Hilton Head Area Guide
Where Sun, Sand, and Southern Charm Await
Discover Hilton Head Island
Whether you're visiting Hilton Head for the first time, or you're returning to your favorite coastal destination, there's no doubt about the draw this small coastal island puts on your heart. A playground for both relaxation and recreation, Hilton Head offers everything from world-class golf courses to stunning ocean views. The laid-back lifestyle merges seamlessly with high-end amenities, crafting an experience that's both inviting and exclusive. Here, you'll find opportunities to unwind on the pristine beaches, dine at gourmet restaurants, and explore the elegance of Lowcountry living at its finest. With this guide to Hilton Head Island, your vacation to our extraordinary piece of paradise awaits. Join us in exploring an island where casual sophistication meets timeless appeal, creating a destination you'll long remember and to which you'll eagerly return.
Leisurely Luxury
At only 5 miles wide, this 42-square-mile barrier island is home to an abundance of activity. Ranked the #5 Best South Carolina Beach of 2023, families will love spending the day on our golden shores. Let the gentle Atlantic waves carry your worries away as you float in the refreshing saltwater. Or try your hand at something more adventurous and opt for a stand-up paddleboarding lesson. Our marshes and estuaries are excellent places to kayak, sail, and fish, and you’ll be amazed at the wildlife you’ll discover along the way.
For a day of R&R, visit one of the island’s many spas and indulge in a rejuvenating massage or facial. Afterward, visit Shelter Cove Towne Centre for some retail therapy. And for those looking to hit the links, choose from one of our 24 remarkable golf courses. From oceanfront views to PGA Tour courses, our grounds have been designed by some of the top architects in the business, guaranteeing a unique and challenging round no matter where you tee off.
Savor Sophistication
From iconic Lowcountry boils to stunning waterfront restaurants, dining in Hilton Head is an experience as integral to your vacation as visiting the beach. With exquisitely simple and delicious dishes like shrimp and grits to more elevated selections of fresh-caught fish and crab, your taste buds will delight in the food scene of Hilton Head. Check out Skull Creek Boathouse for stunning island sunset views and impeccable food.
Timeless Traditions
Beyond the manicured greens and sparkling water's edge, Hilton Head reveals a unique blend of cultural richness and artistic flair. The island is home to the Gullah Geechee people, who trace their roots to West African heritage, preserving traditions in a way that adds to the island's exclusive charm. Explore their legacy at the local Gullah Museum or through curated cultural tours. Complementing this cultural tapestry, Hilton Head also boasts elegant art galleries and inviting venues like the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina where you can enjoy a symphony or see a play. Whether indulging in luxury or simply savoring the coastal vibe, the island offers a diverse and delightful cultural experience.
Unique and Uncovered
Did you know:
- Though the island is only 5 miles wide and 12 miles long, there are 100+ miles of biking trails. With more than 15,000 bikes available to rent on the island, getting out and exploring our nature reserves or even just riding to a local shop will have you living like a local on your vacation.
- There's no "light of the neon moon" in Hilton Head. As part of the island’s commitment to respecting the natural island habitat, we limit light pollution and do our best to blend in with our lush landscape.
- Don’t be surprised to hear people refer to locations as being in the heel or toe. Hilton Head Island is shaped like a foot! So, it’s common to use these descriptors when discussing the locations of businesses, restaurants, and other attractions.
