Things To Do
Hilton Head Island
Since development began on Hilton Head Island just over 50 years ago, this 12-mile long / five-mile wide coastal island has become renowned as one of America’s best year-round vacation destinations. Hilton Head’s splendid island attractions are located a short 10 minutes from our front gate. the island’s Extraordinary boating, cruising, sailing, and both ocean and inshore fishing are popular activities with visitors. There are over 60 miles of public bike trails, historic sites, and nature preserves to explore plus top-shelf dining and shopping opportunities.
Beach
One of the world’s “Best 25 Beaches” (according to the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler Magazine) fronts the Atlantic Ocean on Hilton Head Island. Here nearly 13 miles of uninterrupted Atlantic beachfront is yours to enjoy. Broad, pearly-white sand offers plenty of room to spread out or search for shells. The surf is mild, and all beaches are public from the ocean to the high water mark. The Town of Hilton Head has eight designated public beach access points with restrooms, changing areas, sand-showers and vending availability. Some, like Driessen’s Beach, are laid back and restful, while others, like Coligny Beach, are more popular for the younger set with outdoor activities and music venues in season. For more information, visit: hiltonheadisland.org/ourisland/frequently-asked-questions.
Boating
Being an island, it would be expected that boating activities would become one of the most popular activities here. However, on Hilton Head Island the saltwater experience is elevated even higher because of its exceptional local environment for fishing and spending time on the sounds and waterways in the area. There are more than 80 species of saltwater fish for anglers both inshore and offshore plus another 40 species of freshwater fish in local creeks and lagoons. Individual fishing charters are easy to book. Add to that are numerous opportunities to enjoy kayak tours, wave-runners, parasailing, dolphin tour boats and sunset cruises on sumptuous yachts. All very special.
Beauty
Many travel writers focus on the the natural beauty of Hilton Head. Since the earliest developments community planners have been meticulously careful about not spoiling the natural environment or frightening local wildlife. As a result, this “resort town by the sea” was transformed into a world famous vacation destination. Whether it’s the marvelous 60 miles of biking pathways, canopied with majestic oaks, or the multiple nature preserves and bird sanctuaries, or splendid estuaries which look west across the Intracoastal Waterway toward magnificent sunsets, you’ll know this place is special. Take time to relax, explore and enjoy the soft, gentle southern breezes that have a freshness that’s sublime.
Dining Nearby
Hilton Head Island and Bluffton offer a wide array of innovative and delicious dining opportunities inspired by the authentic local Lowcountry cuisine and the abundance of fresh seafood and shellfish from nearby waters.
The area boasts more than 250 eateries, the majority locally owned and operated. Restaurant dining ranges from casual fare for the entire family to excellent seafood establishments and romantic fine dining possibilities – many with views overlooking coastal waterways and sunset vistas.
Some of the most popular seafood restaurants are Hudsons on the Docks – that has been pleasing visitors for more than 50 years with fare caught fresh from local estuaries plus the nearby Skull Creek Boathouse and Skull Creek Boathouse operated by The Serg Group which has a collection of outstanding locally operated restaurants and night spots. In Bluffton the most notable seafood eatery is Toomer’s Family Seafood Restaurant which is in downtown Bluffton with its own fish market and shrimp boats located directly on the May River called Bluffton Oyster Factory.
Other popular restaurants in the area are Reilley’s, Crazy Crab, One Hot Mama’s, Wise Guys and Nectar Farm Kitchen.
If you were wondering, Lowcountry cuisine includes such tasty delights as Shrimp & Grits, She Crab Soup, Frogmore Stew and Country Captain, a curried chicken rice and onions dish that has been browned with other fresh vegetables.
Shopping
Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, located in South Carolina, offer a range of shopping options for visitors and locals alike. Here are some of the main shopping areas and options in the area:
Coligny Plaza: Located in Hilton Head Island, Coligny Plaza is a popular shopping destination with over 60 shops and restaurants. You can find everything from clothing and jewelry to surf shops and art galleries.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre: Another popular shopping destination in Hilton Head Island is Shelter Cove Towne Centre. This outdoor shopping center features over 35 shops, including national retailers such as Belk and Kroger, as well as local boutiques and restaurants.
Tanger Outlets: If you’re looking for bargains, the Tanger Outlets in Bluffton offer a wide selection of discounted name-brand and designer stores. The outlet center has over 90 stores, including Nike, Coach, and Polo Ralph Lauren.
Old Town Bluffton: Old Town Bluffton is a charming historic district that is home to many unique boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs.
