Support local businesses here in the Lowcountry by visiting a Farmers Market to stock up on fresh groceries and new products. Whether you’re looking to pick up some dinner items for a home cooked meal in your vacation rental or wanting to bring home some knowledge and practice, a Farmers Market is the perfect place to visit on your next vacation to Hilton Head Island!
The Hilton Head Farmers Market is held every Tuesday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Coastal Discovery Museum’s Honey Horn campus. Stop by to purchase local produce, seafood, meats and more while you enjoy unique vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment.
Every Tuesday starting March 15th through November 22nd, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at The Shops at Sea Pines Center. You can find seasonal fruits and vegetables, freshly caught seafood, baked goods, barbecue, and artisan crafts!
Open every Thursday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Hours and days vary, please check the Bluffton website for updated details. Enjoy fresh produce, prepared foods, plants, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment.
The Made Market takes place every first and third Sunday starting in March through December, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The Night Bazaar takes place every first Thursday from March through July and October through December, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. These popup markets feature local artisans, small businesses, live entertainment, food, and drinks.
A year round market every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Enjoy local organic produce and learn about the impact your health can have on your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Every Saturday year round from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM rain or shine. Experience fresh local produce, meats, seafood, prepared food vendors, plants, and more.
Whichever Farmers Market you find yourself at, home is just a short drive away when you stay with Sunset Rentals. With a portfolio of 220+ Hilton Head Island rentals and first class service from our on-island team, you can book your Hilton Head Island vacation home with confidence and ease at Sunset Rentals.
Hilton Head Island is the #1 island in the continental US and America’s favorite island, far from an under the radar or off the beaten path destination. Hilton Head Island is one of the most popular vacation destinations in South Carolina,- yet there are plenty of off the beaten path adventures that await during springtime!
Spending a vacation on Hilton Head Island delivers the best of both worlds for travelers – 12-miles of sandy beaches, award-winning sports, activities galore at Harbour Town, Shelter Cove and Coligny Plaza, and quiet off the beaten path adventures away from the touristy spots of Hilton Head.
1. Unwind with a Quiet Beach Day
It is possible to have a quiet beach day without the crowds on Hilton Head Island. The north end of the island does not attract as many tourists and offers a quieter beach life. Mitchelville Beach Park is the most secluded, natural beach on Hilton Head for sunbathing or a quiet beach stroll – but is not lifeguarded, or great for ocean swimming.
One of the island’s best kept secrets is Burke’s Beach, located mid-island near Chaplin Community Park and accessed on a short walk (or bike ride) around the protected dunes. There are no major resorts or restaurants nearby so pack a picnic and enjoy miles of sandy shoreline, shallow lifeguarded water for the kids, crabbing adventures, and a fenced in dog park for your furry four-legged family member.
Coligny Beach is where you’ll find the crowds but, if you head slightly south, Alder Lane Beach Park is one of the most peaceful beaches on the island and is both pet-friendly and lifeguarded for a quiet family beach day. Wherever you choose to spend a beach day on Hilton Head, bottlenose dolphin sightings and nesting sea turtles (May-Oct) are common sightings.
2. Get Out on the Water
Getting out on the water is what Hilton Head Island is all about! Hilton Head is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway with Broad Creek winding through the center of the island. Aside from fellow paddlers, the waterways are secluded with hidden coves and creeks abounding with dolphins and wildlife, and constantly changing with the tides. Book a guided kayaking, stand up paddleboarding or boating adventure with Outside Hilton Head, or consider a full moon tour to completely escape the crowds. Gear rentals are readily available to paddle the waterways alone.
A private Hilton Head fishing charter will take you far away from the crowds into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean. Hilton Head Island is a top destination for all kinds of fishing with inshore, offshore, lagoon and sharking fishing tours in the high seas and on the Intracoastal Waterway.
3. HorseBACK Ride in Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a lush 605-acre wildlife habitat with tranquil nature trails, boardwalks and bridges, fishing docks, and endless outdoor exploration. Escape the crowds (and the heat) on a horseback ride along the shaded trails in Sea Pines Forest Preserve with Lawton Stables, or alternatively opt for a boat tour, eco-adventure or fun hay wagon ride with the kids.
4. Picnic at Audubon Nature Preserve
Pack a picnic (and the binoculars) and head to Audubon Nature Preserve near Sea Pines. This small, 50-acre protected nature reserve is pure paradise with a small network of trails and boardwalks winding through five unique ecosystems, birds, butterflies and wildlife, and a tranquil pond perfect for a picnic. The Audubon Nature Preserve is open daily from sunrise to sunset and also offers guided tours with a naturalist.
5. Bike the Trails
Hilton Head Island is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the US with over 60 miles of interconnected bike paths and trails across the island to either loop round the island with fellow cyclists or venture off and explore the island at your own pace. Sunset Rentals partners with Vayk Gear to provide compliment bike and beach gear credit at select Sunset Rentals properties, making it easy to bike the island trails, for free!
6. Visit Pinckney Island National Wildlife Preserve
Visiting Pinckney Island National Wildlife Preserve takes you right off the beaten path into 4,000 acres of pristine wilderness for hiking, biking, fishing, birding and wildlife viewing. Once an island lookout during the Civil War, this historic wildlife refuge features 14 miles of hiking and biking trails, salt marshes and ponds for fishing, and historical markers outlining the history of Hilton Head during the Civil War. The preserve is open Wednesday through Sunday 9AM to 5PM.
7. Explore the Coastal Discovery Museum
The Coastal Discovery Museum is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage and is truly one of the most beautiful places to visit on Hilton Head Island. Guided tours and activities are available (with options to escape the crowds) but the 68-acre grounds are also perfect to quietly explore alone with centuries old buildings, interpretive trails, giant oaks and lagoons, and wildlife encounters around every corner.
8. Tour the Gullah-Geechee Neighborhoods
Soak up the history and heritage of Hilton Head Island on a Gullah Heritage Trail tour through the original Gullah-Geechee Neighborhoods of Hilton Head. Led by local Gullah descendants, this tour trails away from the island’s top tourist attractions through the historic and cultural sites in Mitchelville Freedom Park, the Gullah Museum, and the local Gullah neighborhoods on the island.
9. Plan a Day Trip to Daufuskie Island
You don’t get more off the beaten path than Daufuskie Island, a small and serene barrier island nestled between Hilton Head and mainland Savannah and accessible only by boat, ferry, or kayak! Take a private tour of Daufuskie Island without the tourists or rent a bike or golf cart to adventure along the trails and dirt roads alone. Find your sandy space on 3-miles of secluded shoreline, book a horseback ride on the beach with Daufuskie Trail Rides, visit historic lighthouses, and dine on Daufuskie Deviled Crab and Lowcountry cuisine overlooking the marina. Daufuskie Island is one for the bucket-list!
