Things to do in Hilton Head with Kids – Beaches & Water Activities Edition
Are you planning your beach vacation to Hilton Head and looking to get the inside scoop on what beaches and water activities are the best for your kids? If you are, then you have come to the right spot! 20-year local resident and private boat charter captain shares his insight on the island’s top beaches and things to do in Hilton Head with kids.
Best Things to do in Hilton Head with Kids – Beaches
I get this question a bunch when I am out on the water with guests, “what are the best beaches to go to in Hilton Head? The good news – is that Hilton Head Island has over twelve miles of unspoiled beach and seven different public beaches to choose from. There is a reason publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure rank Hilton head as the #1 Island in the U.S. year-after-year. There’s a reason why this is by far and away at the very top of the list of things to do in Hilton Head with kids – Hilton Head’s beach game is strong!
Our Top Beaches:
1. Coligny Beach Park: This spot is the most popular and busiest beach on Hilton Head. My kids absolutely adore it! The entrance greets you with a bustling fountain that kids will not leave if you let them. The short walk to the beach features places to relax, bathrooms, and showers to wash all of that glorious sand off your feet.
Pro tip – Even better, a short hop away there’s tons of shopping and restaurants right across the street at Coligny Plaza. Go check out the Big Bamboo or the Frosty Frog for a quick bite and a drink.
2. Burkes Beach: This beach is definitely quieter and less crowder than Coligny. Located close to Shelter Cove, Burkes beach is ideal for biking, shell hunting, swimming, or just chilling out. If you are looking for that laid-back family vibe, Burkes Beach is the place.
3. Driessen Beach Park:** I love this beach. This mid-island gem feels like you are walking through a little maritime forest as a boardwalk leads you all the way to the beach. Driessen beach also has a playground for the little ones and picnic tables beneath a pavilion to help keep you out of the hot sun should you need a break.
4. Mitchellville Beach Park: This beach is definitely different from all the rest of the beaches on the island. It is certainly more rustic and parking a little sparse. But if you are looking to get away from beach crowds, this one is a winner for sure.
Activities – What are the best things to do in Hilton Head with kids?
This is another really popular question that I get all the time. People are like – “Ok, we have gone to the beach so what are the other best things to do in Hilton Head?” Here are some of my top picks for the best things to do in Hilton Head with kids while on vacation: top five picks for fun activities on your vacation:
1. Book a Private Hilton Head Boat Charter:
The best way to experience Hilton head is from the water. There is a whole other side to the island filled with lush landscapes and amazing maritime creatures. Why not hop on your own two-hour Hilton Head Dolphin Cruise https://hhiboatcharters.com/private-hilton-head-dolphin-tours/or Sunset Cruise? https://hhiboatcharters.com/hilton-head-sunset-cruise/
2. Water Sports:
There are so many options here. From jet skiing, parasailing, tubing and beyond, there are literally too many to cover. From our POV, the best of the bunch for jet skiing is https://www.seamonkeyshhi.com/ For parasailing and tubing – check out our friends at Island Head | Boat Rentals, Water Sports & Parasailing Hilton Head, SC Island Head
3. Fishing:
Hilton Head is an absolute fishing paradise! Year after year Hilton Head ranks at the very top of the list for fishing destinations in the continental US. This is one of the best things to do in Hilton Head with kids.
In Shore Fishing
Captain Thomas is amazing. Fun, personable, and always on the fish. Hilton Head In Shore Charters
Captain Buddy is also one of the top fishing captains around, you can find him here Captain Buddy
Offshore Fishing
We have been out multiple times with Bulldog Fishing Charters and had an absolute blast. We limited out both times. Check them out here – https://bulldogfishingcharters.com/contact-us/
Large Group Fishing
If you have more than four people that want to fish, your best shot at getting out there for a good time is to go on a large group boat like Captain Hook. We see these guys out all of the time and they always have a full boat – so you know that they are definitely doing it right. https://www.captainhookhiltonhead.com/
Shark Fishing
Captain Chip is a local shark fishing legend. He is featured on the Discovery Channel on Shark Week pretty much every year. You simply cannot go wrong with Captain Chip https://www.outcastfishing.com/
Conclusion
Hilton Head offers plenty of ways to keep the whole family entertained, from its stunning beaches to exciting water activities. Whether you’re soaking up the sun at Coligny Beach or setting out on a private boat charter, there’s no shortage of adventures to create lasting memories. So pack your bags, hit the sand, and let the fun begin!
