Hilton Head Island is a beautiful destination that offers different kinds of activities for every type of traveler. From its stunning beaches to its world-class golf courses, Hilton Head has something for everyone. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, Hilton Head’s combination of natural beauty and exciting attractions ensures that your trip will be unforgettable.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Hilton Head and provide useful information on accommodations, dining, and practical tips for making the most of your visit. We’ll also provide details on Hilton Head hotels, Hilton Head weather, and more. Keep reading!
Why is Hilton Head Island So Well-Known?
Hilton Head is best known for its pristine beaches, golf courses, and nature reserves. The island’s scenic beauty and wide range of outdoor activities. Biking, hiking, and water sports make it a popular destination for families, couples, and nature lovers. Its rich history and relaxed Lowcountry culture also add to its charm.
When Should You Plan a Trip to Hilton Head?
The best time to visit Hilton Head is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor activities like golfing, biking, and beachgoing. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cooler but still pleasant for outdoor exploration.
Enjoy Hilton Head’s Beautiful Beaches
One of the main draws to Hilton Head is its pristine beaches, which stretch for 12 miles along the island’s coastline. Hilton Head’s sandy shores are perfect for relaxation, water sports, and family activities. With plenty of amenities or a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, Hilton Head offers a variety of beach experiences.
Coligny Beach is the most popular and accessible beach on the island. It is located near Coligny Plaza and offers plenty of public amenities, such as showers, restrooms, and bike rentals.
If you’re looking for a quieter spot, consider visiting Driessen Beach Park, which is less crowded but still offers picnic areas and a boardwalk.
For those seeking a more private, secluded experience, Alder Lane Beach Access offers a peaceful environment ideal for a relaxing beach day.
Explore Hilton Head’s Luxury and Family-Friendly Resorts
Hilton Head is well-known for its luxury resorts and family-friendly accommodations. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront resort with high-end amenities or a cozy place for your family, the island has something for everyone.
Some of the top Hilton Head resorts include Sea Pines Resort, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. These resorts offer a variety of accommodations, from luxury suites to spacious family-friendly rooms, and feature golf courses, tennis courts, private beach access, and fine dining restaurants.
If you’re traveling with kids, many resorts have dedicated children’s programs, pools, and beach activities to keep the entire family entertained. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort are particularly popular with families thanks to their kid-friendly amenities. We will also talk more later part of this guide about kid-friendly things to do on Hilton Head Island.
Find the Perfect Stay in Hilton Head, SC
Hilton Head offers a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay based on your preferences and budget. From luxury beachfront hotels to affordable accommodations, Hilton Head has plenty of options.
If you’re looking for Hilton Head Island hotels, you’ll find choices like the Ocean Dunes Villa, Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort, and Holiday Inn Resort Beach House. These hotels are located in prime locations, with many offering ocean views, pools, and direct access to the island’s top attractions.
For visitors who prefer more space and privacy, Hilton Head’s vacation rentals are an excellent option. Vacation homes and condos offer all the comforts of a home with fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and private pools, making them ideal for families or longer stays.
Hilton Head Restaurants – A Culinary Delight
Hilton Head Island is also a food lover’s paradise. You can get fresh, locally sourced seafood and Lowcountry cuisine, the island’s restaurants offer a diverse array of culinary experiences.
For an upscale dining experience, head to The Sea Pines Beach Club, where you can enjoy gourmet dishes with stunning ocean views.
If you are interested in trying Lowcountry cuisine, don’t miss out on dishes like shrimp and grits or she-crab soup, which you can find at many of the island’s top restaurants. Hilton Head’s dining scene is truly a highlight of any trip to the island.
Discover Fun Things to Do in Hilton Head
Hilton Head is packed with activities for all types of travelers. If you’re into outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or family-friendly fun, there’s something to keep everyone entertained.
Biking and Hiking: One of the best ways to explore Hilton Head is by bike, thanks to its 60 miles of bike paths. You can bike along the beaches, through the island’s nature preserves, or even take a guided tour to learn more about the area.
