24 Things to Do at Hilton Head Island South Carolina

With its serene beaches, lush landscapes, and southern charm, Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is a trove of adventures waiting to unfold. From the whispers of history echoing through ancient ruins to the lively flutters of wildlife in sprawling nature preserves, this island is a patchwork of experiences. Whether you’re itching for outdoor escapades, craving culinary discoveries, or simply craving some beachside relaxation, Hilton Head delivers with a flourish. Let’s dive into the bounty of activities that testify to Hilton Head’s allure.

Contents Show

things to do at hilton head island south carolina

The Best Things to Do at Hilton Head Island

1. Embark on a Dolphin Cruise Tour

Gather around, marine life aficionados! Hilton Head Island plays host to a spectacle not to be missed—the whimsical dance of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. A dolphin-watching cruise is your ticket to the show, where the silvery arc of a dolphin leaping against the horizon could very well be the highlight of your day. With an array of boat tours on offer, seekers of sea-bound serenity can bask in the joy of these graceful creatures, which often play hide and seek in the island’s cerulean waters.

2. Explore Sea Pines Forest Preserve Trails

Nature lovers, lace up for an adventure through Sea Pines Resort, where the trails are not mere paths but gateways to wonder. Discover the revered shell ring, a relic from centuries past, nestled among a landscape dotted with a rich variety of species of birds. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve unfolds in a riot of color and life, especially in spring when wildflowers carpet the ground. It’s among the fun things to kick your heels up at while visiting Hilton Head’s South Beach and beyond.

3. Cycle Along Hilton Head Island Bike Trails

Imagine a day when your greatest decision is choosing which of the winding bike trails to follow. That’s the laid-back experience Hilton Head Island offers. With miles of paths, the island invites you to eschew the car for two wheels, rewarding your efforts with open-air access to breathtaking views.

From the sandy shores to the quaint coffee shops, cycle at your leisure, and who knows? Ice cream or some Carolina coffee might just be your next rewarding pit stop as you enjoy the island’s famed bike paths.

4. Get Close to Nature at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

For those who whisper to the wild and seek respite in the hush of nature, the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge awaits. Spanning 4,000 acres, this nature preserve is a haven for endangered locals.

Here, visitors can meander through trails under the watchful gaze of majestic birds, or seek the quiet company of the island’s other inhabitants. It’s a place that insists you slow down, breathe deep, and revel in the serenity that Mother Nature has so graciously bestowed.

5. Kayak Into the Serene Wilderness

Paddle in hand, glide into the tranquil wilderness that is the waterways of Hilton Head. As herons paint silhouettes against the sky and dolphins feast in the shallows, kayakers are privy to a slice of Hilton Head not seen by many.

This isn’t just about exercise; it’s about an intimate date with nature, about the gentle sound of water lapping against your kayak as you navigate the peace that lies between shore and sea.

6. Set Sail on a Sea Kayaking Tour

While the island’s charm is undeniable on land, Hilton Head’s true tranquility can sometimes be found on a sea kayaking tour. Paddlers maneuver through the clear waters, greeted by the occasional leap of a dolphin or a symphony of seabirds overhead.

Whether a seasoned veteran or someone dipping their paddle in for the first time, the sea kayaking tour emerges as a serene exploration, unveiling vistas and experiences unique to those willing to set sail.

7. Seek Adventure at Adventure Hilton Head

Take your sense of adventure to new heights, quite literally, at Adventure Hilton Head. Getting your heart racing while zipping through a lush pine forest or scaling lofty heights is all in a day’s fun here. With an expansive view of the island’s marshes, as you whizz by, the adrenaline rush here is as real as the stunning scenery, making it a must-stop for those craving a burst of thrill amid natural beauty.

8. Uncover the Past at Stoney-Baynard Plantation Ruins

Time stands still at the hauntingly beautiful Stoney-Baynard Plantation, where the silent ruins speak volumes about Hilton Head’s antebellum past. Walk where Union troops were treated during the Civil War, among the Spanish moss-shrouded remnants. This site, one of the most intriguing things to do on the island, offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era and the battles that shaped a nation, all nestled in the bosom of the Lowcountry’s picturesque landscape.

9. Visit the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

At the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, one finds themselves at the crossroads of resilience and historical remembrance. Far more than a scenic spot, this park was the cradle of freedom before the days of the Civil War, serving as a beacon of hope and self-determination.

