These are the 15 best things to do in Hilton Head, Southern Living says
With Labor Day weekend right around the corner and travelers soaking up the last bits of summer, it tends to be the prime time of year to squeeze in a last-minute beach vacation.
But for many, planning a good trip is a tedious task, especially if you’re not even sure where to start.
Luckily, Southern Living has rounded up 15 of the best things to do in Hilton Head, ranging from outdoor adventures, dining, arts and history to keep you and your vacation crew entertained during your stay.
Top activities in arts & culture
1. Catch a show at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina: 14 Shelter Cove Lane
From Broadway-style productions to concerts, comedy acts and more, you can catch it all at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Until Aug. 30, you can catch an Earth, Wind, & Fire tribute band concert. You can even venture to the Walter Greer Gallery, which features work from over 150 local artists.
2. Learn the island’s history at Mitchelville Freedom Park: 40 Harriet Tubman Way
Home to the first self-governing village of liberated enslaved people in the nation, Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is a can’t miss stop for history lovers. With Gullah culture threaded throughout the island, there’s no better place to explore that history than Mitchelville.
3. Listen to the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra
Southern Living states, “it’s no small feat” for a town of roughly 40,000 residents to have its own orchestra, but since 1982, the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra has strived to provide music for everyone. If you’re visiting over Labor Day, you can catch them during Jazz in the Park on Sept. 2.
4. Swing by The Jazz Corner: 1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite C-1
Since 1999, The Jazz Club has been bringing good tunes and good eats to locals and visitors to the island. If you’re planning a more upscale night out, then this is just the spot – Southern Living notes it as one of the “coolest jazz clubs on the East Coast.”
Top outdoor activities
5. Have a beach day
A summer vacation wouldn’t be complete without spending a day at the beach. With 12 miles worth of public beaches (with wheelchair access points) and warm year-round temps, Southern Living couldn’t leave this activity off the list.
6. Bike through town or the sand
The island’s 64 miles of trails are often best explored on two wheels. While there are several outfitters where you can snag a set of wheels in town, Hilton Head Bicycle Company made Southern Living’s roundup, which has been in business for more than 30 years.
7. Cast a line in the high seas
No matter if you’re looking to cast a line or go on a deep-sea adventure, Hilton Head is home to a handful of waterside activities. For anglers looking to stay on the shore, Jarvis Creek Park and the Charles C. Haigh Jr. Fishing Pier are popular spots. If you’re seeking more of a thrill, a fishing charter from companies like Drifter Excursions or Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina will ferry you to the best spots to get hooked.
8. Golf at a legendary course
With 26 championship golf courses, teeing off on one of these greens is a must-do activity if you find yourself on the island. Many of the courses were designed by some of the greats, including Robert Trent Jones, Jack Nicklaus and Pete Dye. One of the best parts of it all, though, is the landscapes of the island you’ll see along the way, Southern Living says.
9. Make a splash with water sports
For the thrill seekers, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, sailing and jet skiing can all be a part of your Hilton Head vacation. Southern Living notes that Lowcountry Watersports offers dolphin and kayak tours as well as boat rentals, and at H20 Sports, you can rent jet skis or book a parasailing trip for island views.
Top spots for dining
10. Dine dockside at Hudson’s Seafood House: 1 Hudson Road
A long-standing Hilton Head institution, Hudson’s Seafood House serves up seafood caught fresh daily and overlooks the Port Royal Sound.
11. Savor French fare at Chez Georges: 37 New Orleans Road, Suite J
Chez Georges Bistro & Bar offers a selection of French staples like moules-frites and escargots, paired with an “impeccable” wine list and small sharing plates, Southern Living says..
12. Enjoy pastries at Hilton Head Social Bakery: 17 Harborside Lane & 1018 William Hilton Parkway
Founded by French pastry chef Philippe Feret, this beloved bakery serves up croissants, fruit tarts, specialty desserts, along with items like quiches and sandwiches.
13. Sip on a beverage at Frosty Frog Cafe: 1 North Forest Beach Drive
If you’re looking to get in vacation mode, Southern Living recommends the Frosty Frog Cafe, located by Coligny Beach, for its frozen drinks, laid-back vibes and live music. Enjoy a pizza, shareable bites or an ice cream sandwich at this casual dining location.
Top town activities
14. Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse: 149 Lighthouse Road
This red-and-white tower is an icon for Hilton Head locals and visitors, offering more than just a memorable photo. For $7.50, you can explore its museum and learn about Hilton Head’s history, and climb to the top to take in panoramic views.
15. Shop the boutiques of Harbour Town
For a quick break after climbing the lighthouse, Southern Living recommends strolling through the 20 locally owned shops, boutiques and specialty stores located in Harbour Town.
Do you have a top recommended activity in Hilton Head? Email your suggestion to amiller@islandpacket.com.
