Ready to unwind on America’s favorite island? The charming Hilton Head Island in South Carolina‘s Lowcountry is known for its lush coastal beauty, local wildlife, golf courses, and quaint downtown area. Whether traveling solo or with the whole family, there are plenty of outdoor activities, stunning sights, and delicious food to discover. So, if you’re searching for things to do in Hilton Head Island, you’re in luck. We’ve handpicked four can’t-miss experiences in town, as well as four spectacular coastal resorts that keep you close to the excitement. Continue reading to start planning your vacation.
Visit the Iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse
If you’re heading to Hilton Head, visiting the Harbour Town Lighthouse is a must. This fifty-year-old red-and-white striped lighthouse is an iconic landmark of Hilton Head Island and features 114 steps to the top of the structure, which offers stunning views of the glittering marina. Not only is it a working lighthouse for ships in the Yacht Basin, but it doubles as a museum detailing the island’s rich history, such as Civil War artifacts and Heritage Classic memorabilia, as well as historical tours and access to the top of the structure.
The surrounding Harbour Town area also boasts some of Hilton Head’s most delicious seaside cuisine, as well as over twenty locally-owned boutiques and galleries. You can also find water sports, fishing charters, and sightseeing cruises out of the marina right next door. For sure, visiting the Harbour Town Lighthouse is one of the most dynamic things to do in Hilton Head.
Wander Sea Pines Forest Preserve
If you want to explore Hilton Head’s natural environment, consider spending the day at Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This protected wildlife habitat has welcomed visitors since 1970 and features bridle paths for horseback riding, boardwalks through wetlands, fishing docks, walking trails, and more. During your visit, you can admire the flourishing vegetation native to South Carolina and spot local fauna like alligators, deer, herons, and other wildlife.
This 605-acre preserve offers guided tours via boat or wagon, as well as fishing expeditions, horseback rides at Lawton Stables, and bike rentals. So, however you choose to experience this Hilton Head natural habitat, you’ll find a day spent in the great outdoors with the family is a wonderful addition to your Hilton Head adventure.
Explore the Coastal Discovery Museum
Another can’t-miss outdoor destination that should be at the top of your list of things to do in Hilton Head is the Coastal Discovery Museum. As a Smithsonian affiliate, this museum is an unforgettable experience for all ages. Meander over sixty-eight acres of nature trails through lush vegetation and ancient oak trees, stop and smell the flowers at the butterfly habitat, or visit the horse stable to book a trail ride.
The Coastal Discovery Museum also features countless nature tours on land and water, taking you through salt marshes, creeks, and rivers, where you can glimpse marine life like dolphins, manatees, and alligators. Moreover, events and hands-on activities are consistently included in the program schedule so that you can learn more about the cultural heritage of Hilton Head in addition to the native flora and fauna.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
If spending a day on the water is a must for you when planning things to do in Hilton Head, Shelter Cove is the perfect place to do so. As the largest award-winning deep-water marina on the island, Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is your go-to when you’re ready to adventure Hilton Head from the water. The marina offers 178 slip rentals, as well as boat rentals and water sports like kayaking, water skiing, paddle boarding, and more. Likewise, you’ll find inshore and offshore fishing and crabbing charters, sailing charters, cruises, and dolphin tours to add some excitement to your excursion.
Outside of water sports, this harbour features year-round dining, shopping, and entertainment on the waterfront. After a day on the water, dig into some fresh seafood at top Hilton Head restaurants in the harbour, such as ELA’s on the Water or Scott’s Fish Market. Or do some cozy shopping at boutique shops like Neptune’s Niche, A Coastal Christmas, or A&M Provisions for treasures to take home with you.
Where to Stay Near Things to Do in Hilton Head
Now that you know what things to do in Hilton Head, it’s time to figure out where to stay. You’ll want a great location close to the action, spacious accommodations, and maybe even a private beach to sunbathe the days away. No problem. Below are four picture-perfect resorts that will make your Hilton Head Island getaway a dream.
Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations
Escape to Hilton Head with Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations. This stunning beachfront resort has everything you need for a relaxing stay on the island. Enjoy a convenient location just five miles from the Harbour Town Lighthouse, two miles from the Shipyard Golf Club, and a ten-minute walk from the beautiful Coligny Beach Park. However, there are plenty of stellar amenities on-site.
Soak up the sun by the oceanfront pools and bar, or spend the day on the sand with private beach access. Add to the family fun by firing up the charcoal grills and making use of the picnic pavilion. Other amenities include a fitness center, business center, and free wifi. Ocean Oak will soon become a welcome home base as you adventure Hilton Head.
