Hilton Head is a relaxed beach town located on the southern coast of South Carolina, just north of Savannah, Georgia. This island is known for its wide sandy beaches, great seafood, marshlands, world-class golf and endless outdoor activities. Hilton Head is also a great place for little kids and super family-friendly. My husband and I went when our daughter was 8 months old and had an amazing time. I love the relaxed vibe – you won’t find high-rise hotels, tall buildings, or tourist attractions. It’s easy to see why families, couples, golfers, nature lovers and beachgoers all consider it the perfect place for a family vacation or peaceful getaway. Hilton Head is truly a great place for the whole family, whether you want all-day family fun at the beach or a laid-back couples’ vacation filled with coastal charm. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Hilton Head Island, where to eat, where to stay, how to get there, and what to know before you go.
How to Get to Hilton Head Island
Flying to Hilton Head
There are two main airports you can fly into when visiting Hilton Head.
- Hilton Head Island Airport – This is the closest airport and is located right on the island. It’s super convenient, but it does have fewer flight options than larger airports. Direct flights are offered by American Airlines, Delta, and United. From New York City, it is about a two hour flight.
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport – This is about an hour from Hilton Head and is often the easier option for travelers flying in from farther away. One advantage of flying into Savannah is that you can combine your Hilton Head vacation with a few days in Savannah.
Driving to Hilton Head
Driving is another popular option, especially for travelers coming from nearby states. Hilton Head is accessible from Interstate 95, with US 278 providing the main route onto the island.
Here are some popular cities that you can drive from:
- Savannah – 1 hour
- Charleston – 2 hours
- Atlanta – 4 hours
- Washington DC – 9 hours
We actually combined our Hilton Head trip with Charleston (one of my favorite cities in the United States!). Charleston is a two hour drive from Hilton Head, so adding that as part of your trip can be an option too!
Check out my blog posts on Charleston and Savannah if you want to add them to your Hilton Head trip!
Do you need a car in Hilton Head?
I do recommend renting a car in Hilton Head. A car is convenient, especially if you want to explore different parts of the island. However, biking is also a popular way to get around, and some areas are easy to explore without driving.
Best Things to Do in Hilton Head Island
Spend the Day at the Beach
The beach is probably the first thing most people think about when they hear Hilton Head Island. The island has more than 12 miles of pristine beaches, so there are plenty of places to spread out and enjoy the water.
If you are visiting Hilton Head for the first time, I recommend going to Coligny Beach Park. Coligny is convenient because it has beach access, free parking, restrooms, outdoor showers, and nearby restaurants and shops. You can spend a few hours here and then walk across the street to Coligny Plaza for lunch, ice-cream and shopping.
Coligny Beach is also perfect for families and little ones. It has very shallow water, low tide tidal pools, and even beach matting for stroller access. I loved that my daughter was able to sit and play in the water. She loved it! There is also a fun splash pad area.
Here are some other beaches that you can visit:
- Driessen Beach Park
- Folly Field Beach Park
- Islanders Beach Park
- Fish Haul Beach Park
Rent Bikes and Explore Hilton Head
Biking is one of the best things to do in Hilton Head and the best way to get around! The island has more than 60 miles of public pathways. Bike rental shops are located throughout the island and many resorts either provide bikes or have rental companies nearby. You can bike to the beach, restaurants, shopping areas, parks, and other attractions. It’s also a fun way to explore some of the quieter parts of the island that you might otherwise miss while driving. For families, biking is especially convenient. You can rent bikes for the whole family and spend a morning riding on one of the bike trails before heading to the beach.
Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse
The Harbour Town Lighthouse is one of Hilton Head’s most recognizable landmarks. The red and white lighthouse is located inside Sea Pines at Harbour Town and overlooks the marina. Visitors can climb the lighthouse and stop at exhibits along the way.
After visiting the lighthouse, take some time to walk around Harbour Town Yacht Basin. There are shops, restaurants, boats, and places to sit and watch the activity around the marina. This is also a great place to visit around sunset.
Explore Sea Pines
The Sea Pines Resort combines beaches, golf, tennis, pickle ball, restaurants, the Harbour Town marina, and nature areas. It is one of the most popular areas of Hilton Head.
You can check out the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. It has trails, wetlands, boardwalks, lakes, and wildlife. It is a completely different experience from spending the day at the beach. Keep an eye out for birds, sea turtles, alligators, and other wildlife as you explore. The preserve is also home to the Sea Pines Shell Ring, an archaeological site dating back thousands of years.
Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum
For something beyond the beach, visit the Coastal Discovery Museum. The museum is located at Honey Horn and focuses on the natural environment, history, culture, and wildlife of Hilton Head and the Lowcountry. Admission to the museum grounds is free, although some tours and special programs have fees. It’s a good stop for families and anyone interested in learning more about the island. The museum also offers programs and tours that focus on topics such as local wildlife, Gullah Geechee culture, plants, and the history of the area.
Take a Dolphin Cruise
A dolphin cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Hilton Head. The waters around the island are home to bottlenose dolphins, and several local companies offer boat tours where you can look for dolphins and other wildlife.
Vagabond Cruise operates from Harbour Town and offers different types of cruises, including dolphin cruises, sunset trips, and transportation to Daufuskie Island.
Kayaking
Hilton Head’s waterways are perfect for kayaking. You can paddle through salt marshes, creeks, and calm waterways while looking for birds and marine life. If you’ve never kayaked before, consider booking a guided tour. A guide can help you navigate the waterways and explain more about the Lowcountry ecosystem. You may even spot dolphins during your trip. Paddle boarding is another option too!
Fishing
Fishing is another popular Hilton Head activity. Visitors can book inshore fishing trips, deep-sea charters, or shorter family-friendly excursions. Fishing charters operate from several marinas around the island. Many charter companies provide the equipment, so you don’t need to arrive with a boat full of fishing gear. If you’ve never fished before, a guided trip can be a fun way to try it without having to figure everything out yourself.
Play Golf
Hilton Head is one of the best-known golf destinations in the Southeast. The island has more than 20 golf courses, including courses associated with major resorts and several public options. One of the most famous is Harbour Town Golf Links at The Sea Pines Resort. It’s also home to the RBC Heritage, which brings professional golfers to the island each year.
Golfers should book tee times in advance, particularly during the busier spring and fall seasons.
Try Pickleball or Tennis
Golf isn’t the only sport that’s popular in Hilton Head. Tennis has been part of the island’s identity for decades, and pickleball is now a major activity as well. Many resorts and recreation facilities have tennis courts, lessons, clinics, and equipment rentals.
Visit Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is another place worth adding to your Hilton Head itinerary. The marina sits along Broad Creek and has restaurants, shops, boats, tours, and places to walk around. You can grab dinner, walk around the marina, look at the boats, or check to see if there are any seasonal or special events happening during your visit. Shelter Cove is also a departure point for several water activities.
Take a Day Trip to Daufuskie Island
If you’re staying in Hilton Head for several days, consider taking a day trip to Daufuskie Island. This island is located between Hilton Head and Savannah. Daufuskie is only accessible by boat, so getting there is part of the experience. Once on the island, visitors can explore beaches, historic sites, art galleries, and other attractions. Golf carts are a popular way to get around. It’s a good choice if you’ve already spent plenty of time at the beach and want to see something different.
Learn About Gullah Geechee History
One of the most important parts of visiting Hilton Head is learning about the island’s Gullah Geechee heritage. The Gullah people of South Carolina have deep roots in the Lowcountry, and their culture has shaped the food, traditions, language, art, and history of the region. There are several ways to learn about this history, including visiting the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island, taking a Gullah Heritage Trail tour, and visiting Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.
Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is another fun way to experience the island. Lawton Stables in Sea Pines offers trail rides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
Go Parasailing
If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try parasailing. You’ll get a completely different view of Hilton Head while you’re up in the air. Several companies offer parasailing and other water activities around the island.
Take a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise is one of the easiest ways to end a day in Hilton Head. There are several types of cruises available, including sunset dolphin cruises, sailing trips, dinner cruises, and other boat excursions.
Shopping at Coligny Plaza
Coligny Plaza is one of the easiest places to combine shopping, dining, and beach time. It’s located right near Coligny Beach and has boutiques, restaurants, ice cream shops, and more. You can spend the morning at the beach, grab lunch, and then walk around the shops.
Visit the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Hilton Head has a surprisingly active arts and culture scene. The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina hosts musicals, plays, comedy, concerts, and other performances. It’s a nice option if you want something to do after dinner or if you happen to get a rainy day during your trip. The island also has galleries, art classes, live music, and other cultural events throughout the year.