10 Stay Off the Beaten Path with Sunset Rentals
Escape the hustle and bustle of Hilton Head Island and stay off the beaten path with Sunset Rentals. With one of the largest collections of vacation rentals on Hilton Head, you can choose to stay oceanfront near Coligny Plaza or enjoy the peace and tranquility of your own private pool home in the islands top resort areas – surrounded by only luxurious comforts, the sounds of nature, peaceful views and a tropical island ambiance.
Soak in those last few days of summer and enjoy local events on Hilton Head Island over Labor Day Weekend. There’s no better way to celebrate than supporting local establishments, relaxing on the beach, and taking a trip to one of America’s top vacation destinations – Hilton Head Island!
As summer comes to an end and temperatures simmer to the mid 80s on Hilton Head Island, Labor Day Weekend is the perfect last minute trip to end the season. Read on to learn about the various events taking place around town for the whole family to enjoy.
Harbourfest at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
HarbourFest Fireworks
Date: July 25, 2023
Location: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina17 Harbourside Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
The 34th Anniversary of HarbourFest, HHI’s largest multi-week summertime event, returns with Shannon Tanner, Cappy the Clown, Tuesday night fireworks (beginning June 6) and family fun at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina.
Fireworks begin Tuesday, June 6 and occur every Tuesday evening (when the sky is dark) through August 22.
2023 Fireworks Schedule (12 total shows—start when the sky is dark):
Tuesdays; June 6, 13, 20 & 27 Tuesdays; July 4, 11, 18 & 25 Tuesdays; August 1, 8, 15 & 22
Take a scenic 2-hour trip to Charleston for South Carolina’s premier annual Smooth Jazz event continues its Labor Day weekend tradition, kicking off the weekend with a stellar lineup.
Take a 2-hour trip over to Edisto Island to dance the night away to favorite coastal shag hits or enjoy food, drinks, arts & crafts, and more fun for the whole family.
The Ultimate Rib Challenge: Labor Day Rib Cookout
TBD
The Salty Dog in Hilton Head Island, SC
The Ultimate Rib Challenge will feature rib entries from 4 Salty Dog locations: Salty Dog Cafe (HHI), Salty Dog Bluffton, Salty Dog Seabrook (Charleston), and Land’s End Tavern. And you are the judge, so order an Official Rib Sampler and join the challenge!
Labor Day Beach Bash
September 2nd – 3rd, 2023
Tybee Island Pier in Tybee Island, GA
Take a short trip to Tybee Island for a one-of-a-kind free outdoor concert on the beach, featuring The Swingin’ Medallions, an American beach music group from Greenwood, SC. Check it out HERE!
WaterSideWalk Sale
TBD
Shelter Cove Towne Centre in Hilton Head Island, SC
Enjoy great savings during the semi-annual Sidewalk Sale! Find end of summer sales, new fall merchandise, gifts, and more at participating retailers.
Nestled on 800 acres between Sea Pines Resort Area and Palmetto Dunes Plantation on the south end of Hilton Head Island, Shipyard Plantation is the smallest and most serene resort area on Hilton Head. Shipyard Plantation abounds in natural beauty and offers visitors a welcoming vacation retreat away from the crowds yet within easy reach of Hilton Head’s best restaurants, shops, tourist attractions, and eco-adventures.
Shipyard Plantation has two entrance gates, one on William Hilton Parkway (278) and one on Pope Avenue near Coligny Plaza. Winding roads and scenic trails lead through towering pines, tropical palms, moss-draped oaks, and scented magnolias to award-winning golf courses, top-rated tennis facilities, and private beach access at the Shipyard Beach Club.
A vacation in Shipyard Plantation offers visitors the best of both worlds, a quiet island retreat with a relaxing coastal vibe and world-class resort amenities, and the top attractions, activities and events on Hilton Head Islandjust a bike ride away from your luxury Shipyard villa or vacation home.
1. Private Beach Access
Guests of Shipyard Plantation enjoy private beach access to Hilton Head’s award-winning beaches at the Shipyard Beach Club, the finest beach club on Hilton Head Island! The Shipyard Beach Club is situated next to the exclusive Sonesta Resort on the northeast corner of the plantation with an oceanfront deck and bar to end your day of coastal experiences on the best pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina!
The private beach access at Shipyard is a scenic bike ride from all Shipyard Plantation villa complexes and the beaches are seasonally lifeguarded for a safe family vacation on Hilton Head. Sunset Rentals have a wide selection of Beachwalk Villas near the Shipyard private beach access and we partner with Vayk Gear to provide our guests with complimentary beach gear on select rentals for classic beach days during your stay in Shipyard Plantation.
2. Tranquil Bike Trails
There are four miles of peaceful paved bike paths within Shipyard Plantation with a maze of lakes and lagoons for fishing, rolling fairways, and lush Lowcountry landscapes. Hilton Head Island is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the US and the central location of Shipyard Plantation means you can literally bike anywhere!
Exploring on two wheels is a fun activity for the whole family, eliminates the traffic and parking problems in peak season, and saves on hefty gas prices! Our complimentary Vayk gear includes not only top quality beach gear rentals, but top quality bike rentals for the whole family too. Stay in a participating Shipyard vacation home or villa rental, have your Vayk bike rentals delivered to your front door, and explore Shipyard Plantation, the beautiful beaches, and beyond by bike.
3. Award-Winning Golf Courses
The Shipyard Golf Club is part of the Hilton Head Island Heritage Golf Collection and features three championship golf courses – the Clipper Course and Galleon Course by George W Cobb, and the Brigantine Course by Willard C. Byrd. These award-winning golf courses are ranked among the best and most scenic golf courses in Hilton Head and cater for all levels of play, there’s even footgolf for the kids!
Aside from legendary golf for the entire family, Shipyard Golf Club offers a family-oriented practice facility and driving range, a gorgeous outdoor patio overlooking the lagoons, and amazing pub grub with daily happy hours at the Brickyard Pub. Our Shipyard golf villas offer a tranquil retreat for the ultimate golf getaway in Shipyard Plantation.
4. Top RATED Tennis & PICKLEBALL in the USA
Hilton Head Island is ranked one of the best tennis resorts in the US and is a top destination for tennis lovers. The award-winning Van Der Meer Racquet Club offers an exceptional tennis experience with 20 championship courts (including covered courts and night courts), basic clinics for beginners, world-class drill sessions for pros, professional junior clinics, and fun summer camps for the kids.
If tennis is your game (or pickleball), Shipyard Plantation won’t disappoint! Our Tennismaster vacation villas are situated only minutes from the award-winning Van Der Meer Racquet Club, the Sonesta Resort and private beach access to miles of beaches, ocean activities, and classic beach days at Shipyard Beach Club.
