When you’re thinking of a getaway, you may set your sights on somewhere different – out of state or even out of the country for a change of scenery. Don’t forget you can get a change of scenery and stay within the borders of South Carolina! All you have to do is pack your bags and head to the shores of Hilton Head Island and the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy an SC staycation. There are plenty of things to do and see that keep you close to home, but not too close.
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Sightseeing Cruises
Be a tourist in your own state! Living your day-to-day life often means you forget about the delightful and scenic things your state has to offer. Whether you live elsewhere along the Atlantic or further inland, you’ll love getting out and seeing the sights. Board a boat for the high seas off of Hilton Head! Go out in search of dolphins and other marine life, as well as learn about the sights that dot the island. Harbour Town, South Beach, Daufuskie Island, Tybee Lighthouse, and many more sights to take in as you cruise around.
Beaches
A trip to Hilton Head, no matter how far you’ve come from, isn’t complete without multiple trips to the beach. There is swimming and many other water sports at your fingertips, as well as land activities. Go for a walk along the shore, sunbathe, have a picnic, or just make your spot and sit and read. Watch the kids make sand castles – or join in the fun.
Parasailing
Go up, up, and away over the water. It’s an adventure few out-of-state tourists attempt, so it’ll make your SC staycation that much more special. Take off from the deck of a specially designed and USCG-approved parasailing boat to fly high above the waters of the Atlantic. Keep watch on the water for glimpses of dolphins, whales, fish, and other sea life. Bring your waterproof or disposable camera to capture the memories from your perspective or inquire about photos or video taken from the boat.
Kayaks & Paddleboards
Paddleboarding has become a water sport of choice for many. It’s calm and relaxing away from the waves. Kayaking is also a way to navigate the waters around Hilton Head without the adrenaline-pounding environment of the ocean. Take lessons or book a guided group charter and learn about the area’s environment and ecology along the way.
Mitchelville Freedom Park
Learn about the state’s history. The park pays respect to the fight for freedom African Americans went through in the South. The elaborate park is a beautiful spot dedicated to the history. Take a guided or self-guided tour and see the many exhibits representing the struggles of the time. The park also holds events in honor of important dates like Juneteenth and National Freedom Day.
Baynard Ruins
Visit another slice of state history. The ruins of the antebellum-style home built in 1793 have an interesting story to tell. Originally part of a larger plantation, the home and property housed plantation owners, slaves, and even Union soldiers during the Civil War. The ruins include the foundation and a corner wall of the main home, as well as several outbuildings. There are also rumors of haunting by the spirit of former owner, William Baynard, after dark.
Fort Mitchel
Marvel at another slice of South Carolina history with a visit to Fort Mitchel. Built during the Civil War from 1861-62, the earthwork fort is laid out on a bluff overlooking Skull Creek. The fort was part of a system of fortifications stretching across the island from Fort Sherman to Skull Creek. Up to six cannons could be fired across the creek to Pickney Island and out toward Port Royal Sound. However, the fort saw no action, and the cannons were removed and sent to Petersburg in 1864.
Jet Skis
Get a dose of adrenaline during your trip. Rent a jet ski and slice through the water at your own speed, whether that’s a slower cruise or as fast as possible. There are several companies that rent jet skis for fast-paced water excitement. Contact your company of choice and ask about rates as well as age restrictions for passengers and drivers. You may need to obtain a South Carolina boating license prior to piloting a vessel.
Shelter Cove Harbour Marina
Enjoy the ultimate island experience. The marina is a “one stop shop” for some of your favorite activities. Take part in the many water activities the island has to offer. If you’d rather get out on the water, rent a boat and set sail – you can choose anything from 2-person catamarans to pontoons and speed boats. If you’d rather have someone else take the helm, there are plenty of charter boats offering all types of cruises, as well as fishing excursions. After a day full of fun, or when you need a break, there are a variety of dining options, as well as spas with a myriad of services for a relaxing day.
Biking
Hilton Head, like other islands, has many places a four-wheeled motor vehicle just can’t go. Hop on a bicycle to reach the nooks and crannies you can only explore on foot or by bike. Hilton Head is also known as a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community, so biking is more than just for tourists. There is a large trail system that takes you around the island, close to the beach, further inland, and along special routes like the “Island History Pathway,” which takes you past historic landmarks like Union Cemetery, Cherry Hill School, and more.
Coastal Discovery Museum
Learn more about the place you’ve decided to call your home away from home, no matter how far you came to get here. The museum boasts a number of permanent and temporary exhibits that display things like what life was like on Hilton Head before the first bridge was built in 1956, as well as area natural history and culture. The museum offers tours of the area, including kayaking through the marsh, dolphin watching, and underwater exploration.
Wineries and Distilleries
Enjoy some adults-only time on your trip. Hilton Head Island hosts several wineries and distilleries. Island Winery is open daily, and hosts tastings of their barrel aged red wines, crisp whites, and their unique Low Country Specialty wines. The Carolina Tasting Room is run by island locals and produces a number of wines, beers, and more with locally sourced ingredients. Hilton Head Distillery offers its own label of spirits, along with other American-made brands with some international flavors as well. Choose from rum, whiskey, vodka, and more. Stop in to try one of their newest flavors, island cream, featuring local cream and their finest rum.
Stay and Play Close to Home
While your home base may be somewhere within the borders of South Carolina, it’s refreshing to get away, no matter the destination. Start your vacation plans by booking a vacation rental home with Coastal Vacation Rentals. We have units as small as one bedroom all the way up to seven bedrooms for a large family or group Hilton Head Island staycation! Enjoy time in private outdoor spaces like a pool, balcony, or deck. Relax indoors in stylish bedrooms. Make a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, then spread out in an open living area. For a luxury stay like no other, choose a premium unit to include perks like wood floors, flat screen TVs, an elevator and more to make your stay one you’ll never forget.
Call us today to start planning your staycation visit to Hilton Head Island!