5 Tips For Hosting a Family Reunion on Hilton Head

Situated only 30 miles from historic Savannah Georgia, Hilton Head Island boasts a stunning and serene seaside location, welcoming southern charm, a relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle, and a wide range of family-focused activities and vacation homes that appeal to guests of every generation.

Not only is Hilton Head the “#1 Island in the Continental US”, but it has also been named the “Best US Beach for Families” by Parent Magazine and is a destination geared for sun, fun, and fabulous beach family reunions – that may just turn to family tradition! Hilton Head Island is also a very dog-friendly destination! Yes, Fido can visit the island’s top tourist attractions, restaurants, and beaches too!

Planning a successful family vacation is tricky enough, trying to coordinate a destination family reunion that puts a smile on everyone’s dial, from the tiniest tots to the great-grandparents, can be downright intimidating!

Our local team at Sunset Rentals has been welcoming family groups of all sizes to the island since 1993, and we know a thing or two about hosting a family reunion on Hilton Head Island. We’ve put together our top 5 tips for hosting a family reunion on Hilton Head Island, and have a treasure trove of local tips and recommendations in our Hilton Head Island travel blog to help plan a successful reunion.

1. Select Your Season

The weather on Hilton Head Island is beautiful year-round and we have some of the warmest ocean water on the Atlantic Coast! The official beach season (and peak season on Hilton Head) is April 1st through September 30th and May through October is prime sea turtle season, an easy way to entice the family to a reunion on Hilton Head Island. The summer season tends to be hot and humid with temps between 86^oF and 92^oF and the winters are mild, rarely dipping below 60^oF.

How you select the season for your reunion depends on your family style and preference – hot, summer beach days, cooler weather and fewer crowds out of season, or a winter snowbird family reunion at the beach! Be aware that many of the island’s outdoor outfitters close for a period during the winter season, so do your activity research in advance.

2. Decide Where to Stay on Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island is divided into unique gated communities, known as resort areas of plantations, with an Infinite choice of accommodation available in each resort area community. Palmetto Dunes and Sea Pines Resort are particularly popular with families, Shipyard and Port Royal are quieter neighborhoods, and Forest Beach lies in the heart of the action, within walking distance to Hilton Head’s downtown area activities, Coligny Plaza shops and restaurants, and the shoreline of the award-winning Coligny Beach Park. Wherever you decide to stay on Hilton Head, the island’s beautiful beaches are within easy reach on the network of trails connecting every resort area.

3. Arrange Your Island Activities In Advance

Planning activities for a big group can be challenging, but Hilton Head Island’s extensive activity offerings appeal to young and old alike! Balance your days between beach play, water activities, golf and racquet sports, cultural experiences, and eco-friendly nature tours unique to South Carolina’s Lowcountry barrier islands. Hilton Head is a popular destination, be sure to plan and book your tours and activities well in advance to avoid disappointment!

Hilton Head Island has over 60 miles of leisure paths winding through the island for fun family bike rides, gentle strolls for the older folk, and some of the best wildlife viewing on the island!

The island boasts 12 miles of Atlantic shoreline with easy access to long wide stretches of white sand beaches, beautiful boardwalks through tidal marshes and sand dunes, seasonal lifeguards, excellent amenities, beach gear rentals, and everything the family needs for a day at the beach! Check out our complimentary bike and gear credit program!

Every watersport imaginable is available on Hilton Head Island – sailing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, wakeboarding, tubing, jet skiing, parasailing, relaxing boat rides, and even pirate or mermaid adventures for the kids. Our Vayk Gear credit program includes kayak and paddleboard rentals too!

Guided fishing charters are a family reunion favorite on Hilton Head! Whether you’re a family of avid anglers, or new to the sport, you’ll find a family-friendly fishing charter to accommodate the whole crew, even Fido!

Experience the best of Hilton Head on a guided group nature tour, on land, water, or horseback through Sea Pines Preserve. The Coastal Discovery Museum and Outside Hilton Head offer an incredible selection of family adventures including dolphin-watching tours, island cruises, nature hikes, and interactive Gullah Geechee cultural experiences.

