You'll notice that there's something different about Hilton Head the moment you arrive. By design, there is a sensitive nod to the environment that has become the blueprint for other developments around the nation. Buildings are set back from the main roads, showcasing the native pines and oaks. Colors are not flamboyant and bright; instead, they are subdued and blend with the natural environment. And bright streetlights here are as rare as snowstorms. A progressive land purchasing program undertaken by town leadership ensures that there's plenty of green wherever you go, and strict development guidelines ensure that the only thing between your eyes and a breathtaking view are your sunglasses.
Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities year round on Hilton Head Island and take advantage of warm temperatures and salt air. Golf at any one of over two dozen courses, some with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Kayak the tidal waters of the coast and see wildlife up close or go fishing in our ocean waters. Sail the bay waters of South Carolina and watch the dunes roll into the horizon. Or, hike beaten trails and lose yourself in the beauty of the Carolinas.
Explore the natural wonder of nature and the outdoors. The Hilton Head Island outdoors experience is one like no other.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND Beaches
Bask in over twelve miles of sparkling sand beaches on Hilton Head Island.
Walk the flat sand banks of the Atlantic Ocean or wade in the surf. Hide in the rolling dunes and natural grasses of the beach or gaze towards the clouds to admire kite tricks and parasailing.
Nature Preserves
Revisit nature at one of Hilton Head Island's nature preserves.Visit the Newhall Audubon Nature Preserve and view the natural flora and fauna of the Island. Find wildlife at Pinckney Island Nature Preserve, a former lookout used by early settlers. Walk the last remaining tract of undisturbed land on Hilton Head Island at Sea Pines Forest Preserves. Explore a 4,000 year-old Indian Shell Ring. Or, visit one of many registered historic landmarks designated by the National Register of Historic Places. Listing of Hilton Head Nature Tours
Hiking & Biking
Hike, bike and wander designated paths on the Island bordered by plants, wild animals and marshlands. Each trail leads to a point of interest on the Island. Explore trails from sunrise to sunset. Or, cross the bridge to the Main Trail on Pinckney Island.
The 3.5 mile trail is completely bordered by water and watched over by dolphins and alligators. Birds and foliage spill onto the trail in some places making the experience even more spectacular. All trails are suitable for walking or careful biking.
One of the most popular activities while visiting is cycling. With miles of both paved and dirt paths covering the Island, there isn’t a place visitors can’t go with their bikes, including the 12 miles of sandy beaches. Click here for a map of Hilton Head Island's Bike Pathways. Listing of Bicycle Sales & Rentals & Bike Tours
Shopping
Bluffton and Hilton Head shopping offer a variety of unique boutiques and some of the nation's most recognized retail chains.
Whether you're hunting for a deal on your favorite brand of clothing or trying to find that unique souvenir of your Island vacation, you're sure to find a superb selection Hilton Head shopping opportunities at more than 200 stores and outlets.
From chic boutiques to exclusive outlet shops, Hilton Head Island offers fashionable, fine-quality products in a pleasant shopping atmosphere. Island shops are located in intimate plazas, quaint marinas, elegant harbours and full-service shopping centers, which compliment the Island's environment, architecture and history. On the Island you will find The Mall at Shelter Cove, the only mall and indoor, air-conditioned shopping destination. Just over the bridge in Bluffton are the Tanger Outlets. View a full list of Shopping Centers.
A wide selection of distinct art galleries, antique stores, specialty gift shops, gourmet stores, sporting goods shops and jewelers complete the Hilton Head Island shopping experience.