a unique experience with its historic homes, art galleries, and tranquil waterfront.
Bluffton, South Carolina
Bluffton, South Carolina, is only 20 minutes from Hilton Head Island and features charming historic homes, art galleries, and a scenic waterfront. For those who enjoy water activities, the Savannah River offers boat tours and fishing charters, providing a scenic and adventurous escape.
8. Meet Pirates & Mermaids
You probably know that there are lots of charter options available in Hilton Head, but do you know about the more enchanted ones? These adventures are perfect for family fun, providing memorable experiences for kids and adults alike.
Are you ready to set sail on Calibogue Sound aboard Hilton Head’s only custom pirate ship for an adventurous treasure hunt with the Pirates of Hilton Head? How about a boat tour or dolphin experience with the Mermaid of Hilton Head?
9. Take a Swing at Championship Golf Courses
Hilton Head Island boasts eight of the world’s top 100 tennis resorts and camps and more than 33 world-class golf courses, so whether you prefer to swing high on the court or low on the green, we’ve got you covered. Many of the courses are within golf resorts where you can book your stay right on the greens.
If you’re in the mood to put a little wackiness into your game, there are three family-friendly mini-golf courses on the island. You can even try your hand – or foot, rather – at Hilton Head’s first foot-golf course at Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club.
10. Relax, Recharge & Rejuvenate
It’s easy to relax in a tranquil setting like ours, but many health clubs, yoga studios, spas, and gyms offer a variety of exercise classes and wellness programs to complement your natural setting. Change up your workout with challenging new environments, or take some time out to be pampered.
Whatever soothes your body and soul, you’ll find it on the island. Beach yoga, anyone?
11. Embrace Carolina Culture & Nature
Uncover the natural history and cultural heritage of South Carolina’s Lowcountry to appreciate the region on a whole new level.
Check the schedule for the 349-seat Arts Center of Coastal Carolina to find concerts, exhibitions, and traditional local events like the Taste of Gullah, Christmas Holiday Tree Lighting, and Youth ArtsFest.
Trace the impressive history of the islands at Sea Pines Forest Preserve, where dense, mysterious forests and hidden lakes hold haunting fragments of generations past. From the long-abandoned Native American village and 4,000-year-old Indian shell ring to the remnants of Civil War landmark Fort Howell, you can chart your course by foot, horseback, wagon, boat, or bike.
Pay tribute to the proud heritage of the island’s native Gullah people at the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island and the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, America’s first pre-Civil War settlement for black slaves who escaped from area plantations.
12. Follow the Light to the Iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse
The iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum is a must-visit attraction in Hilton Head, inviting you to “climb through time” at one of the most iconic sites on the island. Completed in 1970, the lighthouse is home to the only female lighthouse keepers in North America. For a minimal admission fee, you can climb to the top of the 90-foot tower, where the views of the island and the ocean are second to none.
13. Eat Like A Local
The culinary scene on Hilton Head Island is fast becoming a draw of its own. Even the pickiest of eaters will surely find palate-pleasing options from Southern comfort dishes and barbecue to the freshest seafood with oceanfront views.
Trendy foodies will appreciate the range of choices from gastropubs and tapas to craft cocktails and distillery tours. There are some mouth-watering breakfast spots on offer, too!
Arriving at Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island, located in the beautiful state of South Carolina, is easily accessible by car, plane, or boat. The Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) is the main airport serving the island, offering convenient flights from major airlines. Alternatively, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is just a 45-minute drive away, providing another gateway to the island.
Upon arrival, visitors can choose from a variety of transportation options. Rental cars are available at both airports and on the island, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Taxis and shuttle services are also available to transport you from the airports to your accommodations.
Once on the island, getting around is a breeze. Hilton Head Island boasts a public transportation system that includes buses and trolleys, ensuring you can reach all the key attractions with ease. For a more eco-friendly and leisurely mode of transport, bike rentals are widely available, allowing you to take advantage of the island’s extensive network of bike paths.
Accommodation options on Hilton Head Island are plentiful, ranging from luxurious resorts and hotels to charming vacation rentals. To make planning your trip even easier, the Hilton Head Island Visitor and Convention Bureau offers resources for booking accommodations and activities, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable stay.
Getting to Know Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island, a 42-square-mile barrier island off the coast of South Carolina, is renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and breathtaking natural scenery. The island’s rich history dates back to the Native American tribes who first inhabited the area, followed by European colonists who established plantations and traded with the indigenous people.
During the Civil War, Hilton Head Island was occupied by Union forces, who used it as a strategic base for their operations. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the island began to attract visitors as a resort destination, a trend that has only grown over the years.
Today, Hilton Head Island is a thriving community with a strong focus on tourism, conservation, and community development. The island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and sea turtles, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
You’re Ready for a Hilton Head Adventure
Whether you’re exploring the island’s lush landscapes, learning about its storied past, or simply relaxing on its pristine beaches, Hilton Head Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that captivates visitors from around the world.