ICNDadmin, Author at Sunset Rentals Vacation Blog

May 1, 2021August 24, 2023

Hilton Head Island Grocery Stores & Food Delivery Services

For many travelers, shopping for groceries is a fun beginning to a vacation, but for others, well it’s a burden they would rather leave behind. One of our guests’ most frequently asked questions about Hilton Head Island is where to stock up on groceries, find the freshest seafood, and fill the cooler with beverages during their stay.

When it comes to grocery shopping, Hilton Head Island has everything from convenient big-box supermarket chains and boutique grocery stores to roadside seafood stands, Lowcountry delis, and classic old-fashioned convenience stores. We’ve put together the Ultimate Grocery Shopping Guide to Hilton Head to help you plan your vacation to America’s Favorite Island.

GROCERY STORES & DELIS

Barnacle Bill’s Fresh Seafood Market

614 William Hilton Parkway | Phone: (843) 785-9007

Barnacle Bill’s is a laid-back roadside seafood market conveniently located mid-island near Chaplin Community Park. They offer an amazing selection of fresh fish and seafood, or pick up a portion of ready-made Lowcountry boil for a feast at home.

Open daily 10AM to 5PM, closing at 2PM on Sunday.

Benny Hudson Seafood

175 Squire Pope Road | Phone: (843) 682-3474

Situated on the banks of Skull Creek, Benny Hudson Seafood has been supplying islanders with seafood straight from the dock for over 5 generations. Known as a sulfite-free facility, they offer the freshest, high-quality seafood from our local waters and beyond.

The Marketplace is open Monday to Saturday 10AM to 5PM.

Fresh Market

890 William Hilton Pkwy | Phone: (843) 842-8332

Fresh Market is an upscale grocery store just south of Shelter Cove and the entrance to Palmetto Dunes. They stock a selection of local Lowcountry organic produce, fresh baked goods, beer and wine, toiletries, and ready-made family meals to go.

Shop in-store or online for curbside pickup. Open daily 8AM to 9PM.

Harris Teeter

Main Street Village | Phone: (843) 689-6255
Park Plaza Shopping Center | Phone: (843) 785-6185

Harris Teeter is a larger supermarket chain with two locations on the island – Main Street Village near Port Royal and Park Plaza near Sea Pines Resort.

Both stores are open daily from 6AM to 11PM with online ordering, express curbside pick-up, and local delivery.

Harbour Town General Store

Sea Pines Harbour Town | Phone: (843) 363-9802

If you’re staying in Sea Pines Resort area, you can stock up on vacation essentials, groceries, and beach gear at the Harbour Town General Store. The store is situated next to the Gregg Russell Playground and is open daily from 9AM to 9PM.

Hilton Head Oils and Balsamics

Village at Wexford | Phone: (843) 681-2722

Hilton Head Oils and Balsamics sells premium olive oils, balsamic vinegars, gourmet sauces, and health and beauty products from the finest olives in Italy.

The store is open Monday to Saturday 10AM to 6PM for shopping and tastings, or to purchase online for delivery.

Kroger

Shelter Cove Towne Center | Phone: (843) 842-0540

There is a large Kroger Grocery Store located in Shelter Cove Towne Center with a pharmacy, and a Kro-Bar to sip and shop! Kroger is open daily from 6AM to 11PM with convenient curbside pickup and Instacart delivery.

Lowcountry Produce Market & Café

The Shops at Sea Pines Center | Phone: (843) 686-3003

Situated in The Shops at Sea Pines Center, Lowcountry Produce serves breakfast and lunch daily and has a small specialty marketplace. Lowcountry Produce has attracted national attention for its selection of handmade pies, pickles, chutneys, relishes, sweet jellies and preserves, and southern-style chow chows.

Open daily 8AM to 2:30PM.

Palmetto Dunes General Store

1 Trent Jones Lane, Palmetto Dunes | Phone: (843) 842-2507

Located in the heart of Palmetto Dunes, the General Store is within walking distance to the beach and sells a variety of groceries, beer and wine, grab-and-go items, beach gear, candy, and ice cream. They are known for their world-famous cinnamon rolls and the best fried chicken in Hilton Head!

Open daily 5AM to 11PM.

Piggly Wiggly

Coligny Plaza | Phone: (843) 785-3881

Family-owned since 1969, Piggly Wiggly at Coligny Plaza is a one-stop shop for all your grocery needs and vacation essentials. They offer a wide variety of local South Carolina products, a “Fish n’ Tales Seafood Market” with seafood straight from the local waters, and cool Dig the Pig merchandise to take home.

Open daily 7:30AM to 7:30PM.

Publix Super Market

Island Crossing Shopping Center | Phone: (843) 842-2632
Festival Center at Indigo Park | Phone: (843) 689-9977

There are two Publix Supermarket locations in Hilton Head – Island Crossing near Sea Pines open 7AM to 10PM daily and the Festival Center near Port Royal open daily 7AM to 9PM. Publix offers online ordering for curbside pick-up and Instacart delivery on the island.