With 24 lush golf courses and more than 500 courts for tennis or a family round of pickleball, Hilton Head is a paradise for sports-loving families. Each HHI resort area has its own golf and racquet sports facilities, so plan your sports activities accordingly!

Plan for rainy day activities or a break from the sun! For indoor entertainment, the kids love exploring the Children’s Sandbox Museum, Adventure Cove, and the Kids Zone at the Coastal Discovery Museum. And, Hilton Head Island has endless retail therapy and restaurants to lure you away from the beach.

From foodie festivals, cultural celebrations, and fabulous summer events at Shelter Cove and under the famous Liberty Oak at Harbour Town, there is always something happening on Hilton Head Island! Once you select your season and pick your family reunion dates, check the local Hilton Head Island events calendar to plan your family reunion events and festivities.

4. Plan Crowd-Pleasing Meals

Putting together a meal plan and deciding when to eat out and when to dine in for a family reunion is no easy feat! Now you’ve chosen your favorite Hilton Head resort area and arranged your activities, meal planning is a whole lot easier knowing where you’ll be and when. With 250+ restaurants and unique Lowcountry dining experiences on Hilton Head Island, you’re spoilt for choice.

From Coligny Plaza, Harbour Town at Sea Pines, and Shelter Cove to Hilton Head’s golf clubs and luxury resort hotels, there are hundreds of cafes, restaurants, breweries, and bars scattered around the island catering to every group size, style, and budget!

Depending on the size and scope of your family reunion, cooking and sharing meals at your vacation rental may be the smart way to keep costs low, and drama limited! Appoint a family reunion meal planning committee, arrange backyard BBQs and Lowcountry Boils, shop the farmers’ markets for fresh local produce, and enjoy the perks of a full kitchen that caters to large group gatherings with the chance to share meals together, at home!

5. Create Memories with Sunset Rentals

Sunset Rentals represents over 220 of the finest vacation rentals on Hilton Head ranging from luxury 7-bedroom pool homes to keep the family together under one roof to resort complex communities with private condos and villas to carve out your own personal space and gather together in communal areas.

Our group friendly vacation rentals feature a host of high-end amenities to ensure your family time together is as memorable as it is meaningful, and our selection of pet-friendly rentals on Hilton Head Island means there’s a place for your pup too!

Start planning your Hilton Head family reunion today with our worry-free and flexible Sunset Package or give our vacation specialists a call at (800) 276-8991 to match your family with the perfect HHI reunion rental.

Spend the Holidays in Hilton Head Island

Sunset Rentals offers offers 225+ of the finest Hilton Head Vacation Homes and Villas. Explore all of our vacation rentals or give us a call today at 1-800-276-8991 to book your stay to the island!

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October 7, 2021September 6, 2024

Best Golf Courses On Hilton Head Island

Just because it’s winter in Hilton Head Island doesn’t mean you can’t play golf. While courses around the country close for the season, Hilton Head’s famous golf courses remain open. So, if you’re visiting Hilton Head Island in winter and want to hit the links, where should you go? The team at Sunset Rentals has some ideas. Here’s our list of the best courses to play in Hilton Head on your winter golf trip.

1. Atlantic Dunes

Sea Pines Golf Course

Atlantic Dunes is the oldest golf course in Hilton Head, but it remains one of the best. Of all of the courses in Hilton Head, only two have oceanfront holes, and Atlantic Dunes is one of them. Be prepared to lose a few balls in the water; many of the holes feature water hazards. Overall, Atlantic Dunes is a challenge for golfers of all skill levels, but it’s a gorgeous course well worth visiting.

