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2025 Vacation Planner: Your Guide to the Ultimate Hilton Head Island Getaway

By Hilton Head Insider

Planning your vacation to Hilton Head Island should be just as enjoyable as the trip itself. With the 2025 Vacation Planner, all the best the Lowcountry has to offer is right at your fingertips. From its thriving arts and culture scene to its rich history, eco-tourism adventures, endless recreational activities, and rejuvenating wellness options, this complimentary planner has everything you need to craft the perfect getaway. It includes information on where to shop, eat, and play, as well as sample itineraries for spending your days. Plus, you’ll find recommendations for accommodations, essential travel tips for reaching America’s Favorite Island®, and insider info on exciting events and world-class golf experiences waiting for you.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the information you can expect to find when you request your copy of the 2025 Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner.

Where to Stay

Finding the perfect place to stay is essential for any vacation. Luckily, you’ll find plenty of options here on Hilton Head Island. Whether you're here for a quick weekend getaway, an extended stay, or a romantic retreat, the 2025 Vacation Planner will help you find the perfect home away from home.

Sonesta Resorts Hilton Head Island boasts captivating gardens throughout the property, offering breathtaking ocean views. This AAA Four Diamond-rated resort features a full-service spa and a diverse range of dining options, both indoors and al fresco, making it the perfect retreat for your getaway.

two large buildings with balconies overlooking a pool and the beach

Indulge in award-winning dining, experience three championship golf courses, and bask in the luxury of the spa at Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Hilton Head Island (formally known as The Marriott). Situated within the Palmetto Dunes community, this resort offers a wide array of amenities to suit every guest’s preferences. Whether you’re into golf, tennis, biking, parasailing, or horseback riding, you’ll find the perfect activities to enhance your island retreat.

Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa offers a luxurious oceanfront escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the island's coastal tranquility. Situated along a vibrant stretch of beachfront overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the resort showcases outdoor terraces serving farm-to-table delicacies. Guests can savor exquisite cuisine accompanied by unmatched ocean vistas.

Uncover a retreat of casual elegance at The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. With newly renovated outdoor spaces, including improved beach access, a refreshed family pool, and upgraded upper and lower courtyards, this resort offers the ideal setting for your Lowcountry getaway.

aerial shot of beach house resort and beach

Experience the charm of a boutique resort at Beach House Hilton Head Island, where sunshine, sand, and laid-back vibes set the scene. Unwind at the newly expanded Tiki Hut, which now features a beachfront stage for entertainment to remember. Located directly on Coligny Beach, this resort blends coastal comfort with the relaxed island lifestyle for the perfect getaway.
 

Hilton Head National RV Resort is a dream destination for RV travelers seeking the perfect vacation escape. This beautifully landscaped resort offers a variety of amenities designed with RVers in mind, providing travelers with a premium getaway on America’s Favorite Island®. The resort offers stunning views of lush fairways and a peaceful lagoon, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable stay.

Check out more accommodation options on page 44 of the 2025 Vacation Planner. 

What to Do

For a culinary adventure across America’s Favorite Island®, the 2025 Vacation Planner is your ideal guide to discovering delicious inspiration. To tempt your taste buds, here’s a glimpse of some of the Lowcountry treasures you’ll find within the planner.

Seafood lovers can indulge in coastal charm at the iconic Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, offering a feast of fresh, local seafood with an incomparable waterfront view. For a more refined experience, head to ELA’s on the Water, where elegant ambiance and exquisite dishes offer the perfect blend of culinary craftsmanship and scenic beauty. 

Oyster platter

Craving comfort food? Step into Nunzio Restaurant + Bar, where the irresistible aroma of authentic Italian cuisine blends with evocative island flavors. For a creative take on American classics, WiseGuys Modern American Restaurant puts a fresh twist on traditional flavors. If you're in the mood for authentic Southern barbecue, One Hot Mama’s American Grille serves up smoky, savory dishes that capture the heart of Lowcountry cuisine. And for the cocktail connoisseurs, enjoy a carefully crafted drink while watching the sunset atop The Rooftop Bar at Poseidon.

Beaches

beach sunset

With 12 miles of pristine white sand, calm waters, and sun-filled days that seem to last forever, each beach on Hilton Head Island promises a distinct and memorable coastal experience. Let our sun-soaked shores and Atlantic Ocean vistas captivate your imagination as you page through the 2025 Vacation Planner. 

Coligny Beach Park, centrally located, is a lively hub where visitors can soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Surfers will love Burkes Beach, which boasts perfect waves and a laid-back coastal vibe. Nature lovers should visit Fish Haul Beach Park, a haven for birdwatching and wildlife observation. In addition, Islanders Beach Park offers the perfect atmosphere for a family-friendly beach day. 

For more details on Hilton Head Island’s beaches, turn to pages 98 and 99 of the 2025 Vacation Planner.

Historical, Arts & Cultural Experiences

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hilton Head Island at Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. Located along the island's scenic Port Royal Sound, Mitchelville offers a fascinating glimpse into history. Delve into the rich tapestry of Gullah heritage and join a captivating Gullah Heritage Trail bus tour that winds through 10 family-based neighborhoods. Knowledgeable guides provide firsthand accounts of Gullah traditions, from tantalizing food and captivating folklore to the unique language that has endured through the ages. 

