Are you planning your beach vacation and looking for the best things to do in Hilton Head? As a 20+ year local resident and boat charter captain, I have some pretty unique insights regarding water sports that I would like to share with you. Not only will this article save you hours of research online, but it will also help you take your group vacation to the next level.
Nestled along the stunning South Carolina coastline, Hilton Head Island is an absolute paradise for water sports enthusiasts. With its shimmering waters and warm southern breezes, this charming destination offers a plethora of exhilarating water sports activities that cater to every age group. From serene kayaking adventures on Broad Creek to adrenaline-pumping parasailing out in the Calibogue Sound, there are a buffet of things to do in Hilton Head that cater seasoned athletes and eager beginners alike.
Being an adventurous kind of person, and spending as much time out on the water as I do, I have spent quite a bit of time getting to know the island’s water sports scene. What I have come to really appreciate is the wide range of options that are out there. Whether you are a laid-back family vacationer seeking a leisurely sail by Harbour Town, or an adventure seeker hungry for high-speed jet skiing off of Spanish Wells, Hilton Head has something for everyone.
So, what are the best things to do in Hilton Head as it relates to water sports?
Things to do in Hilton Head – What is the best Hilton Head Dolphin Tour Experience?
- Hilton Head Boat Charters – See above. Is the highest rated private boat charter service on HHI. Check out this article.
- Vagabond – Runs out of Harbour Town. This is your best low-cost option.
- Salty Dog – Has your double decker sunset, dolphin, and party cruise all in one.
The best way to experience Hilton Head and get up close and personal with our flippered friends is by cruising the low country waters surrounding our island paradise. This is by far one of the best things to do in Hilton Head for groups.
Things to do in Hilton Head – Who has the Best in Shore Charter Fishing Hilton Head?
- HHInshore – Thomas is a total wizard, and he is always on the fish. He has a pretty nice setup too. Book well in advance.
- Captain Buddy – Knows these waters like the back of his hand and is a total trip. Lots of tour options beyond just fishing (shark teeth, Eco Tours!)
- Off Duty – Not only can Richard find the local honey holes, but he is also a great guy to boot.
We know all of these guys really well and have run off the same docks as they do for years. They are all really reputable and are exceptionally skilled at their craft.
Who has the best Deep Sea Hilton Head Island Fishing Charters?
OFFSHORE FISHING IMAGE
- Salty Mistress – These guys ton it. Every time I see them they are wheelbarrowing fish off of their boat!
- Bulldog Fishing – Went out twice with my friends and we limited out both times! Had a fun time hanging out in the Bulldog Tuna tower as well.
Both of these groups are out of the North End of the Island and are super easy to get to. When your charter is back at the dock, there are a number of great bars and restaurants nearby where you can share your fish tales – Skull Creek Boathouse, Dockside and Hudson’s Seafood.
Things to do in Hilton Head –Who has the best Hilton Head Party Fishing Boat?
- Captain Hook (70’) – The most booked party boat around. We see them all the time hooking fish by the mouth of the May River. Run out of Shelter Cove.
- Drifter – Run out of Palmetto Bay Marina. They have a 60’ party fishing boat, and are family owned and operated. We see them out in the Calibogue Sound all the time.
Either of these options will work out great for you if you have a group that wants to fish, and you do not mind being on a boat with other groups. Not to mention it is going to save you money vs. a private charter. Both charter groups have everything you need for fishing including rod, reel, bait, fishing license and instruction (if needed).
Who has the best charters for Hilton Head Shark Fishing?
Outcast – Why charter with the rest when you can go with the best? Captain Chip is a legend in Hilton Head and regularly appears on Shark Week and makes national news catching and tagging great white sharks off Hilton Head. Word to the wise – book at least 6 months to a year out because he books solid through the summer, we have seen it first-hand three years in a row.
Who has the best Hilton Head Island Jet Ski rentals?
- Sea Monkeys – Zero no wake zones, north end of the island, nice skis, my #1 recommendation.
- Low Country Water Sports – Palmetto Bay Marina, south end. Terrific location, close to the Calibogue Sound, and restaurants too!
- H20 Sports – Very convenient – in Sea Pines. You launch right in front of the Lighthouse!
There are a variety of other vendors to choose from as well. But when we are out there on our private boat charters – these are the groups that we see the most and are definitely having the most fun. Right up there with booking a private boat charter, jet skiing is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Hilton Head. 0p
Things to do in Hilton Head – Who has the best Hilton Head Parasailing?
- Island Head – Multiple boats, great crew, and an excellent reputation. They are our #1 recommendation. Run out of Hilton Head Harbor on the north end.
- Sky Pirate – Captain Doug and his team run out of Broad Creek Marina and are always out in the Calibogue. You cannot miss them when you are out there – they have a giant pirate logo on their parachute! Arrgh!
Offering you unparalleled views of Hilton Head , Daufuskie, and the Atlantic Ocean parasailing is definitely for the more adventurous at heart. If you are not that daring – for a small fee you can also ride along and watch your close relatives dangle from a steel cable while a boat is pulling them at high rates of speed hundreds of feet in the air.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning vacationer, I truly hope that that the insights that I have shared on things to do in Hilton Head and its water sports scene help you create lasting vacation memories.
