Hilton Head, South Carolina

Island life is at its finest on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. My most recent trip was in August of 2017 - my family and I had a blast! The island boasts 25 golf courses, tennis courts, 50 miles of biking trails, and of course the white, sandy beach--all the above can be part of your stay on your next beach vacation. To see what else I love about this island, check out my recent blog post about Hilton Head. 
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The series of videos featured on these pages were produced in 2008 but you'll certainly get a feel for what I believe to be one of the best vacation destinations in the United States. 

fast facts

​Destination Name:  Hilton Head
State: South Carolina
​Closest Major Airport(s): Hilton Head,  

Time Zone: Eastern
Currency: US Dollar
Continent: North America​
Country: USA
Primary Language: English

get there and the weather

​Location: Hilton Head Island is on South Carolina's south-eastern coast, located 35 miles from Savannah, Georgia. 

Air: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the closest major airport. An Uber or Lyft costs between $50 and $60 from the airport to Hilton Head Island.

Car: I suggest you either arrive by car or rent one while you are in Hilton Head Island. From I-95, take Exit 8 and travel Route 278E to the island. 

Train: Amtrak service is available via Savannah, Georgia, a 45-minute drive from Hilton Head Island. 

Weather: Because of its balmy, subtropical climate, Hilton Head Island is a year-round destination. The best time to go all depends on the type of vacation that fits your style. Visit our Hilton Head Island itinerary for more information about the weather and things to do in every season.

bluffton

Bluffton is located just a few miles from Hilton Head Island and also offers plenty of activities. Go in fall for the Historic Bluffton Arts and Seafood Festival or in May for the Bluffton Village Festival, which showcases local artisans and musicians.

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the gullah

The Gullah is a unique 

what to do

Whether you're on a family vacation, a golf retreat, or a romantic getaway, Hilton Head Island offers plenty to do!

The following activities are must-dos on Hilton Head:
See dolphins up-close by booking a tour (I recommend Island Explorer).
Kayak or paddle-board the coast (I recommend both Island Head Water Sports and Hilton Head Outfitters to get your gear).
Learn about loggerhead sea turtles at the Coastal Discovery Museum
Take a cooking class at Michael Anthony's Cucina Italiana
Bike the island (Pedals Bicycles delivers bikes to your hotel's or rental's door).

where to eat

A few of my Hilton Head Island favorites include: 

Java Burrito
The Skull Creek Boathouse
One Hot Mama's American Grille
Hilton Head Ice Cream
Giuseppe's Pizza
Kenny B's Cajun Quarter Cafe
Frosty Frog

Our Hilton Head Itinerary has more information on these restaurants and more! 

marinas

Harbour Town Marina is the best place to start your exploration of Hilton Head. Sailing, boating, kayaking, nature tours, oyster beds, and dolphin spotting are among the activities to enjoy. The marina has plenty of shops and restaurants to indulge yourself before and after your outdoor recreational extravaganza. We recommend the Salty Dog Cafe to grab a cup of coffee before jumping on a catamaran tour. 

Shelter Cove Harbour, a friendly, Mediterranean-style village offers some of the island's best shops, restaurants and waterfront activities. If you're traveling with a group, book a trip on the Captain Hook Party Fishing Boat for a classy, fishing excursion.
 
Skull Creek Marina is located on the northeast side of the island. In the quaint village, you can book fishing charters, or browse the shops nestled on the sides of the oak-lined streets.

official tourism resources

Most destinations in the U.S. have an official tourism bureau. Learn more by watching this video. In addition, here are links to the official bureaus for this destination, the state and the USA. 

Hilton Head Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

Official State Tourism Bureau Site

Official USA Tourism Site

suggested itinerary

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