Sea Pines Rentals Archives - Sunset Rentals Vacation Blog

February 17, 2022June 14, 2022

A Guide to Hilton Head Island Beaches and Nature Preserves

Spend any season in our slice of paradise and you’ll understand why Hilton Head is the “Top Island in the Continental US” and continually voted one of the best vacation destinations in the world! Cross the bridge from Bluffton, step back in time in iconic Lowcountry landscapes, and experience luxury island style living among the unspoiled wildlife refuges, nature preserves and award-winning tropical beaches on Hilton Head Island.

HILTON HEAD ISLAND NATURE PRESERVES

Hilton Head’s wildlife refuges, natural preserves and historical parks feature in our Top Sights to See on Hilton Head Island. Raised wetland boardwalks and trails for hiking, biking and horse riding weave through coastal habitats with ancient dunes, wildlife and wildflowers, beautiful birdlife, and rentals, activities and guided tours for all ages to escape in an untouched natural setting, equally as alluring as our beautiful beaches.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Audubon Newhall Preserve
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
Coastal Discovery Museum
Mitchelville Freedom Park

THE BEACHES OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND

Hilton Head Island boasts 12 miles of unspoiled, sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean on the South Carolina coastline. Pinch yourself, you’re not dreaming! Our beaches are consistently voted among the best beaches in the USA and the world and are easily accessible by scenic bike rides, old-school trolleys and oceanfront rentals throughout the unique resort areas of the island.

Hilton Head Island offers a unique beach vacation for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a secluded stretch of sand, wildlife cruises and eco-tours, thrilling aquatic adventures, or a fun island vibe with sundowners and live music on the sand, you can experience it all on Hilton Head! Here’s our guide to beaches in the top resort areas of Hilton Head Island.

FOREST BEACH AREA

The Forest Beach Area is the “Hilton Head Hot Spot” located on the south end of Hilton Head between Shipyard and Sea Pines, and anchored by Coligny Plaza for shopping, dining and live entertainment to break up your day on the beach.

Coligny Beach Park: The award-winning Coligny Beach Park is the most popular beach on Hilton Head and is centrally located an easy bike or trolley ride away from your vacation home. There’s excellent amenities, entertainment for the kids, summer rentals for beach and ocean activities, and the legendary Tiki Hut on the sand to end your day island style.

Alder Lane Beach: Alder Lane Beach is slightly away from the crowds, a mile south of Coligny Plaza on South Forest Beach Drive. The beach is less crowded with summer lifeguards for families, restrooms, outdoor showers and handicap matting for easy beach access.

SHIPYARD BEACH CLUB

The Shipyard Plantation is the smallest plantation on Hilton Head nestled oceanfront between Sea Pines Resort and Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. While you’re only a short walk or bike ride from Coligny Beach and the Dunes House in Palmetto, guests of Shipyard have exclusive access to five-star amenities, an oceanfront deck, and a wide stretch of sandy beach at the oceanfront Shipyard Beach Club.

SEA PINES BEACH CLUB

The Sea Pines Resort Area dominates the southern end of Hilton Head Island with 5 miles of sandy beaches along the Atlantic coastline, and private beach access to Sea Pines guests only. Ride your bikes to the boardwalks, hop on the Sea Pines Trolley to the Beach Club or stay oceanfront with a private boardwalk to a secluded stretch of beach. The Beach Club is a true island retreat with an oceanfront beach bar and restaurant, world-class amenities, and picture perfect white sands dotted with blue umbrellas and beach-goers soaking up the sun.

PALMETTO DUNES BEACH

The Palmetto Dunes Resort Area boasts 3-miles of pristine oceanfront beauty with wide sandy beaches, gentle ocean waters and super easy public beach access along Mooring Buoy, Ocean Lane and Dunes House. Ride your bikes, hop on the free Dunes Buggy or arrive early to find a parking spot at the oceanfront Dunes House, the perfect place to end your beach day with cool cocktails, fish tacos and ocean views in the laid-back beach bar and restaurant.

MID-ISLAND BEACHES

As you head north from Palmetto Dunes, the beaches are quieter, and you’ll find hidden gems perfect for swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, beach picnics, and a scenic, fun-filled family day at the beach.