Spend Time in Nature
One of the things that makes Hilton Head different from some other beach destinations is the amount of protected nature preserve. Besides Sea Pines Forest Preserve, visitors can explore Audubon Newhall Preserve and nearby Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. The island is a great place for birdwatching, especially around the marshes and beaches.
Sandbox Children’s Museum
The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a great place to take young kids when visiting Hilton Head Island, especially on a rainy or hot day. Located near Lowcountry Celebration Park, this interactive museum is designed for children ages 1 to 12 and focuses on learning through hands-on play. Kids can pretend to shop at a grocery store, play in a café, climb aboard a shrimp boat, explore a sandcastle, dress up, and try STEM activities. There is also a toddler area designed specifically for younger children. It’s a fun way for kids to take a break from the beach while still having plenty to do. The museum currently recommends reserving play time ahead, especially on busy days, since sessions can fill up.
Best Restaurants in Hilton Head Island
You can’t visit Hilton Head without trying some of the local food. What food is Hilton Head known for? Hilton Head is known for Lowcountry cuisine and seafood. Shrimp and grits, crab cakes, oysters, fresh fish, fried seafood, and Lowcountry boils are all popular choices.
The island has so many restaurants so there is something for everyone, from seafood and Lowcountry cooking to Italian, sushi, barbecue, burgers, and upscale dining.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Hilton Head:
- Java Burrito – this is a Mexican grill and coffee bar that makes a perfect lunch spot
- Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks – this is a classic seafood restaurant and it is located directly on the water
- Watusi Cafe – they serve all-day breakfast, fresh lunch, and speciality coffee just two blocks from Coligny Beach. This was one of our favorite breakfast places so we ended up eating here multiple times during our trip.
- Al’s Aloha Kitchen – great to-go spot for Hawaiian-inspired flavors with poke bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies
- Skull Creek Boathouse – this is another popular waterfront restaurant. The menu includes seafood, sushi, Southern dishes, and options for people who aren’t big seafood fans.
- Nectar Hilton Head – popular farm-to-table southern restaurant that focuses on lowcountry and southern comfort food like shrimp and grits
- Salty Dog Cafe – known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere, live music, and relaxed waterfront setting. After dinner, visitors can walk around the marina, browse the Salty Dog shops, and grab ice cream
- The Crazy Crab – great waterfront dining overlooking the beautiful Jarvis Creek Park that serves lowcountry seafood. They also have an onsite playground.
- Southern Coney and Breakfast – cozy diner for breakfast and lunch. I loved their pancakes!
- The Smokehouse – this is a good lunch spot for BBQ food
- Fish Camp – this is a great option that is known for their seafood. This is a good place to visit around sunset when you want dinner with a view
- The Quarterdeck – this restaurant is located right by the Harbour Town Lighthouse and overlooks the marina
Where to Stay in Hilton Head Island
There are several different areas to consider when deciding where to stay in Hilton Head. It depends on the type of trip you are planning. Here are the different areas you can stay in Hilton Head:
- Sea Pines – this is a good choice if you want a resort-style vacation with golf, beaches, tennis, restaurants, the marina and enjoying plenty of activities close by. A great choice to stay is at The Sea Pines Resort. This area is best for families, golfers, and first time visitors.
- Palmetto Dunes – This is a gated resort featuring 3 miles of shoreline, three golf courses, and an inland lagoon system for kayaking and fishing. It also is renowned for tennis and pickleball facilities. The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort is located within Palmetto Dunes and offers suite-style accommodations near the beach. This area is best for sports enthusiasts, families, and water sport lovers.
- Forest Beach -This area has a lively classic beach town atmosphere. It centers around Coligny Beach Park and Coligny Plaza. This is a good choice if you want to be close to the beach. Marriott’s Grande Ocean offers villa-style accommodations and is located right near the beach. This type of accommodation can work especially well for families or longer stays because of the extra space. We stayed at an Airbnb in this area and loved being walking distance to the beach!
- Port Royal – this is a good option if you want a quieter resort atmosphere. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is an oceanfront resort with pools, dining, spa services, and beach access. It’s a good choice if you plan to spend a lot of time at the resort.
- Shelter Cove – this is a convenient area if you want to be close to restaurants, shopping, the marina, and activities. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is located here and super popular with families.
Best Time to Visit Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head can be visited throughout the year, but each season offers a slightly different experience.
- Spring – This is a popular time to visit because the weather is comfortable for biking, golf, hiking, and spending time outside. We went in May and the weather was perfect! We were able to enjoy the beach and go swimming. Keep in mind that the island can also get busy around spring break and during golf events.
