10 Fun Things To Do Near Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
If you’re dreaming of salty air, soft sand, and easy-going days,
Hilton Head Island in Beaufort County, South Carolina should be on your radar. This laid‑back Lowcountry island is packed with family‑friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and great food – all within a short drive.
Whether you’re planning a long beach vacation or just a long weekend, here are
10 of the best things to do near Hilton Head Island to make your trip unforgettable.
1. Spend a Day on Hilton Head’s Beautiful Beaches
You can’t visit Hilton Head Island without hitting the beach. The island has about 12 miles of wide, flat shoreline that’s perfect for:
- Walking or jogging at low tide
- Building sandcastles with kids
- Riding bikes right on the firm sand
- Watching sunrise or sunset over the water
Popular spots include:
- Coligny Beach Park – Lively, with shops, restaurants, restrooms, and swings.
- Folly Field Beach Park – A little quieter, great for families.
- Driessen Beach Park – Nice boardwalk, picnic area, and playground.
On one trip, I walked the beach at sunrise with a coffee in hand and saw dolphins playing just offshore. It felt like a private show. If you’re up early anyway (hello, East Coast time change), it’s worth the effort.
Hilton Head travel tip: Parking can fill up on busy summer days. Get there before mid‑morning, especially on weekends.
2. Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse in Sea Pines
In many ways, the
Harbour Town Lighthouse is the symbol of Hilton Head Island. Located inside
Sea Pines Resort, this red‑and‑white striped lighthouse overlooks the marina and Calibogue Sound.
You can:
- Climb the 114 steps to the top for amazing views
- Browse small exhibits along the way that share local history
- Shop for souvenirs in the gift shop
- Stroll the waterfront and watch boats come and go
The climb isn’t too tough, and there are landings where you can stop and catch your breath. At the top, you’ll see why this is one of the most popular
things to do on Hilton Head Island.
Good to know: There’s a gate fee to enter Sea Pines by car, and a separate fee to climb the lighthouse. Many visitors combine this stop with bike riding or dinner in Harbour Town.
3. Bike Around the Island’s Scenic Paths
Hilton Head is one of the most bike‑friendly beach towns in the USA. The island has over 60 miles of public paths, plus many more inside private communities.
You’ll see people of all ages cruising along on beach cruisers, from kids with training wheels to grandparents taking their time. Some of the best areas to ride include:
- Sea Pines – Shaded paths, stops at Harbour Town, South Beach Marina, and the nature preserve.
- North Forest Beach & South Forest Beach – Easy access to Coligny Plaza, restaurants, and the ocean.
- On the beach itself – At low tide, the sand is packed and perfect for biking right by the water.
Most resorts, villas, and rental homes either include bikes or offer discounts with local bike shops. You can rent for a day or the whole week, often with delivery right to your door.
If you like the idea of exploring Hilton Head Island at your own pace, biking makes it simple and fun.
4. Kayak or Paddleboard through Lowcountry Marshes
The marshes around Hilton Head are a big part of what makes the Lowcountry feel so special. Instead of just looking at them from afar, try getting out on the water.
You can book:
- Guided kayak tours through tidal creeks and quiet inlets
- Stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals for calm days
- Sunset or full moon paddles at certain times of the month
Keep your eyes open for:
- Dolphins cruising beside your kayak
- Wading birds like herons and egrets
- Oysters, crabs, and other marsh life along the banks
Hilton Head outfitters usually provide life jackets and basic instruction, so you don’t need to be an expert. If you’ve never paddled in a tidal creek before, it’s a peaceful way to see the wild side of Beaufort County.
5. Take a Dolphin Watching Cruise
Bottlenose dolphins love the warm waters around Hilton Head Island, and locals see them often. To boost your chances of spotting them, hop on a
dolphin watching tour.
Cruises run out of:
- Harbour Town in Sea Pines
- Broad Creek Marina
- Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
On board, you’ll usually get:
- Local guides who share fun facts about dolphins and the Lowcountry
- Stories about the area’s history and ecology
- Plenty of chances to take photos
Many tours are family‑friendly and last about 1½ to 2 hours, which feels like the sweet spot – long enough to see wildlife, but not so long that kids get restless.
A bonus: Sunset cruises give you both dolphin sightings and a colorful sky over the water. It’s one of the most memorable things to do near Hilton Head Island.
6. Explore Historic Beaufort, South Carolina
If you’re ready for a change of scenery, take a scenic drive (about 45 minutes to an hour) to
Beaufort, SC, another coastal gem in Beaufort County.
