How to Spend a Day in Hilton Head

We just returned from a spring getaway in which we spent a full day in Hilton Head, South Carolina. It’s no surprise why many people visit or even retire in this special place. Hilton Head is an incredibly beautiful, nature-filled, family friendly city with much to offer!

Harbour Town

Located in the Sea Pines Resort, is the waterfront destination with a number of activities. The pier, marina, lighthouse, restaurants, and shops are just some of what you’ll find. We enjoyed strolling along the pier, stopping to take in the surrounding water views. We even witnessed a few dolphins swimming afar! Although we didn’t see any yachts sailing out in the sea, there are boat tours and sightseeing cruises that are offered. A tour desk is located right near the pier. Additionally, Harbour Town has many shops and restaurants as well as a playground and stage area for live events.

We decided to venture up the 144 steps of the lighthouse to take in views of the Lowcountry as well as learn about the history of the island. Inside the lighthouse, we noticed civil war and other historical artifacts as well as memorabilia from the PGA’s Heritage Classic. From the 18th green at Harbour Town Golf Links, golfers take in the incredible view of the iconic red and white striped lighthouse. At the top of the lighthouse, we were able to go out on the deck to take in panoramic views.

Beach Time

Hilton Head is known for it’s long, white sand beaches. One of the more popular areas in Hilton Head is Coligny Beach Park. It’s a short drive from Harbour Town, and is right near Coligny Plaza. Shops and restaurants are plentiful in the area. And, several swings are located under a gazebo area as you walk to the beach. The beach also has matting that leads down closer to the water, and therefore is wheelchair accessible.

Another beach in Hilton Head is Burke’s Beach. This area in particular was our favorite! The area was so quaint, and truly offered the peaceful, relaxing beach vibe. To access the beach, visitors can park at the nearby Chaplin Community Park. This beach is also accessible by a path lined with matting.

On further up the island is Folly Field Beach Park, which is less crowded than other beaches on Hilton Head. This beach has a long boardwalk, followed by a mat-lined path out onto the pristine white sand. Additionally, there is plenty of shore space and visitors can rent lounge chairs and umbrella’s during the season.

Golf Courses

Being a premier golf destination for golf lovers of all levels, Hilton Head is noted as a golfing gem. With over 26 public and private championship golf courses, Hilton Head is ranked #10 as a global golf destination. We are due for a return trip so we can stay long enough to play several golf courses on the island!

Dining

At the edge of Port Royal Sound, is Hudson’s on the Dock. The uniqueness of this restaurant is the long dock that serves as a patio for outside dining along a nearby marina. For lunch, we enjoyed Hudson’s fresh, local seafood along with adult beverages. We highly recommend their She Crab Soup and Fried Flounder sandwich!

Also, just around the corner is the Skull Creek Boathouse which overlooks Skull Creek and the marina.

On our way out of Hilton Head, we stopped at Burnt Church Distillery in Bluffton, South Carolina. Located in a beautiful building, the unique establishment has a large Sanctuary where guests can indulge in signature cocktails, food, and curated flights. We enjoyed the bourbon cream flight along with their cocktail of the month. Afterwards, we visited the gift shop. What a neat place – the atmosphere and grounds are spectacular!

In summary, we look forward to another visit to Hilton Head in the near future. With favorable, year-round weather, true southern hospitality and beautiful nature – it’s no wonder why Hilton Head is a spectacular vacation destination!

For a similar day trip to another beach town nearby, check out Tybee Island!

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