Hilton Head sits on the Atlantic Ocean and has long been a popular tourism destination. Some come for the beaches or the storied history of this Lowcountry region of South Carolina. You’ll find all of the typical beach-going fun from high-end shopping and combing the beaches for sand dollars.
If you’re looking for something new to do, there are a few unusual things to do at Hilton Head that are perfect for most family members. As you plan your getaway here and to the surrounding area, keep these interesting activities on your list of things to do.
Let’s dive right into the best, albeit quirkiest things to do on Hilton Head Island.
1. Check Out the Salt Marshes
The salt marshes are quite a unique ecosystem and perhaps one of the most stunning views of Hilton Head Island (HHI) you’ll find. It’s a careful balance of flora and fauna, so avoiding too much interaction with the environment is important.
What makes them so unusual is that, unlike most coastal areas, where there’s a clear line between the shore and the water, this area lacks that. The creeks and rivers seem to blend directly with the land and the ocean beyond that. The Hilton Head Island Salt Marsh is one of the most prolific producers of biomass.
You can explore them at the Coastal Discovery Museum. There, they have three educational boardwalks that allow you to come up close to these marshes, along with the water’s estuaries.
2. Try as Many Fun Sports as You Can
One of the fun things about Hilton Head Island is that it’s highly diverse. You’ll find a wide range of fun things to try out that you may not have done at home. Water sports are a given here. You can rent everything you need for jet skis, boats, and parasailing.
Consider a kayaking tour or learning to stand-up paddleboard. Sailing tours are an excellent way for first-time visitors to see the area from the water.
Don’t stop on the water, though, but head on land for walking trails, go-karting, zipline, and horseback riding. If you have not done so before and you’re looking for a true adventure, take one of the ropes courses available at the area parks. There’s nearly no limit to the type of unique sports and activities you can do here.
Regarding adventure, Hilton Head is sure to push you beyond just taking to the walking trails.
3. Take a Guided Tour
It’s definitely fun to arrive on Hilton Head Island to explore yourself. Self-guided exploration of this entire region is a fun way to experience the area if you just want to take in the natural beauty. Guided tours offer an exceptional way to see the area as the locals do.
Various types of self-guided tours are available from numerous providers. Whether you are a history lover or someone who enjoys the natural beauty of this island, there are plenty of options around the island.
Some of the best and most unique guided tours on Hilton Head to book include:
- Gullah culture tours to learn the area’s rich history
- Dolphin and sea turtle tours
- Bluffton’s Historic District tours
- Walking tours of historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
- Kayaking tours
- Biking tours of the historic sites
- Deep sea fishing charters are guided excursions
- Boat tour of the coastal marshes
4. Take in the Music of the Island
There are many hidden gems throughout Hilton Head Island that allow you to pour your soul out or just have some fun with live music. No matter the type of music you enjoy, chances are good you’ll find an experience or two to have here during your visit.
Some of the best events take place in the local communities. Look for local arts groups to find out what performances are happening the week you’re visiting. Some of our favorite destinations for music of all types include:
- Arts Center of Coastal Carolina for year-round performances
- Symphony Orchestra and Choral Society for seasonal experiences
- Live bands at Tiki Hut
- The Jazz Corner for drinks and music
- The Boardroom for live music as a late-night spot
- The Rooftop Bar for dueling pianos
- Kind of Blue for blues
5. Step into the Past at Stoney-Baynard Plantation
It’s easy to fall in love with the beauty of Hilton Head, but it’s also essential to pay homage to the people and history that is present here. A good destination that will reveal numerous unusual experiences is a tour of the Stoney-Baynard Plantation.
Built in the 1790s, it was an antebellum plantation house owned by Capital Jack Stoney. The view of Calibogue Sound is amazing. In 1840, a poker game loss forced Stoney to hand over the massive plantation to William Baynard.
You can explore the Stoney-Baynard Ruins at the Sea Pines Plantation Drive entrance to the area. Once you are there, ask for unusual stories. You may hear a tale or two about how William Baynard, who died during the Civil War, seems to be still lurking in the area.
6. See the Alligators
It may not seem all that safe to plan a day exploring the Hilton Head Island marshes for alligators, but the good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Various organizations offer charters and expeditions to help you come up close (but not too close) to these animals in the wild.
The Sea Resort Forest Preserve is one of the best freshwater lakes to find the native American alligator. It’s not a good idea to try to find them yourself. The Audubon Newhall Preserve is another location for alligator watching. You’ll find plenty of turtles here, too.
7. Embrace the Remoteness of Daufuskie Island
Are you looking to get away from the intensity of Savannah or Charleston for a day that is truly away from life’s responsibilities? Head to Daufuskie Island. You can only access it by boat, and it’s just about five miles long and 2.5 miles wide. That’s the entire point.
This southernmost sea island is a complete break from the business of daily life. There are ancient oak trees surrounding you, Spanish moss growing on the limited buildings here, and white sand beaches that actually feel soft under your feet.
When you visit this historical landmark, you’ll feel as if you went back in time. Take a birding or nature tour here, volunteer at the Daufuski Island Community Farm, or explore the waterways on a guided kayak tour. At low tide, make the trip to the beaches to look for seashells and driftwood. You’ll be as far from the traditional beach experience as you can get near Hilton Head Island, but it’s well worth the experience.
Explore All That a Trip to Hilton Head Island Has to Offer
HHI certainly boasts outstanding beach access and golf courses that will keep you busy for hours during your visit. The Sea Pines Resort is at the heart of the traditional experience here. There are also boutiques, walking trails, and fabulous parks to explore, including locations like Harbour Town Lighthouse and Coligny Beach.
Yet, when you want to explore the less beaten path, take to the wetlands by boat, visit the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge to see the good work they are doing, and even pack a lunch for the Gullah Heritage Trail. Hilton Head Island has something for everyone. As just a day trip to various areas like Charleston and Georgia, there’s lots to explore here.