Top 17 Things to Do on Your Trip to Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is a premier destination known for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, rich history, and abundant outdoor activities. Whether you're visiting for relaxation, adventure, or family fun, Hilton Head has something for everyone. Here are the top 17 things to do on your trip to Hilton Head Island to make the most of your stay. Visit Hilton Head Island!
1. Relax on Hilton Head’s Beautiful Beaches
Hilton Head Island boasts 12 miles of stunning beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks. The top beaches include:
Coligny Beach Park – A family-friendly beach with amenities, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Driessen Beach Park – Quieter, great for families and nature lovers.
Burkes Beach – A hidden gem, perfect for catching a sunset.
2. Bike the Island’s Scenic Trails
With over 60 miles of bike trails, Hilton Head is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the U.S. Rent a bike and explore:
The trails of Sea Pines Resort
The shaded pathways of Palmetto Dunes
Beach biking along the shoreline at low tide
3. Play a Round of Golf at Championship Courses
Hilton Head is a golfer’s paradise with over 23 championship courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones. Top picks include:
Harbour Town Golf Links (Home of the RBC Heritage PGA Tour)
Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III
Palmetto Dunes’ Robert Trent Jones Course
4. Visit Harbour Town & Climb the Lighthouse
Located in Sea Pines, Harbour Town is a must-visit for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Climb the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island.
5. Kayak or Paddleboard Through the Marshes
Explore Hilton Head’s waterways by renting a kayak or paddleboard. You’ll see:
Dolphins swimming nearby
Ospreys and herons nesting
Breathtaking Lowcountry landscapes
6. Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour
Hilton Head is famous for its resident dolphin population. Book a boat tour to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
7. Explore Sea Pines Forest Preserve
A hidden oasis, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a 600-acre nature sanctuary featuring:
Hiking trails
Wildlife viewing (alligators, turtles, and birds)
Historic sites like the 4,000-year-old Indian Shell Ring
8. Discover Mitchelville Freedom Park of Celebration Park at Coligny
Learn about Hilton Head’s rich history at Mitchelville Freedom Park, the site of the first self-governed town of freed slaves in the U.S.
9. Go Deep Sea Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can embark on a deep-sea fishing charter from Shelter Cove Marina or Harbour Town for a chance to catch redfish, tarpon, and shark.
10. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner Cruise
Experience Hilton Head’s stunning sunsets with a luxury dinner cruise. Many tours offer live music, gourmet dining, and unparalleled water views.
11. Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum
This free-entry museum showcases Hilton Head’s natural beauty and history, with exhibits on:
Lowcountry wildlife
Salt marsh ecology
Gullah culture
12. Sample Fresh Seafood at Local Restaurants
Hilton Head is a seafood lover’s dream. Top dining spots include:
Hudson’s Seafood on the Docks – Fresh, waterfront dining.
The Crazy Crab – Known for its famous Lowcountry boil.
Skull Creek Boathouse – Iconic seafood and sunset views.
13. Explore Bluffton’s Old Town
Just across the bridge, Old Town Bluffton is a charming historic district featuring:
Art galleries
Farmers' markets
Historic sites like the Church of the Cross
14. Try Parasailing or Jet Skiing
For thrill-seekers, Hilton Head offers parasailing, jet skiing, and tubing adventures at:
H2O Sports in Harbour Town
Outside Hilton Head at Shelter Cove
15. Experience Gullah Culture
Learn about the rich African-American heritage of the Gullah people through:
Gullah Heritage Tours
Sweetgrass basket weaving demonstrations
Authentic Lowcountry cuisine
16. See a Show at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Catch a Broadway-caliber performance, comedy show, or concert at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina, Hilton Head’s premier cultural venue.
17. Take a Day Trip to Daufuskie Island
For a unique, off-the-grid adventure, take a ferry to Daufuskie Island, a secluded island rich in history, beaches, and Gullah culture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're visiting for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Hilton Head Island offers endless activities for every type of traveler. Plan your itinerary with these must-do experiences and create unforgettable memories on your trip.
For more insider tips and Hilton Head real estate insights, visit teamhiltonhead.com.