100 N. SEA PINES DRIVE, HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC, 29928

(843) 842-1477

7,065 Yards
74.3 Rating
143 Slope
72 Par

2. Harbour Town Golf Links

Sea Pines Golf Course

“Iconic” is how three-time U.S. Open Champion Hale Irwin describes Harbour Town Golf Links, and it’s hard to disagree. You might recognize the red and white striped lighthouse that backdrops this course; it’s quite famous. Harbour Town Golf Links is a favorite among PGA Tour players, and it’s not hard to see why; it’s a beautiful-looking course that features a series of world-renowned par threes. Plus, this course is more fun and playable compared to other upper echelon golf courses.

11 LIGHTHOUSE LN, HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC, 29928

(843) 842-1904

7,000 Yards
75.6 Rating
148 Slope
71 Par

Plan Your Trip to Sea Pines

3. George Fazio Golf Course

Palmetto Dunes Golf Course

George Fazio Golf Course is Hilton Head Island’s only par-70 public golf course, and it is a beauty. George Fazio Golf Course is considered by many to be the most challenging public course on the island, but it is still an exceptional experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course only has two par fives, while the majority of the course features long par fours. George Fazio Golf Course is an excellent option if you’re looking for a challenging course with immaculate greens.

7 Carnoustie Road, SC 29928

(888) 909-9566

7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
18 HOLES
70 PAR

4. Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Golf Course

Palmetto Dunes Golf Course

If you want to play a round at a course on the oceanfront, look no further than Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Golf Course. What makes this golf course one of the best courses on Hilton Head? The 10th hole is stunning; on elevated greens, golfers enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also the ever-shifting winds to account for, which means golfers must approach each hole differently. Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Golf Course is truly unique and is sure to be a memorable experience for all players.

7 Trent Jones Lane, SC 29928

(888) 909-9566

7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
7 a.m. – 9 p.m. Range
Reserve Toptracer Bays
18 HOLES
72 PAR

Plan Your Trip to Palmetto Dunes

Stay at a Luxury Hilton Head Vacation Rental

Stay in close proximity to all of the best golf courses in Hilton Head with one of Sunset Rentals’ luxurious vacation rentals. We have a variety of vacation rentals, including oceanfront options. To book your stay with us, please give us a call at 843-785-6767 or check availability online.

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September 14, 2021July 14, 2023

8 Best Kayak & SUP Tours on Hilton Head Island

There are endless ways to enjoy the local waters of Hilton Head Island, but a guided kayak or SUP tour with a local naturalist is by far the most intimate Lowcountry experience available.

Hilton Head’s network of nature trails extends to miles of tranquil paddling trails that lure you away from the white sandy beaches to explore the tidal creeks, salt marshes, and coastal wetlands of Hilton Head Island. Imagine yourself surrounded by Lowcountry beauty with the freedom of paddling alongside playful dolphins and manatees, sighting minks and otters in the marshlands, and bald eagles nesting above – that’s a Hilton Head Island paddle tour! You can even paddle with your pooch!

Sure you can venture out by kayak alone, but the benefits of a locally guided tour are abundant! Our local tours are tailored to beginners so if you’re a first-timer, instruction is included. Your naturalist guide is familiar with Hilton Head’s waterways (hello secret spots!), the history and habitats of our unique coastal ecosystems, and the wildlife that calls Hilton Head home.

Begin your Lowcountry paddle adventures with our Sunset Rental’s Guide to Kayak & SUP Tours on Hilton Head Island, SC.

1. Outside Hilton Head

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina
Guided Tours on Broad Creek & Daufuskie Island

Explore the hidden channels of Broad Creek with the outdoor experts at Outside Hilton Head, a local favorite since 1979! Winding 7 miles inland from Calibogue Sound, Broad Creek is Hilton Head’s largest creek with calm sheltered waters, tranquil marsh channels to explore, and bountiful wildlife, birdlife, and bottlenose dolphin encounters. Broad Creek is a favorite feeding ground for our Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, playful and curious enough to cruise alongside your kayak!

