THINGS TO DO IN HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA

Discover Events, Entertainment, and Stay Options in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, is a stunning coastal destination known for its world-class golf courses, scenic beaches, and outdoor recreation. Located along the South Carolina Lowcountry, Hilton Head blends luxury resorts, wildlife preserves, and fine dining with a laid-back island atmosphere. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, playing a round of golf, or exploring nature trails, this page highlights the best things to do in Hilton Head.

Find the Best Places to Eat and Drink

Hilton Head is known for its fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and waterfront dining. The island is famous for Lowcountry boils, shrimp and grits, and crab cakes, all made with locally sourced seafood. The Shelter Cove Harbour and Coligny Plaza areas feature oceanfront restaurants, casual beach bars, and fine dining establishments. Visitors can also explore local seafood markets, craft breweries, and upscale bistros serving farm-to-table cuisine. For a true island experience, enjoy a sunset dinner with live music overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.

Hotels, Resorts, and Unique Stays

Hilton Head offers a variety of luxury oceanfront resorts, boutique inns, and vacation rentals. The island is home to high-end golf and beach resorts with spa services, private beach access, and fine dining. Palmetto Dunes and Sea Pines Resort provide exclusive villa rentals, private condos, and full-service hotels. Visitors looking for a more private stay can book secluded beachfront homes, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, or eco-friendly lodges near nature preserves.

Social and Cultural Hotspots

Hilton Head has a relaxed yet lively arts, music, and nightlife scene. Harbour Town in Sea Pines is a popular gathering spot with waterfront restaurants, live music venues, and boutique shops. The island’s many marinas and waterfront districts feature a mix of cocktail lounges, sunset cruises, and jazz bars. The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina hosts live theater performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals, making it a great destination for entertainment.

Historical and Local Landmarks

Hilton Head is rich in Gullah culture and early American history. The Mitchelville Freedom Park is the site of one of the first self-governed freedmen’s villages in the U.S., offering insight into the island’s African American heritage. The Coastal Discovery Museum highlights the island’s natural history, native wildlife, and Gullah traditions. The Harbour Town Lighthouse is an iconic landmark providing panoramic views of the coastline. Visitors can also explore historic sites like Baynard Ruins and Zion Cemetery, which date back to the colonial era.

Things to Do in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Hilton Head is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers, and golf lovers. Visitors can relax on Hilton Head’s pristine beaches, go kayaking through the salt marshes, or take a dolphin-watching tour along the coast. The island is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, including those at Harbour Town Golf Links and Palmetto Dunes. Nature lovers can hike or bike through the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, while those looking for family-friendly fun can visit the Coastal Discovery Museum or take a scenic boat tour. Hilton Head also hosts annual festivals, including the Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival and the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or fine dining, this page provides everything you need to experience Hilton Head Island.