Port Royal is Hilton Head Island’s only completely private oceanfront residential community. Located at the tip of the Island, with approximately 1 mile of pristine beachfront landscapes, Port Royal Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean. Residents and vacationers alike can walk along the quietest beach on Hilton Head Island right from home in Port Royal.
There’s something for everyone in Port Royal, whether you prefer golfing at one of its three championship golf courses, playing a match on one of the tennis courts, fishing in one of its lagoons, exploring the Arboretum, discovering the many historical sites, or finding all 19 beach walk paths. Port Royal is bound to be your new favorite spot on Hilton Head Island, with less hustle and bustle and more room for adventure!
Port Royal beach access tends to be less crowded than other parts of the island, leaving you with more space to stretch out in the sand.
2. Convenient Location
Port Royal is located close to William Hilton Parkway, giving guests easy access to attractions, shops, grocery stores, and restaurants all across the island!
3. Pool Access
All of our Port Royal properties at Sunset Rentals have community pool access for guests to enjoy.
4. Spacious Properties
Port Royal condos provide large, open floor plans so guests have plenty of room to sit back, relax, and enjoy their ultimate vacation.
5. Skip the Wait at the Gate
Since Port Royal is a private community, guests won’t have to endure the long line at the guard gate to get in and out of the community! Car passes will be provided, and guests will be able to easily access the property without the long wait!
Stay with Sunset Rentals!
Sunset Rentals offers some of the finest rentals in Port Royal, ranging from quaint, quiet townhomes overlooking the lagoon to spacious townhomes, ideal for large group gatherings or annual family vacations.
All of our Port Royal rentals offer the comforts of home with access to a community pool, scenic bike and jogging trails, and a short walk to the uncrowded beaches.
Nestled on 800 acres between Sea Pines Resort Area and Palmetto Dunes Plantation on the south end of Hilton Head Island, Shipyard Plantation is the smallest and most serene resort area on Hilton Head. Shipyard Plantation abounds in natural beauty and offers visitors a welcoming vacation retreat away from the crowds yet within easy reach of Hilton Head’s best restaurants, shops, tourist attractions, and eco-adventures.
Shipyard Plantation has two entrance gates, one on William Hilton Parkway (278) and one on Pope Avenue near Coligny Plaza. Winding roads and scenic trails lead through towering pines, tropical palms, moss-draped oaks, and scented magnolias to award-winning golf courses, top-rated tennis facilities, and private beach access at the Shipyard Beach Club.
A vacation in Shipyard Plantation offers visitors the best of both worlds, a quiet island retreat with a relaxing coastal vibe and world-class resort amenities, and the top attractions, activities and events on Hilton Head Islandjust a bike ride away from your luxury Shipyard villa or vacation home.
1. Private Beach Access
Guests of Shipyard Plantation enjoy private beach access to Hilton Head’s award-winning beaches at the Shipyard Beach Club, the finest beach club on Hilton Head Island! The Shipyard Beach Club is situated next to the exclusive Sonesta Resort on the northeast corner of the plantation with an oceanfront deck and bar to end your day of coastal experiences on the best pet-friendly beaches in South Carolina!
The private beach access at Shipyard is a scenic bike ride from all Shipyard Plantation villa complexes and the beaches are seasonally lifeguarded for a safe family vacation on Hilton Head. Sunset Rentals have a wide selection of Beachwalk Villas near the Shipyard private beach access and we partner with Vayk Gear to provide our guests with complimentary beach gear on select rentals for classic beach days during your stay in Shipyard Plantation.
2. Tranquil Bike Trails
There are four miles of peaceful paved bike paths within Shipyard Plantation with a maze of lakes and lagoons for fishing, rolling fairways, and lush Lowcountry landscapes. Hilton Head Island is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the US and the central location of Shipyard Plantation means you can literally bike anywhere!
Exploring on two wheels is a fun activity for the whole family, eliminates the traffic and parking problems in peak season, and saves on hefty gas prices! Our complimentary Vayk gear includes not only top quality beach gear rentals, but top quality bike rentals for the whole family too. Stay in a participating Shipyard vacation home or villa rental, have your Vayk bike rentals delivered to your front door, and explore Shipyard Plantation, the beautiful beaches, and beyond by bike.
3. Award-Winning Golf Courses
The Shipyard Golf Club is part of the Hilton Head Island Heritage Golf Collection and features three championship golf courses – the Clipper Course and Galleon Course by George W Cobb, and the Brigantine Course by Willard C. Byrd. These award-winning golf courses are ranked among the best and most scenic golf courses in Hilton Head and cater for all levels of play, there’s even footgolf for the kids!
Aside from legendary golf for the entire family, Shipyard Golf Club offers a family-oriented practice facility and driving range, a gorgeous outdoor patio overlooking the lagoons, and amazing pub grub with daily happy hours at the Brickyard Pub. Our Shipyard golf villas offer a tranquil retreat for the ultimate golf getaway in Shipyard Plantation.
4. Top RATED Tennis & PICKLEBALL in the USA
Hilton Head Island is ranked one of the best tennis resorts in the US and is a top destination for tennis lovers. The award-winning Van Der Meer Racquet Club offers an exceptional tennis experience with 20 championship courts (including covered courts and night courts), basic clinics for beginners, world-class drill sessions for pros, professional junior clinics, and fun summer camps for the kids.
If tennis is your game (or pickleball), Shipyard Plantation won’t disappoint! Our Tennismaster vacation villas are situated only minutes from the award-winning Van Der Meer Racquet Club, the Sonesta Resort and private beach access to miles of beaches, ocean activities, and classic beach days at Shipyard Beach Club.
5. Hilton Head’s Top Attractions at Your Doorstep
Shipyard Plantation lures vacationers seeking the seclusion and serenity of a private beach community yet easy access to the attractions and festivities that draw vacationers from around the world to Hilton Head Island. With Sea Pines Resort Area to the south, Palmetto Dunes Plantationto the north, the Village of Wexford near the Main Gate, and Coligny Plaza just a short bike ride away – you’re perfectly placed for the ultimate vacation on Hilton Head Island.
Many of our guest simply stay close soaking up the serenity of Shipyard Plantation! When you’re not basking on Hilton Head’s best beaches, staying active with sports and wildlife viewing on the trails, you’ll find shopping, oceanfront dining, and luxury spa treatments at Sonesta Resort or settle in to your Lowcountry vacation home for quality family time, leisurely pool days, Lowcountry boils on the grill, and wildlife viewing or birdwatching from your own backyard.
6. Luxury Lowcountry Vacation Rentals
The quiet neighborhoods of Shipyard Plantation are home to luxury low-rise villa complexes and spacious family homes nestled in large old oaks with a choice of golf views, wooded view, or lagoon views. Whether you’re planning a tennis or golf getaway to Hilton Head Island, a family vacation with the kids, or a romantic escape for two in quiet seclusion (with bustling waterfront restaurants and bars a bike ride away!), Sunset Rentals has a luxury Lowcountry vacation rental in Shipyard to suit your style.
Take a tour of our exclusive selection of Shipyard Plantation vacation homes and villas, book online for the best rates and exceptional guest services from our local team and experience the beauty of Hilton Head Island from the serenity of the Shipyard Plantation Resort Area.
Sunset Rentals have been welcoming visitors to Hilton Head Island since 1993. Our exclusive Sunset Package offers a 48-hour worry-free guarantee and flexible cancellation policy, express check-in, a starter pack of vacation essentials, and bike and beach gear credit valued up to $350!
You can book your vacation to Shipyard Plantation on Hilton Head Island with confidence and ease when you vacation with Sunset Rentals.
One of the top questions on our guests’ minds when planning a vacation with their furry family members is where to find cafés, restaurants, and bars on Hilton Head Island that allow dogs.