Accommodations
- Two-Bedroom Suite: features one king bed, two double beds, sleeper sofa, living and dining room, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates six.
Bluewater Resort & Marina
This next resort is a premiere vacation resort near all the best things to do in Hilton Head. Bluewater Resort & Marina is nestled on the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway and even offers a private dock. Here, you can book excursions like dolphin and sunset cruises, history tours, and kayaking. Not to mention, there are always events and activities taking place on the patio, such as crafts, live music, yoga, and sports competitions.
When it comes to amenities, Bluewater doesn’t disappoint. You’ll find indoor/outdoor pools, a lazy river, hot tubs, a splash pad, and a sauna. Other amenities include grills, yard games, sports courts, mini golf, a fitness center, and a game room. But that’s not all; you also receive golf privileges at the Golden Bear Course and the Country Club of Hilton Head. What else could you need?
Accommodations
- One-Bedroom Suite: features one bath, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates four.
- Two-Bedroom Suite: features two baths, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates six.
- Three-Bedroom Suite: features three baths, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates eight.
Waterside by Spinnaker
Just two blocks from the glittering Atlantic is another fantastic Spinnaker resort in Hilton Head: Waterside. This charming resort is nestled in the lush South Carolina foliage and within minutes of your favorite things to do in Hilton Head, such as golf, tennis, and beachside shops and restaurants. This lovely timeshare property features two outdoor pools (one heated), a hot tub, and a children’s pool.
Indulge in simple pleasures like an afternoon poolside cookout, a game of ping pong with the kids or an evening beating high scores in the game room. Other amenities include a business center, fitness center, and organized Spinnaker activities for everyone to enjoy. Browse open-concept accommodations below.
Accommodations
- One-Bedroom Suite: features one bath, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates four.
- Two-Bedroom Suite: features two baths, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates six.
- Three-Bedroom Suite: features three baths, full kitchen, living and dining area, balcony, and washer/dryer. Accommodates eight.
Disney’s Hilton Head Resort
Finally, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is also a fantastic choice among Hilton Head resorts. Located on the peaceful South Carolina coast, this Disney Vacation Club resort is fashioned after an elegant 1940s fishing and hunting lodge, combining luxury with southern charm amidst the great outdoors. You’ll find three beautiful pools, one featuring a wraparound slide, and hot tubs. One of these pools is located at the Beach House, which is five minutes from the property on Hilton Head Beach and accessible to guests by shuttle or car.
Explore the area with bike rentals, join guided nature walks and dolphin discovery boat rides, and roast s’mores around the marsh-side campfire. This resort also offers activity programs for kids, golf lessons, a community hall and lounge, tennis, and a fitness center, among other things. Moreover, you’ll find two seasonal dining options on-site. Not to mention, when you stay at this resort, you’re less than twenty minutes from the top things to do in Hilton Head. Now, check out studio and villa accommodations below.
Accommodations
- Deluxe Studio: features one queen bed, one double sleeper sofa, living area, kitchenette, and balcony. Accommodates four.
- One-Bedroom Villa: features one king bed, one queen sleeper sofa, one twin sleeper chair, a living and dining area, a full kitchen, and a balcony. Accommodates five.
- Two-Bedroom Villa: features one king bed, two queen beds, one queen sleeper sofa, one twin sleeper chair, a living and dining area, a full kitchen, and a balcony. Accommodates nine.
- Three-Bedroom Grand Villa: features one king bed, four queen beds, one queen sleeper sofa, a living and dining area, a full kitchen, and a balcony. Accommodates twelve.
Rent a Timeshare Near Things to Do in Hilton Head
Want to visit Hilton Head but aren’t ready to become an owner? No problem. Try before you buy with timeshare rentals! When you book a rental, you reserve pre-booked vacations by timeshare owners who can no longer make their vacation. This way, you receive a spectacular vacation at a beautiful resort for a great price. So, you get all of the perks with zero of the commitment. What’s not to love? Browse Hilton Head rentals below and start planning your getaway.
Buy a Timeshare with Timeshares Only
If you’re ready to become an owner, you’ve come to the right place. On Timeshares Only‘s secondary market, you can find Hilton Head timeshare resales for a fraction of the retail price. That means you can save thousands on your ownership. Our market features resorts from top vacation club brands, such as Marriott, Westgate, Holiday Inn, and more, at sought-after destinations. Browse Marriott in Myrtle Beach, Bluegreen in St. Pete, winters in Big Bear, and more. Don’t believe us? See for yourself. Browse our resale market today, or explore Hilton Head timeshares below. For any questions or concerns, call us at 1-800-610-2734 or email us at [email protected].
