Hilton Head’s 12 miles of beaches and slow pace of life have drawn families and travelers for decades.
Before 1956, when the first bridge opened, Hilton Head was a sleepy Southern island.
It takes its name from Captain William Hilton, who claimed it for the British crown in 1663.
Credit: Dennis Govani/Getty Images
In the 1960s, the island saw the rapid expansion of tourist infrastructure.
Most of all, it’s a place to slow down and enjoy the Lowcountry lifestyle.
Uber and Lyft both service the island and are readily available.
Courtesy of The Inn & Club at Harbour Town
During this time, live bands take to the outdoor stage fronting the Atlantic Ocean.
Guests can choose between rooms that look out on the scene and quieter options without beachfront views.
There’s also a large pool and a beach volleyball court.
Courtesy of Hudson’s
The grounds include a playground, ping-pong tables, and outdoor fireplaces.
Guests also have easy access to the tennis complex and three golf courses within Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort.
The spacious studio suites include private balconies many overlooking the ocean or pool and small kitchens.
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Get pampered at the Arum Spa, or simply kick back in a poolside cabana for the afternoon.
There’s fine dining at the Carolina Room and casual eats at the poolside grill.
The bakery’s location in Shelter Cove includes attractive outdoor seating along the waterfront.
Courtesy of Salty Dog T-Shirt Factory
The laid-back vibe extends through the winding dining rooms and expansive outdoor porch.
First come, first served.
Outdoor seating is available, and reservations are recommended for dinner.
Reservations are not required, and covered and open-air outdoor seating are available.
Reservations are not required, and indoor and patio seating are available.
There’s a late-night menu and a hopping bar scene on weekends, plus a second location inBluffton.
The rooftop cantina is a popular weekend hangout.
Indoor and patio seating are available.
Exhibits and programs include dolphin tours and highlight the regional Gullah-Geechee culture.
Admission to the grounds is free the museum is part of the Smithsonian Affiliations data pipe.
Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, and there are restrooms and open-air showers.
The view from the top offers a rare aerial perspective of the Lowcountry’s marshland.
This established local outfitter offers everything from stand-up paddleboard rentals to fishing charters to family boat tours.
Guests get into the pirate mood with tattoos, face paint, and plenty of swashbuckling chatter.
The grand finale is a 900-foot drop that lets two riders race across the treetops.
The gift selection also includes beach totes, purses, hats, and other mementos featuring local wildlife.
There’s also a Piggly Wiggly grocery store and a movie theater.
Haskins & Co.
There’s also a kids' boutique (Island Child) and kitchenware specialty shop (Le Cookery).
The shaggy dog in his yellow rain cap is instantly recognizable anywhere.
During summer, it’s wise to plan for a brief rainstorm each afternoon.
The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.
