Hilton Head Island can provide relaxation or many fun things to do. Whether you are young or old, couple or family, I can guarantee you will find something that you want to do!
On a recent visit to Hilton Head Island, we stayed at Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort. We are huge Disney fans and members of the Disney Vacation Club. The resort offers many activities without ever leaving the resort. Check out my post on staying at Disney Hilton Head Island Resort.
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But, adventurous folks as we are 🙂 we found additional things to do.
Seeing Hilton Head Island From The Air
We have been on several helicopter tours on vacations, so when I saw an ad for FlyHHI, we had to check it out. We booked a late afternoon flight, picking their Island Explorer tour which covers over 30 miles and most of the Island.
At first, I was worried that we were going to be too late in the day to see things well. I was wrong! Look at that beautiful sunset!
Our pilot, Isaiah, was a great guide. FlyHHI is an experienced, safety-first company. Isaiah explained the rules and safety procedures. Even though he knew we had taken several helicopter rides before this one, he made sure we knew all the safety precautions – nothing is left to chance. He buckled us in and explained what was going to happen as we lifted off. Helicopters are a safe and exciting way to see Hilton Head Island.
We got a birds-eye view of our resort and Shelter Cove Marina. The Disney resort is located in a live oak tree-covered area so it’s hard to see it all, but you can see the red-roofed units above and there are buildings hidden in the trees.
One of the most well-known places for Hilton Head is the lighthouse at Harbour Town at Sea Pines Resort. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a killer view of the island. There are also shops and restaurants.
Above is a not-so-good picture of an ocean riptide. I have never seen one and thought it was super cool.
Here’s a nice view of Hilton Head’s South Beach from the air. Many fantastic and pricey homes can be found all over Hilton Head Island, especially at South Beach. Our pilot pointed out several homes of famous people.
Visiting Iconic Harbour Town
Harbour Town is part of the Sea Pines Resort. It is the home of a very recognizable Lighthouse and Harbour Town Link Golf where the RBC Heritage PGA is held each year.
Harbour Town also offers fine apparel and home decor shops. There are gift shops, jewelry shops, art galleries, kid-friendly casual and fine dining restaurants.
A trip to Harbour Town is a must do when visiting Hilton Head Island. #HarbourTown #HiltonHead #Lowcountry Share on XYou can walk up to the top of the lighthouse. Inside, it’s a museum-like setting where you can learn about the Lowcountry history, music and art. At the top of the lighthouse, you will experience a thrilling view of the surrounding area. The top of the lighthouse also hosts a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs and local arts and crafts.
The Harbour Town pier offers a nice scenic walk with covered tables at the end. It is also where you can board sightseeing, adventure, and fishing cruise boats.
South Beach Marina Village
This was our first visit to South Beach Marina Village. It is located at the Sea Pines Resort and styled after a New England style fishing village. South Beach Marina Village is located at the southernmost part of Hilton Head Island. There are outdoor cafes, bike trails, gift stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
We did not have a chance to eat there but South Beach Marina Village is home to the world-famous Salty Dog Cafe. It is a waterside restaurant that we were told has great food and drinks. In season, there is also live music.
Visit South Beach Marina Village and see why so many people return year after year. #HiltonHead Share on XThe village also has a playground and a pool. We were there during an offseason, but in summer they have a variety of kids activities, water sports, and entertainment.
Other Places To Visit On Hilton Head Island
Mitchelville Beach Park
Mitchelville Beach Park is one of the most natural beaches on the island. There may not be as many amenities but this wonderful beach is one of the more hidden parks – you have to drive down a dirt road just to get there.
Fort Mitchell
Hilton Head Island was once home to 4 military forts during the height of the Civil War. While the remnants of the forts are, for the most part, long gone, visitors can still enjoy a glimpse of this history, and enjoy a leisurely cool and breezy nature walk to boot, with a stroll through Fort Mitchel.
It was built in 1861 by Union Army forces as part of the defenses of a coaling station and ship maintenance facility at Seabrook Landing. It was named for Brigadier General Ormsby M. Mitchel and is a rare surviving example of a semi-permanent fortification built by the Union in the South Carolina Low Country.
Coastal Discovery Museum
The Coastal Discovery Museum is a fun place to visit and learn about the Lowcountry. You can explore the environment and learn about the history, culture, and art of the Lowcountry.
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