Most Popular Things to Do in Hilton Head, South Carolina

Exploring the natural beauty of South Carolina? No journey would be complete without checking out all the fun things to do in Hilton Head, SC. At 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, Hilton Head Island is an entrancing nook packed to the brim with beautiful beaches and bike trails. From its idyllic historic district to the natural wonders of Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, spruce up your itinerary with this complete Hilton Head tourist attractions guide!

Must-see places to visit in Hilton Head, SC

Coligny Beach Park

Looking for a spot to relax and watch the world go by in Hilton Head? Coligny Beach Park is, with its warm water and white sands, Hilton Head Island’s most popular beach.

The waters lapping the shore at Coligny Beach Park are often calm and warm. It’s the perfect option for swimming for the whole family when the lifeguards are around. You’ll also find plenty of room to sit and relax on the shores, from sun-kissed zones and comfortable shady spots.

Depending on the time of year, you might be lucky enough to spot a pod of dolphins playing in the water. Large dolphin pod sightings are most common in spring and winter, while smaller pods are visible throughout the rest of the year.

Children and adults alike can also make the most of the nearby amenities. In the area, you’ll find both changing rooms and shower rooms.

After your beach adventure, head back to Coligny Circle to explore the shops and restaurants around Coligny Plaza.

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Looking to see as much wildlife as you can and get back to nature? Make your way to Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful nature park is home to a diverse array of animals and is a fantastic escape from the bustle of town for travelers.

At Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, opportunities for wildlife photography await around every corner. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to see many different species, including wading and migratory birds, alligators, and white-tailed deer.

The route also doubles as one of the best bike trails on Hilton Head Island, offering views that are difficult to beat. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle on your ride!

There’s a huge focus on conservation at Hilton Head’s Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. If you’re interested in fishing, look for the areas where anglers are casting out their lines. Fishing is a huge hobby across the 4,053-acre wildlife refuge.

Coastal Discovery Museum

Looking for the top family-friendly activities for your Hilton Head trip? Slip the Coastal Discovery Museum into your Hilton Head trip plans. Located on Honey Horn Road, this museum contains exhibits that showcase the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island. They’re set alongside scenes of natural history and cultural heritage.

The Coastal Discovery Museum is designed to take you through the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. You can expect to see centuries-old buildings here. Each is surrounded by exploratory trails, different species of birds, and idyllic gardens. If you’re visiting in the summer, enjoy wandering through the enclosure full of native butterflies.

For a moment of rest, the Bird’s-Eye View Theater is an educational center offering ample seating and innovative public programs. Here, you can learn all that there is to know about the postcard-worthy area surrounding you.

If you’re looking for something a little bit more adventurous, check out the museum’s tours. The Coastal Discovery Museum has plenty running. Hop onto its Tours on Water to come face-to-face with bottlenose dolphins and Hilton Head Island’s native flora and fauna.

Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum

Want to marvel at Hilton Head Island from above? Climb to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum. This lighthouse is one of the most iconic stops on a Hilton Head Island sightseeing itinerary. When you reach the top of the lighthouse, you’ll be blown away by the scenic views that unfold.

Before you climb each step, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Hilton Head’s winding past. The Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum is home to a wide variety of memorabilia. When you reach the top, the panoramic views will make it worth the short climb.

Cast your gaze towards Port Royal Sound. This idyllic inlet is worth a sailing trip if your itinerary allows time for one. Whether you’re exploring Hilton Head in one day or a week, you’ll find the experience more than worth it. Embarking on a dolphin tour with experienced staff is the perfect opportunity for nature lovers. Photographers will also appreciate the up-close-and-personal experience.

Harbour Town

Got eating and shopping on your mind? Look no further than Harbour Town. This charming array of boutiques and restaurants is a worthwhile stop. It surrounds the Sea Pines Resort’s basin for yachts, with plenty of outdoor cafés allowing you to soak in the sun.

From the Harbour Town waterfront, there are lots of different options. You can relax and enjoy the view or partake in a recreational activity. Explore nature on a dolphin cruise, get some thrills jet skiing, or go paddleboarding. Whatever you choose, there’s something here for every style of traveler. 

Golfers will be happy to know that golf links are aplenty around Harbour Town, too. Several world-class golf courses dot Hilton Head Island. For a fun & active day out, it’s worth playing a round.