Burkes Beach: For a pet-friendly beach day on Hilton Head, make your way to Burkes Beach. Burkes Beach is located next to Chaplin Community Park with parking, biking trails, sports courts, a playground, a dog park and trails to a wide, sandy, lifeguarded beach.

Driessen Beach: Driessen Beach is another mid-island gem next to Burkes Beach at the end of Bradley Beach Road. A wooden boardwalk leads through a natural forest to a covered picnic pavilion, outdoor showers and restrooms, a water station and a beautiful stretch of shoreline with seasonal lifeguards for the kids to play safely in the ocean.

Folly Field Beach: If you’re looking for the local hangout, you’ll find them away from the crowds at Folly Field Beach on Starfish Drive. Folly Field Beach has all the amenities of Coligny for a beach day and is the best place to learn to surf on Hilton Head! Go on, rent a board and ride the waves!

PORT ROYAL PLANTATION BEACHES

Staying in Port Royal gives you access to 19 beach walk paths on the historic Port Royal Sound and the shoreline of the Atlantic Ocean. Islanders Beach Park is just north of Folly Field Beach and is one of the best family-friendly beaches on Hilton Head with a shady park and pavilion for picnics, a large playground, and a boardwalk to a wide, uncrowded beach. For shells, shorebirds and complete seclusion head to Fish Haul Beach Park overlooking the Port Royal Sound. This off-the-beaten path gem boasts untouched natural beauty with a boardwalk and observation deck for birdwatching, enchanting nature trails and a secluded shoreline (not recommended for swimming!).

Book Your Next Hilton Head Island Vacation with Sunset Rentals!

Sunset Rentals have been welcoming vacationers to Hilton Head Island since 1993, some have made it their home and many return year after year. We offer complimentary beach gear packages in select rentals, and we know where to stay & play on Hilton Head Island!

February 12, 2022August 14, 2023

Top 20 Spots To Watch The Sunset On Hilton Head

The distinctive Lowcountry scenery and tranquil waterways on Hilton Head Island provide the perfect canvas for some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever witness. As the sun dips slowly below the horizon, fiery palettes of reds, oranges, pinks, and purples paint the skies casting a warm glow over Hilton Head’s white sandy shoreline, untouched preserves, and waterfront marinas abuzz with tours, activities, and sunset dining experiences that top the charts! No filters required!

Whatever beach sunset vibe you’re after, you’ll find it here on Hilton Head Island. From hip, happening happy hours on the sand and landmark waterfront restaurants on the creeks to secluded paddling adventures alongside pods of dolphins, here’s our guide to the best sunset spots on Hilton Head Island, and epic sunset experiences to make it extra special!

Top Sunset Spots

1. Award-Winning Coligny Beach Park

Location: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC

The beaches on Hilton Head Island are consistently ranked among the most picturesque in the world, but are extra special with the candy-colored glow of sunset resting on the calm waters. Slip off your flip-flops for a sunset stroll or beach bike ride along the shoreline, or stop by Coligny Plaza for picnic goods from Piggly Wiggly or a Lowcountry cheese or charcuterie board to go from Rollers for a sunset picnic on the sand.

Local Tip: Stay with Sunset Rentals and receive complimentary Vayk gear including beach chairs & umbrellas and top quality bike gear for the whole family!

2. The Tiki Hut

Location: 1 S Forest Beach Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 785-5126
Hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM
Seasonal Live Music: See the lineup HERE!
Reservations: First come, first serve

If beach volleyball and barefoot cocktails on the sand are more your vibe, the Hilton Head Island Tiki Hut on Coligny Beach is an island icon that offers up an insta-worthy sunset with beachside bites, hand-crafted frozen cocktails, a chilled atmosphere, and an epic line up of live music and jam sessions in all four seasons.

Local Tip: For fewer crowds, take a short walk along the shoreline to sample “the best frozen drink you’re ever going to get” at Pool Bar Jim’s. Jim’s frozen creations include original recipes like the Daufuskie Freeze, Margaritas, and Mojitos served with old-fashioned southern hospitality with a tropical touch!