5. Hilton Head’s Top Attractions at Your Doorstep
Shipyard Plantation lures vacationers seeking the seclusion and serenity of a private beach community yet easy access to the attractions and festivities that draw vacationers from around the world to Hilton Head Island. With Sea Pines Resort Area to the south, Palmetto Dunes Plantationto the north, the Village of Wexford near the Main Gate, and Coligny Plaza just a short bike ride away – you’re perfectly placed for the ultimate vacation on Hilton Head Island.
Many of our guest simply stay close soaking up the serenity of Shipyard Plantation! When you’re not basking on Hilton Head’s best beaches, staying active with sports and wildlife viewing on the trails, you’ll find shopping, oceanfront dining, and luxury spa treatments at Sonesta Resort or settle in to your Lowcountry vacation home for quality family time, leisurely pool days, Lowcountry boils on the grill, and wildlife viewing or birdwatching from your own backyard.
6. Luxury Lowcountry Vacation Rentals
The quiet neighborhoods of Shipyard Plantation are home to luxury low-rise villa complexes and spacious family homes nestled in large old oaks with a choice of golf views, wooded view, or lagoon views. Whether you’re planning a tennis or golf getaway to Hilton Head Island, a family vacation with the kids, or a romantic escape for two in quiet seclusion (with bustling waterfront restaurants and bars a bike ride away!), Sunset Rentals has a luxury Lowcountry vacation rental in Shipyard to suit your style.
Take a tour of our exclusive selection of Shipyard Plantation vacation homes and villas, book online for the best rates and exceptional guest services from our local team and experience the beauty of Hilton Head Island from the serenity of the Shipyard Plantation Resort Area.
Sunset Rentals have been welcoming visitors to Hilton Head Island since 1993. Our exclusive Sunset Package offers a 48-hour worry-free guarantee and flexible cancellation policy, express check-in, a starter pack of vacation essentials, and bike and beach gear credit valued up to $350!
You can book your vacation to Shipyard Plantation on Hilton Head Island with confidence and ease when you vacation with Sunset Rentals.
One of the top questions on our guests’ minds when planning a vacation with their furry family members is where to find cafés, restaurants, and bars on Hilton Head Island that allow dogs.
Hilton Head Island is one of the best dog-friendly vacation destinations on the East Coast with wide beaches that welcome your pup, off-leash dog parks, endless trails, and even eco-tours and water activities for Fido to tag along. When it comes to dining out with your doggo – nearly every outdoor café and patio on Hilton Head is pet-friendly (for well-behaved pups!) and some even go as far as to offer exclusive dog menus, water bowls, and tasty treats.
Our team at Sunset Rentals has put together the ultimate guide to dog-friendly restaurants on Hilton Head Island. We’ve even taken it a step further so you can discover the best places to take your dog to dinner near your Hilton Head Island vacation rental. This month, we highlight the best dog-friendly waterfront restaurants on Hilton Head’s Lowcountry Creeks.
DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS ON SKULL CREEK & BROAD CREEK
Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood straight from the docks, tranquil marsh views, and the most spectacular sunset views on Hilton Head Island. Our dog-friendly waterfront restaurants on Skull Creek and Broad Creek have it all – watch the boats cruise in, listen to live music, socialize over a cold craft beer or cocktail with friends (old, new, and furry!), and indulge in the most delectable Lowcountry cuisine you’ve ever tasted!
Situated at Palmetto Bay Marina on the south end of the island, Black Marlin Bayside Grill is home to “the best shrimp and grits on Hilton Head”, “the best shrimp burger ever” and signature sushi nachos sure to satisfy your seafood cravings. Stop by for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch on the outdoor patio, or hit happy hour with friends at the waterside Hurricane bar with seasonal live music, summertime parties, and Lowcountry oyster roasts on the pet-friendly patio.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek is located across the Coligny Beach Bridge in a scenic waterfront setting at Broad Creek Marina. The expansive waterfront outdoor area is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with the kiddos and furbabies – indulge in craft cocktails, local beers, southern-style seafood and hand-cut steaks, play bocce and cornhole on the lawn, listen to live local music around the firepit, and savor the lifestyle you’ll soon come to love on Hilton Head Island.
Located next door to Fishcamp and Adventure Hilton Head, Up the Creek Pub & Grill is Hilton Head’s favorite hideaway for casual and affordable waterfront dining, with a full bar and buckets of beer! The waterfront deck and pet-friendly patio offer breathtaking Lowcountry views and they’re rumored to have the island’s best burgers and smoked wings! It’s a great spot to relax after aerial adventures, dolphin tours, or water activities from Broad Creek Marina.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Oyster Factory dates back to the early 1800s and is an iconic Hilton Head landmark and popular island destination for seafood with a view! The Old Oyster Factory is voted one of the “Top 100 Scenic View Restaurants” and “Top 50 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in America” and will gladly welcome your pup to join you for wine, beer, bonfires, and waterfront dining on the outside deck over Broad Creek.
The Crazy Crab has two dog friendly waterfront restaurants on Hilton Head – one at Harbour Town Marina in Sea Pines (open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM) and one on the banks of beautiful Jarvis Creek. The Lowcountry setting is sublime with a pet-friendly waterfront deck to snack on award-winning Snow Crab, sip Lowcountry Long Islands, and listen to local live music while the kids stay entertained with the largest saltwater fish tank on Hilton Head, crab races, and an onsite playground. A spectacular waterfront dining experience for you and your pup!
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks has been a Hilton Head Island tradition for over 50 years! Built as an oyster factory in 1912 and then converted from a seafood processing plant in 1967, Hudson’s seafood comes fresh from the local boats to Hudson’s world-famous docks daily, served with traditional southern hospitality as you relax, watch the boats cruise along Skull Creek, and savor the freshest seafood and best Lowcountry views on Hilton Head, with Fido by your side.
Featured in National Geographic’s “The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel”, Skull Creek Boathouse is Hilton Head’s landmark waterfront restaurant and a must-do for dining with your dog. The Boathouse overlooks the creek and marina with a stunning pet-friendly patio beneath the live oaks, a waterfront pavilion, and the open-air Buoy Bar, named one of the Top 30 Outdoor Bars in America. Be sure to check out their events schedule for seasonal nightly music, starting April 1st!
Spend your Vacation in the Top Pet-Friendly Rentals on Hilton Head Island
If you’re still on the hunt for the pawfect dog friendly vacation home on Hilton Head Island, you’re in the right place! Our collection of Hilton Head Island vacation rentals includes a wide selection of pet friendly rentals in the top neighborhoods of Hilton Head Island. Start browsing online or call our team at (843) 785-6767 to find a private paradise for you and your pet on Hilton Head.