Hilton Head Island is one of the best dog-friendly vacation destinations on the East Coast with wide beaches that welcome your pup, off-leash dog parks, endless trails, and even eco-tours and water activities for Fido to tag along. When it comes to dining out with your doggo – nearly every outdoor café and patio on Hilton Head is pet-friendly (for well-behaved pups!) and some even go as far as to offer exclusive dog menus, water bowls, and tasty treats.
Our team at Sunset Rentals has put together the ultimate guide to dog-friendly restaurants on Hilton Head Island. We’ve even taken it a step further so you can discover the best places to take your dog to dinner near your Hilton Head Island vacation rental. This month, we highlight the best dog-friendly waterfront restaurants on Hilton Head’s Lowcountry Creeks.
DOG FRIENDLY RESTAURANTS ON SKULL CREEK & BROAD CREEK
Enjoy waterfront dining with fresh seafood straight from the docks, tranquil marsh views, and the most spectacular sunset views on Hilton Head Island. Our dog-friendly waterfront restaurants on Skull Creek and Broad Creek have it all – watch the boats cruise in, listen to live music, socialize over a cold craft beer or cocktail with friends (old, new, and furry!), and indulge in the most delectable Lowcountry cuisine you’ve ever tasted!
Situated at Palmetto Bay Marina on the south end of the island, Black Marlin Bayside Grill is home to “the best shrimp and grits on Hilton Head”, “the best shrimp burger ever” and signature sushi nachos sure to satisfy your seafood cravings. Stop by for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch on the outdoor patio, or hit happy hour with friends at the waterside Hurricane bar with seasonal live music, summertime parties, and Lowcountry oyster roasts on the pet-friendly patio.
Fishcamp on Broad Creek is located across the Coligny Beach Bridge in a scenic waterfront setting at Broad Creek Marina. The expansive waterfront outdoor area is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with the kiddos and furbabies – indulge in craft cocktails, local beers, southern-style seafood and hand-cut steaks, play bocce and cornhole on the lawn, listen to live local music around the firepit, and savor the lifestyle you’ll soon come to love on Hilton Head Island.
Located next door to Fishcamp and Adventure Hilton Head, Up the Creek Pub & Grill is Hilton Head’s favorite hideaway for casual and affordable waterfront dining, with a full bar and buckets of beer! The waterfront deck and pet-friendly patio offer breathtaking Lowcountry views and they’re rumored to have the island’s best burgers and smoked wings! It’s a great spot to relax after aerial adventures, dolphin tours, or water activities from Broad Creek Marina.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Old Oyster Factory dates back to the early 1800s and is an iconic Hilton Head landmark and popular island destination for seafood with a view! The Old Oyster Factory is voted one of the “Top 100 Scenic View Restaurants” and “Top 50 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in America” and will gladly welcome your pup to join you for wine, beer, bonfires, and waterfront dining on the outside deck over Broad Creek.
The Crazy Crab has two dog friendly waterfront restaurants on Hilton Head – one at Harbour Town Marina in Sea Pines (open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM) and one on the banks of beautiful Jarvis Creek. The Lowcountry setting is sublime with a pet-friendly waterfront deck to snack on award-winning Snow Crab, sip Lowcountry Long Islands, and listen to local live music while the kids stay entertained with the largest saltwater fish tank on Hilton Head, crab races, and an onsite playground. A spectacular waterfront dining experience for you and your pup!
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks has been a Hilton Head Island tradition for over 50 years! Built as an oyster factory in 1912 and then converted from a seafood processing plant in 1967, Hudson’s seafood comes fresh from the local boats to Hudson’s world-famous docks daily, served with traditional southern hospitality as you relax, watch the boats cruise along Skull Creek, and savor the freshest seafood and best Lowcountry views on Hilton Head, with Fido by your side.
Featured in National Geographic’s “The Dog Lover’s Guide to Travel”, Skull Creek Boathouse is Hilton Head’s landmark waterfront restaurant and a must-do for dining with your dog. The Boathouse overlooks the creek and marina with a stunning pet-friendly patio beneath the live oaks, a waterfront pavilion, and the open-air Buoy Bar, named one of the Top 30 Outdoor Bars in America. Be sure to check out their events schedule for seasonal nightly music, starting April 1st!
Spend your Vacation in the Top Pet-Friendly Rentals on Hilton Head Island
If you’re still on the hunt for the pawfect dog friendly vacation home on Hilton Head Island, you’re in the right place! Our collection of Hilton Head Island vacation rentals includes a wide selection of pet friendly rentals in the top neighborhoods of Hilton Head Island. Start browsing online or call our team at (843) 785-6767 to find a private paradise for you and your pet on Hilton Head.
The days of leaving your furry friend behind while you vacation are long gone – our team at Sunset Rentals love and treat our four-legged travelers as well as our human guests, with exceptional guest service!
Sunset Rentals represent Hilton Head Island’s largest collection of pet-friendly rentals offering pet owners a wide range of condos, golf villas, and luxury vacation villas that welcome well-behaved pets. Our dog-friendly vacation rentals feature all the comforts and perks of a private home, dog-friendly amenities for your pup, and a locally based team to guide you through your vacation planning.
Whether you’re seeking a quieter (and more affordable!) shoulder season escape or a second summer on secluded beaches, head to Hilton Head Island this fall for a vacation on America’s favorite island, without the crowds!
Nestled on the southern tip of the South Carolina coastline, Hilton Head Island is a small coastal town with world-famous golf courses, miles of beautiful beaches, upscale shopping and dining, four seasons of adventure for all ages, and luxurious oceanfront and oceanside vacation rental retreats to call home.
Hilton Head Island is the #1 Island in Continental US and is wonderful in the fall season. The weather is balmy, breezy and fabulous with warm sunny days, comfortably cool evenings, and very little rainfall. The crowds of beachgoers have dwindled, the chaos of the holiday season is over, the pace is slower, and you get to stay in your dream home at reduced rates!
If the lure of a slower pace of life, family bike rides on uncrowded trails, lazy beach days on empty beaches, long lunches with oceanfront views, and relaxing downtime with family and friends in a tranquil and luxurious setting appeals to you – the fall season on Hilton Head Island beckons.
1. Enjoy a Second Summer on the Beach
Southern Living ranks Hilton Head Island “The South’s Best Beach Town” for 2022 and it’s the perfect destination for a second summer on the beach! Hilton Head’s 12-miles of pristine beaches are among the widest and flattest beaches in the US with calm waters, loads of natural tidal pools, hard-packed sand for bike riding and beach walks, and plenty vitamin sea! Hilton Head Island is a top destination for dog lovers and from October to February the canine restrictions lift – you can play frisbee with your dog on the beach all day long!
With the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Calibogue Sound to the west, and the inland waterways on Broad Creek, Hilton Head Island is one big nature preserve abounding with protected wildlife habitats, natural beauty, and endless opportunities for fall wildlife viewing. Zipline through the trees, cruise the shaded island trails, birdwatch at Audubon Newhall Preserve, horseback ride in Sea Pines Forest Preserve, or get out on the water! Pick up a kayak, SUP, or boat rental from one of Hilton Head’s several marinas or plan a classic Lowcountry tour of Hilton Head Island. From kayaking and SUP tours, fishing charters, and dolphin cruises to day trips to Daufuskie Island, there’s a fall adventure for every wildlife lover on Hilton Head.
Hilton Head Island is ranked one of the “World’s Top 10 Golf Islands” and is home to some of the best public golf courses in the US. Fall is the perfect season to get a tee-time at the world-famous Harbour Town Golf Links, play a breezy round of oceanfront golf in Palmetto Dunes, or take your pick of three award-winning courses (and 81 holes of play) at Hilton Head’s Heritage Golf Collection. If you’re visiting Hilton Head Island with kids, the Hilton Head National Golf Club is a favorite for family golf with junior rates and affordable family packages. Prefer a cool day on the courts? No worries, Hilton Head boasts more than 300 courts for tennis and pickleball – the latest trend on Hilton Head Island!
