Slow down your pace on America’s chillest island
If you’re wondering why Hilton Head, South Carolina, always seems to win those lists of the world’s favorite islands, maybe it’s time for a visit. Once you come here and see the diversity of things to do — world-class golf, fresh-caught seafood, gorgeous beaches, wildlife preserves — you’ll begin to understand. What puts Hilton Head over the top is the island’s low-key vibe, the result of strict development guidelines and the genuine sense of Southern hospitality. Bonus points for the year-round temperate weather and natural beauty (think Lowcountry creeks and Spanish moss–draped oak trees).
Where to Stay
Marriott’s Barony Beach Club
A family favorite for good reason, the beachfront Marriott’s Barony Beach Club has multiple pools (including one with a twisty-turny waterslide), bocce and shuffleboard courts, bike rentals for exploring the island, and plenty more activities. The two-bedroom villas come with fully fitted kitchens and plush living rooms. Fire pits and poolside cabanas make it easy to get out of doors but still maintain social distancing.
Ocean Oak Resort
Named after the region’s famously moss-draped trees, Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations has luxury suites with a stylish gray-and-white palette. Kitchens are spotless and private balconies are perfect for watching the sunset. Ready to hit the beach? You don’t have to walk far: The resort has direct access to the sand. Also on-site: two heated pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a small restaurant by the pool.
Marriott’s Grande Ocean
Try ocean kayaking during your stay at Marriott’s Grande Ocean, keeping your eyes peeled for Hilton Head sea life, including dolphins, stingrays, and loggerhead turtles. Prefer to remain on dry land? This modern resort has three golf courses (Oyster Reef, Port Royal Course, Shipyard Courses) and a buzzy pool bar that’s perfect for post-game celebrating. Back in your suite, a whirlpool bathtub will help you wind down.
Bluewater Resort & Marina
Not a beach person? Bluewater Resort & Marina is located directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, with a private dock that’s perfect for fishing, kayaking, and taking in the spectacular sunsets from across a nature preserve. Condo-style units have a breezy Key West style, with granite countertops in the kitchens, washer/dryers, and balconies. You can still go for a dip, of course — the pool is one of the island’s largest.
What Not to Miss
Hilton Head is synonymous with golf. The island has more than 40 courses, including 24 championship courses, many designed by some of the biggest names in the sport. It’s also a PGA Tour event destination and hosts the annual RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing — so time your visit right and you might get to watch of the biggest names in action.
Whatever your skill level, Hilton Head has a course to suit. Pros should check out the Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort, an award-winning par-71 course that covers 7,099 yards of flat terrain. Its 18th hole faces Hilton Head’s famous lighthouse, and is made trickier by a stiff breeze blowing off the Calibogue Sound. Looking for a beginner or child-friendly course? Heron Point, also at Sea Pines, is one of the island’s most popular courses, and includes junior tees for little golfers.
Best Authentic Eats
Photo Credit: Hudson's Seafood House
Hilton Head has a proud culinary tradition all its own, an enticing combo of fresh local seafood and Lowcountry traditions. The oysters here are particularly delicious here, so book a table at The Old Oyster Factory, a spacious restaurant overlooking a creek, where the bivalves come cooked (try the Lowcountry Rockefeller, with collard greens, pimiento cheese, and red pepper jam) or raw on the half shell. At Hudson’s, perched on the waterfront at Port Royal Sound, you can watch the fishing boats unload the fresh catch that will make its way into your plate; the Low Country Boil, with local shell-on shrimp, smoked sausage, corn, and potatoes, is a highlight.
For rib-sticking Southern fare, make your way to A Lowcountry Backyard and order the house special: shrimp and grits with smoked sausage, shaved green onion, and applewood bacon cream sauce. And don’t miss the Crab & Avocado Toast at Jane Bistro & Bar, a favorite for brunch.
Sweet tooths should make a beeline to The Frozen Moo, a family-owned ice cream parlor with more than 90 flavors, including Key lime pie, strawberry cheesecake, and mocha almond fudge.
Best Locally Owned Shops
Photo Credit: Carolyn Adams
Retail therapy is easy in Hilton Head, with several shopping enclaves offering a mix of national brands and local boutiques. Shelter Cove Towne Center adds a good selection of restaurants and a playground to keep the kids entertained. At the Village at Wexford, you can browse while listening to live music (Jazz Corner and Porter & Pig both have regular performances). Or stop by Main Street Village, location of some of the island’s oldest and most traditional local shops.
Splurge on chic, Southern-inflected women’s apparel at Spartina449, founded on neighboring Daufuskie Island, and at Fab’rik, where the proceeds help support women in need. Pick up gifts for friends and family at Camp Hilton Head, or invest in American-made jewelry, blown glass, ceramics and furniture at Nash Gallery.
Best Kept Secret
Photo Credit: https://www.daufuskietrailrides.com/
Daufuskie, located just across the sound from Hilton Head itself, is a small barrier island with just 400 residents spread over 5,000 acres. Explore its unspoiled wilderness on horseback: Daufuskie Trail Rides is a boutique stable offering private tours along miles of deserted white-sand beach or through the island’s wooded interior. The sensation of riding alongside the ocean with barely a soul in sight is a uniquely lovely experience.
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