South Beach General Store

South Beach Marina | Phone: (843) 671-6784

Staying in Sea Pines South Beach? The South Beach General Store is an old-fashioned convenience store with a wide range of essentials, beach gear, beer and wine, and quality Hilton Head souvenirs.

Open daily 8AM to 7PM.

South End Seafood Market

18 Executive Park Road | Phone: (843) 540-1109

Tucked away off Pope Avenue near Coligny Plaza, South End Seafood is a hidden gem with a great selection of fresh fish and seafood native to the South Carolina Lowcountry, and a range of condiments to spice it up.

Open daily 10AM to 5PM.

Whole Foods Market

Shelter Cove Towne Center | Phone: (843) 842-0700

For natural and organic grocery items, ready meals, and catering, Whole Foods is located next to Kroger in the Plaza at Shelter Cove Towne Center. Whole Foods Market is open daily 8AM to 9PM with online ordering options for curbside pickup and grocery delivery.

HILTON HEAD LIQUOR STORES

Reilley’s Wine & Spirits

Main Street Village | Phone: (843) 681-5778
Village at Wexford | Phone: (843) 785-3339

Reilley’s Wine & Spirits is the largest liquor store on Hilton Head Island with a vast selection of domestic and imported wines, champagnes, single malt liquors, small batch bourbons, flavored spirits, vintage ports, and more! With a south end and north end location, it’s easy to shop at Reilley’s wherever you stay on Hilton Head.

Open Monday to Saturday 9AM to 7PM.

Roller’s Wine & Spirits

Sea Pines Circle | Phone: (843) 842-1200
Coligny Plaza | Phone: (843) 785-3614
Port Royal Plaza | Phone: (843) 681 8454

Since 1960, Roller’s Wine & Spirits has been serving Hilton Head with specialty wines, top-shelf spirits, and quality cigars with a team of sommeliers on staff to help you shop. They also offer free tastings in-store, online shopping and delivery (excluding liquor), and a wide selection of domestic and imported cheeses, cured meats, and specialty food products to order.

Open Monday to Saturday 9AM to 7PM.

Sea Pines Liquor

The Shops at Sea Pines Center | Phone: (828) 808-3426

For Sea Pines Resort area vacationers, this is the only liquor store inside the gates to stock up on spirits! Sea Pines Liquor stocks a wide selection of award-winning wines, top-selling spirits, and more than 35 varieties of moonshine. Be sure to snap a selfie with Dan the Moonshine Man!

Open Monday to Saturday 9AM to 7PM.

GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICES

Low Country Grocery Runner

Phone: (843) 505-8568

For the past 17 years, Low Country Grocery Runner has been providing concierge-level grocery deliveries to locals and visitors on Hilton Head Island. Their motto is “shop on-line not in-line” and you’re guaranteed a stress-free shopping experience with delivery directly to your Hilton Head Island vacation rental. They also offer a choice of private chef experiences from family-style Mexican Nights and Lowcountry boils to formal fine dining and wine pairings at home.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND FARMERS MARKETS

Hilton Head Farmers Market

Coastal Discovery Museum | Tuesdays 9AM to 1PM

The Hilton Head Farmers Market at Honey Horn Plantation features the freshest produce from local farmers and growers. You’ll find everything from free-range meats, fresh seafood, and quality fruit and veg to handmade sweets and pastries, and all the ingredients for the perfect charcuterie board. Be sure to sample the food trucks, explore the grounds and exhibits at the Coastal Discovery Museum, or book an afternoon tour of the island with a local guide.

Farmers & Makers Market

The Shops at Sea Pines Center | Tuesdays 10AM to 2PM

If you’re staying in the Sea Pines Resort area, the weekly Farmers & Makers Market is the perfect stop for local grocery shopping. The market hosts a diverse group of vendors, artists, and local farmers with fresh farm-to-table fruit and vegetables, seafood straight from the boats, southern-style BBQ, and one-of-a-kind artisan products for gifts or souvenirs to take home.

Wednesdays at Wexford Outdoor Market

Village at Wexford | Wednesdays 10AM to 2PM

Every Wednesday (May through September) the Village at Wexford hosts a sprawling open-air farmers’ market with dozens of local vendors. Stock up on meats and fresh produce, home-baked goods, and Lowcountry delicacies, and take advantage of your Market Card with great specials at participating Village at Wexford retailers and restaurants.

Hilton Head Community Market

Shelter Cove Community Park | Saturday 9:30AM to 12:30PM

The Hilton Head Community Market at Shelter Cove is the best place to be on a Saturday morning! The market features some of the best local farmers, bakers, and artisans in the Lowcountry with everything from smokin’ good BBQ and seafood to preserves, honeys, and sweet treats for the kids, As a true community market, your shopping supports local businesses and gives back to a wide range of featured Hilton Head non-profit organizations.