A visit here isn’t just educational; it’s an emotional journey through Hilton Head Island’s proud and poignant legacy, a chapter in South Carolina’s history felt deeply in the soil and spirit of the land.

10. Discover the Gullah Heritage Trail

One can’t talk about the soul of South Carolina without mentioning the Gullah heritage, rich with the traditions of their ancestors. An exploration along the Gullah Heritage Trail is a walk through living history, against the backdrop of the salt marshes that outline the landscape. Here, the Civil War’s echoes are softened by the strength of a culture preserved, inviting admiration and reflection from those who traverse its path.

11. Step Back in Time at the Parris Island Museum

Lurking behind Hilton Head’s carefree façade is a history steeped in military significance, encapsulated at the Parris Island Museum. Here, visitors uncover layers of the martial past, tracing back to times when valor and duty shaped the shores of the island. Beyond the rich military heritage, a trove of rare manuscripts and artifacts offers a broader shade of the historical spectrum, satisfying even the keenest history buff’s appetite for knowledge.

12. Explore the Historic Fort Howell

Where once the clamor of civil strife boomed, now stands the tranquil remnants of Fort Howell. Constructed during the Civil War, this earthwork fort offers a solemn reminder of a turbulent past. Follow the woodland trail and let imagination take you back to the days of cannon and musket, where moss-covered mounds whisper tales of yesteryear, providing a contemplative respite tucked away in Hilton Head’s picturesque enclave.

13. Interactive Fun at The Sandbox Children’s Museum

The air is buzzing with excitement as tiny tots become big thinkers at The Sandbox Children’s Museum. It’s where imagination runs wild, and playing pretend gets a high-five. Your little ones will be elbow-deep in creativity, from dodging through puzzles to greeting sea critters in the aquarium.

It’s not just family fun; it’s a whole new world for your kids to conquer, with the added bonus of letting their curiosity blossom. Don’t miss this gem where the smallest visitors get to make the grandest discoveries.

14. The Hilton Head Escape Room

For those who fancy a sprinkle of mystery with their beach vacation, the Hilton Head Escape Room is the ticket. It’s a place where clues and riddles are the keys to freedom, and teamwork is the name of the game.

A sprinkle of logic, a dash of problem-solving, and a dollop of suspense will have the whole crew bonding over how to beat the buzzer. And if you’re up for a challenge that tickles the brain and thrills the senses, step right up—just remember, the clock’s always ticking.

15. Mini Golf and Games for All Ages

Now, if you’re looking for a low-stakes kind of competition, the mini golf courses on Hilton Head Island are as plentiful as the views. Oh yes! Whether you swing by Adventure Cove Mini Golf for a tropical-themed putt-putt escapade or take on the legendary challenge at Legendary Golf, it’s all in good fun. Let’s just say, it’s not just about tapping those colorful balls around; it’s about the smirks and the high-fives, the near-misses and the hole-in-ones, and yes, even the occasional golf club twirls in victory. Such a treat, right?

16. Feel the Thrill of Parasailing

Heads up, thrill-seekers! Soaring high above the Calibogue Sound with a parasail flapping above might just redefine your idea of a bird’s eye view. Squint your eyes as you glide over the water, and you might just catch the frolics of dolphins below.

Oh, and let’s not forget the grand view of Daufuskie Island in the distance. Whether you’re a daredevil wanting a dip in the water or just in it for the ride, parasailing will give you a tale to tell and a selfie to make folks back home turn green with envy.

17. Zoom Through Marshes on a Creek Cat Boat Tour

Ever heard of a “creek cat”? No, it’s not a swamp-dwelling feline—it’s your ticket to zipping across Hilton Head’s waters like you own them. These boat rentals come with a side of adventure that’ll have you and your squad whooping as the salty spray hits your face.

And while you’re racing through the marshes, keep your eyes peeled for the real stars—the dolphins in the wild. Trust me, seeing them play follow-the-leader out there is pure magic, and it’s one of those tours you won’t stop blabbing about.

18. Cruise on an America’s Cup Sailing Yacht

Ready to hoist the sails and channel your inner sailor? Boarding an America’s Cup Sailing Yacht is less about going from point A to point B and more about savoring every gust of wind. Glide past the island’s panoramas with the sun on your back and the ocean stretching out like a royal blue carpet.

