A Brief Local Guide - Hilton Head Island
This brief but valuable guide will ensure you have the most memorable vacation.
4 min read
From exploring the miles of hiking and cycling trails around the Island to discovering local restaurants specializing in Lowcountry cuisine, get the inside track on the best of Hilton Head Island. With insights and tips, this brief but valuable guide will ensure you have the most memorable vacation.
The RBC Heritage
The RBC Heritage, presented by Boeing, is set for April 10-16, 2023. The historical tournament, now named a formal PGA tour event, will catch the eyes of the biggest stars in golf as they compete for the plaid jacket.
Enjoy the Low Country Life
Hilton Head Island is America’s Favorite Island, offering 12 miles of pristine beaches and everything you need for the ultimate retreat. You can enjoy easy days relaxing in the sun and sand and surfing on some of the best beaches in the country.
Coligny Beach Park
The award-winning Coligny Beach Park is Hilton Head Island’s most popular oceanfront park. Located at the end of Pope Avenue off Coligny Circle, the park will give you access to miles of beautiful beach.
Harbour Town Lighthouse
Undoubtedly Hilton Head’s most recognizable landmark, the Harbour Town Lighthouse, is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Harbour Town in the ritzy Sea Pines Resort at the Island’s south end, this iconic red and white striped lighthouse serves not only as a navigation aid to boat traffic using the Harbour Town Marina and the Intracoastal Waterway but it’s also as a first-rate museum that you can enjoy exploring with your family and friends.
Understanding Tides
Here on Hilton Head, our tides are nowhere near the extreme 40-50 feet seen in the Bay of Fundy, but they are still substantial. Anyone who has walked the beach on a low tide can attest. The highest rising tide can be 8 to 10 feet, and the lowest ebb tide can go as low as 1 foot. Check the daily tide chart for your closest location here.
Best Restaurants
Check out a few of Hilton Head Island’s most famous restaurants and eateries. With everything from barbecue joints and smokehouses to cafes and grills, this list encompasses all of the culinary traditions that the Island has to offer.
Old Oyster Factory
Located along Broad Creek, this fine waterfront restaurant has been a staple of Hilton Head’s culinary scene for over 30 years. They are best known for their fresh seafood and, of course, their oysters.
Truffles
Established in 1983, Truffles is famous for its worldly food, locally sourced ingredients, and classic Southern atmosphere. Enjoy everything on their menu, from Jumbo Lump Crab Cake to Gourmet Chicken Pot Pie.
Sage Room
The kitchen is located in the center of this fine dining restaurant, which offers the experience of watching the chef’s culinary skills up close at the chef’s table. You can choose from various delicious menu items prepared by some of Hilton Head’s best.
Lowcountry Backyard
You can enjoy some of the best shrimp and grits in South Carolina at Lowcountry Backyard. They also specialize in local seafood and locally produced South Carolina tea and honey.
Activities and Art
Beach Golf
If you plan a golf getaway to South Carolina, make it a Hilton Head Island golf vacation. Golfers can find over 33 world-class courses in the Lowcountry area, including Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Daufuskie Island.
Beach Biking
A vacation to Hilton Head Island is a refreshing change in a world overrun by automobiles. Not only does its 12-mile stretch of Atlantic-facing beaches encourage you to get out and walk, but this very forward-looking holiday destination is home to one of the most extensive bike path networks in the US. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to park and forget about the car during your stay on the Island.
Arts & Culture
You’ve come to the right place if you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or have a penchant for drama. With some of the finest art galleries in South Carolina, live music venues, and dance and theater productions happening year-round, Hilton Head Island’s arts and culture scene is second to none. Browse the Gullah museum or Heritage Library on Hilton Head to discover the Lowcountry’s fascinating history.
Nearest Cities to Visit
Savannah
Savannah is one of the most walkable cities in the US. It is easy to navigate, and the incredibly preserved architecture makes for great sightseeing, along with your strolls through historic streets. If walking isn’t your thing and you like to bike instead, Savannah is an excellent choice. It has plenty of bike paths for recreational and transportation use around town.
Charleston
Charleston is a historic port city known for its deep southern roots. Due to its charming architecture, pleasant weather, and excellent cuisine, it’s a popular romantic gateway destination. However, it is well-loved by history buffs as well.
The above article will help you and your family fully explore Hilton Head Island. Take a break from routine life and have a fun Island vacation in one of our villas. Book a vacation today!