You can skip the long summer wait lines for outdoor patios and get the best seat in the house in Hilton Head Island’s top alfresco dining spots when you visit in fall. Hilton Head boasts over 30+ waterfront restaurants with raw bars for freshly shucked oysters, oceanfront patios for fine dining, iconic Tiki Huts, and rooftop bars with DJs, live music and line dancing for late night fun. Whether you’re watching the waves roll in from the Atlantic or the sunset over Skull Creek, fall is a fine time for alfresco dining on Hilton Head Island.
There’s so much fun for kids on Hilton Head Island so entertain, educate and delight your kids with experiences they won’t find in a classroom. Climb to the top of the candy-cane Harbour Town Lighthouse, explore Adventure Playground and Sandbox Children’s Museum, burn off steam ziplining, go karting or golfing, and teach your kids the joy of spending time in nature. The fall weather is ideal for cool nature activities at the Coastal Discovery Museum or find an eco-adventure perfect for the whole family with Outside Hilton Head.
Getting to Hilton Head Islandis easy! Many major airlines fly into Hilton Head Island Airport with non-stop flights and easy connections, and the flights are less frantic in the off-season! If you’re planning a scenic fall road trip through the Lowcountry, Hilton Head Island is only a 45-minute drive from Savannah and a 2.5 hour drive from Charleston.
Experience coastal living at its finest this fall and start planning your getaway to Hilton Head Island with confidence and ease with the Sunset Package. Our selection of luxury Hilton Head vacation rentals are situated in the top HHI resort areas and range from cozy condos for two to multi-bedroom beachfront homes for family reunions, large group gatherings, or a golf buddies getaway to Hilton Head. If you’re looking to escape the cold and linger longer on Hilton Head, our monthly vacation rentals are available from October 1st to April 1st for a snowbird escape or extended stay on the island.
If you’re looking for adventures beyond Hilton Head Island, look no further than this handy list of our favorite easy lowcountry day trips. The Lowcountry lands of South Carolina and Georgia are full of beautiful beaches, serene marshes, and gorgeous mossy oaks to guide you along your vacation throughout the region.
Hilton Head Island is the perfect midpoint to tour the surrounding area, with some of the most beautiful cities in the country only a day trip away. You can enjoy the paradise of Hilton Head Island, the charm of Georgia, and the historical city of Charleston all in one vacation. Read on to learn more about the surrounding areas, and everything that is possible when staying with Sunset Rentals!
1. Charleston
About a 2-hour drive from Hilton Head Island, you can find the beloved city of Charleston, the oldest and largest city in South Carolina. With traditional cobblestone roads, sandy beaches, historical architecture and southern charm, Charleston is well worth the drive.
Visit the Charleston Farmers Market for local vendors and lowcountry cuisine, the South Carolina Aquarium for educational tours and wildlife, and walk the historical streets of downtown Charleston to visit some of the most famous Charleston landmarks, like the Battery and Rainbow Row.
2. isle of palms
Only 20 minutes from Charleston and a 2.5-hour trip from Hilton Head Island, you’ll find Isle of Palms, a long stretch of sandy white beach. Known for world-class golf courses, spas, fine dining, and resorts, Isle of Palms is a favorite amongst Charleston locals.
Another South Carolina Lowcountry favorite is Kiawah Island, only about a 2-hour drive from Hilton Head Island. Kiawah Island is a top destination for luxury resorts living in harmony with nature. It features 10 miles of pristine beaches, maritime forests, sand dunes, and marshes.
Freshfields Village is the perfect spot for lowcountry fine dining and luxury shopping. Beachwalker Park has plenty of wildlife sightings with beautiful views; and Bohicket Marina has action-packed adventures and watersports for the whole family.
4. Savannah
On the other side of Hilton Head Island, you’ll find Savannah, GA, just an hour’s drive away. Known for the Savannah Historic District and the Savannah River Front, there are plenty of places to explore.
Located just between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, sits Daufuskie Island. Although the island is only accessible by ferry, it is well worth the scenic trip. Locals love to travel over to Daufuskie for hiking, biking, fishing, or just exploring the pristine shoreline.
The Daufuskie Island Ferry transports you to and from the island, and while you’re there, be sure to visit Tour Daufuskie for water taxis, island tours, and rentals.
6. Beaufort
The town of historic sea islands, Beaufort, SC, is only a one-hour drive away. You’ll find coastal beaches, maritime forests, and scenic wetlands ready to be explored.
Hunting Island Beach is the best swimming spot with white sand and shady trees, while the rest of Beaufort is known for its classic southern charm in its museums, tours, and historical sites.
7. Jekyll island
Although a less popular vacation spot, Jekyll Island is full of adventure and beautiful sights to see. It’s a scenic 2-hour drive away, through the oak trees and over marshes. Jekyll Island is home to Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Summer Waves Water Park, sports centers, bike trails, and more.
Visit Summer Waves Water Park for water slides, pools, and fun for the whole family, then head over to Jekyll Island State Park to wind down the day with a bike ride and wildlife viewing.
8. tybee island
Only a 1.5-hour drive away, Tybee Island, GA is a small coastal community and one of the top-rated beaches in the US. Tybee Island is popular for all families, whether traveling with pets, children, or even couples.
Whether you’re looking for exciting outdoor activities, small town southern charm, or beautiful landscapes, adventure is only a short day trip away! Visit Hilton Head Island and find the perfect vacation rental from which to tour all that the Lowcountry has to offer with Sunset Rentals!
Hilton Head Island is a destination known for its stunning beaches, diverse ecosystems, and unique habitats abounding in wildlife. Whether it’s witnessing the marvel of baby sea turtle hatchlings, getting up close and personal with our beloved marine mammals, encountering alligators, or discovering Hilton Head’s best birding spots with your binocs, you’ll soon discover a deep appreciation for our island’s natural wonders.
Witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat is a magical and memorable experience but it’s vital to engage in responsible wildlife watching to maintain a healthy balance between humans and the island’s delicate wildlife habitats. For the safety of our local wildlife (and yours!), here are 7 tips for responsible wildlife watching on Hilton Head Island.
1. Drive Slow
When exploring Hilton Head Island by car, it’s important to drive at a slow and cautious pace, follow the speed limits, and keep a careful watch for wildlife on the roads. During dawn and dusk, wildlife are far more active on the roads and tend to travel in groups, if you see one crossing the street, the chances are more will follow.
2. Leash Up Your Furry Friends
The locals on Hilton Head Island love our pets as much as we love our wildlife, but please respect the rules in place to protect and preserve our wildlife habitats. To ensure the safety of our local wildlife and your furry friends, please keep pets on a leash at all times, do not allow them to swim or roam near alligator habitats, keep a mindful eye around sea turtle nesting grounds, and never leave them unattended. At night, keep your pet indoors for safety and bring pet food and water dishes inside to deter nighttime visitors.
3. Observe Wildlife from a Safe Distance
Be sure to add binoculars and a camera to your Hilton Head packing list! As exciting and tempting as it may seem to get up close and personal with wildlife, our local wildlife should never be approached. Respect their space, avoid close interactions, do not provoke, and always observe wildlife quietly from a safe and respectful distance – this is critical for their wellbeing, and yours!
Marine Life Encounters: On the waterways surrounding Hilton Head, marine life encounters are a given. Be mindful and maintain a safe distance when boating and paddling the waterways to avoid collisions or injuries, allow them to swim freely and undisturbed, and stay at least 140 feet away from dolphins at all times. The Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin is protected under federal law by the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, it is illegal to harass, hunt, capture, or kill any marine mammal.
Alligator Encounters: Hilton Head is home to a healthy population of American Alligators, one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic native species. Always assume every body of water may contain an alligator, swimming or wading in ponds and lagoons is prohibited, fish only from the docks and piers, and keep a close eye on kids and pets near any water on Hilton Head. If you’re planning to book at tee time on Hilton Head’s iconic golf courses, you may even encounter alligators strolling between lagoons. Local rules and regulations require you to stay at least 60 feet (4 cars in length) away from alligators.