- Summer – This is the busiest season, especially for families. It’s hot and humid, but the warm weather is perfect for swimming, boating, and beach days. If you’re traveling in summer, book accommodations and popular restaurants ahead of time.
- Fall – This is a great time to visit Hilton Head. The weather is usually comfortable, and it’s a good season for golf, biking, beach walks, and outdoor dining. The island also hosts various arts, food, and cultural events throughout the fall.
- Winter – It is quieter with fewer people. It may not be the best season if your main goal is swimming in the ocean, but it’s still a good time for golf, biking, restaurants, shopping, and exploring.
How Many Days Do You Need in Hilton Head?
I’d recommend at least three to four days for a first trip to Hilton Head. A long weekend gives you enough time to visit the beach, explore Sea Pines, take a boat tour, ride bikes, and enjoy a few restaurants. Five to seven days is good if you want a slower vacation. With a week, you can spend multiple days at the beach without feeling like you’re missing out on other activities. You can also add a Daufuskie Island day trip, spend more time golfing, or simply have a few lazy afternoons by the pool.
Planning a trip to Hilton Head for Families
There is an array of family-friendly activities which makes Hilton Head a great family vacation. Here are some ideas in planning a trip to Hilton Head for families.
Lowcountry Celebration Park is a favorite, with its large pirate-ship playground, climbing areas, and water features that are great for cooling off on hot days. Families can also visit The Sandbox Children’s Museum for hands-on play, take the kids to Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground, or play a round of mini golf. When it comes to beaches, Coligny Beach Park is one of the easiest choices for families because it has shallow water, restrooms, showers, a splash fountain, and convenient access to restaurants and shops. For a quieter beach day, Driessen Beach Park or Islanders Beach Park are also good options. Families can also rent bikes, take a dolphin cruise, go on a pirate boat, visit the Coastal Discovery Museum, or spend time looking for shells and marine life along the shore.
Planning a trip to Hilton Head for Couples / Friends
Hilton Head is also a great destination for couples and friend group trip because there is a good mix of relaxing beach time, outdoor activities, restaurants, and places to go out at night.
For couples, a sunrise beach walk, bike ride, couples massage, or sunset cruise are easy ways to spend the day. Hilton Head has more than 60 miles of bike paths, so renting bikes and exploring the island together is one of the best ways to get around. A sunset sail or dolphin cruise is another popular option, especially around Harbour Town, Shelter Cove, or Skull Creek.
For a trip with friends, there are plenty of activities that are a little more social. Spend the morning at the beach, rent kayaks or paddleboards, play golf or pickleball, or book a fishing charter. A day trip to Daufuskie Island is also a fun option for a group. Once there, visitors can rent golf carts and explore the island’s beaches, historic sites, and local spots.
When it comes to nightlife, you can grab drinks and listen to live music at places around Coligny, Shelter Cove, Harbour Town, or the waterfront. For dinner with a view, Skull Creek Boathouse is a popular choice for seafood, sushi, drinks, and sunset views. At Harbour Town, The Quarterdeck offers waterfront dining right by the lighthouse, while Fishcamp on Broad Creek is a good option for a more casual group dinner with outdoor seating and a lively atmosphere. The Jazz Corner combines dinner with live jazz and makes for a fun night out. Couples and friends can also finish the evening with a walk around Harbour Town or Shelter Cove and enjoy the views before heading back to the hotel.
Sample 3-Day Hilton Head Itinerary
Day 1: Coligny Beach + Shopping at Coligny Plaza
Day 2: Sea Pines and Harbour Town
Day 3: Dolphin Cruise + Rent Bikes
Hilton Head Travel Tips
A few simple tips can make your trip easier.
Rent bikes. Biking is one of the best ways to explore Hilton Head.
Make restaurant reservations. Popular restaurants can get busy during the summer and holiday periods.
Don’t overplan. Hilton Head is a place where it’s perfectly fine to leave a few hours open.
Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll probably walk and bike more than you expect.
Pack sunscreen. Even if you’re not spending every day at the beach, you’ll be outside often.
Check beach rules before you go. Rules regarding pets, parking, and other beach activities can vary by location and season.
Consider staying near the activities you care about most. Sea Pines, Forest Beach, Palmetto Dunes, Port Royal, and Shelter Cove all offer different experiences.