Savor delicious home-cooked meals with Sunset Rentals – your home away from home on Hilton Head Island!

The Best Collection of Sea Pines Vacation Rentals

At Sunset Rentals, our properties range from smaller more intimate spaces to large & luxe mansions. For peace of mind, all our properties feature high-security keyless entry, and our premium rentals include luxury linen and towels. Let us help to plan your next Hilton Head Island stay today!

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May 1, 2021October 6, 2021

Rent a Boat on Beautiful Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is blessed with 12 miles of coastline along South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline, making it perfect for fishing, boating, and tons of water sport activities. There are various opportunities to boat on several types of vehicles, like kayaks, sailboats, party boats, and even yachts. With six marinas and harbors, you will be kept busy!

Let’s explore some of the best Hilton Head boat rentals:

Island Head
Run by tourists turned locals, Michael and Taylor, Island Head boasts some of the finest Hilton Head boat rentals. Both of them have immense experience in the water sports industry, which reflects in the way they run their company. They are friendly, knowledgeable, and provide the perfect balance of fun and safety.

Anchors Away Sailing Charters
Anchors Away Sailing Charters offers private expeditions for up to six people. You can hop aboard the stunning morning sail, the breezy dolphin watch afternoon sail, or relax while viewing the sunset evening sail. All three sails have different agendas and turn out to be completely different experiences.

Vagabond Cruise
Vagabond Cruise, since 1968, is Hilton Head Island’s original sightseeing and cruise operator. Needless to say, they have tons of experience in this arena and offer some unforgettable cruises on the islands. You can take your pick from holiday cruises, crabbing expeditions, and Savannah Day cruises—amongst the many cruises they offer.

Yacht Club of Hilton Head
Founded in 1971 by a group of sailors, the Yacht Club of Hilton Head is the oldest yacht club on the island. They are a boating and social club, which means that boating enthusiasts on Hilton Island are a part of this club. They provide a variety of boating activities plus a dynamic social calendar.

HHI Vacation Rentals

If you are planning to book a Hilton Head boat rental and stay on the island, then look no further than Sunset Rentals. We provide various types of rentals to suit every family, like pet-friendly rentals, oceanfront rentals, or rentals with private pools.

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May 1, 2021April 1, 2024

Local Tips for Hilton Head Island

As Hilton Head Island locals, we’ve got all the best local tips up our sleeve! We know all the best places for your next adventure, hidden gems you’ll otherwise pass on by, tips to make the most out of your trip, and all the best places to stay across the island. Don’t just take our word for it, read this guide for the top locals tips you should take advantage of on your next vacation to Hilton Head Island!

1. Best Spots to Catch a Sunset or Sunrise

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is located on the Broad Creek, offering a stunning viewpoint with boats coming in and out of the harbor and stunning colors washing across the water. You can watch the sunset from one of the award-winning restaurants, community events throughout the summer, or standing by the marina.

The Harbour Town Yacht Basin is one of the most popular sunset spots on the island, whether from the Yacht Basin with a view of the dolphins, from the pier with a view of the lighthouse, or from the top of the Lighthouse Museum with a view of the whole resort area of Sea Pines.

If you’re looking for an adventure with a view, a sunset cruise is the way to go! There are plenty of companies across the island that offer an exhilarating boat ride through the waterways while you watch the sunset. Just pick the location, book your tour, grab your camera, and head out for the sunset. H2O Sports, Mermaid of Hilton Head, and Vagabond Cruises are just a few of the popular sunset tours.

2. Uncrowded Beaches Away from the Hustle & Bustle

Mid-island beaches away from the main resort areas are uncrowded oases with white sand, sparkling waves, and less crowds. These include Burkes Beach, Driessen Beach, and Folly Field Beach. These hidden gems are perfect for swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, beach picnics, and a scenic, fun-filled family day at the beach.

3. Must-Taste Dishes

With such a wide variety of delicious Lowcountry cuisine, it can be difficult to decide which dish you must try. But don’t worry, we have had plenty of time living here to put together our favorite meals for you to try.

The infamous Skull Creek Boathouse offers a Boathouse Sampler, perfect to test their delicious coconut almond shrimp, dill pickle chips, calamari, and hushpuppies for yourself- true Southern delicacies.

The Old Oyster Factory is best known for, you guessed it, their oysters! Enjoy panoramic water views with delicious fresh-caught local oysters that you’ll never forget. It’ll have you coming back to Hilton Head Island year after year, just for the cuisine.

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks is one of the only remaining local fishing fleets on the island with fresh-caught fish straight from the docks to your table. Their Atlantic Salmon is a must-try, fresh-caught salmon dish varying seasonally with expert-picked toppings.

