Enjoy Hilton Head on a budget with these 10 cheap family activities
Spring break is right around the corner, but in the midst of planning a quick beach getaway, it can be tricky to find things to do that won’t break your budget.
From outdoor adventures to local treasures, Hilton Head offers a handful of budget-friendly options that’ll keep your family entertained for days.
So grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure, because fun doesn’t have to be expensive.
Here are some of the budget-friendly ideas that are perfect for the whole family.
Mini Golfing
If you want to hit the golf course but make sure the little ones have a tee time too, check out one of the three mini golf locations across Hilton Head. You can enjoy a pirate-themed course, a course with unique obstacles like caves and waterfalls or opt for a classic arcade-style match.
Mini golf is a great way to keep the whole family active and spark some friendly competition. Here is where you can visit on the island:
Pirates Island Golf: Prices start at $12.99 per person
Legendary Golf: Prices vary; $12 per adult & $10 per child under 12
Adventure Cove: Prices start at $8.50 per round
Beach Parks
What’s a beach trip without the beach? Hilton Head has almost 12 miles of beach to explore and enjoy during your stay.
Here are a couple of top spots to try when you need a beach day:
This park offers a low-cost beach with picnic areas, boardwalks and easy access to pristine beaches. There is a small fee for parking, which starts at $3 an hour on weekdays.
Coligny is arguably one of the most popular beach areas in Hilton Head. With its free parking, easy beach access and proximity to shopping centers, dining spots and restrooms, it’s an easy pick to have a great beach day.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
If you want to get up close and personal with all the different kinds of nature the Lowcountry has to offer, then Pickney Island is a great place to start.
With a peaceful natural escape, hiking trails, wildlife viewing and a chance to spot local animals and birds, this is a great free activity option that can soak up a whole day.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Shop, dine and stroll around the charming and iconic outdoor center of Shelter Cove, offering free outdoor events and entertainment during the peak spring and summer seasons.
Shelter Cove is free to enter and explore.
Sea Pines Forest Preserve
You can also explore, shop and dine around the Sea Pines area. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is another great spot to check out if you are hoping to venture into the more serene, nature-filled locations of Hilton Head.
Sea Pines also offers low-cost guided walks, boardwalks and views throughout the center. There is a $9 cash gate fee for entry.
The Sandbox Children’s Museum
Want a play day that’s perfect for kids and adults? Then visit The Sandbox, an interactive children’s museum. They offer hands-on exhibits, play areas and strive to combine education with creativity.
Registration is encouraged to make sure you can enter the museum. Tickets are also required and start at $12. You can visit their website for more information.
Hilton Head Island Bike Trails
Hilton Head is home to over 64 miles of bike trails and paths that are free to use for cyclists and pedestrians. Perfect for an afternoon stroll or a quick bike ride, these trails introduce you to the network of scenic trails available on the island.
If you don’t have your own bike, Hilton Head has an abundance of rental locations where you can rent a bike for a fee, usually around $40.
Coastal Discovery Museum
Dive into the history and natural environment of Hilton Head Island at the Coastal Discovery Museum. This museum offers 200 square feet of exhibits, an outdoor exploration area and more.
Perfect for kids and adults, the Coastal Discovery Museum has free admission.
Lawton Stables
Enjoy a pony ride or explore the animal farm at Lawton Stables on your next visit. Located inside the Sea Pines Resort, Lawton Stables allows you to take a ride through beautiful forested landscapes.
Reservations are required. Pony rides are $16 and the animal farm costs $5 per group. To enter Sea Pines, there is a $9 cash gate fee.
Lowcountry Celebration Park
Want to feel like a real-life pirate? Then Lowcountry Celebration Park is the spot for you.
Located near Coligny Beach, this fun, family-friendly and free park has interactive playgrounds, a giant tree house, pirate ship and hosts seasonal events so visitors can enjoy the park year-round.
