Breezy beaches and plentiful golf courses draw travelers to Hilton Head Island in the South Carolina Lowcountry. This island in Beaufort County offers both a polished resort atmosphere and easy access to natural landscapes and wildlife. There are many things to do on Hilton Head Island including dolphin-watching trips, parasailing adventures, kayaking excursions into wildlife preserves, sunset cruises, and history-focused walking tours, plus popular landmarks such as the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Coastal Discovery Museum. Plus, learn about local wildlife from dolphins and alligators to birds.
Summer is the peak tourist season, with hot temperatures perfect for swimming and other water-based outdoor activities. The official beach season runs from April to September, and you can expect lifeguards on duty at designated swim areas and popular beaches. Visit in the spring and fall for smaller crowds, cheaper prices, and pleasant temperatures, though in fall there is a risk of hurricanes. If you don’t mind slightly cooler weather, winter is a great time to visit.
A bicycle is one of the best ways to get around the island, which offers more than 60 miles (96 kilometers) of biking trails. You can even ride a bike on many beaches with hard-packed sand. Otherwise, a rental car, taxi, or rideshare is your best bet. Although the island is only 42 square miles (109 square kilometers), there is limited public transportation, which includes the seasonal Breeze trolley. Certain resorts and neighborhoods also offer shuttle services.
When planning your trip, consider traveling in winter. Temperatures are relatively mild, with highs around 64°F (18°C) during the day and lows around 42°F (6°C) at night—ideal for taking advantage of the many world-class golf resorts on the island. In fact, a PGA tour event is held here every April. Winter is also a great time for vibrant sunrises and sunsets, fresh seafood, and sport fishing. Prices also will be at their lowest, and the crowds practically non-existent.