3. The Beach Club at Sea Pines

Location: 87 N Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 842-1888
Hours: Daily 11:30 AM to 9 PM (Beach Bar 10 PM)
Seasonal Live Music: 4 PM to 7 PM
Reservations: Reservations recommended for dinner

Situated in the Sea Pines Resort area of Hilton Head, the Beach Club boasts an oceanfront patio for sunset dining, a rooftop lounge and bar for upscale cocktails, and a wrap-around beach bar with walk-up service for beachgoers. You can literally have your Hilton Head sunset on the rocks, shaken, or stirred, while being serenaded by live music in season.

Local Tip: Parking is limited! You can hop on the Sea Pines Trolley or stay local! Our Turtle Lane Townhomes are steps from the Sea Pines Beach Club with two swimming pools (one seasonally heated!), private beach access, and stunning sunsets on your doorstep. You must be a guest in Sea Pines to enjoy the Beach Club.

4. Salty Dog Café

Location: 232 S Sea Pines Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 671-2233
Hours: Daily 8 AM to 10 PM
Happy Hour: 4 PM to 6 PM
Reservations: First come, first serve

The legendary Salty Dog Café is one of the most visited restaurants on the island! Whether it’s the waterfront location in the New England-inspired village, the succulent seafood and award-winning crab legs, or Salty Dog’s stunning Lowcountry sunsets over Braddock Creek that spark your interest, it’s a must-do dining experience with a must-see Hilton Head Island sunset!

Local Tip: Book a sunset sail on the “Salty Cat” with Island Water Sports situated on the boardwalk at South Beach Marina, next to Salty Dog Café.

5. Dunes House

Location: 14 Dune House Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 593-9104
Hours: Daily 11 AM to 6 PM
Seasonal Live Music: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday
Reservations: First come, first serve

The Dunes House is the best sunset spot in the Palmetto Dunes resort area. Dunes House is a laid-back beach bar and oceanfront restaurant with an outdoor kitchen serving casual cuisine and cool cocktails, seasonal live music, and spectacular ocean views to watch the sunset on Hilton Head.

Local Tip: Dunes House is open only to guests staying in the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort area! It’s no coincidence you’re here at Sunset Rentals! Click HERE to find your sunset rental in Palmetto Dunes and you can walk from home or hop on the Dunes Buggy!

6. Harbour Town Yacht Basin

Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 363-8335

The Harbour Town Yacht Basin in Sea Pines Resort is perhaps the most famous spot on Hilton Head to witness a classic Lowcountry sunset – often including a free dolphin show! Find a red rocking chair on the waterfront or walk out onto Harbour Town Pier to look back on the iconic candy cane lighthouse aglow with vibrant skies.

Local Tip: Visitors staying outside the Sea Pines Resort area are required to pay a $9 cash gate fee to enter. Guests of Sea Pines can ride the free Sea Pines Trolley with 4 routes around the resort area.

7. Harbour Town Lighthouse

Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (866) 305-9814
Hours: Daily 10 AM to sundown
Admission: $5.75 per adult, children 5 and under free

The red and white striped Harbour Town Lighthouse is an iconic Hilton Head landmark with breathtaking views over Calibogue Sound and Daufuskie Island. Climb 114 steps through the museum to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic 360-degree views of the sun casting silhouettes over the water, Lowcountry marshes, and Harbour Town Yacht Basin.

Local Tip: Planning a special event on Hilton Head? The Harbour Town Lighthouse is available for private events and special celebrations for up to 40 guests and you’ll find a stylish place to stay in Sea Pines with Sunset Rentals!

8. Sunset Cruise on Calibogue Sound

Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 671-4386

H20 Sports at Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers a wide variety of activities, water sports rentals, and sunset tours on Calibogue Sound and Broad Creek. Choose from a 1.5 hour sunset dolphin tour, a 2-hour sunset sail aboard the 38’ SUMO trimaran (the fastest boat on Hilton Head), or reserve a wave runner or boat rental to sail into the sunset at your own pace.

Local Tip: Reserve a table at Quarterdeck next door to H20 Sports (open till 9 PM daily) to return for fresh-caught seafood and specialty sunset cocktails on the Harbour Town waterfront.

