Are you planning a family beach vacation to the island and looking for insight on the top places to go and things to do in Hilton Head? If you are, then you have absolutely come to the right spot.
Living on Hilton Head Island for the past twenty years I have gleaned a lot of knowledge through trial and error. As a private boat charter captain and partner with Hilton Head Boat Charters (Sorry, shameless plug – couldn’t help myself) I am constantly being asked for my personal recommendations as well. So, what I figured that I would do is commit the most common questions that I get asked to paper so that I could share to a much wider audience.
In this article, I’m going to cover my recommendations for the four most common questions that I get asked about Hilton Head beaches:
- What are the best beaches in Hilton Head?
- What are the best beach activities in Hilton Head?
- What are the best Beachfront resorts in Hilton Head?
- What Are the best Beachfront restaurants in Hilton Head?
What are the Best Beaches in Hilton Head?
Coligny Beach: The most popular beach on HHI. Kids love the entry fountain.
Burkes Beach: Is quieter, less crowded and ideal for biking, shell hunting, and swimming.
Driessen Beach: Has a playground, picnic tables and pavilion to help keep you out of the hot sun.
Mitchellville Beach: Is a bit more rustic, quieter for sure, and the parking a little sparse.
Hilton Head Island isn’t consistently ranked as the top beach destinations in the US by Conde Nast for no reason. We have over twelve miles of beach and over seven public beaches. In short, Hilton Head Island has some serious beach game!
What Are the Best Beach Activities in Hilton Head?
Private Boat Charter – The best way to experience HHI is from the water.
Water Sports – Kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and more. HHI has it all.
Fishing – HHI is a fishing paradise! Redfish, trout, flounder, shark and more
Bike HHI – We have 60 miles of trails and Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge.
Catch a Sunset – Our sunsets are beyond legendary!
There are so many things to do in Hilton Head that there isn’t space enough to list them – zip lining, go carting, bowling, shopping, horseback riding, dining, and I didn’t get a chance to mention checking out Daufuskie Island with Tour Daufuskie.
What are the Best Beachfront Resorts in Hilton Head?
Sea Pines – South end. Beach access, Harbour Town, golf, tennis, stables, and restaurants.
Palmetto Dunes – Mid island. Beach access, golf, pickle ball and bike rentals
The Westin – For business travelers, burn your Marriott points here. The only hotel option you should consider.
The Vacation Company – Weekly rentals for high-end single-family homes.
There are no shortage of quality resorts, hotels and private residences that you can rent for on your dream Hilton Head beach vacation. As a side note – VRBO and Airbnb are great resources to find a great place to stay as well.
What Are the Best Beachfront Restaurants in Hilton Head?
The Boathouse – Amazing food, great views, and broad menu. Busiest restaurant on HHI.
Hudson’s – If seafood is your game, then Hudson’s is your place.
Ela’s– Upscale, great seafood, and spectacular marina views.
Dockside – Casual dining, great food, views, drinks, and a playground!
Quarterdeck – Upscale, great seafood, and best waterfront views on HHI.
A couple of local insider tips – 1. Go well before sunset to any of these places to avoid the wait. 2. If you don’t mind eating at the bar, you likely won’t need a reservation. 3. If you aren’t willing to wait, have a backup restaurant. 4. When you book your accommodations, make your dinner reservations as well. If you are waiting until the week of your vacation to make reservations, you aren’t going to be very lucky.
Planning Your Hilton Head Beach Adventure
My final tip on how to make the most of your vacation is to plan your activities and things to do in Hilton Head way in advance. As soon as you book your accommodations, you should be locking in all your preferred activities. That way, when you arrive with your family and all pile out of the car, all you have to worry about is getting your small army loaded into the house and fed on that very first night. Plan in advance and I promise you that your vacation is going to be a whole lot less stressful, and you can spend quality time with your family while relaxing and recharging your batteries.
So, I hope that this article has provided a good bit of local insight and helps you plan your perfect beach vacation. Just remember, Hilton Head’s beaches offer something for everyone. It is more than just sand; it is a canvas for unforgettable memories!
Oh, and whenever you get here, be sure to give us a holler at Hilton Head Boat Charters and we can show you the absolute best of the “other side” of the island.