4. Ditch the Car, Walk or Bike the Trails!

One of the best ways to explore the island is by walking or biking the trails. Ditch the car, grab your bike or walking shoes, and hit the trails for a one-of-a-kind adventure. On Hilton Head Island, you can walk between resort areas, to the beach, through shopping centers, and more!

Bike through the beach for stunning water views, cool breezes, and white sandy trails. Ride through Shelter Cove Community Park for live music and entertainment along the way. Or head to Fish Haul Creek Park’s 31 acre preserve away from crowds, through wetlands, beach, and forest.

5. Look for Wildlife

The island is teeming with wildlife from alligators hiding in the ponds to pelicans soaring over the waves, everywhere you look is an opportunity for wildlife viewing!

Sea Pines Forest Preserve features 605 acres of ponds and forests covered in Spanish moss, with the opportunity to see turtles, alligators, herons, eagles, snakes, and more on an exhilarating nature walk.

Dolphin tours are a popular favorite to see one of the most magnificent creatures to grace our island! Hilton Head Dolphin Tours, Dolphin Seafari, and Island Explorer are some of the best dolphin tours to encounter dolphins with a tour guide through the waterways guiding you where to look and when to grab the camera!

The beach is another popular exploration spot with plenty of viewing spots for dolphins, starfish, pelicans, sand dollars, jellyfish, crabs, and more!

6. Get out on the Water

Ditch the car, bike, and walking shoes for an even better adventure– one on the waterways! Whether by kayak, paddleboard, private boat, or fishing charter, there are endless opportunities to explore the water on Hilton Head Island.

Rent kayaks, paddleboards, skim boards, and more for the adventure of a lifetime with the whole family. Looking for more of a guided tour with a fishing guide or wildlife expert? You’re in luck! The island also offers plenty of guided tours with local experts to get you off the land and onto the water.

The Best Places to Stay in Hilton Head Island

At Sunset Rentals, our vacation rentals are all based in Hilton Head, South Carolina. We have some fantastic properties fit for groups of all sizes. We offer luxurious vacation rentals to fit every family’s wants and needs to make their vacation a breeze. With unique accommodations and a wide range of convenient amenities, you’re sure to find something you’ll love. We offer private homes and villas across the island and first-class service to all of our guests.

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January 21, 2021December 7, 2023

The 5 Best Seafood Restaurants in Hilton Head Island

While South Carolina’s sandy Hilton Head Island is best known for its pristine beaches, bicycling trails, and world-renowned golf courses, there’s no denying its genuinely extraordinary culinary scene, mainly the fresh-caught seafood delicacies. With nearly five dozen seafood restaurants in Hilton Head, you have plenty of dining options to choose from! Our team at Sunset Rentals has pieced together a five-stop seafood guide, featuring an opulent jazz club, a channel-side bar, a sleek dining room, and more!

1. The Jazz Corner
Admittedly, the 99-seat Jazz Corner is rarely tagged as a “seafood restaurant.” That being said, The Jazz Corner’s culinary team serves up some of the tastiest fresh and saltwater delights on the East Coast. Combine award-winning live entertainment with a mouth-watering three-course meal, complete with a pineapple soy-glazed lobster tail, grilled pear salad, and mustard and herb-crusted swordfish. Delicioso!

2. Skull Creek Boathouse
The Boathouse, and the neighboring Dockside Waterfront Restaurant, provides a unique glimpse into the crowd-pleasing Skull Creek dining mecca. The Skull Creek Boathouse has long been a prime example of Southern cookin’ done right, especially the $25 “Lowcountry boil,” blackened catfish, and classic Carolina shrimp and grits.

3. Poseidon
One of TripAdvisor’s top-rated seafood Hilton Head restaurants, is sleek, hip, and romantic. Its Rooftop Bar only adds an extra element of pizzazz. Patrons revere Poseidon for its eye-popping “Grand Shellfish Tower,” featuring nine types of shellfish, including mussels, middle necks, and lobster claws.

4. The Black Marlin Bayside Grill
Some regard The Black Marlin as “raffish,” but we truly appreciate its unique blend of simplistic sophistication, family-friendly atmosphere, and surprisingly world-class oceanic edibles. The menu features everything from a seafood-stuffed flounder smothered in a lobster cream sauce to beer-battered cod and tropical mahi-mahi. It’s not often that you find a down-to-earth eatery that serves such decadent saltwater delights.

5. Marleys Shrim & Burger Shack
If you’re looking for some quick and delicious made-from-scratch seafood, Marleys is the joint for you. Marleys operates out of a “shack,” where hungry patrons can simply walk up, order, and munch on the fried goodness on the well-manicured grounds. Simple pleasures, such as the hush puppies and fried green beans, are to-die-for. And we dare you to find tastier fish tacos, po’ boys, and lobster rolls in the Lowcountry.