9. The Crazy Crab

Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 363-2722
Hours: Daily 11 AM to 9 PM
Happy Hour: Daily 4 PM to 6 PM
Reservations: Reservations recommended

Located at the famed Liberty Oak in Harbour Town, the Crazy Crab is a Hilton Head hotspot for sunset dining with amazing happy hour specials to settle in for golden hour. There are red rockers right outside the door to relax after dinner, watch the boats, and catch an iconic Greg Russell concert under the Liberty Oak in spring or summer.

Local Tip: For easy access to Harbour Town and breathtaking sunset views from home, look no further than our Schooner Court Villa, a luxurious 4-bedroom townhome with unparalleled Harbour Town Marina views!

10. Sea Pines Forest Preserve

Location: Greenwood Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 842-1979
Open: Daily 8 AM to 7 PM

For a more solitary sunset, escape to Sea Pines Forest Preserve, a 650-acre protected nature preserve with pet-friendly trails winding through four unique habitats including ancient maritime forests, freshwater wetlands, fishing ponds, and meadows of wildflowers teeming with wildlife and natural wonder.

Local Tip: Make a day of it and book a horseback ride through Sea Pines Forest Preserve with Lawton Stables or a guided alligator & wildlife boat tour of the lakes with H20 Sports.

11. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Location: 1 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 548-0532

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is situated on the banks of Broad Creek, right across from the Palmetto Dunes resort area. The setting is stunning for a photo-worthy sunset – boats bobbing in the foreground, fishing charters cruising back into the marina, and dazzling hues draping the Lowcountry landscapes. At Shelter Cove, you can book a cruise for an uninterrupted sunset, choose from a selection of laid-back cafés and award-winning restaurants for waterfront dining, or watch the sunset at HarbourFest, Shelter Cove’s signature summer event.

Local Tip: Parking is free but limited in peak season. The Dunes Buggy and Breeze Trolley provide seasonal transportation to Shelter Cove from April through Labor Day.

12. Sunset Celebration Summer Concert Series

Location: 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 341-4600
Hours: 7 PM to 10 PM
Admission: Free
Date: Every Friday Night from June through August

Pack a picnic for Sunset Celebration on the waterfront at Shelter Cove Community Park with live music and laid-back family entertainment on the banks of Broad Creek. The summer concert series is free, pet-friendly, and perfect for a sunset picnic in the park. Stop by Kroger for picnic basket goodies or pick up to-go from one of Towne Centre’s local eateries.

Local Tip: You can watch the sunset from home at Anchorage Villas, only steps from Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina with private lagoons and a large heated private pool – perfect for poolside sunsets away from the crowds.

13. Sunset Dolphin Tour on Broad Creek

Location: 86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 684-2004

Tours:
Sunset Creek Cat Cruise
Sunset & Fireworks Dolphin Tour
Private Sunset & Fireworks Dolphin Tour

Situated at the base of the Cross Island Expressway Bridge, Palmetto Bay Marina is one of Hilton Head’s original fishing marinas with beautiful west-facing views of Broad Creek and Spanish Wells. From sport fishing charters, pirate cruises, and Lowcountry watersports (including the latest craze of Creek Cats) to shopping and dining, you can spend the whole day playing at Palmetto Bay Marina before sailing into the sunset.

Local Tip: End your sunset experience at the Carolina Crab Company, Black Marlin Bayside Grill, or waterfront Hurricane Bar, all famous for their fantastic happy hours, Lowcountry seafood, laid-back vibes, and unbeatable sunset views!

14. Live Music in the Marina

Location: 86 Helmsman Way, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 363-8335
Admission: Free
Date: April & May

If live music is high on your list of things to do on Hilton Head, hop off your creek cat or dolphin cruise and enjoy sunset dining and live music in the marina hosted by the Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar. The live music schedule changes frequently so click HERE to add more local live music dates to your Hilton Head itinerary!

Local Tip: If you’re an early riser and love a good sunrise, the Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café opens at 6 AM (Wed-Sun) and serves up the best shrimp and grits on the island.

