LBAC Travel Planner, Sarah Chapman shares her recent family trip to Hilton Head, South Carolina. Contact Sarah today to plan your next dream vacation!
Hilton Head Island is a wonderful year-round vacation destination for families, couples, and groups. Located in coastal South Carolina’s Low Country the diversity of activities make Hilton Head a must-visit spot.
Fun For Foodies
Fresh seafood straight out of the ocean, southern cooking, and rich Gullah heritage all flavor the menus found on Hilton Head Island and the surrounding areas. You will find a variety of options from casual waterfront outdoor dining, take out, and fine dining experiences. You really won’t go wrong no matter where you pick, and if you find regional Low Country specialties on the menu like Shrimp and Grits or a Low Country Boil we recommend you give those a try. A few of our favorite spots are: Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks gorgeous views from their expansive outdoor dining over the water (try to time it for sunset) and the freshest seafood; The Sea Shack an unassuming little place with take out featuring simple seafood dishes wonderfully prepared; Cahill’s Market and Chicken Kitchen in Bluffton where a dining room and al fresco seating serve up fresh southern cooking straight from the farm.
Outdoor Lovers
Hilton Head Island has no shortage of activities for those who love to get outside. Whether you want to relax on the beach or kayak through the creeks there is something for every energy level. One thing you will want for sure is a bicycle. You can bring your own or rent one from one of the many shops on the island for your stay. Hilton Head has miles of bike paths and it is a fun way to tour around the island. Another way to explore is on the water. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards, or you can sign up for a guided kayak tour with an experienced naturalist to show you the beauty of the island’s ecosystems. If you want to experience the waterways but not under your own power, there are options to book a dolphin cruise. On the island there are a few walking/hiking trails through maritime forests, and just off the island is the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge with several additional trails to explore. And, of course, you can relax in a beach chair and enjoy the fresh ocean air.
History Buffs
Hilton Head is surrounded by history. On the island you can find the Coastal Discovery Museum at Historic Honey Horn, the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head, the Harbor Town Lighthouse you can climb with some exhibits as you go up, and other historic sites including ancient centuries old live oaks. You can take a day trip to Bluffton just over on the mainland where you’ll find a quaint downtown and a historical museum. A day trip to Savannah, Georgia is less than an hour away with all the wonderful historic sites to tour there. Beaufort, South Carolina is about 45 minutes away for more touring. Just be sure to check the current operation hours and procedures for any place you want to visit.
Savvy Shoppers
Hilton Head Island is also a great destination for shopping. A girl’s getaway would have a great time stopping in to the boutiques on the island and the outlet shopping just over the bridge. You will find unique clothing, accessories, jewelry, antiques, local arts & crafts, and home décor in the area. The historic Bluffton downtown is also a fun shopping destination with great little shops and is a very walkable area.
Daufuskie Island Day Trip
For those looking for adventure there is a paid ferry to Daufuskie Island (reservations required) which is only accessible by boat. This little island gives you all the above in a remote island location. There is delicious dining, shopping including some amazing local art galleries, and lots of history including glimpses at the Native American culture that once flourished in this area, and the Gullah culture that remains strong on the island due to its isolation. Several historic sites are found on Daufuskie Island. There are options for a guided tour of the island with time to enjoy the sites, or you can tour on your own.
Resort Relaxation
Hilton Head Island offers a variety of accommodations for every vacation wish list. Your LBAC Travel Advisor can help you find just the right fit for your travel party based on size, location, and budget. Some of our favorites are operated by major companies like Disney, Hilton, Marriott and Omni, and offer hotel rooms and multi-room “home away from home” villas.
Hilton Head Island is a multi-faceted vacation destination with a little bit of something for everyone. There are so many activities that families, couples or groups could be occupied doing different things for a weeklong stay. It is relaxing, active, laid back, upscale . . . whatever you want it to be for your perfect getaway.
Contact Sarah today to plan your next dream vacation!
Take the Trip 