6. Skull Creek Dockside
What’s not to love? In addition to serving incredible seafood (and barbeque!) Skull Creek Dockside boasts a covered patio dining area, massive outdoor bar, and floor to ceiling full-pane glass windows for sweeping waterfront views. The Sharkbar, allow patrons to enjoy the lowcountry climate and serve to further highlight the amazing sunset views over Skull Creek.

If you are concerned about long wait times, the good news is that the restaurant provides a family recreation area between Dockside and Boathouse. The space houses a stage for live music overlooking the water, an adult space with games, and the new Shrimp Boat playground, where kids can play while families are waiting for a table, or simply enjoying the amazing views.

7. The Crazy Crab
Family friendly and waterfront views! Enjoy some of the best waterfront dining in the region at what local’s call simply “The Crab.” An institution in the region, The Crazy Crab is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike. With unbeatable views and incredible food, it’s no wonder everyone loves The Crazy Crab. This establishment is a favorite for seafood, happy hour, and so much more!

Elite Hilton Head Island Rental Homes

Start and finish each glorious day under the sun inside one of Sunset Rentals’ finest Hilton Head vacation homes, such as Kingston Dunes, Gloucester, and Haul Away.

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December 10, 2020April 1, 2024

How To Rent Jet Skis On Hilton Head Island?

While it won’t be easy to pry your family from Hilton Head Island’s sandy beaches and pristine golf courses, there’s nothing quite like an aquatic adventure in Calibogue Sound, a salty bottlenose dolphin haven. There are countless ways to explore the Sound, including a dolphin safari, sky-high parasailing voyage, and chartered fishing trip. However, there’s nothing quite as action-packed as hopping aboard a speedy jet ski rental in Hilton Head Island and blazing through Calibogue Sound. This oceanic waterway features plantations, islands, and, of course, a bevy of underwater critters.

Finding a Jet Ski Rental in Hilton Head Island

Locating a jet ski rental in Hilton Head Island isn’t overly challenging as there are a handful of outfitters within minutes of Sunset Rentals’ fleet of South Carolina beach condos. That being said, wave runners are only available via reservation. Thus, we highly recommend reserving your ride several weeks in advance, if possible. The Sunset Rentals team has strong relationships with several water sports companies, including the three listed below. In alphabetical order, here the three best jet ski rentals in Hilton Head Island.

H2O Sports
Harbour Town’s H2O Sports is a natural place to start as this long-standing establishment offers everything from alligator tours to sailing charters and, yes, jet ski rentals in Hilton Head. After a brief instruction (this pre-arrival safety video also helps), families can instantly throttle into Calibogue Sound, unlike other land-locked outfitters. Thus, there’s no need to worry about no-wake zones. H2O Sports boasts an expansive fleet of brand new Yamahas, as new additions are added every season. This lovely stretch of the Sound is home to several families of dolphins and sea turtles, so keep your eyes peeled! H2O is also the only company in town to offer GoPro video packages—a priceless keepsake, especially if you stumble upon a friendly bottlenose.

One Hilton Head Island
One HHI is best known for its knowledgeable, welcoming guides, who lead trips through Broad Creek and into the aforementioned Calibogue Sound. Fifteen minutes is added to these semi-guided excursions to account for the short jaunt through Broad Creek’s no-wake zone, where, as you might imagine, many dolphins gleefully explore the aquatic terrain. Travelers often marvel that One’s jet ski rentals in Hilton Head go from zero to 30 mph in only two seconds! It’s also worth noting that jet skiing is a sublime way to avoid crowds, especially during these unique times.

Sea Monkeys Watersports
There’s just something undeniably memorable about choosing a small, family-owned business, such as Sea Monkeys. Sea Monkeys’ team is a tad more personable than other outfits, as they wave “switching fees,” provide military discounts, and are happy to snap free photos. A certified instructor escorts each 75-minute adventure from Hilton Head Harbor to a designated area, where the three-seaters (a rarity) can blaze through the teal sea with nary a care in the world. Because Sea Monkeys offers three-seaters, Mom or Dad can ride with two kids at once!

Luxurious Hilton Head Rental Homes

Sunset Rentals is proud to manage one of the area’s largest collection of Hilton Head vacation homes, ranging from a Folly Field Sandcastle to an Epic Beach House and a Luxury Crabline. On-site luxuries typically include a private pool, beach access, a chef’s kitchen, water views, a spacious deck, and a fireplace. Much like hand-selecting your “forever home,” browsing through our Hilton Head homes is undeniably exhilarating. We have no doubt that you’ll find one that perfectly suits your family’s size, style, and budget.