Folly Field Beach Park

Does your heart long for a quiet Atlantic Ocean beach? Folly Field Beach Park ticks off all the boxes. One of South Carolina’s little gems, Folly Field is along the area’s top family beaches. 

While staying in the blissful coastal town, there are so many beaches to choose from. Folly Field Beach is particularly attractive. The water is warm enough to wade in, and the sand is soft enough to settle in. Small tide pools make for a great interactive experience for families.

The beach properties surrounding Folly Field Beach Park are available to rent. They can be a good option if you want to stay on the doorstep of one of the quieter beaches in the area.

Driessen Beach Park

Enjoy both beautiful beaches and shade-covered spots? Driessen Beach Park is ready and waiting. Encompassing Hilton Head Island’s many natural wonders, the park stands out from others in the area.

When you arrive, you’ll quickly notice an element of seclusion. Driessen Beach Park is generally quiet enough to enjoy your little slice of the shoreline. The boardwalk leading to the beach is a little adventure many miss. Even with plenty of beach houses around, this is a quiet gem.

Although quieter, Driessen Beach Park still offers plenty of facilities. There are rental hubs, fresh water, changing rooms, and parking right by the beach.

Adventure Cove

Traveling to Hilton Head Island with children? Adventure Cove is the perfect family vacation destination. With an arcade and two mini-golf courses with a total of thirty-six holes, there’s a lot of fun waiting to be had at this family-friendly attraction.

After a long day exploring Hilton Head Island’s beaches, treat yourself to some of Adventure Cove’s fun activities. Little ones are certain to be delighted by the Caribbean-themed golf courses. Get ready to see some old favorites in the family-focused arcade, too.

Mitchelville Beach

Dreaming of a chilled-out beachside escape? Mitchelville Beach is one of Hilton Head’s quieter beaches. Here, nature and the sandy shoreline sit side by side to create some of South Carolina’s finest views. Trees line the white sand, forming a backdrop that whispers seclusion.

Mitchelville Beach is accesiable with a short trek down a short sandy path. It’s one of the only beaches on Hilton Head Island without beach matting. Even so, the beach is easy to reach. You’ll also enjoy other amenities, like an outdoor sand shower.

Shelter Cove Towne Centre

Want to spend a few hours shopping and dining during your trip to Hilton Head Island? Shelter Cove Towne Centre might catch your attention. The unspoiled beauty of Broad Creek surrounds this unique retail and relaxation space.

Cyclists, in particular, will love the layout of Shelter Cove Town Centre. You can hop straight onto your bike and head down the trails. Each of the bike paths leads to impressive natural wonders, including Shelter Cove Harbour.

Didn’t bring along a bike? Walk the trails around Shelter Cove to soak in the beauty of Broad Creek, the lagoons, and the waterfront park. When you get back, delve into one of the many restaurants, including gourmet seafood and a rooftop bar.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve

The great outdoors calling your name? Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a protected area in Hilton Head, full of trails surrounded by wildlife and nature. Perfect for outdoor exploration, there’s something for every type of traveler here.

At Sea Pines Forest Preserve, you can choose your own adventure. Enjoy horseback or pony rides or boat tours, meander along boardwalks and bridges, or find the perfect fishing spot and cast your line into the water at the docks.

Dive head-first into history at the Sea Pines Shell Ring. The centuries-old wonder is believed to be an ancient Native American religious gathering spot. Grab a camera to enjoy its miles of protected shores. There are even a few award-winning Eco-Adventures in the area.

Burkes Beach

Looking for little-known gems around Hilton Head Island? Pop over to Burkes Beach. Nestled alongside Chaplin Park on Burkes Beach Road, Burkes Beach is best reached by its bike path.

To access this sandy beach, put on your walking shoes or hop on your bike and head down the pathway. For some active fun, neighboring Chaplin Park is full of open fields, tennis courts, and spots to keep families entertained.

If you’re traveling with a furry companion, the dog park here is great, too. It’s fenced-in and ideal for dogs who like socializing.

Stoney-Baynard Plantation

Looking to add a dash of the historical to your Hilton Head itinerary? The Stoney-Baynard Plantation is one of the top Hilton Head attractions for history buffs.

Head down to Plantation Drive, and you’ll find a storied and illustrious past waiting to be discovered. Here, you can trace the property through its history, from its past as a plantation house & slave house to a Union Headquarters during the Civil War.