If you prefer walking, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve offers scenic hiking trails that wind through marshlands and forests, providing opportunities to see local wildlife such as alligators, deer, and birds.
Harbour Town Lighthouse: No visit to Hilton Head is complete without a stop at the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the island and beyond, or explore the nearby Harbour Town Marina, where you can enjoy waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and live entertainment during the summer months.
Dolphin-Watching Cruises: Hilton Head is home to a large population of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, making dolphin-watching a popular activity. Take a guided cruise from Harbour Town Marina or Shelter Cove Harbour to see these playful creatures up close.
ZipLine Hilton Head: For those seeking adventure, ZipLine Hilton Head offers a thrilling experience through the island’s treetops. This is a fantastic activity for families and adrenaline junkies alike.
Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Hilton Head
Hilton Head is a great destination for families with children. Adventure Cove Family Fun Center is a perfect spot for mini-golf and arcade games, offering hours of entertainment. Another fun option is the Sandbox Children’s Museum, where younger children can explore interactive exhibits and participate in creative play.
For an educational experience, the Coastal Discovery Museum offers fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and the Gullah culture, with family-friendly activities such as nature walks and scavenger hunts.
Best Things to Do in Hilton Head on a Budget
You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy Hilton Head. Biking around the island is one of the most affordable and scenic activities, with miles of bike paths leading you through beaches, parks, and residential areas. Coligny Plaza also offers free events, such as live music and outdoor movie screenings, perfect for budget-conscious visitors.
Exploring nature is another cost-free way to experience the island. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a beautiful spot for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking, all without spending a dime.
Things to Do in Hilton Head for Adults
For adults seeking relaxation or adventure, Hilton Head offers plenty of options. Enjoy a round of golf at one of the island’s premier courses, such as Harbour Town Golf Links, or pamper yourself with a luxurious spa day at one of the top resorts. Wine tasting at Island Winery is also a popular activity for adults, offering local wines made right on the island.
In the evening, check out Hilton Head’s live music scene or enjoy fine dining at one of the island’s renowned restaurants.
Things to Do in Hilton Head for Couples
Hilton Head is the perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Stroll hand-in-hand on the beach at sunset, or book a private sailing charter for a memorable evening on the water. Another romantic option is dinner at one of the island’s oceanfront restaurants, such as The Sea Pines Beach Club or Coast Oceanfront Dining.
Couples can also indulge in a couple’s spa treatment or enjoy a peaceful kayak excursion through Hilton Head’s scenic waterways.
Best Things to Do in Hilton Head by Season
Things to Do in Hilton Head in December
While Hilton Head may not have snow, the island’s mild winter weather makes December a great time to visit. Holiday lights and festive decorations adorn Harbour Town, and you can enjoy holiday markets, boat parades, and local events like the Dove Street Festival of Lights.
Things to Do in Hilton Head in March
March is a wonderful time to visit Hilton Head, as the weather begins to warm up but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. This is a perfect time for golfing, hiking, or biking through the island’s nature preserves. Dolphin-watching cruises are also popular in March, offering a chance to see these friendly creatures in their natural habitat.
Things to Do in Hilton Head in October
October brings cooler weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The island hosts several fall festivals, including the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival, where you can sample delicious local seafood and enjoy live entertainment. It’s also a great time for scenic bike rides or nature walks.
Things to Do in Hilton Head on a Rainy Day
If rain interrupts your plans, don’t worry—there are still plenty of indoor activities on Hilton Head. The Sandbox Children’s Museum is perfect for kids, while adults might enjoy exploring the art galleries in Coligny Plaza or taking a cooking class at the Hilton Head Island Culinary School. You can also unwind with a spa day at one of the island’s luxurious resorts.