The days of leaving your furry friend behind while you vacation are long gone – our team at Sunset Rentals love and treat our four-legged travelers as well as our human guests, with exceptional guest service!
Sunset Rentals represent Hilton Head Island’s largest collection of pet-friendly rentals offering pet owners a wide range of condos, golf villas, and luxury vacation villas that welcome well-behaved pets. Our dog-friendly vacation rentals feature all the comforts and perks of a private home, dog-friendly amenities for your pup, and a locally based team to guide you through your vacation planning.
Whether you’re seeking a quieter (and more affordable!) shoulder season escape or a second summer on secluded beaches, head to Hilton Head Island this fall for a vacation on America’s favorite island, without the crowds!
Nestled on the southern tip of the South Carolina coastline, Hilton Head Island is a small coastal town with world-famous golf courses, miles of beautiful beaches, upscale shopping and dining, four seasons of adventure for all ages, and luxurious oceanfront and oceanside vacation rental retreats to call home.
Hilton Head Island is the #1 Island in Continental US and is wonderful in the fall season. The weather is balmy, breezy and fabulous with warm sunny days, comfortably cool evenings, and very little rainfall. The crowds of beachgoers have dwindled, the chaos of the holiday season is over, the pace is slower, and you get to stay in your dream home at reduced rates!
If the lure of a slower pace of life, family bike rides on uncrowded trails, lazy beach days on empty beaches, long lunches with oceanfront views, and relaxing downtime with family and friends in a tranquil and luxurious setting appeals to you – the fall season on Hilton Head Island beckons.
1. Enjoy a Second Summer on the Beach
Southern Living ranks Hilton Head Island “The South’s Best Beach Town” for 2022 and it’s the perfect destination for a second summer on the beach! Hilton Head’s 12-miles of pristine beaches are among the widest and flattest beaches in the US with calm waters, loads of natural tidal pools, hard-packed sand for bike riding and beach walks, and plenty vitamin sea! Hilton Head Island is a top destination for dog lovers and from October to February the canine restrictions lift – you can play frisbee with your dog on the beach all day long!
2. Go Wildlife Viewing in Nature
With the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Calibogue Sound to the west, and the inland waterways on Broad Creek, Hilton Head Island is one big nature preserve abounding with protected wildlife habitats, natural beauty, and endless opportunities for fall wildlife viewing. Zipline through the trees, cruise the shaded island trails, birdwatch at Audubon Newhall Preserve, horseback ride in Sea Pines Forest Preserve, or get out on the water! Pick up a kayak, SUP, or boat rental from one of Hilton Head’s several marinas or plan a classic Lowcountry tour of Hilton Head Island. From kayaking and SUP tours, fishing charters, and dolphin cruises to day trips to Daufuskie Island, there’s a fall adventure for every wildlife lover on Hilton Head.
3. Book a Round of Oceanfront Golf
Hilton Head Island is ranked one of the “World’s Top 10 Golf Islands” and is home to some of the best public golf courses in the US. Fall is the perfect season to get a tee-time at the world-famous Harbour Town Golf Links, play a breezy round of oceanfront golf in Palmetto Dunes, or take your pick of three award-winning courses (and 81 holes of play) at Hilton Head’s Heritage Golf Collection. If you’re visiting Hilton Head Island with kids, the Hilton Head National Golf Club is a favorite for family golf with junior rates and affordable family packages. Prefer a cool day on the courts? No worries, Hilton Head boasts more than 300 courts for tennis and pickleball – the latest trend on Hilton Head Island!
4. Dine Al fresco on the Waterfront
You can skip the long summer wait lines for outdoor patios and get the best seat in the house in Hilton Head Island’s top alfresco dining spots when you visit in fall. Hilton Head boasts over 30+ waterfront restaurants with raw bars for freshly shucked oysters, oceanfront patios for fine dining, iconic Tiki Huts, and rooftop bars with DJs, live music and line dancing for late night fun. Whether you’re watching the waves roll in from the Atlantic or the sunset over Skull Creek, fall is a fine time for alfresco dining on Hilton Head Island.
5. Entertain & Educate the Kids
There’s so much fun for kids on Hilton Head Island so entertain, educate and delight your kids with experiences they won’t find in a classroom. Climb to the top of the candy-cane Harbour Town Lighthouse, explore Adventure Playground and Sandbox Children’s Museum, burn off steam ziplining, go karting or golfing, and teach your kids the joy of spending time in nature. The fall weather is ideal for cool nature activities at the Coastal Discovery Museum or find an eco-adventure perfect for the whole family with Outside Hilton Head.
6. Attend a Fall Festival
From Lowcountry culinary experiences and all you can eat oyster extravaganzas to pumpkin patches and unique Gullah festivals celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Lowcountry, Hilton Head Island is known for its fabulous fall festivals!
Getting to Hilton Head Islandis easy! Many major airlines fly into Hilton Head Island Airport with non-stop flights and easy connections, and the flights are less frantic in the off-season! If you’re planning a scenic fall road trip through the Lowcountry, Hilton Head Island is only a 45-minute drive from Savannah and a 2.5 hour drive from Charleston.
Experience coastal living at its finest this fall and start planning your getaway to Hilton Head Island with confidence and ease with the Sunset Package. Our selection of luxury Hilton Head vacation rentals are situated in the top HHI resort areas and range from cozy condos for two to multi-bedroom beachfront homes for family reunions, large group gatherings, or a golf buddies getaway to Hilton Head. If you’re looking to escape the cold and linger longer on Hilton Head, our monthly vacation rentals are available from October 1st to April 1st for a snowbird escape or extended stay on the island.
If you’re looking for adventures beyond Hilton Head Island, look no further than this handy list of our favorite easy lowcountry day trips. The Lowcountry lands of South Carolina and Georgia are full of beautiful beaches, serene marshes, and gorgeous mossy oaks to guide you along your vacation throughout the region.
Hilton Head Island is the perfect midpoint to tour the surrounding area, with some of the most beautiful cities in the country only a day trip away. You can enjoy the paradise of Hilton Head Island, the charm of Georgia, and the historical city of Charleston all in one vacation. Read on to learn more about the surrounding areas, and everything that is possible when staying with Sunset Rentals!
1. Charleston
About a 2-hour drive from Hilton Head Island, you can find the beloved city of Charleston, the oldest and largest city in South Carolina. With traditional cobblestone roads, sandy beaches, historical architecture and southern charm, Charleston is well worth the drive.
Visit the Charleston Farmers Market for local vendors and lowcountry cuisine, the South Carolina Aquarium for educational tours and wildlife, and walk the historical streets of downtown Charleston to visit some of the most famous Charleston landmarks, like the Battery and Rainbow Row.