The kayak and SUP tour options at Outside Hilton Head are endless! Choose from a Guided Kayak Nature Tour, Outback Kayak Tour, Full Moon Kayak Tour, Shelter Cove Fireworks Paddle, Kayak Fishing, May River Excursions, Intro to Stand Up Paddling, SUP Yoga, or a peaceful SUP Nature Walk on Broad Creek. Group tours or private customized adventures are available and you’re your adventures are over, there’s shopping, restaurants, and amazing outdoor events at Shelter Cove.

2. Kayak Hilton Head

Broad Creek Marina
Guided Tours on Broad Creek & Pinckney Island

Located across the creek at Broad Creek Marina, Kayak Hilton Head has been guiding the scenic waterways on Hilton Head since 1995. Broad Creek Marina is Hilton Head’s newest marina and offers a wide variety of dolphin and nature cruises, sailboat charters, parasailing, fishing charters, and kayak and SUP tours with Kayak Hilton Head. End your paddle experience sipping cocktails, savoring Lowcountry cuisine, and unwinding with scenic waterfront views at Fishcamp on Broad Creek or Up the Creek Pub & Grill.

Kayak Hilton Head offers daily 2-hour guided kayak and SUP tours of Broad Creek, private full-day tours, Shelter Cove Fireworks paddle tours in the summer, and kayaking eco-tours of historic Pinckney Island, one of the best birdwatching spots on Hilton Head Island. Their experienced outdoor adventure guides are fun and friendly with an intimate knowledge of the island’s wildlife and waterways.

3. H20 Sports

Harbour Town Marina
Guided Tours on Calibogue Sound

H20 Sports are the only water sports activity provider at Sea Pines Harbour Town with activities for every age and adventure level! Whether you’re seeking a thrill, a casual cruise, or a self-guided tour of Calibogue Sound, you’ll find it at H20 Sports at Harbour Town. Kayak and SUP tours from Harbour Town explore the Calibogue Sound, a wild ocean channel between Hilton Head and Daufuskie Island with hidden creeks, coves, and marshes teeming with life.

H20 Sports is all about “the FUN, the WATER, and YOU!”. Tour options include guided kayak tours, sunset kayak tours, SUP lessons and tours, or customized family adventures on the water. Other water sports activities available include Hilton Head Parasailing, Alligator & Wildlife Tours at Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Dolphin Tours, Hilton Head Sailing Charters, and jet ski, wave runner, and boat rentals to head out on your own expedition.

4. Island Water Sports

Sea Pines South Beach Marina
Guided Tours on Calibogue Sound

If you’re spending your vacation in Sea Pines South Beach, Island Water Sports at South Beach Marina is your go-to for Kayak and SUP tours of Calibogue Sound. Situated on Braddock Cove at the southernmost tip of Hilton Head Island, South Beach Marina is a scenic launching point for paddle adventures on Calibogue Sound, and one of the most spectacular sunset spots on Hilton Head Island – best enjoyed from the world-famous Salty Dog Café!

Island Water Sports offer a 90-minute Guided Kayak Tour, or “nature walk on water” through the creeks of Calibogue Sound, stand up paddleboarding through the salt marshes of South Beach Marina, and a variety of water activities. Take a banana boat ride on Calibogue Sound, explore Vanishing Island on an eco-tour, or rent a pontoon or powerboat to plan your own adventures.

5. Hilton Head Outfitters

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Guided Tours on the Palmetto Dunes Lagoon System

The Palmetto Dunes 11-mile lagoon system offers easy paddling for families and beginners. The saltwater lagoon system winds through the neighborhoods and golf courses in the Palmetto Dunes Resort area with calm waters, and an incredible variety of saltwater species for kayak fishing! The Palmetto Dunes lagoons boast some of the best island fishing on Hilton Head with an abundance of redfish, flounder, spotted sea trout, and tarpon. A South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required to fish in the lagoon system.

Hilton Head Outfitters is located on the shores of the Palmetto Dunes lagoon system and offer single and tandem kayak rentals, three person canoes to explore and fish the calm waters of the lagoon, and inshore skiff charters with a naturalist guide.