Sea Turtle Encounters: Hilton Head Island is a nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including greens, leatherbacks, and the endangered loggerhead sea turtle. During the sea turtle season (May to October), our ancient residents and their hatchlings are strictly protected by local and federal regulations with severe penalties for handling or interfering with sea turtles, nesting sites, and baby hatchlings.
4. Don’t Feed Wildlife
While it may seem harmless, please resist the urge to feed our local wildlife. Feeding wildlife makes them associate humans with food, can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets, and can turn the animal aggressive leading to potentially dangerous situations. Visitors to Hilton Head are often tempted to feed our friendly local dolphin pods without realizing that under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, feeding or harassing dolphins is illegal, resulting in fines that can reach up to $100,000.
5. Always Follow the Signs
Always be on the lookout for posted signs and guidelines to avoid disturbing the natural habitats on Hilton Head Island. Whether it’s a marked-off sea turtle nesting area on the beach, an alligator alert on the fairways, or interpretive signage along the 60+ miles of Hilton Head Island pathways, these rules are in place to protect our fragile ecosystems, free-roaming wildlife, and curious visitors tempted to get too close and personal with our local wildlife.
6. Lights out!
Artificial lighting disorientates sea turtles and their hatchlings from the natural light of the moon. If you’re staying in an oceanfront rental, from 1 May to 31 October all light fixtures visible from the beach are required to be switched off between 10 PM and 6 AM. This includes interior blinds and drapes, all outdoor lighting, and any flashlight photography. Always report any sea turtle sightings or stranded sea turtles to the SC Department of Natural Resources Hotline at (800) 922-5431.
7. Leave Only Footprints
Our presence in nature should never leave a lasting impression! To minimize the impact on our diverse barrier island ecosystems and maintain the island’s pristine environment, please leave no trace, only footprints! Dispose of all trash properly to prevent harm to wildlife, always leave the beach clean, remove sandcastles and fill in holes for traveling sea turtles, and do not leave any umbrellas, chairs, or accessories on the beach overnight. Book a stay with a participating Sunset Rentals property to quality for complimentary bike & beach gear from Vayk Gear. Learn how it works HERE!
Wildlife on Hilton Head Island Beaches
The wildlife on Hilton Head is found without effort on our miles of wildbeaches. Our suggestion – walk or bike ride the shoreline from where the Calibogue Sound meets the Atlantic at South Beach to the remote shoreline of Fish Haul Creek and Mitchelville Beach near Port Royal Sound.
You’ll find wildlife encounters all along the shoreline –South Beach on Hilton Head Island is a prime spot for shore birds, and dolphins making their way to the Calibogue Sound, Fish Haul Creek and Mitchelville Beach overlooking Port Royal Sound are Hilton Head’s most natural beaches with maritime forests, boardwalks for wildlife viewing, historical sites and tidal flats teeming with shorebirds and crabs (best found at low tide!).
There’s no need to head off the beaten path for wildlife encounters on Hilton Head! From luxury oceanfront villas to fairway retreats and lush lagoon hideaways, you’ll find the perfect vantage point to observe the island’s diverse wildlife from the comfort of home in our collection of 240+ Hilton Head vacation rentals – the most trusted vacation rentals on Hilton Head Island.
Questions? Call our team at (843) 785-6767 today!
Stay with Sunset Rentals
Stay near Hilton Head’s top wildlife attractions withSunset Rentals – the chances are you won’t have to leave home to experience some of the best wildlife viewing on Hilton Head.
Our selection of luxury Hilton Head Islandvacation homes and villas are situated in the top resort areas of Hilton Head Island with luxury amenities, peaceful Lowcountry views, and opportunities for wildlife watching from your porch.
Hilton Head Island was named the #1 Island in the U.S. and Canada in Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards for 5 consecutive years! The award-winning Palmetto Dunes is one of the most well-known and popular resort areas of Hilton Head, nestled mid-island on 2,000 acres of lush oceanfront landscapes with world-class amenities, 3-miles of pristine Atlantic coastline, luxury oceanfront accommodation, and bike paths leading to the top attractions and iconic landmarks on Hilton Head Island.
Palmetto Dunes central location in the heart of the island makes it the ultimate Hilton Head vacation destination for families looking to stay close to the action (and the beach!). Whether you’re a nature lover, beach-goer, adventure seeker or sportsman, this highly-desirable Hilton Head plantation offers solace, excitement and island experiences for all types of travelers.
1. PALMETTO DUNES BEACH ACCESS
Palmetto Dunes is a beach lovers paradise with 3 miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches all within a short walk or bike ride from your Palmetto Dunes vacation rental. Spend your vacation in an oceanfront home or villa in Palmetto Dunes with private beach boardwalks or ride your bike or the seasonal Dune Buggy to the Disney Beach House or Dunes House with bike racks, restroom facilities, and an oceanfront bar and restaurant for a quintessential island-style beach day.
Take a bike ride or stroll along the shoreline, rent a surfboard to play in the waves, build sandcastles or simply soak up the warm sun and Lowcountry charm of Palmetto Dunes.
2. PALMETTO DUNES 11-MILE LAGOON SYSTEM
Rent a kayak or canoe and escape into nature on the Palmetto Dunes Lagoon System. The inland waterways weave for 11-miles through the plantation with an abundance of wildlife, over 40 species of birds, rewarding fishing spots and boat launches to get on the water. Hilton Head Outfitters are located near the General Store and are your one-stop shop for outdoor activities and rentals, and Sunset Rentals selection of lagoon-front villas offer the ultimate retreat for a nature escape in Palmetto Dunes.
3. GOLF COURSES IN PALMETTO DUNES
Palmetto Dunes is a dream destination for golfers and is home to three of the best courses you can play in South Carolina, and one of only two oceanfront golf holes on Hilton Head Island.
Play a challenging and scenic round on three world-class golf championship golf courses: the top-ranked Robert Trent Jones course with ocean views, the challenging George Fazio Golf Course with new state-of-the-art greens, and the Arthur Hills Course, one of South Carolina’s most unique and scenic golf layouts in lush, Lowcountry landscapes on the south shores of Palmetto Dunes Resort Area.
The Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy has outstanding private golf instruction and group clinics with programs for all levels and the three Palmetto Dunes championship courses all feature welcoming clubhouses with on-site golf shops, Srixon golf club rentals (and shipping services!), and relaxed dining experience for a memorable golf vacation on Hilton Head, the Golf Island!
4. TENNIS & RACQUET CLUBS IN PALMETTO DUNES
Hilton Head is one of the top tennis destinations in the US! The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center ranks among the best tennis resorts and was recently named the “Pickleball Resort of the Year” by Racquet Sports Magazine.
The award-winning sports center features 19 clay tennis courts (four lighted for night play), 24 dedicated pickleball courts (all lighted for night play), professional instruction for tennis and pickleball, and seasonal clinics for all ages. Palmetto Dunes promises the best pickleball and tennis vacation you’ve ever had!
5. WATER ACTIVITIES AT SHELTER COVE HARBOUR & MARINA
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina lies on Broad Creek at the entrance to Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort – a premier waterfront destination for shopping, dining and endless activitieson the Lowcountry waterways. The colorful marina is lined with rentals of every kind from high-speed power boats, jet skis and catamarans to fishing pontoons and luxury sailboats.
Whatever level of adventure sparks your wanderlust, you’ll find it at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina. Captain your own boat or choose from a selection of saltmarsh paddle tours, dolphin discoveries, fishing charters, eco-tours, party boats, pirate adventures or picture perfect sunset cruises in the awe-inspiring Lowcountry waterways, marshlands and creeks.
6. SHOPPING & RESTAURANTS IN PALMETTO DUNES (and nearby!)
The waterfront promenade along the Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina has a selection of shops, galleries, outdoor patios with live music and marina views, and award-winning restaurants with the best seafood on Hilton Head Island! The nearby Shelter Cove Town Center is an open-air Mediterranean style village that lures shoppers, foodies and families with a selection of over 30 shops and restaurants, a rooftop bar for nightlife on Hilton Head, and a community park overlooking Broad Creek, host to year-round events and Hilton Head’s famous HarbourFest.