2. isle of palms
Only 20 minutes from Charleston and a 2.5-hour trip from Hilton Head Island, you’ll find Isle of Palms, a long stretch of sandy white beach. Known for world-class golf courses, spas, fine dining, and resorts, Isle of Palms is a favorite amongst Charleston locals.
Another South Carolina Lowcountry favorite is Kiawah Island, only about a 2-hour drive from Hilton Head Island. Kiawah Island is a top destination for luxury resorts living in harmony with nature. It features 10 miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes.
Freshfields Village is the perfect spot for lowcountry fine dining and luxury shopping. Beachwalker Park has plenty of wildlife sightings with beautiful views; and Bohicket Marina has action-packed adventures and watersports for the whole family.
4. Savannah
On the other side of Hilton Head Island, you’ll find Savannah, GA, just an hour’s drive away. Known for the Savannah Historic District and the Savannah River Front, there are plenty of places to explore.
Located just between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, sits Daufuskie Island. Although the island is only accessible by ferry, it is well worth the scenic trip. Locals love to travel over to Daufuskie for hiking, biking, fishing, or just exploring the pristine shoreline.
The Daufuskie Island Ferry transports you to and from the island, and while you’re there, be sure to visit Tour Daufuskie for water taxis, island tours, and rentals.
6. Beaufort
The town of historic sea islands, Beaufort, SC, is only a one-hour drive away. You’ll find coastal beaches, maritime forests, and scenic wetlands ready to be explored.
Hunting Island Beach is the best swimming spot with white sand and shady trees, while the rest of Beaufort is known for its classic southern charm in its museums, tours, and historical sites.
7. Jekyll island
Although a less popular vacation spot, Jekyll Island is full of adventure and beautiful sights to see. It’s a scenic 2-hour drive away, through the oak trees and over marshes. Jekyll Island is home to Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Summer Waves Water Park, sports centers, bike trails, and more.
Visit Summer Waves Water Park for water slides, pools, and fun for the whole family, then head over to Jekyll Island State Park to wind down the day with a bike ride and wildlife viewing.
8. tybee island
Only a 1.5-hour drive away, Tybee Island, GA is a small coastal community and one of the top-rated beaches in the US. Tybee Island is popular for all families, whether traveling with pets, children, or even couples.
Whether you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities, small town southern charm, or beautiful landscapes, adventure is only a short day trip away! Visit Hilton Head Island and find the perfect vacation rental from which to tour all that the Lowcountry has to offer with Sunset Rentals!
A summer vacation on Hilton Head Island offers the best of both worlds – serenity and quiet seclusion away from the crowds and action-packed activities and adventures on land, along the Calibogue Sound, and in the warm Atlantic waters, that beckon you to dive right in!
Hilton Head is “The South’s Best Beach Town” and is consistently ranked the “#1 Island in the US” in the World’s Best Awards. While Hilton Head’s 12-miles of unspoiled, natural beaches and Lowcountry landscapes are the top summer attractions, an abundance of unique experiences await on our small slice of paradise.
Hilton Head Island was one of the top-booked summer destinations in 2021 so don’t leave your vacation planning to the last minute! Here’s our team’s favorite tours and experiences to add to your summer vacation itinerary on Hilton Head Island.
Dolphin Discovery Tours
Hilton Head Island is rated one of the 10 Best Dolphin Sighting Destinations in North America. The waters surrounding Hilton Head are home to a year-round population of over 170 inquisitive and friendly Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins cruising the sounds, creeks, Atlantic waters, and strand feeding along the muddy banks.
Experience our favorite locals up close and in the wild on a Dolphin Tour of Hilton Head Island, with chance encounters of manatees, otters, and sea turtles along the way. You’ll find dolphin encounters for every occasion on Hilton Head Island – pirate cruises for the kids, regular cruise boats departing the marinas, or small boats with freedom to follow the pods and engage in intimate encounters with Hilton Head’s dolphin pods in their natural habitat.
Kayak & Paddle Tours of the Waterways
Navigate the hidden creeks and pristine waterways and head off the beaten path on a kayak or SUP tour of Hilton Head. Hilton Head Island boasts 25 miles of back creeks, tidal salt marshes, and serene waterways teeming with wildlife, marine life, and beautiful shore birds. Surrounded only by the sounds of nature, Lowcountry serenity, and your travel tribe, nothing quite matches a Hilton Head eco-adventure along Calibogue Sound.
Get out in nature on a guided eco-tour with Outside Hilton Head, Hilton Head’s outdoor experts. With unique experiences ranging from guided tours with a naturalist and family SUP classes, to full moon kayak tours and fireworks paddles at Shelter Cove, there’s a tour for every traveler.
Boat Tours & Fishing Charters
If paddling your own boat is not your style, hop on a boat tour of Hilton Head Island and let someone else take the helm. Outside Hilton Head offers a wide variety of boat tours, cruises, fishing charters, and family water skiing adventures from Shelter Cove Marina, or head to Harbour Town in Sea Pines Resort Area.
There are more unique boat tours operating from the Harbour Town Marina. Learn to sail the America’s Cup Stars & Stripes, trawl for shrimp aboard the Tammy Jane, take a sightseeing tour on the Vagabond, or take a luxury cruise on the Spirit of Harbour Town to experience the beauty of the Lowcountry in style.
Birdwatching Tours
With miles of Lowcountry coastal habitats and 300+ species of birds, Hilton Head Island is a prime destination for birding enthusiasts. Top birding destinations on Hilton Head include the Audubon Newhall Preserve, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Fish Haul Beach Park, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, and the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn.
Birders have miles of trails to explore alone but Hilton Head Island’s birdlife is best experienced under the guide of a local, knowledgeable birdwatcher! The Coastal Discovery Museum offers walking tours of Pinckney Island at the northern tip of Hilton Head. The 4,000 acre preserve lies along the Atlantic Flyway with three unique birding habitats (salt marshes, maritime forests and freshwater lagoons), and an abundance of birdlife including duck, egret, pelicans, ibis, and the iconic Great Blue Heron.
Hilton Head Bike Tours
Get ready to pedal! Hilton Head Island is a gold level bicycle friendly community with designated bike lanes, more than 60 miles of public trails, and 12-miles of hard-packed beaches to explore by bike. You can literally bike everywhere on Hilton Head Island and Sunset Rentals make it easy to get on the trails with an exclusive bike and beach gear credit program with Vayk Gear and complimentary rentals on select Sunset Rentals.
The Hilton Head Pedego Tour is always a hit with visitors to Hilton Head. Departing from Shelter Cove Plaza, the 2-hour tour cruises the Hilton Head bike trails highlighting the top attractions, history and culture of Hilton Head Island. Join a group tour or book a private bike tour just for the family!