6. Coastal Discovery Museum

Honey Horn Plantation
Guided Tours of Jarvis Creek & Daufuskie Island

The ultimate Lowcountry experience awaits at the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn Plantation. Aside from the spectacular plantation grounds with native gardens, wildlife habitats, and excellent exhibits, the Coastal Discovery Museum offers a long list of guided eco-tours on land and water. From artisan & history tours, heritage garden tours, and wildlife tours to epic excursions on the coastal creeks, Coastal Discovery Museum has tours for every traveler.

Take a kayak tour of Jarvis Creek, a small creek perfect for beginners and families, or immerse yourself in the full splendor of Hilton Head Island on their Kayak the Outback Tour, a 4.5-hour paddle through the peaceful and pristine creeks of Page Island and Daufuskie Island.

7. Sea Monkeys Watersports

Hilton Head Harbor & Marina
Guided Tours on Skull Creek & Pinckney Island

Situated on the north end of the island, Skull Creek separates Hilton Head from Pinckney Island to join the Port Royal Sound. While Skull Creek is well known for its excellent waterfront dining and fresh seafood straight from the docks, it also offers some of the best paddling on Hilton Head Island with coastal charm, wildlife, and scenic views of Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge.

Sea Monkeys Watersports launch their guided jet ski, kayak, and paddleboard trips on Skull Creek and Pinckney Island from Hilton Head Harbor & Marina. They also offer boat rentals by the hour, perfect for a casual dolphin watching cruise with the family. Linger a little longer and enjoy fantastic food and the island’s best sunset and waterfront views at Sunset Grille, consistently recognized as one of Hilton Head Island’s best kept secrets!

8. Vayk Gear Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals

THE source for Beach Gear Rentals on your Hilton Head, SC vacation!

There’s no need to pack a kayak or SUP when you spend your Hilton Head vacation with Sunset Rentals. Our exclusive Beach & Bike Gear credit program with Vayk Gear gives guests staying in participating properties up to $350 credit on complimentary kayak and SUP rentals to explore the Hilton Head Island rivers, creeks, and lagoons at your own pace. Vayk Gear credit can also be used towards bike rentals, outdoor games, coolers, beach chairs, umbrella rentals, and beach carts to transport it all in one trip.

HOW IT WORKS

1. Book your vacation to Hilton Head Island! Complimentary Beach Gear is offered year round on select Sunset Rentals vacation homes and villas with 4-21 night stays. The value of your complimentary beach gear varies by property and ranges in value from $150 – $350.

2. After booking, watch for an email from our gear partner Vayk Gear. Your rental house name and check-in date in the subject line. Click on the link in the email directing you to the beach gear rental page and input your reservation number. The complimentary beach gear credit will be applied automatically.

3. Select your desired beach gear, add any optional extras, and check out! Choose from top quality beach gear items like bikes, chairs & umbrellas, kayaks, paddle boards, corn hole, beach carts, skim and boogie boards and more.

4. Vayk Gear will take care of the rest! Select the items you want at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled arrival date and we’ll deliver everything for you on the day you are scheduled to arrive and pick everything up on your scheduled departure day. Just leave your gear clean and where you found it the night before your scheduled departure (gear pickups start at 6am ET), we’ll take care of the rest.

All that’s left to do is take a tour of the resort areas of Hilton Head to choose a neighborhood, find a vacation home or villa with Vayk Gear credit, and start planning your HHI paddle adventures with our team at Sunset Rentals. We hope to see you on the waterways soon!

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January 21, 2021May 27, 2024

The 5 Best Seafood Restaurants On Hilton Head Island

While South Carolina’s sandy Hilton Head Island is best known for its pristine beaches, bicycling trails, and world-renowned golf courses, there’s no denying its genuinely extraordinary culinary scene, mainly the fresh-caught seafood delicacies. With nearly five dozen seafood restaurants in Hilton Head, you have plenty of dining options to choose from! Our team at Sunset Rentals has pieced together a five-stop seafood guide, featuring an opulent jazz club, a channel-side bar, a sleek dining room, and more!

