Embracing Nature in Hilton Head Island
As the summer gives way to the warm hues of autumn's soft tones, wildlife that typically lays low bursts back onto the scene. A haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike, Hilton Head Island is the only place you need to visit to relish in Mother Earth’s bounty. Whether you want to cycle down Spanish moss-draped paths, paddle through marshes, or watch a sea turtle nest before the hatchlings waddle to the Atlantic, America’s Favorite Island® is home to a wild magic. See how you can get the most out of your nature-scape below.
Bird Watching
According to the Audubon Society, nearly 200 species of birds flock to the lakes, marshes, and shoreline of Hilton Head Island, and more than 350 species of native birds have been sighted on the Island over the past ten years. If you’re looking to spot a majestic bald eagle in the morning and sweet sandpipers in the afternoon, you’ve come to the right place. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Audubon Newhall Preserve, Honey Horn Plantation, and the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge are all perfect places to scout out some feathered friends. If you want to stay closer to your home away from home, you can always make tracks for the beach — you will surely spot many different types of birds along the shoreline. How many different species will you see?
Biking Around Paradise
If there is one thing everyone knows about Hilton Head Island, it’s that it’s an excellent place for a bike ride! Whether you are biking for fun, exercise, or transportation, you get the best of all three when you hop on two wheels and cruise around our Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community. If you are looking for a casual ride and want to cover a large distance, Avocado Bikes might be the rental option for you. These electric bikes are built with safety in mind and include GPS tracking. If the whole family is looking to rent a ride, check out Hilton Head Outfitters, who offer 1-day to 1-month rentals of adult and children’s 2- and 3-wheeled bikes, tag-a-alongs, dog carts, and more. Cruise along the coast, down 64 miles of bike trails, and savor the sweet smell of the great outdoors. Without the barrier of a windshield and free from the casing of a vehicle, life is more vibrant with the wind in your hair and the sun on your cheeks. Happy biking!
Splashing in the Waves
Every day is a beach day on our slice of paradise. Swimmers, paddlers, waders, and adrenaline chasers all love to get out in the surf of the warm Atlantic Ocean. Did you know we have 12 miles of white sand beaches to enjoy? No wonder hundreds of sea turtles call Hilton Head Island their nesting home and return year after year. If you come between May and October, you might even spot a mama turtle digging a nest or a hatchling making its way back to the ocean. Remember to keep a safe distance from our shelled friends. Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island has some great tips on how to make our beaches welcoming and safe for sea turtles. If you want to explore our inlets and rivers, a kayak or canoe is for you. Are you looking to break waves on the water? Rent a jet ski or book a private or group boat tour. Up the ante by trying a parasailing adventure and see the Lowcountry from a new perspective!
Spend the Afternoon With A Neigh-bor
Horseback riding is the easiest way to see the frequently missed sections of the island and reconnect with the child within. Lawton Stables, home to the famous Hilton Head Island Clydesdale, is your go-to stop for all things equine. You don’t need any experience to enjoy these one-hour rides; your knowledgeable and safety-focused guide will take the lead as you meander through the trails, forests, and lakes in the over 600 lush acres of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. If you’d prefer to keep your feet on the ground, spend some time in the Animal Farm, meeting goats, miniature donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, alpacas, ponies, and chickens. Your small entrance fee even comes with a cup of feed guaranteed to make you the most popular visitor around.
Start Planning Your Hilton Head Island Vacation
No matter what kind of outdoor adventure you’d like to experience, you’ll find it here under the South Carolina sun. The island offers a vibrant array of adventures for all interests and fitness levels. From its stunning natural beauty to its world-class facilities, America’s Favorite Island® has something for every type of active vacationer. Start planning your getaway today.
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