Palmetto Dunes is centrally located mid-island on Hilton Head Island so you’re only a short bike ride from outstanding beachfront shops and restaurants at Coligny Plaza and waterfront delights at Harbour Town in Sea Pines Resort.
7. EASY TO GET AROUND PALMETTO DUNES
Palmetto Dunes has a 5-mile network of well-maintained paved bike trails throughout the plantation and connecting to the other resort areas of Hilton Head Island. Load up the bike ride or speak with a Sunset Rentals vacation specialist about our state-of-the-art bike rentals and complimentary Vayk Gear rentals at select Palmetto Dunes vacation homes and villas. There is no fee to bike the trails in Palmetto Dunes.
The Palmetto Dunes Buggy is a seasonal free shuttle service that serves the beaches, golf clubs and tennis facilities in the Palmetto Dunes resort area, as well as Shelter Cove Marina & Town Center. The buggy runs from 8am to 9pm daily from April through September with an on-call service to take you where you need to go within the plantation!
Palmetto Dunes Private Beach & Golf Vacation Home Rentals
There are many perks to staying in a private home on vacation – Gather the whole crew under one roof, enjoy space and privacy away from the crowds, large gourmet kitchens, spacious master suites, full laundry rooms for convenience (it doesn’t end on vacation!), intimate waterfront docks on the lagoon, private beach boardwalks, heated pools and spas just for you, and the list goes on!
Our selection of luxury vacation homes in the Palmetto Dunes resort area are located throughout the plantation – beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean, on the world-class Robert Trent Jones Golf Course and waterfront on Palmetto Dunes 11-mile lagoon system – with luxury amenities to suit even the most distinguished guests.
Hilton Head Island is a destination for all seasons! Our beautiful barrier island is nestled on the southern tip of the South Carolina coastline with a balmy sub-tropical climate, an average of 215 sunny days a year, and mild temps to enjoy our pristine beaches, serene waterways, untouched nature preserves and award-winning golf and tennis facilities year round. Every season brings new experiences, unique adventures, seasonal events and laid-back Lowcountry living on Hilton Head.
Winter: December, January & February
Average Temperatures: 40-70o F
The winter season is the quietest time of year for tourists on Hilton Head Island and makes for an idyllic low season beach vacation, romantic winter getaway or warm weather snowbird escape. January is the coldest month of the year with highs in the mid-60s and lows down to 40oF, but rarely dipping below.
The water is too icy for swimming but it’s the perfect season for sightseeing Hilton Head, easy golf tee times, sunrise beach strolls, sunset cruises, fishing charters for exceptional sports fishing, horse riding and wildlife spotting in Sea Pines Forest Preserve, and hanging out at Hilton Head’s winter festivals.
Be sure to book your stay with Sunset Rentals to enjoy the top winter events on Hilton Head Island. Experience a warm coastal Christmas with family festivities, New Year’s Eve in Harbour Town, a sub-tropical Snow Day in January, or end the winter seafood season indulging in all you can eat oysters at the Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival in February.
Spring: March, April & May
Average Temperatures: March 60-70o F | April 60-70o F | May 70-80o F
A glimpse of spring weather has arrived, the flowers are blooming, and the weather is fine! Spring is a wonderful time of year to get a taste of summer of Hilton Head Island without the crowds, and with temperatures warming up for the beach, shoulder season rental rates, and vacation discounts.
You’ll need a coat for morning beach walks or patio dining on the waterfront, but the temps are warm during the day and shorts and tees are all you need to hike or bike the trails, tee off on a championship golf course or visit the top sights on Hilton Head Island. Be sure to pack your swimwear (and sunscreen) for beach picnics or a chilly dip in the Atlantic Ocean.
Hilton Head Island is a pristine, warm and sunny coastal town so expect summer crowds! This is the most popular season to visit Hilton Head so be sure to book your vacation rental, beach gear, attraction tickets, and outdoor activities in advance to avoid disappointment and start planning your summer vacation activities with Sunset Rentals Ultimate Guide to Summer on Hilton Head Island.
In the summer months the temperatures reach the high-80s and often the 90s (with water temps in the mid-80s) so be prepared for hot, sunny days and wonderful tropical thunderstorms that bring refreshing and quick summer showers, a welcome reprieve from the heat and humidity!
For the ultimate summer vacation and island style living on Hilton Head, stay with Sunset Rentals. Our vacation homes and villas are located in the top resort areas of Hilton Head near world-class golf and tennis, shopping & dining, live entertainment and Hilton Head’s HarbourFest, a family-friendly celebration and weekly fireworks all summer long at Shelter Cove.
Fall: September, October & November
Average Temperatures: September 70-80o F | October 60-70o F | November 50-60o F
After schools go back, the crowds start to thin and cooler temperatures cruise in – but the warm, sunny beach days continue well into October with highs occasionally in the 80s. We’re back to shoulder season on Hilton Head – seasonal water activities have closed, summer traffic has disappeared, the beaches are quieter, and it’s the best season to get a great deal on your dream vacation home!
October and November have the lowest rainfall and are the best months for getting outdoors on Hilton Head Island. Book a tee time or hit the tennis courts at our world-class facilities, hike or bike the trails with prime birdwatching, beachcomb and build sandcastles along the shoreline, or brave the cooler waters for a tranquil SUP sunset.
If you’re planning a Hilton Head vacation with your pooch, the pet-friendly beaches are open all day during low season from October to February (unlike the summer months) and there are plenty of pet-friendly rentals, restaurants and activitieson Hilton Head.
October marks the start of seafood season and our favorite Lowcountry tradition, Oyster Roasts! Harvest and host your own oyster roast to shuck & slurp with friends and family at home or plan your vacation around the family-friendly Hilton Head Oyster Festival at Shelter Cove in November, a celebration of Lowcountry tradition, local music and the freshest, flavorful oysters you’ll ever feast on! End the fall season at the Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance in November, a 3-day classic car experience with over 500 classic cars, motorcycles, boats and aircraft on display.
Whether you’re traveling with kiddos, a group of friends, or as a couple, trust Sunset Rentals with your lodging on Hilton Head Island. Locally serving Hilton Head since 1993, our team takes pride in offering the most trusted vacation rentals on Hilton Head to work from home with warm southern hospitality and first-class service every step of the way.
The distinctive Lowcountry scenery and tranquil waterways on Hilton Head Island provide the perfect canvas for some of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever witness. As the sun dips slowly below the horizon, fiery palettes of reds, oranges, pinks, and purples paint the skies casting a warm glow over Hilton Head’s white sandy shoreline, untouched preserves, and waterfront marinas abuzz with tours, activities, and sunset dining experiences that top the charts! No filters required!
Whatever beach sunset vibe you’re after, you’ll find it here on Hilton Head Island. From hip, happening happy hours on the sand and landmark waterfront restaurants on the creeks to secluded paddling adventures alongside pods of dolphins, here’s our guide to the best sunset spots on Hilton Head Island, and epic sunset experiences to make it extra special!
The beaches on Hilton Head Island are consistently ranked among the most picturesque in the world, but are extra special with the candy-colored glow of sunset resting on the calm waters. Slip off your flip-flops for a sunset stroll or beach bike ride along the shoreline, or stop by Coligny Plaza for picnic goods from Piggly Wiggly or a Lowcountry cheese or charcuterie board to go from Rollers for a sunset picnic on the sand.
Local Tip: Stay with Sunset Rentals and receive complimentary Vayk gear including beach chairs & umbrellas and top quality bike gear for the whole family!
Phone: (843) 785-5126 Hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM Seasonal Live Music: See the lineup HERE! Reservations: First come, first serve
If beach volleyball and barefoot cocktails on the sand are more your vibe, the Hilton Head Island Tiki Hut on Coligny Beach is an island icon that offers up an insta-worthy sunset with beachside bites, hand-crafted frozen cocktails, a chilled atmosphere, and an epic line up of live music and jam sessions in all four seasons.