1. The Jazz Corner
Admittedly, the 99-seat Jazz Corner is rarely tagged as a “seafood restaurant.” That being said, The Jazz Corner’s culinary team serves up some of the tastiest fresh and saltwater delights on the East Coast. Combine award-winning live entertainment with a mouth-watering three-course meal, complete with a pineapple soy-glazed lobster tail, grilled pear salad, and mustard and herb-crusted swordfish. Delicioso!

2. Skull Creek Boathouse
The Boathouse, and the neighboring Dockside Waterfront Restaurant, provides a unique glimpse into the crowd-pleasing Skull Creek dining mecca. The Skull Creek Boathouse has long been a prime example of Southern cookin’ done right, especially the $25 “Lowcountry boil,” blackened catfish, and classic Carolina shrimp and grits.

3. Poseidon
One of TripAdvisor’s top-rated seafood Hilton Head restaurants, is sleek, hip, and romantic. Its Rooftop Bar only adds an extra element of pizzazz. Patrons revere Poseidon for its eye-popping “Grand Shellfish Tower,” featuring nine types of shellfish, including mussels, middle necks, and lobster claws.

4. The Black Marlin Bayside Grill
Some regard The Black Marlin as “raffish,” but we truly appreciate its unique blend of simplistic sophistication, family-friendly atmosphere, and surprisingly world-class oceanic edibles. The menu features everything from a seafood-stuffed flounder smothered in a lobster cream sauce to beer-battered cod and tropical mahi-mahi. It’s not often that you find a down-to-earth eatery that serves such decadent saltwater delights.

5. Marleys Shrim & Burger Shack
If you’re looking for some quick and delicious made-from-scratch seafood, Marleys is the joint for you. Marleys operates out of a “shack,” where hungry patrons can simply walk up, order, and munch on the fried goodness on the well-manicured grounds. Simple pleasures, such as the hush puppies and fried green beans, are to-die-for. And we dare you to find tastier fish tacos, po’ boys, and lobster rolls in the Lowcountry.

6. Skull Creek Dockside
What’s not to love? In addition to serving incredible seafood (and barbeque!) Skull Creek Dockside boasts a covered patio dining area, massive outdoor bar, and floor to ceiling full-pane glass windows for sweeping waterfront views. The Sharkbar, allow patrons to enjoy the lowcountry climate and serve to further highlight the amazing sunset views over Skull Creek.

If you are concerned about long wait times, the good news is that the restaurant provides a family recreation area between Dockside and Boathouse. The space houses a stage for live music overlooking the water, an adult space with games, and the new Shrimp Boat playground, where kids can play while families are waiting for a table, or simply enjoying the amazing views.

7. The Crazy Crab
Family friendly and waterfront views! Enjoy some of the best waterfront dining in the region at what local’s call simply “The Crab.” An institution in the region, The Crazy Crab is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike. With unbeatable views and incredible food, it’s no wonder everyone loves The Crazy Crab. This establishment is a favorite for seafood, happy hour, and so much more!

Elite Hilton Head Island Rental Homes

Start and finish each glorious day under the sun inside one of Sunset Rentals’ finest Hilton Head vacation homes, such as Kingston Dunes, Gloucester, and Haul Away.

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December 10, 2020May 27, 2024

How To Rent Jet Skis On Hilton Head Island?

While it won’t be easy to pry your family from Hilton Head Island’s sandy beaches and pristine golf courses, there’s nothing quite like an aquatic adventure in Calibogue Sound, a salty bottlenose dolphin haven. There are countless ways to explore the Sound, including a dolphin safari, sky-high parasailing voyage, and chartered fishing trip. However, there’s nothing quite as action-packed as hopping aboard a speedy jet ski rental in Hilton Head Island and blazing through Calibogue Sound. This oceanic waterway features plantations, islands, and, of course, a bevy of underwater critters.