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November 11, 2020October 20, 2022

A Hilton Head Area Brewery Guide

From 2018 to 2020, in two short years, South Carolina’s craft brewery family nearly doubled in size. With more than 80 breweries statewide, the Palmetto State’s beer scene continues to grow and flourish like a well-watered garden. And the Hilton Head Island area is no different. Neighboring Bluffton itself boasts three breweries, with another chapter on the outskirts of town in semi-rural Ridgeland. It would appear that the sprouting Hilton Head area brewing scene is merely in its infancy. With so much room to grow, the next 10 to 20 years will undoubtedly be an exciting time for visiting beer lovers and casual travelers alike.

Hilton Head Area Brewery Guide

Hilton Head Brewing Company
Long-standing Hilton Head Brewing Company is the first and only brewery on the island. Hilton Head Brewing is a bustling brewpub near the airport, making it an idyllic pre- or post-flight relaxation hub. It’s also within steps of the Hilton Head Distillery and Island Winery’s tasting room. Patrons can sip on a pint of the CRAB Czech pilsner while lounging underneath swaying palmettos. Or, better yet, purchase a six-pack of the citrusy Tropical Lager or a 64-once growler of the banana and clove Hefe to be enjoyed poolside later in the afternoon. Once Hilton Head Brewing’s new Southern BBQ venture is complete, it will be hard to ignore the aromas of fresh-smoked brisket wafting through the air. Another island favorite is World of Beer, an expansive franchise with locations all over the United States. World of Beer features over 40 South Carolina-born beers, including a bevy of offerings from Hilton Head Brewing.

A Brief Stint in Neighboring Bluffton, SC
For those who plan to visit neighboring Bluffton, we highly recommend making a pit stop (or two) at a local taproom. Many islanders make a brief appearance in Bluffton to shop at the Tanger Outlets, explore Old Town, or play 18 holes at Hilton Head National. We couldn’t think of a better way to commemorate a brief, albeit enjoyable trip to Bluffton than with a stop at Lot 9 Brewing Co., one of the highest-rated breweries in South Carolina. It’s a new venture, but Lot 9’s Hell Raisin’ Hazy IPA and Queen Sour are both revelations. Meanwhile, Southern Barrel Brewing Co. is the most popular hangout in town, thanks to its spacious patio and rustic-sleek taproom. Other nearby options include Salt Marsh Brewing and Ridgeland’s River Dog, slowly starting to make a name for itself.

The Finest Hilton Head Vacation Homes

Start and finish each day of relaxation and exploration inside one of Sunset Rentals’ finest Hilton Head condos, such as Links 8A, South Sea Pines, and Sandcastle 58. Most vacation rentals feature private pools, gas fireplaces, chef’s kitchens, free parking, walk-out patios, and distinctive interior designs—all within steps of the Atlantic Ocean’s sandy shoreline. Life at the beach has never been this enticing! Call us at 800-276-8991 to start the booking process.

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October 6, 2020April 1, 2024

How To Go Parasailing on Hilton Head Island?

South Carolina’s picturesque Hilton Head Island remains an aquatic wonderland, especially for those with a penchant for oceanic thrills. Within minutes of arrival, travelers can swiftly hop aboard a speedy wave runner, join a dolphin tour, and hook a jumbo Spanish mackerel deep at sea. However, nothing tops the sheer exhilaration of parasailing in Hilton Head Island, especially when you choose a Sunset Rental-approved outfitter, such as Sky Pirate Parasail.

The Thrill of a Lifetime: Parasailing in Hilton Head

Contrary to popular belief, parasailing in Hilton Head caters to nearly every age group, including kids six and up. While you’re floating 500 feet above the turquoise Atlantic, you’ll obtain unobstructed, jaw-dropping views of the island, spanning approximately 25 miles inland or seaward. Sunset Rentals of Hilton Head recommends three local parasailing gurus, all of which lie a short distance from our finest vacation homes.

Sky Pirate Parasail
The folks at Sky Pirate operate out of Broad Creek Marina, located inside a still, meandering Intracoastal waterway. The marina itself plays host to kayaking outfitters, fishing charters, and a popular pub. Sky Pirate’s state-of-the-art, 12-passenger vessel boasts an 800-foot line, so get ready for some serious airtime. When you’re not suspended 500 feet in the air above Calibogue Sound, you’ll likely spot curious dolphins, pearly egrets, and oceanfront plantations.

Island Head
Island Head’s 90-minute parasail costs a mere $79 per person. The Island Head team emphasizes the surrounding beauty, including Harbour Town Lighthouse, Daufuskie Island, and the sprawling Lowcountry. Flights typically last anywhere between eight and 10 minutes, which is the industry average—just be ready to make a splash at the tail-end of your voyage!

