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. Hilton Head Island boasts something for everyone, whether you’re soaking up the sun on its pristine beaches, kayaking through calm coastal waters, or hiking scenic nature trails. Must-see spots include the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, the lush Sea Pines Forest Preserve, and the lively Shelter Cove Harbour.
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:
1. What are the best beaches in Hilton Head?
2. What are the best beach activities in Hilton Head?
3. What are the best Beachfront resorts in Hilton Head?
4. What Are the best Beachfront restaurants in Hilton Head?
What are the Best Beaches in Hilton Head?
From lounging on sandy shores to immersing yourself in the island’s rich natural beauty, Hilton Head Island is packed with things to do. Here’s our definitive list of 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 a pavilion to help keep you out of the hot sun.
Mitchellville Beach: Is a bit more rustic, quieter for sure, and the parking is a little sparse.
Hilton Head Island isn’t consistently ranked as the top beach destination 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!
For more about Hilton Head’s Beaches
What Are the Best Beach Activities Near Me When Staying in Hilton Head?
Hilton Head Dolphin Tours – The best way to experience Hilton Head Island is by water. Set out on a scenic tour to see the island’s amazing dolphins in their natural habitat.
Water Sports – Hilton Head Island offers a wide variety of water sports. Whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or trying something new, HHI has it all for the adventure seeker.
Fishing – Hilton Head Island is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. From redfish and trout to flounder and sharks, there’s no shortage of fish to catch.
Bike HHI – With 60 miles of bike trails and the stunning Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge to explore, biking around Hilton Head Island is an unforgettable experience.
Catch a Sunset – Hilton Head Island is known for its legendary sunsets, offering breathtaking views that make the perfect ending to any day.
There are so many activities to enjoy in Hilton Head Island that it’s hard to list them all—zip-lining, go-carting, bowling, shopping, horseback riding, dining, and more! Don’t forget to take a ferry to explore Daufuskie Island. One of our favorite ways to cruise around is by golf cart with our friends at Explore Daufuskie. The options are endless for fun and adventure in this beautiful coastal destination!
Where are the Best Places to Stay in Hilton Head Island?
Top Beachfront Resorts in Hilton Head
Sea Pines – Located on the south end of Hilton Head Island, this area offers beach access, Harbour Town, golf courses, tennis facilities, stables, and a variety of restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a well-rounded vacation experience.
Palmetto Dunes – Situated in the mid-island region, Palmetto Dunes is known for its beach access, golf courses, pickleball courts, and bike rentals, offering plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Westin – A top choice for business travelers, this hotel allows you to use your Marriott points. It’s the only hotel you should consider for a professional, yet relaxing stay on Hilton Head Island.
The Vacation Company – Specializing in weekly rentals of high-end single-family homes, The Vacation Company offers private residences that are perfect for a more secluded and luxurious stay.
There is no shortage of quality resorts, hotels, and private residences available for rent during your dream Hilton Head beach vacation. Additionally, platforms like VRBO and Airbnb provide excellent options for finding a great place to stay, offering a variety of choices to suit different preferences and budgets
What Are the Best Beachfront Restaurants in Hilton Head, SC?
The Boathouse – Amazing food, great views, and a 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, with great seafood and the best waterfront views on HHI.
A couple of local insider tips regarding restaurants here on the island in high season:
- Go well before sunset to any of these places to avoid the wait.
- If you don’t mind eating at the bar, you likely won’t need a reservation.
- If you aren’t willing to wait, have a backup restaurant.
- 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.
Your Hilton Head Island Guide to Planning Your Beach Adventure in South Carolina
One of the best ways to ensure you make the most of your Hilton Head Island vacation is to plan your activities well in advance. As soon as you’ve booked your accommodations, start securing your favorite activities. This way, when you and your family arrive on the island, you won’t have to scramble to figure out what to do. Instead, you can focus on getting everyone settled into your resort or rental home, and enjoying your first night without any added stress. By planning ahead, you’ll set yourself up for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience. You’ll be able to unwind and create lasting memories with your family, all while recharging in the beautiful coastal setting of Hilton Head Island.
I hope this guide has provided valuable insight to help you plan the perfect beach getaway. Just remember, Hilton Head Island’s beaches offer something for everyone. It’s not just about sand and surf; it’s about crafting unforgettable experiences in a place that brings together natural beauty, recreational activities, and vibrant local culture.
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.
