Hilton Head’s 12 miles of beaches and relaxed vibe have been attracting families and travelers for years. With two dozen golf courses spread across the island’s 25,000 acres—including the world-famous Harbour Town Golf Links—it’s a golfer’s paradise. The warm, breezy weather also makes it perfect for top-tier tennis and fantastic inshore fishing. Plus, a network of paved bike trails lets you explore the entire island on two wheels.
Before 1956, when the first bridge was built, Hilton Head was a quiet Southern island. It got its name from Captain William Hilton, who claimed it for Britain in 1663. Hundreds of enslaved people once worked its cotton and rice plantations until Union soldiers freed them in 1861, paving the way for a century of Gullah-Geechee culture. By the 1960s, tourism began booming.
Today, Hilton Head’s rich history shines through—whether in a fresh tray of oysters at Hudson’s Seafood House or the sweetgrass baskets at the Coastal Discovery Museum. New influences, like chef Philippe Feret of Hilton Head Social Bakery, add a global touch, while spots like Lowcountry Backyard keep traditions alive.
Hilton Head is all about unwinding—whether you’re teeing off at a championship course or just biking with family between the beach and a pool. It’s the kind of place where slowing down and soaking in the Lowcountry way of life is the whole point.
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time
Best Time to Go
Summer brings Hilton Head to life as families flock here for vacation. But the sweet spots are April-May (aside from the RBC Heritage tournament) and September-October (unless a hurricane’s lurking). These months offer warm ocean water, temps in the 80s, and fewer crowds. Winter slows things down, leaving beaches peaceful and empty.
Things to Know
Hilton Head may seem small, but driving end-to-end can take 30+ minutes in peak season. Pick lodging based on where you’ll spend the most time. Sea Pines Resort covers the south half with beaches, shops, and restaurants galore. Meanwhile, north-end beaches (like near The Westin) stay less crowded. Golfers, book tee times early—this is a top-tier destination.
How to Get Around
Unless you’re staying put at one resort, you’ll need a car. Uber and Lyft are also available.
For Sea Pines Resort guests, a free trolley runs between Harbour Town, South Beach Marina, and the beach.
Want to explore Daufuskie Island or Savannah? Hop on the Spirit of Harbour Town with Vagabond Cruise for a scenic river ride and four hours to explore.
Best Hotels
1. Beach House, a Holiday Inn Resort
2. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
3. The Inn & Club at Harbour Town
Overlooking Harbour Town Golf Links, this elegant inn offers luxe rooms, poolside service, and dining at The Links restaurant.
4. Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations
5. Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
Great for couples or families, with three pools, hot tubs, a splash pad, and ocean-view balconies. Tennis and golf are nearby.
6. Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
With five restaurants and a huge pool complex, you won’t need to leave. Rooms are spacious, and the Arum Spa offers pampering.
7. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
Oceanfront luxury with fine dining at Carolina Room and easy access to top golf and tennis.
Best Restaurants
8. Hilton Head Social Bakery
Chef Philippe Feret’s pastries rival Paris—think homemade quiche and stuffed baguettes. Waterfront seating adds charm.
9. Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
A local institution since 1967, Hudson’s grows its own oysters. The vibe is casual, with a first-come, first-served policy.
10. Links, an American Grill
Surf, turf, and creative specials like huli-huli tuna make this a standout. Reservations recommended.
11. A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant
Authentic Southern flavors (think crab cakes and Lowcountry Boil) with live acoustic music. No reservations needed.
12. Lucky Rooster Kitchen + Bar
Locally sourced dishes like braised pork ragout pasta shine. Great cocktails and brunch, too.
13. Ombra Cucina Italiana
Classic Italian with house-made ravioli and veal medallions. Reservations recommended.
14. One Hot Mama’s
Southern BBQ with a Filipino twist. No reservations—just cold beers and a lively bar scene.
15. Santa Fe Cafe
Big portions of fajitas, burritos, and blackened redfish. Rooftop cantina for weekend fun.
Things to Do
16. Coastal Discovery Museum
Part museum, part nature preserve with trails, a butterfly garden, and Gullah-Geechee exhibits. Free admission.
17. Coligny Beach Park
Free parking, restrooms, and beach swings make this a family favorite. Tiki Hut’s live music adds to the fun.
18. Folly Field Beach Park
Less crowded, with lifeguards in summer and metered parking.
19. Harbour Town Golf Links
A world-class course hosting the RBC Heritage tournament.
20. Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum
Climb the iconic lighthouse for marshland views and island history exhibits.
21. Outside Hilton Head
Rent paddleboards, book fishing charters, or take a boat tour.
22. Pirates of Hilton Head
A kid-friendly pirate adventure with water cannons and face paint.
23. Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Hike past a 4,000-year-old shell ring and spot sunbathing gators.
24. Stoney-Baynard Ruins
18th-century tabby ruins hidden in a Sea Pines neighborhood.
25. Zipline Hilton Head
Eight ziplines, including a 900-foot finale race through the trees.
Best Shopping
26. The Bird’s Nest Jewelry & Handbags
Charm bracelets, beach totes, and Lowcountry-themed gifts.
27. Coligny Plaza
Beachwear, ice cream, and a Piggly Wiggly near Coligny Beach.
28. Haskins & Co.
Affordable island-style dresses and jewelry.
29. The Shops at Sea Pines Center
Boutiques for stationery, local food, and home décor.
30. Village at Wexford
Upscale shopping, from Lilly Pulitzer to kitchenware.
31. Salty Dog T-Shirt Factory
Grab the iconic shaggy-dog T-shirt as a souvenir.
Weather
Hilton Head’s subtropical climate means mild winters and breezy summers. Afternoon showers are common in August, but sunshine dominates.