Touring Sea Pines Preserve on Horseback
From the saddle of a Pedego to a western saddle! The 605-acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve is one of the most scenic settings on Hilton Head Island with secluded forests of Palmettos and moss-draped Oaks, lakes and fishing docks, wetland boardwalks, and historic ruins dating back over 4,000 years.
Visitors to Hilton Head can tour this protected wildlife habitat on horseback with Lawton Stables, a local equestrian center and top attraction on Hilton Head Island. Saddle up for a western style trail ride through the preserve (minimum age 8-years) or if you’re visiting Hilton Head Island with kids, the Shetland pony rides and petting zoo are always a hit with the kids.
Nature Tours at The Coastal Discovery Museum
The Coastal Discovery Museum at historic Honey Horn is not only a bird watcher’s paradise, it is a top Hilton Head destination for nature lovers with a museum in an original Hilton Head plantation house, historical landmarks, an interactive Kids Zone, and endless tours, nature programs, and on-site and off-site eco-activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Guided tours include the marsh critters and creatures of the Lowcountry, the Marsh Tacky horses of Honey Horn, and tours of the historic plantation grounds and butterfly gardens. Coastal Discovery Museum tours extend beyond the Honey Horn plantation with off-site turtle tours, beach discovery tours, boat tours, and guided history tours of Hilton Head Island.
Guided History Tours of Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island lies in the Gullah Geechee Corridor, a National Heritage Area recognizing the authentic West African culture, traditions and customs of the South Carolina sea islands. The Gullah culture survived centuries of slavery and today visitors to Hilton Head can embark on a historic adventure with Gullah guides, born and raised on Hilton Head Island.
The Gullah Heritage Trail Tours at the Coastal Discovery Museum is an immersive experience of the Gullah communities on Hilton Head Island, the Gullah language, traditional foods, music, and more. Tour highlights include Gullah family compounds, plantation ruins and First Freedom Village, where freedom began in 1862 for Hilton Head. The Coastal Discovery Museum also offers tours of the Forts of Port Royal, occupied by the union forces during the civil war.
Tours of Daufuskie Island
Touring Daufuskie Island is a bucket-list day trip from Hilton Head Island. Daufuskie Island is a small (five by two miles) and remote island nestled between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, and only accessible by boat or ferry.
Daufuskie Island abounds in natural beauty and boasts a rich history dating back to the early 1700s. Today, the Gullah heritage still thrives, and visitors can hop on a ferry to explore the uncrowded beaches, scenic bike paths and Lowcountry landscapes by foot, bike, or golf cart.
The best way to experience Daufuskie Island is on a guided tour. Daufuskie Trail Rides offer exclusive beach rides of the historical trails and beaches of Daufuskie Island or embark on a guided tour from Shelter Cove Marina with Outside Hilton Head.
Pirates of Hilton Head
Ahoy Matey! For the young pirates, lads and lassies in tow, nothing beats a swashbuckling adventure on Hilton Head Island’s only custom pirate ship, the Black Dagger. Climb aboard the Black Dagger at Harbour Town in Sea Pines, sail the coastline, fight off Stinky Pete for treasure, and celebrate the defeat of the island’s stinkiest pirate with singing, dancing and a share of the buried pirate booty! If you’re planning a family vacation to Hilton Head Island, it’s a must-do attraction and nautical adventure of note.
Summer Bubblegum Cruise
If you’re a regular vacationer to Hilton Head Island, you’ll know all about Gregg Russell’s famous, family friendly summer concerts under the Liberty Oak Tree at Harbour Town. Every evening through the summer, Greg entertains families with sing-alongs and games under the oak tree – but by day, he has adventures of a different kind. For over 25 years, the Summer Bubble Gum Cruise has been a Hilton Head Island favorite!
Embark on a 90-minute cruise with the kids aboard the Vagabond (every Friday) for an interactive and educational experience with dolphin spotting, singing and games, haunted lighthouses and ghost stories, and a treasure hunt at Harbour Town.
Aerial Tours of Hilton Head
A birds eye view of Hilton Head Island is unbeatable. The Zipline Canopy Tour at Adventure Hilton Head offers the highest views of the island from Broad Creek. The tour includes 7 ziplines, a swinging sky bridge, a spiral staircase in the trees, and a 900-foot long finale on a dual racing zipline. Take it a step further on the high ropes challenge course with 6 high ropes courses and 4 levels of difficulty from beginner greens to double black diamond challenges.
For the ultimate aerial tour of Hilton Head Island, take a climb in altitude along the South Carolina coastline on a Hilton Head helicopter tour. These tours offer unmatched views of the top Hilton Head attractions all the way to the remote shoreline of Daufuskie Island.
Sightseeing Tours of Savannah
The historic city of Savannah, Georgia is only 33 miles from Hilton Head and is easily accessible by car or boat. Savannah is one of the most loved cities in the Lowcountry with historic architecture and attractions, cobblestone streets, tree lined walkways, and tranquil water views from Savannah’s historic riverfront.
Shop along famous River Street, picnic at the fountains in Forsyth Park, indulge in Savannah’s foodie hot spots, and embark on a local sightseeing tour of Savannah. Unique Savannah experiences include culinary tours, hop-on hop-off trolley tours, segway tours, Savannah harbor tours, and ghost tours of Savannah, one of the most haunted cities in the US!
Sunset Dinner Cruises
Sail into the sunset on a romantic dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town, Hilton Head Island’s only sunset dinner cruise. Dine alfresco on the top deck with the best restaurant views in Hilton Head, sip on specialty cocktails and watch the HarbourFest fireworks from the water. For an evening of fine dining with live entertainment, dancing and sightseeing, you’ll create forever memories from the moment you climb aboard a classic Savannah Riverboat for a dinner entertainment cruise along the scenic Savannah River.
Take a Tour of Hilton Head Island’s Top Summer Vacation Rentals
Stay with Sunset Rentals and receive complimentary beach and bike gear credit on select vacation homes and villas, up to the value of $350! Whether you’re seeking kayaks, SUPs or bike rentals to adventure alone or chairs, umbrellas and beach toys for a family beach day, we make it easy to spend summer on Hilton Head Island. Turn your summer dreams to reality with Sunset Rentals!
ThePort Royal Plantation on Hilton Head is a smaller resort area on the northeastern curve of the island, known as the heel of Hilton Head Island. If you’re seeking quieter seclusion away from the crowds, yet still staying close to the top attractions and activities on Hilton Head Island, the Port Royal Plantation is the Hilton Head destination for you!
Southern Living’s “The South’s Best 2022 Awards” recently ranked Hilton Head Island #1 in “The South’s Best Beach Towns 2022”. With southern charm and hospitality, award-winning golf and tennis, tranquil nature walks and bike paths, and miles of unspoiled, sandy beaches at your doorstep – Port Royal is a top destination to spend yourvacation on Hilton Head Island.
