Hilton Head, SC

Weekend Getaway

The Lowcountry's Premier Island Resort

Hilton Head Island is one of the Southeast's most beloved resort destinations, offering 12 miles of pristine beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and a carefully preserved natural environment where development blends seamlessly with maritime forests and tidal marshlands.

The island is famous for its championship golf, with more than two dozen courses including Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the annual RBC Heritage tournament. But Hilton Head offers far more than fairways - over 60 miles of multi-use pathways make it a cyclist's paradise, and the surrounding waters provide exceptional kayaking, dolphin watching, and fishing.

Gullah culture enriches the island with its unique heritage, cuisine, and traditions dating back centuries. Combined with excellent restaurants, upscale shopping at Harbour Town and Coligny Plaza, and a relaxed island pace, Hilton Head delivers a refined yet laid-back escape perfect for families, couples, and golf enthusiasts alike.

Essential Information

Quick Facts

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Best Season

Apr-Jun & Sep-Oct

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Avg Temperature

52-90°F

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Budget Range

$150-450/day

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Drive Time

2-6 hrs from SE hubs

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Known For

Golf & Beaches

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Bike Paths

60+ miles of trails

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Ideal Trip

4-7 Days

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Best For

Families & Golfers

Must-Do Activities

Top Experiences

Beach Day on Coligny

Spend the day on Hilton Head's wide, hard-packed beaches perfect for walking, biking, building sandcastles, and swimming in the warm Atlantic waters near Coligny Beach Park.

Championship Golf

Tee off at legendary Harbour Town Golf Links with its iconic lighthouse, or choose from over 24 other world-class courses designed by golf's greatest architects across the island.

Dolphin Nature Cruise

Set sail on a dolphin watching cruise through the island's tidal creeks and coastal waters, where Atlantic bottlenose dolphins regularly play and feed alongside the boat.

Harbour Town Lighthouse

Visit the iconic red and white striped Harbour Town Lighthouse, browse the charming shops and galleries at the marina, and watch yachts sail in at sunset from the waterfront.

Island Bike Trail

Rent bikes and explore over 60 miles of paved pathways winding through maritime forests, past lagoons, and along the beach. It is the best way to experience the island's natural beauty.

Lowcountry Dining

Savor fresh Lowcountry cuisine at waterfront restaurants, from crispy fried shrimp and she-crab soup to upscale Southern dining at acclaimed spots throughout the island.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Recommended

Late Spring (Apr-Jun)

68-86°F

Warm beach weather, blooming flowers, and the excitement of RBC Heritage golf tournament in April. Water warms up for swimming by late May. Ideal conditions overall.

Recommended

Early Fall (Sep-Oct)

68-82°F

Warm water, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices. Perfect golf weather and excellent fishing. Watch for tropical weather during hurricane season.

Summer (Jul-Aug)

78-90°F

Peak family beach season with warmest temperatures. Highest prices and most crowded. Afternoon thunderstorms are common but brief. Book well in advance for holiday weeks.

Winter (Nov-Mar)

48-65°F

Mild and peaceful. Great for golf and biking. Lowest prices with many off-season deals. Some restaurants reduce hours. Perfect for those seeking quiet relaxation.

Helpful Advice

Travel Tips

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Rent Bikes Immediately

Biking is the best way to get around the island. Rent bikes on arrival and use the extensive pathway system to reach beaches, restaurants, shops, and attractions car-free.

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Choose Your Plantation

The island is organized into gated resort communities called plantations. Sea Pines is the most famous, but Palmetto Dunes, Shipyard, and Port Royal each offer unique character and amenities.

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Low Tide Beach Time

Check the tide charts. At low tide, the beach expands dramatically, creating a firm surface perfect for biking, walking, and shell hunting. The tide pools are fascinating for kids.

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Reservation Essential

Top restaurants fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Make dinner reservations at popular spots like Michael Anthony's, Charlie's, and Old Oyster Factory well in advance.

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Explore Daufuskie Island

Take a short ferry to nearby Daufuskie Island for a glimpse into Gullah heritage and unspoiled Lowcountry life. The island has no bridges and retains a wonderfully remote charm.

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Bug Spray at Dusk

Sand gnats and mosquitoes can be intense at dawn and dusk, especially near marshes. Bring effective insect repellent and consider lightweight long sleeves for evening outdoor dining.

Visual Journey

Photo Gallery