15. HarbourFest Fireworks Paddle

Location: 18 Simmons Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 363-8335

Shelter Cove HarbourFest 2023 Fireworks Schedule:
Tuesdays: June 6, 13, 20 & 27
Tuesdays: July 4, 11, 18 & 25
Tuesdays: August 1, 8, 15 & 22

Broad Creek Marina is across the bridge with east-facing views of the island. Broad Creek Marina offers activities, tours, and charters for every adventure level including ziplining, parasailing, and sunset dolphin cruises by boat, aboard the sailboat Cheers, or by kayak. The 2-hour Kayak Sunset Tour of Broad Creek includes the added bonus of the HarbourFest Fireworks in the summer season.

Local Tip: For the ultimate family adventure, combine your sunset experience with an epic aerial tour at Adventure Hilton Head, also located at Broad Creek Marina.

16. Waterfront Dining on Broad Creek

Location: 18 Simmons Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

Fishcamp on Broad Creek | Phone: (843) 842-2267
Up the Creek Pub & Grill | Phone: (843) 681-3625
Reservations: First come, first serve

Kick back for a killer sunset, the real deal on Lowcountry cuisine, seasonal live music, and loads of family fun at Fishcamp on Broad Creek or next door at Up the Creek Pub & Grill. Both restaurants boast breathtaking views with a laid-back island ambiance, lawn games, live music, waterfront firepits, and daily happy hours to indulge a little.

Local Tip: If your family includes a furbaby, both Fishcamp & Up the Creek welcome well-behaved, leashed pets on their waterfront patios. Click HERE to find a place to stay for your pup too!

17. Happy Hour Sunset at Skull Creek Boathouse

Location: 397 Squire Pope Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 681-3663
Hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM
Happy Hour: 4 PM to 6 PM
Reservations: First come, first serve

Situated on the northern end of the island, Skull Creek is one of the most scenic sunset destinations in South Carolina! Sunset views stretch over the island’s western marshes and the untouched landscapes of Pinckney Island, views interrupted only by pods of dolphins and fishing boats cruising the creek. Sunset diners have a choice of three award-winning waterfront restaurants serving up seafood straight from the docks, southern BBQ, frozen cocktails and craft beers, seasonal live music, and sweeping sunset views that’ll leave you captivated.

Local Tip: The Skull Creek Dockside, Skull Creek Boathouse, and Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks are all walk-in only, but if there’s a wait in line it’s well worth it.

18. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Location: US-278, Hilton Head Island, SC

Phone: (843) 784-2468
Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Admission: Free

Nestled between the mainland and Hilton Head Island, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 4,000 acres of wild Lowcountry landscapes with maritime forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks teeming with alligators, bobcats, butterflies, and beautiful birdlife. It’s a top spot for Lowcountry nature photography with over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails to find a secluded setting to capture a sunset.

Local Tip: If you have your own kayak, launch on Skull Creek from the Rowing and Sailing Center on Squire Pope Road for a sunset paddle around Pinckney Island.

19. Sunset Helicopter Tour

Location: Hilton Head Island Airport, 38 Gateway Circle, Hilton Head, SC

Phone: (843) 505-7182

Soaring above Hilton Head in a helicopter adds to the magic of your sunset experience. The coastline stretches before you as a canvas of golden hues glows from the sand dunes to the skies. From quick flips along the Atlantic coastline to ultimate adventures sightseeing the top attractions on Hilton Head from the skies, Hilton Head Helicopter Tours offer it all – private charters too!

Local Tip: If you’re planning a large group getaway or family reunion on Hilton Head, they have three beautiful helicopters to easily accommodate the whole crew.

20. Sunsets from a Luxury Lowcountry Rental

Whether you’re watching the sun dip behind the creeks, setting the ocean waters aglow, or casting colors over Hilton Head’s famous fairways, you can pick your sunset views in our collection of 230+ Sunset Rentals on Hilton Head Island – many with complimentary credit for all the gear you need for a beach picnic, bike ride, or sunset paddle adventure on the Intracoastal waterways.

At Sunset Rentals, we don’t just provide you with a luxury Lowcountry retreat to call home, our homes set the stage for a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s nightly masterpiece.

Local Tip: Start chasing South Carolina sunsets today with our team at Sunset Rentals!

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, 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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