Local Tip: For fewer crowds, take a short walk along the shoreline to sample “the best frozen drink you’re ever going to get” at Pool Bar Jim’s. Jim’s frozen creations include original recipes like the Daufuskie Freeze, Margaritas, and Mojitos served with old-fashioned southern hospitality with a tropical touch!
Phone: (843) 842-1888 Hours: Daily 11:30 AM to 9 PM (Beach Bar 10 PM) Seasonal Live Music: 4 PM to 7 PM Reservations: Reservations recommended for dinner
Situated in the Sea Pines Resort area of Hilton Head, the Beach Club boasts an oceanfront patio for sunset dining, a rooftop lounge and bar for upscale cocktails, and a wrap-around beach bar with walk-up service for beachgoers. You can literally have your Hilton Head sunset on the rocks, shaken, or stirred, while being serenaded by live music in season.
Local Tip: Parking is limited! You can hop on the Sea Pines Trolley or stay local! Our Turtle Lane Townhomes are steps from the Sea Pines Beach Club with two swimming pools (one seasonally heated!), private beach access, and stunning sunsets on your doorstep. You must be a guest in Sea Pines to enjoy the Beach Club.
Phone: (843) 671-2233 Hours: Daily 8 AM to 10 PM Happy Hour: 4 PM to 6 PM Reservations: First come, first serve
The legendary Salty Dog Café is one of the most visited restaurants on the island! Whether it’s the waterfront location in the New England-inspired village, the succulent seafood and award-winning crab legs, or Salty Dog’s stunning Lowcountry sunsets over Braddock Creek that spark your interest, it’s a must-do dining experience with a must-see Hilton Head Island sunset!
Local Tip: Book a sunset sail on the “Salty Cat” with Island Water Sports situated on the boardwalk at South Beach Marina, next to Salty Dog Café.
Phone: (843) 593-9104 Hours: Daily 11 AM to 6 PM Seasonal Live Music: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday Reservations: First come, first serve
The Dunes House is the best sunset spot in the Palmetto Dunes resort area. Dunes House is a laid-back beach bar and oceanfront restaurant with an outdoor kitchen serving casual cuisine and cool cocktails, seasonal live music, and spectacular ocean views to watch the sunset on Hilton Head.
Local Tip: Dunes House is open only to guests staying in the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort area! It’s no coincidence you’re here at Sunset Rentals! Click HERE to find your sunset rental in Palmetto Dunes and you can walk from home or hop on the Dunes Buggy!
Local Tip: Visitors staying outside the Sea Pines Resort area are required to pay a $9 cash gate fee to enter. Guests of Sea Pines can ride the free Sea Pines Trolley with 4 routes around the resort area.
Phone: (866) 305-9814 Hours: Daily 10 AM to sundown Admission: Fee applies per adult, children 5 and under free
The red and white striped Harbour Town Lighthouse is an iconic Hilton Head landmark with breathtaking views over Calibogue Sound and Daufuskie Island. Climb 114 steps through the museum to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic 360-degree views of the sun casting silhouettes over the water, Lowcountry marshes, and Harbour Town Yacht Basin.
Local Tip: Planning a special event on Hilton Head? The Harbour Town Lighthouse is available for private events and special celebrations for up to 40 guests and you’ll find a stylish place to stay in Sea Pines with Sunset Rentals!
H20 Sports at Harbour Town Yacht Basin offers a wide variety of activities, water sports rentals, and sunset tours on Calibogue Sound and Broad Creek. Choose from a 1.5 hour sunset dolphin tour, a 2-hour sunset sail aboard the 38’ SUMO trimaran (the fastest boat on Hilton Head), or reserve a wave runner or boat rental to sail into the sunset at your own pace.
Local Tip: Reserve a table at Quarterdeck next door to H20 Sports (open till 9 PM daily) to return for fresh-caught seafood and specialty sunset cocktails on the Harbour Town waterfront.
Phone: (843) 363-2722 Hours: Daily 11 AM to 9 PM Happy Hour: Daily 4 PM to 6 PM Reservations: Reservations recommended
Located at the famed Liberty Oak in Harbour Town, the Crazy Crab is a Hilton Head hotspot for sunset dining with amazing happy hour specials to settle in for golden hour. There are red rockers right outside the door to relax after dinner, watch the boats, and catch an iconic Greg Russell concert under the Liberty Oak in spring or summer.
Local Tip: For easy access to Harbour Town and breathtaking sunset views from home, look no further than our Schooner Court Villa, a luxurious 4-bedroom townhome with unparalleled Harbour Town Marina views!
For a more solitary sunset, escape to Sea Pines Forest Preserve, a 650-acre protected nature preserve with pet-friendly trails winding through four unique habitats including ancient maritime forests, freshwater wetlands, fishing ponds, and meadows of wildflowers teeming with wildlife and natural wonder.
Local Tip: Make a day of it and book a horseback ride through Sea Pines Forest Preserve with Lawton Stables or a guided alligator & wildlife boat tour of the lakes with H20 Sports.
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is situated on the banks of Broad Creek, right across from the Palmetto Dunes resort area. The setting is stunning for a photo-worthy sunset – boats bobbing in the foreground, fishing charters cruising back into the marina, and dazzling hues draping the Lowcountry landscapes. At Shelter Cove, you can book a cruise for an uninterrupted sunset, choose from a selection of laid-back cafés and award-winning restaurants for waterfront dining, or watch the sunset at HarbourFest, Shelter Cove’s signature summer event.
Local Tip: Parking is free but limited in peak season. The Dunes Buggy and Breeze Trolley provide seasonal transportation to Shelter Cove from April through Labor Day.
Phone: (843) 341-4600 Hours: 7 PM to 10 PM Admission: Free Date: Every Friday Night from June through August
Pack a picnic for Sunset Celebration on the waterfront at Shelter Cove Community Park with live music and laid-back family entertainment on the banks of Broad Creek. The summer concert series is free, pet-friendly, and perfect for a sunset picnic in the park. Stop by Kroger for picnic basket goodies or pick up to-go from one of Towne Centre’s local eateries.
Local Tip: You can watch the sunset from home at Anchorage Villas, only steps from Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina with private lagoons and a large heated private pool – perfect for poolside sunsets away from the crowds.
Situated at the base of the Cross Island Expressway Bridge, Palmetto Bay Marina is one of Hilton Head’s original fishing marinas with beautiful west-facing views of Broad Creek and Spanish Wells. From sport fishing charters, pirate cruises, and Lowcountry watersports (including the latest craze of Creek Cats) to shopping and dining, you can spend the whole day playing at Palmetto Bay Marina before sailing into the sunset.
Local’s Tip: End your sunset experience at the Carolina Crab Company, Black Marlin Bayside Grill, or waterfront Hurricane Bar, all famous for their fantastic happy hours, Lowcountry seafood, laid-back vibes, and unbeatable sunset views!
Phone: (843) 363-8335 Admission: Free Date: April & May
If live music is high on your list of things to do on Hilton Head, hop off your creek cat or dolphin cruise and enjoy sunset dining and live music in the marina hosted by the Black Marlin Bayside Grill & Hurricane Bar. The live music schedule changes frequently so click HERE to add more local live music dates to your Hilton Head itinerary!
Local Tip: If you’re an early riser and love a good sunrise, the Palmetto Bay Sunrise Café opens at 6 AM (Wed-Sun) and serves up the best shrimp and grits on the island.
Broad Creek Marina is across the bridge with east-facing views of the island. Broad Creek Marina offers activities, tours, and charters for every adventure level including ziplining, parasailing, and sunset dolphin cruises by boat, aboard the sailboat Cheers, or by kayak. The 2-hour Kayak Sunset Tour of Broad Creek includes the added bonus of the HarbourFest Fireworks in the summer season.
Local’s Tip: For the ultimate family adventure, combine your sunset experience with an epic aerial tour at Adventure Hilton Head, also located at Broad Creek Marina.
