Twelve miles of beach, more golf courses than you can count and bike paths that make a car almost optional. Hilton Head Island has a way of making visitors linger longer than they planned.
If you’re looking for things to do in Hilton Head Island, you won’t run out of options: play a few rounds on the fairways, paddle through a quiet marsh or grab a sunset drink on the water.
From championship golf to bustling beach towns and hidden trails, Hilton Head Island has something for everyone. Families, solo travelers and couples all find moments that stick.
Championship Fairways & Ocean Views
Golf runs deep on Hilton Head Island. With more than two dozen championship courses shaped by legends and framed by pines, dunes and ocean views, this Lowcountry escape plays like a golfer’s dream. Spend the morning chasing birdies, the afternoon over a seafood feast and the evening strolling along the Atlantic as the sun dips low.
The Heritage Golf Collection showcases the island’s best with 117 holes across four premier clubs—each designed to challenge, surprise and reward players at every level.
Among them, the Robert Trent Jones course at Palmetto Dunes delivers sweeping ocean vistas and generous fairways that tempt bold play. The par-five 10th hole is its showpiece, a stretch where water, wind and sky seem to meet in perfect symmetry.
Then there’s Harbour Town Golf Links, the RBC Heritage star that needs little introduction. With its red-and-white lighthouse guarding the 18th hole, a round here feels like stepping into golf history.
Other favorites include Heron Point by Pete Dye, where dramatic bunkering and clever water hazards keep even seasoned players guessing, and Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III, a links-style course with that windblown, coastal rhythm golfers crave. And for those ready to splurge, May River Golf Club remains a national standout. Pricey, yes, but every swing is worth it.
Surf, Sand & Sun
Okay, enough about golf. Let’s talk about what really matters—twelve miles of coastline stretching across nine public beaches and several private resort shores.
Coligny Beach Park is the island’s most happening, with showers, restrooms, nearby restaurants and ice cream shops steps from the sand. Everyone knows it’s the spot, so expect crowds in summer.
For a quieter day, head to Driessen Beach Park or Islanders Beach Park, where locals go for a more relaxed vibe. Pack a cooler, a chair, and let the surf set the pace.
Hilton Head Island’s waters teem with life. Dolphin tours still captivate even after decades of visitors, and kayaking through the tidal creeks at sunset offers a glimpse of herons, egrets and unspoiled marshland.
Fishing charters put redfish, tarpon and sea trout within easy reach, while an afternoon sailing across Calibogue Sound brings the kind of quiet only the Lowcountry can offer.
Pedals, Paths & the Wild Side
Hilton Head Island rewards those who slow down. More than 60 miles of paved bike trails weave through neighborhoods, beaches and moss-draped oaks, creating one of the most bike-friendly islands in the U.S. The flat terrain makes riding easy, and the views—live oaks, tidal creeks and glimpses of egrets lifting from the water—make it unforgettable.
Early mornings are pure magic: cool air, golden light and quiet paths that feel a world away. Most resorts include complimentary bikes, and rental shops make it simple to explore at your own pace.
Beyond the paths, Hilton Head’s wild side unfolds in its preserves and open spaces.
- Coastal Discovery Museum: Wander the trails, tour historic buildings, or join a guided kayak trip to learn about Lowcountry ecology and culture.
- Sea Pines Forest Preserve: Explore 605 acres of protected land where butterfly habitats thrive and 4,000-year-old Native American shell rings rest quietly beneath the trees.
- Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge: A haven for birdwatchers, with 14 miles of trails across 4,000 acres of marsh and tidal flats—proof that even stillness here teems with life.
Four Places to Stay on Hilton Head Island
After a full day out and about, you’re going to need a good place to stay. Hilton Head Island has options for every style and budget.
1. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
The Westin is all about pampering. Heavenly Beds live up to the hype after a long day of biking, beaching or exploring the island. The full-service spa makes it easy to unwind, and the oceanfront location can’t be beat.
On-site restaurants serve fresh, locally inspired cuisine, so you can refuel without leaving the resort. With a heated pool, fitness center, and direct access to the island’s bike paths, it’s a place that lets you relax while staying effortlessly active.
2. Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
Sonesta puts those 117 holes of the Heritage Golf Collection right at your doorstep. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just learning, there’s a course to suit your game.
After your round, cool off in the zero-entry lagoon pool, unwind at the spa or hit the 24-hour fitness center. On-site restaurants serve solid coastal cuisine, so you can fuel up or wind down without leaving the property.
3. Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
Modern and upscale, the Omni offers beautiful pools, beach service, excellent dining and rooms you might never want to leave. Perfect for a splurge, special occasion or a vacation where everything you need is on-site.
4. Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
Don’t expect Mickey Mouse and rollercoasters. This isn’t the theme-park Disney you might imagine. Think rustic summer camp meets fishing lodge, tucked into the trees with a laid-back Lowcountry vibe. Kids love the pools, water slide and daily activities, while parents enjoy spacious villas with full kitchens and thoughtful design throughout.
Insider Tips Before You Go
A few local tips can help you make the most of your trip and enjoy all the best things to do in Hilton Head Island, from timing your visit to getting around and packing smart.
When to visit? Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) for good weather and smaller crowds. Summer is busy but warm; winter is quiet and mild.
Getting around: A car can be helpful, but this island is made for biking. Many places offer free bikes, and rental shops are everywhere.
Beach parking: It’s a pain during peak season. Get there early, or better yet, bike to the beach.
Pack smart: Sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking and biking, golf clothes if you’re playing, beach gear and a light jacket for evenings.
Snapshot Summary
Hilton Head Island delivers championship golf, pristine beaches and 60+ miles of bike trails that make cars feel unnecessary. Families, couples and solo travelers enjoy kayaking through tidal marshes, dolphin tours and sunset sailing. The flat terrain invites morning rides past moss-draped oaks and egrets. Things you can do in Hilton Head Island span water sports, wildlife refuges and coastal exploration—all within reach. Stay at oceanfront resorts or family-friendly villas, then refuel on fresh Lowcountry cuisine. Spring and fall offer ideal weather without summer crowds.
About Vacayou
At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior. And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you!
No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. However, the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve simplified your search for wellness and active vacations with Vacayou’s Instant Book, so your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away.
Start the trip of your lifetime today with Vacayou. We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel.
To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