Hilton Head Weather – What to Expect Year-Round
Understanding the weather is crucial for planning your Hilton Head trip. The island enjoys a mild, subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a great destination year-round. Summer (June-August) brings hot temperatures in the high 90°F (32°C), while spring and fall offer milder, more comfortable conditions with temperatures in the 60s and 70s°F (16-25°C).
Winter is also a pleasant time to visit, with temperatures rarely dipping below 50°F (10°C). Although the weather is cooler, it’s still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities, and you’ll avoid the peak-season crowds.
If you’re planning a visit during the spring, Hilton Head’s March temperatures are typically in the 60s°F (16-20°C), making it ideal for golfing, hiking, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
Be sure to check the Hilton Head weather forecast ahead of time to get the most accurate weather information during your stay, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities like boating, hiking, or biking.
Click here to get a detailed overview of Hilton Head’s weather forecast.
Getting to Hilton Head – Savannah Hilton Head Airport
Most visitors arrive at Hilton Head via the nearby Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, located just 45 minutes away. This airport serves as a major gateway to the island, with flights from many U.S. cities. Once you arrive, you can easily get to Hilton Head by shuttle service.
For those flying directly into Hilton Head, the Hilton Head Island Airport is a smaller, regional airport that offers direct flights from cities like Charlotte and Atlanta. While it has fewer flight options than Savannah’s airport, it’s a convenient option for travelers looking to land closer to their final destination.
If you need transportation from either airport to your accommodation, Palmetto Car Service provides reliable and comfortable rides throughout the area. Whether you’re staying in Bluffton, Savannah, or Hilton Head, their services ensure a smooth and stress-free trip from the airport to your destination.
For more help planning your journey, you can also use our Distance Calculator for Bluffton, Savannah, and Hilton Head to estimate travel times and distances.
Best Places to Stay in Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to affordable vacation rentals. Choosing the best place to stay in Hilton Head depends on your preferences and the type of vacation you’re planning.
Suppose you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront stay. In that case, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort offer top-notch amenities, including oceanfront rooms, pools, and on-site restaurants. These resorts are perfect for travelers seeking an upscale experience with easy access to the beach.
For families, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort and Marriott’s SurfWatch provide a more relaxed atmosphere with family-friendly accommodations, including spacious villas, pools, and activities for children. If you’re traveling with a large group or staying for an extended period, consider renting a vacation home in neighborhoods like Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes, where you’ll have access to private homes with full kitchens and pools.
Family Fun at Adventure Cove and ZipLine Hilton Head
For families with kids or teens, Adventure Cove and ZipLine Hilton Head offer thrilling activities that will keep everyone entertained.
Adventure Cove Family Fun Center: Located near Folly Field Beach, this family fun center features an arcade and two 18-hole mini-golf courses, perfect for a fun afternoon with the family.
ZipLine Hilton Head: Experience the island from new heights as you zip through the treetops. This thrilling zipline adventure offers 8 interconnected ziplines, with some reaching heights of 75 feet.
Explore Hilton Head’s Historical and Cultural Sites
While Hilton Head is best known for its beaches and resorts, the island also has a rich history dating back to its Native American inhabitants and its role during the Civil War.
Start your historical tour at the Coastal Discovery Museum, where you can learn about the island’s natural and cultural history, including the Gullah culture, which has deep roots in the Lowcountry. Visit Mitchelville Freedom Park, the site of the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States, for a unique look into Hilton Head’s Civil War-era history.
For a deeper dive into the island’s history, head to the Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery, one of the oldest historical sites on the island. This site offers insight into Hilton Head’s early settlers.
Final Thoughts
Hilton Head Island offers plenty of activities and experiences for every type of traveler, from beach lovers and golfers to history buffs and foodies. Whether you’re exploring the island’s beautiful beaches, staying at one of its world-class resorts, or enjoying the rich local culture and history, Hilton Head is a destination that guarantees unforgettable memories.
No matter when you visit, Hilton Head’s charm, natural beauty, and variety of activities ensure that every trip is special.