H2O Sports
H20 Sports is based out of the Harbour Town Yacht Basin, an idyllic slice of the island where travelers flock for golf, sea-based adventures, sailing, and coastal cuisines. And H2O knows a thing or two about aquatic thrills, as they offer everything from wakeboarding to alligator tours and old-fashioned parasailing in Hilton Head Island. They offer “the best view of the island”—a true bird’s eye view at scorching (yet safe) speeds. It’s worth noting that H2O offers the cheapest “observer rides” for those afraid of heights but still want to motor through Calibogue Sound.

The Finest Hilton Head Rentals

After each full day of championship golf, offshore fishing, and parasailing in Hilton Head Island, retreat to your luxurious, comfortable vacation home for an evening to remember. We proudly boast one of the island’s largest selections of coastal South Carolina vacation rentals, including the heavenly, pet-friendly Deer Run and expansive, ocean-view Guscio Way. With nearly 250 rental homes in Hilton Head Island, you’re bound to find one that perfectly suits your group’s size, style, and budget. Luxuries include private pools, beach access, chef’s kitchens, lavish outdoor patios, and floor-to-ceiling fireplaces.

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September 3, 2020October 6, 2021

The Top 3 Hilton Head Dolphin Tours

Truth be told, very few mammals are as equally cute, captivating, and majestic as an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Humans instinctively have a soft spot for these adorable and wildly intelligent underwater critters. Scientists assert that dolphins are quick learners, self-aware, able to problem-solve, and even have the rare ability to show empathy. Naturally, pods of bottlenoses frequent the aquatic acreage surrounding paradisical Hilton Head Island, home to Sunset Rentals, the region’s most experienced vacation rental management company. We have stark relationships with the area’s premier cruise-based outfits. Thus, our concierge team has compiled the three best Hilton Head dolphin tours, where spotting a grinning bottlenose is innate as an Atlantic Ocean sunrise.

The Best Hilton Head Dolphin Tours

Nearly a dozen local businesses offer 90-minute (or two-hour) Hilton Head dolphin tours, two of which are located in Shelter Cove Harbour. Prices are comparable across the board, so keep a close eye on each company’s various amenities. Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a light jacket, and a camera, because dolphins absolutely love being photographed!

1 – Dolphin Seafari
Dolphin Seafari is home to the famous “Donuts and Dolphins” tour, where a bevy of colorfully-coated, deep-fried sweets are readily available for consumption throughout the trip. Complimentary coffee (or tea, water, or juice) is also served if you’re in the dunking mood. However, the main event is the legion of 200-plus bottlenose dolphins that circle the isle. The 30-foot-long covered pontoon sits low to the surface so that you can practically high-five a dolphin when the opportunity presents itself. A crab-trap demonstration always garners “Oohs” and “ahhs” from the crowd, especially amongst youngsters.

2 – Dolphin Discoveries Nature Tours
What sets Dolphin Discoveries apart from all of the other Hilton Head dolphin tours is its semi-exclusivity. Most expeditions host anywhere from 12 to 40 people. Dolphin Discoveries, however, seats six people, max. Thus, it’s perfect for families. Large groups, obviously, will have to go elsewhere. Each 105-minute voyage motors past pods of curious bottlenoses, as well as bald eagles, egrets, brown pelicans, and, occasionally, adorable river otters. Make sure to browse through their various trip options to find one that best suits your family. The tours can include anything from beachcombing to shark fishing.

3 – Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruises
Pet owners, rejoice! Captain Mark’s is one of only dog-friendly Hilton Head dolphin tours, with expeditions starting at just $21.95 per person. Captain Mark has skippered over 20,000 cruises in the past 37 years, so he knows a thing or two about dolphin “honey holes.” He specifically leads groups to the serene, 13-mile Calibogue Sound, just south of the island. Lucky passengers will coast past a variety of architectural marvels, including plantations and a lighthouse.

Long-Term Rentals in Hilton Head

Start and finish each day in South Carolinian paradise with Sunset Rentals of Hilton Head. We boast one of the largest fleets of Hilton Head vacation rentals, including nearly 100 homes and over 170 villas. While each property is unique in size, location, and design, they share common luxuries, such as pool access, lavish furnishings, chef’s kitchens, and air conditioning. Some homes and units overlook the Atlantic Ocean, while others feature dazzling, private pools. All of them are within walking distance of the beach, so a full day of oceanic exploration is always a short stroll away.

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August 14, 2020October 6, 2021

The Top 3 Hilton Head Fishing Charters

The Best Hilton Head Fishing Charters

Deep-sea fishing remains one of the most beloved aquatic adventures here on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina’s crown jewel. When you’re not bicycling near the beach, playing 18 holes of championship golf, or parasailing high above the Atlantic, set your sights on the open ocean, home to thousands of distinct underwater critters. Sunset Rentals of Hilton Head’s eclectic selection of vacation rentals are all a short walk, bicycle ride, or drive from a full-day at sea. In hopes of providing a healthy dose of guidance in anticipation of your upcoming stay, we hand-selected three of the very best Hilton Head fishing charters. Despite popular belief, a deep-sea fishing excursion requires no prior experience.

