Get ready for an incredible weekend vibe because we’re diving into the ultimate long weekend escape on Hilton Head Island! Picture yourself in this laid-back South Carolina gem, soaking up the sun on dreamy beaches, exploring cool spots, and just living the good life!
Build the Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Attend an Event
Hilton Head Island hosts a variety of popular events throughout the year, drawing visitors and locals alike to festive and engaging gatherings. These events showcase the island’s vibrant culture and provide unique experiences for everyone. Hilton Head Island offers something for every taste, from music festivals to sports events.
One notable event is the RBC Heritage, a prestigious PGA Tour golf tournament held annually in April. This event attracts top golfers and enthusiasts worldwide, adding a touch of excitement to the island.
The Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival is another highlight, usually taking place in March. This culinary extravaganza features tastings, wine dinners, and culinary competitions, celebrating the island’s rich food and beverage scene.
For music lovers, the HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is a summer-long event that includes live music, entertainment, and fireworks every Tuesday evening. It’s a family-friendly celebration that adds a lively atmosphere to the island.
The island hosts various arts and cultural festivals, charity events, and outdoor concerts annually. These events entertain and provide opportunities to engage with the community and savor the island’s unique spirit.
Hit the Beach
Hilton Head Island boasts expansive, meticulously maintained sandy shores, providing families and beach enthusiasts a welcoming environment. The clean beaches stretch for 12 miles, offering ample space for various recreational activities. With warm Atlantic waters, the Hilton Head beaches invite visitors to engage in water activities like swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The family-friendly atmosphere makes these shores perfect for building sandcastles or enjoying a leisurely day by the ocean. Surrounded by natural beauty, including dunes and maritime forests, the beaches provide a serene backdrop.
Go Golfing
Golfing on Hilton Head Island is a premier experience, attracting golf lovers to its lush courses and scenic surroundings. The island has an array of world-class golf courses designed by renowned architects. These courses cater to players of all skill levels, offering challenges and stunning vistas. With over 20 courses, each with unique features, golfers can choose between oceanfront holes, marshland challenges, and tree-lined fairways. Many courses are integrated into the island’s natural landscape, providing a golfing adventure and a visual feast. Some courses have hosted prestigious tournaments, adding to the island’s golfing allure.
Visit the Pickney Island National Wildlife Refuge
The Pickney Island National Wildlife Refuge on Hilton Head Island is a remarkable destination for wildlife lovers. Named after Major General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, the center is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the island’s rich biodiversity. This wildlife refuge spans acres of diverse habitats, including salt marshes, maritime forests, and freshwater ponds. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails that wind through these natural settings, providing opportunities to observe indigenous flora and fauna.
One of the center’s highlights is its commitment to wildlife rehabilitation. It serves as a haven for injured or orphaned animals, aiming to nurture them back to health and, when possible, release them back into their natural habitats. Educational programs and guided tours are available for visitors, offering insights into the local ecosystems and the importance of wildlife conservation.
Adventure on the Bike Trails
Hilton Head Island has an extensive network of scenic bike trails, providing a delightful and active way to explore the island’s beauty. The island’s flat terrain makes it ideal for biking, catering to riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a seasoned enthusiast, there are trails suitable for everyone. Many trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, ensuring a safe and enjoyable biking experience. Notable trails include the Sea Pines Forest Preserve Trail, which meanders through a maritime forest, and the Hilton Head Island Bike Path, a network that connects key areas of the island.
Cycling on Hilton Head Island is not just a means of transportation but a popular recreational activity. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the island’s laid-back atmosphere, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate the natural surroundings. Whether cycling solo, with family, or in a group, the bike trails on Hilton Head Island promise a memorable and scenic adventure.
Book your Hilton Head Vacation Rental
Coastal Vacation Rentals has lowered their nightly minimum to 3-nights year-round! 95% of our vacation rentals are now available for a minimum 3-night stay, even during summer. Between work and school, we recognize that it can be harder to take a long vacation where everyone can join. We wanted to allow you to take the vacation you deserve without compromising your schedule. Browse our Hilton Head Vacation Rentals to start planning your next long weekend trip to the Lowcountry.