1. UNTOUCHED NATURAL BEAUTY
From lush Lowcountry landscapes to stunning Atlantic seascapes, natural beauty abounds in Port Royal Plantation. Guests have access to miles of scenic trails weaving through old moss-laden oak trees, saltwater estuaries and freshwater lagoons for fishing and crabbing, and wild,secluded beaches along the historic Port Royal Sound and Atlantic Ocean.
The top activities in thePort Royal Resort Area include fishing, crabbing, bike riding(bring your own or rent locally), exploring thehistoric siteson a golf cart, and simply living the coastal lifestyle on Port Royal’s beautiful stretch of beaches.
2. AMAZING BEACHES & BEACH CREDIT!
The Port Royal Plantation is home to some of the best and quietest beaches on Hilton Head Island. Islander Beach Park is one of the best beaches on Hilton Head Island with a shady park for beach BBQs and picnics, a large playground for the kids, wide stretches of sandy beaches and calm Atlantic waters for swimming. Other nearby options for a beach day include Folly Field Beach, Driessen Beach, and Burkes Beach – swim, surf, sunbathe and enjoyocean adventures in Port Royal Plantation on Hilton Head Island.
For a different beach experience,Fish Haul Beach Park is a hidden gem overlooking the Port Royal Sound. While it’s not the best beach for swimming on Hilton Head, you can walk the pristine shoreline to historic Mitchelville Beach Park, birdwatch from the observation deck, hike the enchanting beach trails, and beachcomb for unique shells. Fish Haul Beach Park features four unique habitats – maritime forests, marshlands and creeks, ancient sand dunes and the tranquil Port Royal tidal flats.
3. TEE OFF ONE OF THE TOP EXOTIC GOLF COURSES IN THE WORLD
The Heritage Golf Collection on Hilton Head Island features 81 holes of championship golf at theShipyard Golf Club, the Oyster Reef Golf Club, and two world-class courses at thePort Royal Golf & Racquet Club. Nestled along the Atlantic Coastline, the Port Royal Golf Club is ranked one of the “Top 75 US Golf Resorts” by Golf Digest and one of the “Top 10 Exotic Golf Courses in the World”.
For warming up and to improve your game, thePort Royal Golf & Racquet Club features a world-class practice facility with a driving range, putting green, and short game practice area with PGA professional instruction throughout the year. The Port Royal Club is also home to Hilton Head Island’s first FootGolf Course – golf with a soccer ball and great fun for the whole family!
The Barony Course is one of the firstgolf courses on HiltonHead Island, designed by George W. Cobb in the early 1960s and set in lush Lowcountry landscapes. Robbers Row Course was later designed by George W. Cobb and William C. Byrd in 1967, one of the most exotic golf courses in the world set on former Civil War grounds, rich in history and natural beauty with live oaks, magnolias and luxury homes lining the fairways. Golfers can enjoy after golf happy hour and the tastes of the Lowcountry at Robbers Row Grill in the southern mansion-style Port Royal Clubhouse.
4. CHAMPIONSHIP TENNIS CENTER
The Port Royal Golf & Racquet Clubis also ranked one of the Top 25 Tennis Resorts in the World! The Port Royal Racquet Club offers top-notch tennis instruction and award-winning tennis on eight new Har-Tru clay courts in a scenic setting on Hilton Head Island. Pickleball is a Hilton Head Island tradition and if you’re not yet a player, the Port Royal Racquet Club is the perfect place to get up to speed with America’s fastest growing sport!
5. HISTORICAL SITES & ATTRACTIONS
The historical Port Royal Sound and Port Royal Plantation is the original landing site of Captain William Hilton on the island in 1663. The Battle of Port Royal began in 1861 and the town of Mitchelville was established in 1862, the first self-governed town of freed slaves in America. You’ll findhistorical sites and markers across the Port Royal Plantation at Fort Walker Park, Steam Gun Beach, Fort Sherman, Fish Haul and Fort Mitchel, and along the fairways of theRobbers Row Golf Course.
Experience the rich history of Port Royal on awalking tour of historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, a Gullah Heritage Tour of the historic Gullah neighborhoods, or a living history tour of the Zion Chapel of Ease and Baynard Mausoleum, the resting place of four Revolutionary War Heroes and the oldest structure on Hilton Head Island. The Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horns offers guided and self-guided tours of the historic sites on Hilton Head Island.
The Port Royal Plantation is only a short drive from the charming Lowcountry town of Bluffton, SC. Take a walking tour of the historic Spanish-moss draped homes and buildings in Old Town Bluffton nestled among the stately oaks along the May River.
6. PORT ROYAL ARBORETUM
Visitors to thePort Royal resort area have access to the Port Royal Arboretum, a quaint arboretum nestled near Fort Sherman, between Fort Walker Drive and the Robbers Row Golf Course. The arboretum features paved walkways, nature paths through ferns, cypresses and palmettos, scenic overlooks, an azalea garden, and is full of wildlife and native Lowcountry plants.
7. AWAY FROM THE CROWDS
Port Royal Plantation is a quieter Hilton Head Island community, away from the crowds yet only a short drive (or energetic bike ride!) away from the attractions, restaurants, shopping and activities in neighboring HiltonHead Island resort areas. If you’re seeking a quieter vacation on Hilton Head, look no further than Port Royal Plantation.
8. NEARBY DINING & SHOPPING
Port Royal Plantation is close toHilton Head’s best diningand shopping, yet you have amazing options close to home too! Guests have an option of outdoor patios with poolside and oceanfront dining at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa and Marriott Barony Beach Club, Lowcountry cuisine at the Robbers Row Grill, and you’re only a short drive to Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks and Skull Creek Boathouse for waterfront dining on Skull Creek.
9. CLOSE TO HILTON HEAD’S TOP RESORT AREAS & ATTRACTIONS
Restaurants, Entertainment, and Shopping at Harbour Town
Miles of Bike, Jogging, and Walking Trails
Sea Pines Trolley Available
10. PORT ROYAL PLANTATION VILLA COMMUNITIES
Port Royal Village has quietgolf villa communities nestled along the fairways of the Barony Golf Course, boasting tranquil Lowcountry lagoon and golf views, and seasonal pools (perfect for an after-golf or after-beach dip!), and walking distance to oceanfront dining at the Port Royal resort hotels.
The Links in Port Royal Village are spacious, luxury Lowcountry style golf villas, located on the Port Royal Barony Golf Course, a short walk from the Marriott Barony, Westin Hotel, and Islanders Beach Park. Our selection of Port Royal Links Villas boast views of the Barony fairways, access to a seasonal community pool, and select villas include a golf cart for your vacation in Port Royal.