Whether you hope to hook a shriek-inducing hammerhead shark in the Atlantic or a slippery mackerel in the Lowcountry, the whole gang will assuredly return to land with a dozen stories to tell. As you might imagine, there are dozens of Hilton Head fishing charters on our 25,000-acre island. However, these three selections wholly exemplify the region’s unique blend of hospitality, affordability, and convenience.

Off the Hook Fishing Charters

In many ways, Off the Hook has a stranglehold on the Hilton Head fishing scene. Droves of travelers flock to their Freeport Marina location in hopes of scurrying inland to bait a wide variety of fish, including cobia, big bull redfish, tarpon, speckled trout, crevalle jack, Atlantic tripletail, and, yes, sharks. With rates ranging from $225 to $1,000 per angler, Off the Hook can accommodate just about any budget.

Outcast Sport Fishing

Sharks, sharks, and more sharks. Outcast Sport Fishing isn’t shy about their main prey: blacktip, lemon, and great white sharks. The imagery on their website is spellbinding (and slightly terrifying). Other common targets, especially for novices and kiddos, include tarpon, redfish, king mackerel, and cobia. Because Outcast mainly hunts sharks, rates are a little steeper than most Hilton Head fishing charters. However, the feeling one gains while wrangling a monster shark is priceless!

Bay Runner Fishing Charters

The skilled, charismatic folks at Bay Runner offer three types of Hilton Head fishing charters: Calibogue Sound shark fishing, near-shore reef excursions, and customizable offshore trips. Customizability is a huge perk for those with large families (as well as small parties). Bay Runner’s website can take online reservations, another massive draw for those who prefer not to get caught in a game of phone tag. Because they survey the entire area, your captain will take you directly to the most lucrative fishing spots near Hilton Head Island.

Long-Term Rentals in Hilton Head

After four-to-eight hours of deep-sea fishing near Hilton Head Island, return to land for some much-deserved relaxation on the beach. The perfect place to start and finish each day of relaxation and adventure is inside one of prized Hilton Head vacation rentals, which range from pet-friendly villas to spacious homes with sparkling pools. “Common” amenities and luxuries include full kitchens, highspeed internet, private pool areas, gas grills, concierge services, screened-in porches, and nearby beach access. Please give us a call today at 800-276-8991 to book a long-awaited getaway to our sandy paradise!

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July 17, 2020October 6, 2021

Hilton Head Bike Rentals and Pathways

Despite the isle’s many sugary beaches, historical museums, and guided tours, the number one thing to do in Hilton Head is bicycling (according to TripAdvisor). With 60-plus miles of pathways that meander from Hilton Head Plantation all the way to Coligny Beach Park, it’s no wonder families spend hours upon hours cycling past the island’s prettiest landmarks. Sunset Rentals’ growing selection of luxurious, tropical condo and home rentals, more times than not, are located right along the Hilton Head bike path. Because the island is only 42 square miles, most folks prefer to bike to and from the beach, restaurants, and shops. Thus, there’s a high demand for Hilton Head bike rentals. In fact, there are over two dozen local businesses that offer rental services.

The 10 Best Hilton Head Bike Rentals

Sunset Rentals has a fleet of affordable, state-of-the-art rentals, including classic, tandem, child, and three-wheeler bikes. During peak seasons, these popular Hilton Head bike rentals can sell out well in advance, primarily because you simply cannot beat the $35 per week price tag. So, if our inventory is bare, please consider a stop at one of these local establishments.

Recreational Pathways: 60 Miles of Natural Beauty

A few years back, the Chamber of Commerce curated an updated Hilton Head Island bike trail map, which plainly outlines the various pathways that wind through our peaceful island. Visual highlights along the path include Coligny Beach Park, Audubon Newhall Preserve, Village at Wexford, Jarvis Creek Park, Burkes Beach, and Shelter Cove Harbour. It’s estimated that nearly 2 million visitors cycle along this pathway in a given year. Thus, the community spends countless hours maintaining and enhancing the experience. Remember to pack plenty of water, apply sunscreen often, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, and bring an appetite because many of the island’s most beloved seafood eateries lie along the pathway.

For more information about our Hilton Head bike rentals (including FAQs, terms, and conditions), please visit our website.

Stay with Sunset Rentals

Sunset Rentals boasts one of the largest collections of vacation homes and condos on the island, including over 65 rentals with a private pool. A large portion of our Hilton Head condo rentals are pet friendly, so you don’t have to leave your furry, four-legged friends at home! Common amenities include convenient beach access, private pools, chef’s kitchens, high-speed Wi-Fi, fireplaces, and luxury furnishings.

In August, week-long stays come with free bikes! Take advantage of this limited-time offer by booking direct at 843-785-6767.

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