7 Reasons Why Hilton Head Island Should Be on Your Bucket List

From our stunning natural beauty, green culture, and wildlife protection initiatives to our Lowcountry lifestyle and warm Southern hospitality: There are countless reasons why Hilton Head Island is consistently renowned as America’s Favorite Island®. But we’ve narrowed it down to our top seven reasons why we love it here so much — and why it should be on your bucket list for the ultimate unforgettable getaway!

1. Life is better at the beach.

With more than 12 miles of pristine beaches, beautiful warm waters, and year-round mild temperatures, it’s no wonder Hilton Head Island is consistently recognized as a relaxing haven for health and wellness and lauded as one of the top family beach destinations in the country.

For peaceful walks and coastal kayaking, Fish Haul Beach Park is a hidden gem on the north end, while surfers prefer Burkes Beach. Coligny Beach Park is a popular choice with locals and visitors alike, and Folly Field “earns raves for its wide-open stretches of sugary sand, not to mention a central location that makes it easily bikeable.”

2. There is always something delicious on the menu.

Embracing sustainability and a boat-to-table philosophy, Hilton Head Island is home to more than 250 restaurants. This includes locally owned establishments and family-run favorites that have been serving up Lowcountry-inspired dishes like oysters, gumbo, fried okra, and peach cobbler for generations.

Add in renowned food festivals and culinary events, bakeries and gourmet shops, and local breweries, a distillery, and winery, and you’ll soon find there’s always something delicious on the menu on Hilton Head Island.

3. There is a rich history and culture to explore. 

Discover the history, traditions, and culture of Hilton Head Island. Learn about the tradition-rich Gullah/Geechee culture, try the flavors of Gullah cuisine — layered with ingredients and cooking techniques borrowed over time from many cultures — and visit Mitchelville, the first self-governed freedmen’s town in America.

Explore the Island’s protected environments and heritage through land and water excursions at the Coastal Discovery Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate located on the beautiful 68-acre Honey Horn property. Tour the numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural venues across the Island for the latest in local, national, and international shows and performances. And be sure to check out our Events Calendar for upcoming festivals and events.

4. Multi-generational families genuinely love it here.

Hilton Head Island is such a popular choice for generations of families year after year. With hundreds of restaurants, miles of beaches and trails, endless activities, and accommodation options for gatherings of all sizes, we really do have something — and some place — for everyone!

Learn about seven family-friendly resorts to stay on Hilton Head Island.

5. We have accommodations to accommodate everyone.

Speaking of perfect places to stay, another top reason Hilton Head Island should be on your bucket list is the variety of accommodations we offer. Choose from luxurious resorts, boutique hotels, expansive vacation homes, and beachfront villas with plenty of room for everyone to stretch out to their hearts’ content.

And with year-round specials and seasonal discounts on many different types of accommodations, it’s never been easier to stay and save in Lowcountry style.

6. You can golf, sail, kayak, and play every day.

If you like to golf, you’ll love Hilton Head Island! Golfers of all skill levels can play 23 world-class golf courses on island. Combined with year-round enjoyable weather and events like the Kingdom Cup and the PGA TOUR’s annual RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing, it’s not surprising that “the Golf Island” is a golf lover’s dream.

In addition to being a fantastic place to play golf, Hilton Head Island is perfect for making a splash: Set sail on a fishing charter, hop aboard a dolphin-watching cruise, go on an eco-tour adventure, or grab a paddle and head out on a kayak or paddleboard.

7. It is easy to get here (while still feeling away from it all).

With plenty of daily flights and easy access to the Island, getting here is a breeze. Two airports connect you with Hilton Head Island: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), located about 45 miles (72 kilometers) south of the Island, and Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH).

Allegiant, American, Avelo, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Silver Airways, Southwest, Sun Country, and United offer nonstop service to 32 destinations from SAV. And from HHH, American, Delta, and United offer year-round and seasonal direct nonstop flights from nine destinations.

For a full list of all the activities and attractions on Hilton Head Island, request your copy of the Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner and make your bucket list trip a reality!