Kick back for a killer sunset, the real deal on Lowcountry cuisine, seasonal live music, and loads of family fun at Fishcamp on Broad Creek or next door at Up the Creek Pub & Grill. Both restaurants boast breathtaking views with a laid-back island ambiance, lawn games, live music, waterfront firepits, and daily happy hours to indulge a little.
Local’s Tip: If your family includes a furbaby, both Fishcamp & Up the Creek welcome well-behaved, leashed pets on their waterfront patios. Click HERE to find a place to stay for your pup too!
Phone: (843) 681-3663 Hours: Daily 11 AM to 10 PM Happy Hour: 4 PM to 6 PM Reservations: First come, first serve
Situated on the northern end of the island, Skull Creek is one of the most scenic sunset destinations in South Carolina! Sunset views stretch over the island’s western marshes and the untouched landscapes of Pinckney Island, views interrupted only by pods of dolphins and fishing boats cruising the creek. Sunset diners have a choice of three award-winning waterfront restaurants serving up seafood straight from the docks, southern BBQ, frozen cocktails and craft beers, seasonal live music, and sweeping sunset views that’ll leave you captivated.
Phone: (843) 784-2468 Hours: Sunrise to Sunset Admission: Free
Nestled between the mainland and Hilton Head Island, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 4,000 acres of wild Lowcountry landscapes with maritime forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks teeming with alligators, bobcats, butterflies, and beautiful birdlife. It’s a top spot for Lowcountry nature photography with over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails to find a secluded setting to capture a sunset.
Local Tip: If you have your own kayak, launch on Skull Creek from the Rowing and Sailing Center on Squire Pope Road for a sunset paddle around Pinckney Island.
Soaring above Hilton Head in a helicopter adds to the magic of your sunset experience. The coastline stretches before you as a canvas of golden hues glows from the sand dunes to the skies. From quick flips along the Atlantic coastline to ultimate adventures sightseeing the top attractions on Hilton Head from the skies, Hilton Head Helicopter Tours offer it all – private charters too!
Local Tip: If you’re planning a large group getaway or family reunion on Hilton Head, they have three beautiful helicopters to easily accommodate the whole crew.
Whether you’re watching the sun dip behind the creeks, setting the ocean waters aglow, or casting colors over Hilton Head’s famous fairways, you can pick your sunset views in our collection of 230+ Sunset Rentals on Hilton Head Island – many with complimentary credit for all the gear you need for a beach picnic, bike ride, or sunset paddle adventure on the Intracoastal waterways.
At Sunset Rentals, we don’t just provide you with a luxury Lowcountry retreat to call home, our homes set the stage for a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s nightly masterpiece.
Local’s Tip: Start chasing South Carolina sunsets today with our team at Sunset Rentals!
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Calibogue Sound, Sea Pines Resort is a top Hilton Head resort destination for families and one of Hilton Head’s most desirable communities. Sea Pines boasts historic charm, natural splendor, prime access to 5 miles of pristine sandy beaches, lush Lowcountry waterways, tranquil wetlands, and nature preserves teeming with wildlife. Sea Pines Resort is Hilton Head’s original and largest plantation, a coastal paradise on the southern tip of Hilton Head Island, an award-winning vacation destination and America’s Favorite Island.
Sea Pines Resort is home to Hilton Head’s top attractions, the best shopping and dining on the island, world-class golf courses and tennis facilities, two marinas for watersports, nature trails for hiking and horseriding, and 20-miles of connected paved trails for biking around the resort.
Sea Pines Resort has the largest stretch of oceanfront on Hilton Head Island with 5 miles of beaches, easy and convenient beach access throughout the resort, boardwalks from oceanfront rentals and prime beach access with parking at the Sea Pines Beach Club. If you’re staying in Sea Pines, you can bike or walk to the beach, hop on the Sea Pines Trolley, or head out early for a parking spot at the Beach Club.
The world-class Sea Pines Beach Club is an oceanfront retreat exclusively for guests and residents of Sea Pine Resort with a pristine stretch of beach with lifeguards and luxury amenities for the whole family. The Sea Pines Beach Club features a surf shop for all your beach gear, the Surfside Market for beach snacks, and Craft Cove for seasonal activities for the kids. While the kids play and explore their creative side, indulge in signature seafood dishes and frozen cocktails at Coast or the Ocean Lounge for the best oceanfront dining on Hilton Head.
HARBOUR TOWN
Harbour Town is a Hilton Head landmark and one of the most popular attractions on the island with over 20 unique stores, waterfront dining, eco-adventures, and activities for all ages. Harbour Town is the best place on Hilton Head to shop, eat, play and stay!
Harbour Town Lighthouse & Museum: The candy cane striped Harbour Town Lighthouse is an iconic landmark and one of the top things to do on Hilton Head. Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse with historical artifacts and exhibits highlighting the history of Sea Pines and Hilton Head Island, pick up souvenirs at the lighthouse shop, and soak up the scenery with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Calibogue Sound, Harbour Town and beyond (children under 5 climb free!).
Greg Russell Harbour Town Playground & Concert Series: Greg Russell has been entertaining locals and visitors to Hilton Head for over 40 years, with free, family-friendly entertainment under the Liberty Oak overlooking the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. The Harbour Town Playground was named in tribute to this Lowcountry Legend and, along with his famous shows, is a true delight for young children with a nature-inspired playground and seasonal visits from Albert the Alligator, Sea Pines resort mascot.
Recreational Activities: Harbour Town Marina offers dockage specials at the Yacht Basin to bring your own boat to Hilton Head Island, one of the top yachting destinations on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. In addition, there’s an abundance of fun-fueled recreational activities on the surrounding waterways and Atlantic Ocean. Parasail over the Lowcountry coastline, kayak or SUP the tidal marshes of the Calibogue Sound, rent a pontoon, powerboat, or wave runner for high-speed adventures, or embark on a boat tour or scenic cruise of Hilton Head Island.
Shopping in Harbour Town:Harbour Town is a top shopping destination on Hilton Head with a Mediterranean style outdoor shopping plaza for a unique shopping experience along the waterfront. There are more than 20 stores surrounding the colorful yacht basin with everything from adventure outfitters and surf shops to upscale boutiques, galleries, and gift shops for coastal treasures. The Harbour Town General Store stocks all your vacation essentials for local shopping in Sea Pines.
Harbour Town Restaurants & DiningSome of Hilton Head’s best restaurants and waterfront dining are in Sea Pines Resort! Harbour Town offers a wide array of eateries from ice-cream and sprinkles, casual outdoor cafes and family-friendly restaurants to gourmet fine dining, wine pairing and specialty sunset cocktails with live music on the Calibogue Sound. Savor Hilton Head Island’s best sunset dinner on the upper deck of the Spirit of Harbour Town as you set sail through the Intracoastal Waterways.
SOUTH BEACH MARINA VILLAGE
South Beach Marina Village is a quaint New England inspired village on Braddock Cove, at the southernmost tip of Hilton Head. South Beach Marina Village is quieter than Harbour Town with wet and dry boat slip rentals, bike rentals to cruise the marina, dockside restaurants and a variety of water activities, rentals, and nature tours of the Calibogue Sound.
Shopping in South Beach: South Beach Marina Village has a small selection of shops with fashion boutiques, gifts and souvenirs unique to Hilton Head, a tackle shop for all your fishing gear, crabbing supplies and charter tours, and a general store with Hilton Head swag and all your vacation necessities.
South Beach Marina Village Restaurants: South Beach Marina Village is home to the famous Salty Dog Café with waterfront dining overlooking the marina and marshlands, an outdoor bar, live music on the docks and world-class coastal seafood. Stop by the Wreck of the Salty Dog on the docks for legendary hush puppies, pick up pizza to go at Jakes, or start your day with a sunrise breakfast at Land’s End Tavern, a cool, converted boat storage building.
