10 Locally Loved Family Activities in Hilton Head
Are you ready to treat your family to a fun-filled vacation in one of the most charming towns on the East Coast? With its sandy shores and lively downtown arcades, Hilton Head, South Carolina, invites you and your family to pack up for an unforgettable adventure.
Hilton Head Beaches and Aquatic Life
From Hilton Head to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a popular summer destination where you can relax and lay your worries aside. There are seemingly endless miles of stunning beaches that offer the perfect setting for rejuvenation - from exhilarating kayaking experiences along Calibogue Sound's estuaries to romantic sunsets at Folly Field beach. Spend time touring one of South Carolina’s most sought-after coasts.
1. Islanders Beach
Take your family on an outdoor adventure at Islanders Beach Park, a hidden gem off Hilton Head. Kids can cast their lines in the water for some fishy fun, families can gather around the beach’s grills for a picnic meal, and couples can marvel over beautiful sunsets. Locals swear this beach is pure gold.
Location: 94 Folly Field Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Mon-Sun 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
2. Coligny Beach
Discover the magic of South Carolina's Coligny Beach. This charming beach offers porch swings under pergolas. Plus, there are so many activities to keep kids entertained, such as exploring Hilton Head Island’s Children’s Museum or zipping around on biking trails. Create lasting memories at this special spot in paradise, a brief road trip from Centex’s new homes in South Carolina, making it perfect for weekend getaways.
Location: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Mon-Sun 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
3. Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruise
Join Captain Mark on his dolphin cruise and be prepared for an experience unlike any other. Every member of the family will enjoy spotting dolphins while cruising along South Carolina beaches, learning all about Hilton Head Island. Locals and touring families agree that it just doesn't get better than this exciting adventure.
Location: 9 Harbourside Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Mon-Sat 8 a.m. - 9 p.m.
4. Daufuskie Island
Daufuskie Island is just off the coast of South Carolina and provides an ideal getaway. At only five miles long and two-and-a-half miles wide, it's easy to explore all that this little sliver of land has to offer. Discover ancient artifacts like arrowheads that tell stories about its Native American history, wander museums full of fascinating finds, and scroll along pristine beaches with social-media-worthy views. This escape is only a ferry ride away from Hilton Head, or you can bring your own vessel or rent if you want to try being captain for a day through a local boat or jet ski rental service. Once there, rent a golf cart to cruise around.
Location: Daufuskie Island, SC 29915
Hours of operation: N/A
Hilton Head Family Playtime
5. Adventure Cove Mini Golf and Arcade
Make unforgettable memories with your family at Adventure Cove. On the largest mini golf course in Hilton Head, you can opt for beginner level or test your skills with a moderate-level course. Either option provides hours of entertainment for everyone. Immerse yourself in the fun today that only mini golf can provide.
Location: 18 Folly Field Rd. Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Sun-Sat 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
6. Hilton Head Escape Room
Take your family bonding to the next level with Hilton Head Escape Room. Put your relationships and combined problem-solving skills to use in an exciting, interactive environment. There's no better way to create lasting memories than trying to escape an imaginary scenario. You’re sure to walk out with inside jokes that stick around for life.
Location: 10 Executive Park Rd. #102, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Wed 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Thur-Sat 1 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Hilton Head History
7. Coastal Discovery Museum
Come explore Hilton Head's unique and interactive coastal discovery museum. Get to know everything about local plants, reptiles, aquatic life - even the tiniest creatures of this beautiful coastline. Whether you're young or old, there are so many surprises waiting for you around every corner. (And you might just spot a few creatures on your next beach walk!)
Location: 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head, SC 29926
Hours of operation: Sun 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Mon-Sat 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
8. Stoney Baynard Plantation Ruins
Take a trip back to the Revolutionary War through Stoney Baynard Plantation Ruins, the captivating site where Captain Jack Stoney built his majestic 1793 mansion. Explore this historic spot with its lush carpets of moss trees. Visitors can wander around the ruins of the mansion and several outbuildings.
Location: Plantation Dr, Hilton Head, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Sun-Sat 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Hilton Head Eats
A visit to South Carolina isn’t complete without experiencing the state's culinary offerings. From barbeque and southern-style shrimp n' grits to a one-of-a kind frogmore stew, Hilton Head has it all. If you want an authentic taste of this flavorful corner of America, locals recommend these two spots for genuine local bites.
9. Hudson’s on the Docks
Hudson's offers fresh seafood on the coast. Guests can eat outdoors and indulge in their traditional Southern Oyster Roast, cooked over an open fire pit for extra rich flavor. People come from all around just for this delicious specialty, which Hudson’s serves with crackers and sauce. This meal has been satisfying guests since 1952.
Location: 1 Hudson Rd, Hilton Head, SC 29926
Hours of operation: Sun 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Mon-Sat 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
10. One Hot Mama’s
One Hot Mama’s offers a barbecue experience of a lifetime. Think juicy, tender brisket covered in an incredible blend of secret seasonings and house-made vinegar sauce. Get your taste buds tingling and treat yourself.
Location: 1 Greenwood Dr. Ste 7A, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Hours of operation: Tue-Sun 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Looking for more fun activities, travel destinations, or scouting spots for your new home? Discover more local adventures on Centex’s Lifestyle Explorer blog.