Don’t get too cozy though, because you just might get the chance to take the wheel. It’s an elegant escapade that’ll have you swearing you can hear the ocean’s applause with every wave you ride.

19. Jet Ski Adventures on the Waves

Strap on your life jacket and rev up your jet ski; the waves of Hilton Head await. It’s nothing short of a salty-soaked rodeo on the water as you zip around like a seabird in a race against the wind. Spotting a dolphin or two alongside you? Just part of the deal. And when those shore mansions shrink to the size of dollhouses, you’ll know you’ve hit the big league. Whether you’re weaving through the waves or taking a breather with a dip, this is one adventure that cranks up the volume of fun.

20. Laze at Coligny Beach Park

At Coligny Beach Park, every grain of sand whispers “Chill out.” You’ll find beach chairs eagerly awaiting your arrival, while sea breezes rustle the leaves of the palmetto trees. And when the sun’s beating down, duck into a Tiki Hut for a festive drink. It’s that no-fuss slice of paradise where time slows down, and the everyday hubbub feels worlds away.

21. Tee Off at a Premier Golf Course

Now, for the golf aficionados, hitting one of the premier golf courses is an absolute must when you’re touching down on Hilton Head turf. Whether you’re aiming to play where the pros have swung at the RBC Heritage or just soaking up the lush views at Palmetto Dunes, this is where things to do in Hilton Head tee up to the next level. Fairways ribboning through the landscape, ocean views peeping around the bends—it’s a golfer’s haven with a side of Southern charm.

22. Spa Treatments for Total Rejuvenation

After a day of exploring, nothing says relaxation like a spa day, making it one of the top things to do in Hilton Head. Picture this: a peaceful sanctuary where stress and tension are not on the guest list. Sip on a mimosa, feel the knots in your shoulders giving way under skillful hands, and let serenity wash over you. It’s about giving those weary muscles and that adventure-seeking spirit the downtime they deserve.

23. Relax With a Sunset Evening Cruise

If there’s a more picture-perfect ending to a Hilton Head day than sailing into the sunset, I’m all ears. As the sun dips and paints the sky with strokes of amber and lavender, you’re out there on the water, living the dream. Cocktails clink, hors d’oeuvres tease the palate, and the Calibogue Sound turns to liquid gold. It’s the kind of cruise where every moment is a keepsake, and every sea breeze feels like a toast to the good life.

24. Tour the Intriguing Kazoo Factory and Museum

One of the most off-the-wall things to do in Hilton Head is to take a jaunt through the Kazoo Factory and Museum. It’s a hoot seeing the biggest collection of kazoos—those wacky musical gadgets that seem to buzz with personality. The museum spins a yarn about the kazoo’s American roots and its rise to fame. But here’s the kicker: you get to craft your very own kazoo. Imagine the fun of serenading your kin with a tune from a kazoo you pieced together with your own two hands.

FAQs

1. What activities are Hilton Head known for?

Hilton Head is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and beach bums alike, famed for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and wildlife-rich preserves like Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.

2. Can you see dolphins in Hilton Head?

Yes, dolphin sightings are common around Hilton Head, especially on boat tours where playful pods often grace visitors with their presence.

3. Is Hilton Head Island bike-friendly?

Absolutely! Hilton Head is a haven for cyclists, boasting extensive paths that meander through lush landscapes and an inviting beachfront.

Finale Thoughts

Capping off your Hilton Head experience with a bang, a special cruise topped with a fireworks display is nothing short of enchanting. As night unfurls its dark canvas, the sky over South Carolina bursts into color, and the things to do in Hilton Head reach their crescendo. This is the island at its most magical—a place where the daytime’s sparkle on the ocean finds its match in the night’s festive glow.

Author
Recent Posts

Emily Bradley

Hi, my name is Emily Bradley, and welcome to Snowbird Haven!

I was born and raised in the northern United States, and one thing I learned pretty early on in life is: I hate the cold and snow. Sure, there’s something charming about the first snowfall of the year, but after that, I’m out.

While a part of my heart will always lie in New England, the older I get, the more I want to escape it during the coldest months.

That’s where the snowbirding lifestyle earned its appeal for me. When the bad weather starts to loom, I head south to find warmer climates to get me through until spring and warmer weather returns.