For an authentic memento of Gullah culture, stop by Binya. The name of this shop translates to “been here”, and is often used as an affectionate way to describe native islanders or people with ancestral ties to Hilton Head Island. This unique gift shop strives to inspire and educate visitors about the Gullah heritage while also providing an opportunity to bring a piece of Gullah culture home with you.  

Indulge in a season of musical brilliance with the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, featuring beloved symphonies by Berlioz, Brahms, and Mozart, dazzling concerti by Liszt, Grieg, and Piazzolla, as well as works by Wagner, Márquez, Rachmaninoff, and more. 

Art enthusiasts, artists, and collectors can explore local art at the Gallery of the Art League of Hilton Head. This venue offers a curated selection of artwork and jewelry by local artists. Visitors can engage with the local art community at monthly opening receptions, where each month brings a complete change of show and new works by featured artists debut. 

musician

For theater lovers, the Arts Centre of Coastal Carolina offers an exceptional experience of Broadway-caliber theater with outstanding musical artists, concerts, and dance. During the 2025 season, make sure to look out for some of their smash-hit productions, including titles such as Something Rotten, The Cottage, and Waitress.

To learn more about Hilton Head Island’s art and cultural experiences, head to page 89 of the 2025 Vacation Planner.

Biking

From serene coastal paths to vibrant inland trails, Hilton Head Island invites biking enthusiasts to experience the unique outdoor charm of the Lowcountry. Not sure where to begin? The 2025 Vacation Planner has everything you need to help design your perfect biking itinerary. 

America’s Favorite Island® boasts an extensive network of multi-use pathways and gated community trails that cater to riders of all levels. Stamped with the seal of a prestigious Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community designation by the League of American Bicyclists, Hilton Head Island offers over 60 miles of dedicated leisure pathways and inviting, hard-packed sand beaches, providing an ideal backdrop for cycling adventures. Consider exploring the breathtaking beach rides during low tide or pedaling the scenic route from Shelter Cove to the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.

Whether you prefer beach cruisers, tandem bikes, youth bikes, kid carts, or three-wheeler bikes,  there are several rental companies on Hilton Head Island with equipment that is sure to suit your biking needs. 

Eco-Tourism & Sustainability

sea turtle on beach with sunset

Hilton Head Island is committed to protecting and preserving the island’s delicate ecosystem and encourages visitors to leave behind only footprints. 
You can support the island's sustainability efforts during your stay in many ways. Consider donating or volunteering with one of the island's diverse local organizations, such as The Outside Foundation, Sea Turtle Patrol, or the Deep Well Project. You can learn more about our commitment to sustainability and how you can get involved in the 2025 Vacation Planner. 

World-Class Golf

The 2025 Vacation Planner stands as your premier guide to tee up some inspiration for your next golf getaway. From world-class courses to scenic fairways, let the planner be your starting point for an unparalleled golfing experience on the charming shores of Hilton Head Island.

For those looking for a golf game you'll remember long after the 18th hole, The Sea Pines Resort features the renowned Harbour Town Golf Links, home of the PGA TOUR’s elevated annual RBC Heritage presented by Boeing. And don’t count out Harbour Town’s magnificent sister courses, Atlantic Dunes and Heron Point. Take on one of Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort’s prestigious courses, like the renowned Robert Trent Jones or the more challenging George Fazio. In addition, The Heritage Golf Collection offers eight courses across Shipyard, Port Royal, and Oyster Reef — ensuring you and your friends have an unforgettable day on the greens.

Families seeking a relaxed golfing atmosphere can tee off at courses such as Dolphin Head, Old South Golf Links, or the Country Club of Hilton Head. These family-friendly courses are designed for all skill levels, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and recreation, all set against the stunning backdrop of Hilton Head Island’s natural beauty.

For more information about all things golf on Hilton Head Island, head to page 118 of the 2025 Vacation Planner.

Can’t Miss Events

Hilton Head Island comes alive each year with renowned events that showcase the Lowcountry’s vibrant culture and exquisite flavors. The 2025 Vacation Planner is your ultimate guide to navigating this year’s unmissable festivals and events.

The Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is a culinary extravaganza that showcases the region's abundant seafood offerings, backed by its spectacular coastal setting. The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival is a delight for oenophiles and foodies, featuring a week-long celebration of fine wines and gourmet cuisine.

For automotive enthusiasts, the Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival is a must-attend event, showcasing an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars. The Crescendo Celebration features performances by world-class musicians and artists, creating an unforgettable fusion of art, culture, and history in the Lowcountry. The Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Gullah people and their history in the Lowcountry.

Head to page 12 of the 2025 Vacation Planner to check out this year’s event calendar.

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We Can’t Wait to Welcome You This Year.

Request your copy or download the 2025 Vacation Planner and start crafting the perfect itinerary for your next getaway today. 

We can’t wait to welcome you here in the Lowcountry.

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