This charming town is known for:
- Antebellum homes with grand porches and live oaks
- The Waterfront Park with swings facing the Beaufort River
- Art galleries and local shops downtown
- Movie history – films like Forrest Gump and The Big Chill used Beaufort as a backdrop
You can join a
historic carriage tour or walking tour to learn about Beaufort’s past, from the Civil War to Gullah culture. It’s a nice mix of history and relaxed coastal vibes.
Think of Beaufort as Hilton Head’s quieter, more historic cousin. Spending half a day here adds depth to your Lowcountry vacation.
7. Visit Hunting Island State Park & Lighthouse
Just east of Beaufort, you’ll find one of South Carolina’s most beautiful natural areas:
Hunting Island State Park. It’s about an hour to an hour and a half from Hilton Head Island, depending on traffic, and it’s worth the drive.
Highlights include:
- 5 miles of unspoiled beach with a wilder, more natural feel
- Maritime forest with palmettos and live oaks
- Lagoon and marsh boardwalks for wildlife viewing
- Historic Hunting Island Lighthouse, which you can often climb when open
The lighthouse views stretch from the tree line to the Atlantic, giving you a different perspective than Hilton Head’s sunny resort beaches.
If you love state parks, birding, or photography, this is one of the best
day trips from Hilton Head Island in the whole region.
8. Sample Lowcountry Seafood and Southern Cooking
A huge part of any Hilton Head Island vacation is the food. This is Lowcountry, after all, and that means:
- Fresh shrimp, oysters, and local fish
- She‑crab soup
- Shrimp and grits
- Fried green tomatoes
- Sweet tea on repeat
You’ll find everything from casual waterfront spots where you can show up in flip‑flops, to higher‑end restaurants perfect for date night.
A few ideas to look for when you’re browsing menus:
- Waterfront dining on Skull Creek or Broad Creek for sunset views
- Lowcountry boils or “Frogmore stew” (shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes)
- Local oysters in season, especially in cooler months
If you’re traveling with picky eaters, no worries – there are plenty of burgers, tacos, and pizza spots too. But at least once, try a classic Lowcountry seafood dish. It’s part of what makes this area unique.
9. Play a Round of Golf or Try Mini Golf
Hilton Head Island is a golf lover’s paradise. The island and nearby areas in Beaufort County are home to more than 20 courses, many designed by big names like Robert Trent Jones and Pete Dye.
If you’re a golfer, you’ll find:
- Oceanfront holes with incredible views
- Challenging layouts surrounded by marsh and live oaks
- Resort courses that welcome visitors
Not ready for 18 holes? No problem. Hilton Head also has fun
mini golf courses that make a great evening activity for families and groups. It’s an easy way to unwind after a beach day.
Whether you’re playing a championship course or putt‑putt with the kids, golf is a classic part of the Hilton Head experience.
10. Shop, Stroll, and Enjoy Live Music at Shelter Cove
When you need a break from the sand and surf, head to
Shelter Cove, located near the center of Hilton Head Island along Broad Creek.
There are actually two connected areas:
- Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina – Waterfront restaurants, boat tours, live music in season.
- Shelter Cove Towne Centre – Shopping, dining, and a park with walking paths.
Depending on the time of year, you might catch:
- Outdoor concerts
- Fireworks shows in summer
- Family festivals with games and activities
It’s one of the best places on Hilton Head to:
- Walk around after dinner
- Let kids burn off energy at the park
- Enjoy a drink while watching boats at the marina
If you’re looking for a relaxed evening without driving too far, Shelter Cove ticks a lot of boxes.
Planning Your Hilton Head Island Getaway
From beaches and bike rides to lighthouses and Lowcountry seafood, there’s no shortage of
things to do near Hilton Head Island. You can keep your days simple – beach in the morning, pool in the afternoon, seafood at night – or mix in day trips to places like
Beaufort and
Hunting Island State Park for more adventure.
A few quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer warm weather with fewer crowds. Summer is lively and hot. Winters are mild and quiet.
- Getting around: A car is helpful, but bikes are a fun way to explore many parts of the island.
- Book ahead: For peak summer weeks and holidays, reserve rentals and tours early.
Share Your Hilton Head Island Experience
Have you been to Hilton Head Island or anywhere else in Beaufort County?
- What was your favorite beach?
- Did you climb a lighthouse or spot dolphins?
- Find a can’t‑miss local restaurant?
Drop your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below — your experience might help someone plan their own Lowcountry getaway.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are thinking about a trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. The more we share, the easier it is for everyone to plan a fun and stress‑free beach vacation.
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