TheDevonshire and Beckenham Villa complexes are nestled nearby on the banks of a tranquil lagoon overlooking the 9th hole of the Barony Golf Course. These quiet Port Royal communities share a sparkling seasonal pool on the fairways, a BBQ area and picnic sites on the lagoon, and are a short walk to miles of Atlantic Coast beaches on Hilton Head Island.
Sunset Rentals proudly boast one of Hilton Head Island’s largest selection of privatevacation homes and villas in the top resort areas of Hilton Head Island, and complete with all the amenities for a luxury vacation in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Start planning your Hilton Head Island vacation today with our team of vacation specialists at Sunset Rentals.
Hilton Head Island is a destination known for its stunning beaches, diverse ecosystems, and unique habitats abounding in wildlife. Whether it’s witnessing the marvel of baby sea turtle hatchlings, getting up close and personal with our beloved marine mammals, encountering alligators, or discovering Hilton Head’s best birding spots with your binocs, you’ll soon discover a deep appreciation for our island’s natural wonders.
Witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat is a magical and memorable experience but it’s vital to engage in responsible wildlife watching to maintain a healthy balance between humans and the island’s delicate wildlife habitats. For the safety of our local wildlife (and yours!), here are 7 tips for responsible wildlife watching on Hilton Head Island.
1. Drive Slow
When exploring Hilton Head Island by car, it’s important to drive at a slow and cautious pace, follow the speed limits, and keep a careful watch for wildlife on the roads. During dawn and dusk, wildlife are far more active on the roads and tend to travel in groups, if you see one crossing the street, the chances are more will follow.
2. Leash Up Your Furry Friends
The locals on Hilton Head Island love our pets as much as we love our wildlife, but please respect the rules in place to protect and preserve our wildlife habitats. To ensure the safety of our local wildlife and your furry friends, please keep pets on a leash at all times, do not allow them to swim or roam near alligator habitats, keep a mindful eye around sea turtle nesting grounds, and never leave them unattended. At night, keep your pet indoors for safety and bring pet food and water dishes inside to deter nighttime visitors.
3. Observe Wildlife from a Safe Distance
Be sure to add binoculars and a camera to your Hilton Head packing list! As exciting and tempting as it may seem to get up close and personal with wildlife, our local wildlife should never be approached. Respect their space, avoid close interactions, do not provoke, and always observe wildlife quietly from a safe and respectful distance – this is critical for their wellbeing, and yours!
Marine Life Encounters: On the waterways surrounding Hilton Head, marine life encounters are a given. Be mindful and maintain a safe distance when boating and paddling the waterways to avoid collisions or injuries, allow them to swim freely and undisturbed, and stay at least 140 feet away from dolphins at all times. The Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin is protected under federal law by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, it is illegal to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal.
Alligator Encounters: Hilton Head is home to a healthy population of American Alligators, one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic native species. Always assume every body of water may contain an alligator, swimming or wading in ponds and lagoons is prohibited, fish only from the docks and piers, and keep a close eye on kids and pets near any water on Hilton Head. If you’re planning to book at tee time on Hilton Head’s iconic golf courses, you may even encounter alligators strolling between lagoons. Local rules and regulations require you to stay at least 60 feet (4 cars in length) away from alligators.
Sea Turtle Encounters: Hilton Head Island is a nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including greens, leatherbacks, and the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. During the sea turtle season (May to October), our ancient residents and their hatchlings are strictly protected by local and federal regulations with severe penalties for handling or interfering with sea turtles, nesting sites, and baby hatchlings.
4. Don’t Feed Wildlife
While it may seem harmless, please resist the urge to feed our local wildlife. Feeding wildlife makes them associate humans with food, can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets, and can turn the animal aggressive leading to potentially dangerous situations. Visitors to Hilton Head are often tempted to feed our friendly local dolphin pods without realizing that under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, feeding or harassing dolphins is illegal, resulting in fines that can reach up to $100,000.
5. Always Follow the Signs
Always be on the lookout for posted signs and guidelines to avoid disturbing the natural habitats on Hilton Head Island. Whether it’s a marked-off sea turtle nesting area on the beach, an alligator alert on the fairways, or interpretive signage along the 60+ miles of Hilton Head Island pathways, these rules are in place to protect our fragile ecosystems, free-roaming wildlife, and curious visitors tempted to get too close and personal with our local wildlife.
6. Lights out!
Artificial lighting disorientates sea turtles and their hatchlings from the natural light of the moon. If you’re staying in an oceanfront rental, from 1 May to 31 October all light fixtures visible from the beach are required to be switched off between 10 PM and 6 AM. This includes interior blinds and drapes, all outdoor lighting, and any flashlight photography. Always report any sea turtle sightings or stranded sea turtles to the SC Department of Natural Resources Hotline at (800) 922-5431.
7. Leave Only Footprints
Our presence in nature should never leave a lasting impression! To minimize the impact on our diverse barrier island ecosystems and maintain the island’s pristine environment, please leave no trace, only footprints! Dispose of all trash properly to prevent harm to wildlife, always leave the beach clean, remove sandcastles and fill in holes for traveling sea turtles, and do not leave any umbrellas, chairs, or accessories on the beach overnight. Book a stay with a participating Sunset Rentals property to quality for complimentary bike & beach gear from Vayk Gear. Learn how it works HERE!
Wildlife on Hilton Head Island Beaches
The wildlife on Hilton Head is found without effort on our miles of wildbeaches. Our suggestion – walk or bike ride the shoreline from where the Calibogue Sound meets the Atlantic at South Beach to the remote shoreline of Fish Haul Creek and Mitchelville Beach near Port Royal Sound.
You’ll find wildlife encounters all along the shoreline –South Beach on Hilton Head Island is a prime spot for shore birds, and dolphins making their way to the Calibogue Sound, Fish Haul Creek and Mitchelville Beach overlooking Port Royal Sound are Hilton Head’s most natural beaches with maritime forests, boardwalks for wildlife viewing, historical sites and tidal flats teeming with shorebirds and crabs (best found at low tide!).
There’s no need to head off the beaten path for wildlife encounters on Hilton Head! From luxury oceanfront villas to fairway retreats and lush lagoon hideaways, you’ll find the perfect vantage point to observe the island’s diverse wildlife from the comfort of home in our collection of 240+ Hilton Head vacation rentals – the most trusted vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island.
Questions? Call our team at (843) 785-6767 today!
Stay with Sunset Rentals
Stay near Hilton Head’s top wildlife attractions withSunset Rentals – the chances are you won’t have to leave home to experience some of the best wildlife viewing on Hilton Head.
Our selection of luxury Hilton Head Islandvacation homes and villas are situated in the top resort areas of Hilton Head Island with luxury amenities, peaceful Lowcountry views, and opportunities for wildlife watching from your porch.