GOLF COURSES IN SEA PINES PLANTATION
The Sea Pines Resort Area has a rich golfing history and is synonymous with world-class golf! Sea Pines Resorts award-winning golf courses are consistently ranked among the best golf courses in the US (and the world!) with a long list of golf awards and accolades, challenging play for beginners and PGA champions, and tranquil golf villas on the fairways for the ultimate Hilton Head golf vacation in Sea Pines.
Harbour Town Golf Links: The internationally renowned Harbour Town Golf Links is Hilton Head’s most famous course and a favorite with past and present PGA champions. Harbour Town Golf Links is home to South Carolina’s only PGA tour event, the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament, a Hilton Head legacy and tradition bringing over 135,000 visitors to Sea Pines each April.
Plantation Golf Club: The Sea Pines Plantation Golf Club is home to two lush Lowcountry courses, Heron Point by Pete Dye and Atlantic Dunes Golf Course, world-class instruction at The Golf Learning Center, and an expansive pro shop. Atlantic Dunes is a complete remodel of Hilton Head’s first golf course, the historic Ocean Course, featuring one of only two oceanfront holes on Hilton Head, an open layout for family-friendly golf and a true seaside ambiance.
TENNIS & RACQUET CLUBS IN SEA PINES
Hilton Head is one of the top tennis destinations in the US with a tropical climate for year-round play, over 300 courts, award-winning tennis facilities, coaching clinics with certified professional instructors and fun summer camps for kids. There are two world-class tennis facilities in Sea Pines.
Sea Pines Racquet Club: The award-winning Sea Pines Racquet Club in Harbour Town is one of the top tennis facilities in Hilton Head and one the best in the US. The Sea Pines Racquet Club is under the direction of former US Open and Wimbledon Champion, Stan Smith and is home to the Smith Stearns Tennis Academy, earning Tennis Magazine’s #1 Ranking for Tennis Programs.
South Beach Racquet Club: The South Beach Racquet Club is next to the South Beach Marina at the southern tip of Sea Pines Resort. The club is low-key and intimate featuring a full-service pro shop, well-maintained clay courts, Har-Tru pickleball courts, summer camps for kids and top-notch instruction for every level.
SEA PINES FOREST PRESERVE
The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is a natural treasure on HHI with more than 600 acres of protected wildlife habitat, tranquil nature trails through the forest, pristine lakes and lagoons, elevated wetland boardwalks, observation decks for wildlife viewing, and the historic ruins of the mysterious 4,000 year old Native American Indian Shell Ring. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve has a boat launch and fishing docks, guided eco-adventures, alligator tours and fishing expeditions, wagon rides for the kids and western style horseback rides through the preserve.
LAWTON STABLES
Lawton Stables is a family-owned farm and equestrian center in Sea Pines Resort, a must for your vacation on Hilton Head. Beginners and experienced riders can explore the trails through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve (ages 8 and up) or delight the kids with a Shetland pony ride and a visit to the hands-on petting zoo with goats, pigs, miniature donkeys, chickens, and alpacas.
STONEY-BAYNARD PLANTATION RUINS
The Stoney-Baynard Plantation Ruins are an important part of Hilton Head history located in the Sea Pines Resort Area. The former antebellum plantation was built in the 18th century and the remains of the mansion and slave quarters burned in the Civil War are today listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The ruins are easily reached on a short hike with interpretive signs to learn the history of the ruins, tranquil views of the Calibogue Sound and a flurry of ghost stories from fellow hikers.
GETTING AROUND SEA PINES RESORT AREA
Getting around Sea Pines Resort Area is easy! The complimentary Sea Pines Trolley offers three different routes within Sea Pines Resort with seasonal service from April to September and trolley stops at Sea Pines top attractions. The Blue Route runs between Harbour Town and The Sea Pines Beach Club, the Red Route runs to and from Harbour Town and the Green Route transports you down to South Beach.
The Sea Pines Resort Area has over 20 miles of recreational pathways throughout the plantation making it easy to avoid traffic and high-season parking problems and explore the attractions at your own pace. Sunset Rentals offers its own fleet of state-of-the-art bike rentals and complimentary Vayk Gear rentals at select homes and villas in the Sea Pines Resort Area.
WHERE TO STAY IN SEA PINES RESORT AREA
The Sea Pines Resort Area of Hilton Head Island is divided into four unique neighborhoods: Harbor Town, South Beach, Plantation and Oceanside. Wherever you choose to recharge, our selection of Sea Pines Plantation vacation villas and homes offer luxury amenities, comfort, privacy and exceptional guest services, all within easy reach of the top tours, attractions, activities and things to do in Sea Pines Resort.
0.2 miles to South Beach Marina Village Wake up to a spectacular sunrise over the Atlantic at Beachside Tennis, an oceanfront complex on the southern tip of Sea Pines. These stylish and spacious Sea Pines villas offer Atlantic Ocean and Calibogue Sound views, a community pool, and easy access to South Beach Marina Village and South Beach Racquet Club. A prime location in Sea Pines just steps from the ocean, sand, and sun.
0.3 miles to South Beach Marina Village Bluff Villas are located on the marina side of the peninsula between the Calibogue Sound and Braddock Cove, a short walk to beach access at South Beach. Guests have access to the South Beach Marina Pool and the South Beach Racquet Club.
0.6 miles to South Beach Marina Village Lands End Villas are located close to South Beach Marina Village, where Braddock Cove meets the Calibogue Sound and Intracoastal Waterway. These secluded villas offer classic Lowcountry living with some of the best views on Hilton Head, a community pool, and dolphin viewing from home!
0.3 miles to South Beach Marina Village South Beach Villas are located near Beachside Tennis Villas, just steps from the Atlantic Ocean and a short walk to South Beach Marina Village, Guests enjoy unparalleled views of the Atlantic, Calibogue Sound and Daufuskie Island with access to the South Beach Marina community pool.
1.5 miles to Harbour Town Marina Our pet-friendly Calibogue Cay villa rentals are located close to Harbour Town with tranquil marsh views, beach access along the bike paths or a quick ride on the Sea Pines Trolley, a seasonal community pool, tennis courts and some of the best sunset views on Hilton Head.
0.8 Miles to Harbour Town Marina Heritage Villas are located on the award-winning Harbour Town Golf Links, just a short bike ride away from shopping, dining, and endless activities at Sea Pines Harbour Town. This Sea Pines villa complex has a sparkling community pool and tennis courts set in landscaped gardens for guest use.
0.3 Miles to Harbour Town Marina Stay in the heart of Harbour Town at Ketch Court on Lighthouse Lane, a short walk to the Harbour Town Lighthouse, shopping, dining, and the best family activities on Hilton Head Island. The Ketch Court Villa Complex does not have a community pool, however guests have access to the South Beach Marina pool and are a short bike or trolley ride to the beach.
0.9 Miles to Harbour Town Marina Lighthouse Tennis Villas are located next to the Shops at Sea Pines Center, between Harbour Town and the Sea Pines Beach Club. The complex features tropical surroundings, a resort-size swimming pool, private tennis courts and is a short bike ride to Harbour Town and the beach at Sea Pines.
Steps to Harbour Town Marina The Mariners Way complex is in a prime location in Harbour Town, steps from the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, Harbour Town Playground and the bustling marina with shopping, dining, and the best water activities on Hilton Head. Guests have access to the Harbour Town Pool.
0.6 Miles to Harbour Town Marina Sea Pines Racquet Club villas are located on the Heron Point Golf Close in the Harbour Town area of Sea Pines. The Racquet Club complex features a seasonal swimming pool, Har-Tru tennis courts and a Sea Pines Trolley stop for easy access to the beach.
Plantation Club Villas are located near the Sea Pines Plantation Golf Club, on the fairways of the award-winning Atlantic Dunes by Davis Love III and Heron Point by Pete Dye. The Plantation Club Villa complex offer a prime location for golfing in Sea Pines resort area with two on-site seasonal swimming pools, a children’s pool and a short walk or bike ride to the beach.