Finding a Jet Ski Rental in Hilton Head Island

Locating a jet ski rental in Hilton Head Island isn’t overly challenging as there are a handful of outfitters within minutes of Sunset Rentals’ fleet of South Carolina beach condos. That being said, wave runners are only available via reservation. Thus, we highly recommend reserving your ride several weeks in advance, if possible. The Sunset Rentals team has strong relationships with several water sports companies, including the three listed below. In alphabetical order, here the three best jet ski rentals in Hilton Head Island.

H2O Sports

Harbour Town’s H2O Sports is a natural place to start as this long-standing establishment offers everything from alligator tours to sailing charters and, yes, jet ski rentals in Hilton Head. After a brief instruction (this pre-arrival safety video also helps), families can instantly throttle into Calibogue Sound, unlike other land-locked outfitters. Thus, there’s no need to worry about no-wake zones. H2O Sports boasts an expansive fleet of brand new Yamahas, as new additions are added every season. This lovely stretch of the Sound is home to several families of dolphins and sea turtles, so keep your eyes peeled! H2O is also the only company in town to offer GoPro video packages—a priceless keepsake, especially if you stumble upon a friendly bottlenose.

One Hilton Head Island

One HHI is best known for its knowledgeable, welcoming guides, who lead trips through Broad Creek and into the aforementioned Calibogue Sound. Fifteen minutes is added to these semi-guided excursions to account for the short jaunt through Broad Creek’s no-wake zone, where, as you might imagine, many dolphins gleefully explore the aquatic terrain. Travelers often marvel that One’s jet ski rentals in Hilton Head go from zero to 30 mph in only two seconds! It’s also worth noting that jet skiing is a sublime way to avoid crowds, especially during these unique times.

Sea Monkeys Watersports

There’s just something undeniably memorable about choosing a small, family-owned business, such as Sea Monkeys. Sea Monkeys’ team is a tad more personable than other outfits, as they wave “switching fees,” provide military discounts, and are happy to snap free photos. A certified instructor escorts each 75-minute adventure from Hilton Head Harbor to a designated area, where the three-seaters (a rarity) can blaze through the teal sea with nary a care in the world. Because Sea Monkeys offers three-seaters, Mom or Dad can ride with two kids at once!

Luxurious Hilton Head Rental Homes

Sunset Rentals is proud to manage one of the area’s largest collection of Hilton Head vacation homes, ranging from a Folly Field Sandcastle to an Epic Beach House and a Luxury Crabline. On-site luxuries typically include a private pool, beach access, a chef’s kitchen, water views, a spacious deck, and a fireplace. Much like hand-selecting your “forever home,” browsing through our Hilton Head homes is undeniably exhilarating. We have no doubt that you’ll find one that perfectly suits your family’s size, style, and budget.

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November 11, 2020November 4, 2024

Best Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries On Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island isn’t just about pristine beaches and golf courses; it’s also home to a vibrant wine, beer, and spirits culture. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just looking for a fun afternoon, these winery, brewery, and distillery locations on Hilton Head Island provide a great way to experience the local culture. From traditional ales to unique blends and flavors, there’s something for everyone.

The island offers several options to enjoy a curated drink. So gather your friends, enjoy some delicious libations, and soak in the beautiful surroundings of Hilton Head. Here’s a guide to the top five options you should check out while soaking in the sun.

Hilton Head Winery, Brewery, & Distillery Guide

1. Hilton Head Brewing Company

Address: 1 Cardinal Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 715-3251
Hours:
- Daily: 12 PM – 9 PM

Brewery Overview

Hilton Head Brewing Company is the island’s first craft brewery, offering a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying a cold beer after a day in the sun. With a spacious taproom and outdoor seating, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

2. Lincoln and South Brewing Company

Address: 138 Island Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 715-3030
Hours:
- Mon-Thurs: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Fri-Sat: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 9 PM

Brewery Overview

Tap room, food, and music – What’s not to like?! Lincoln and South Brewing Company brings a taste of local flavor combined with its Vermont roots with its small-batch brews. The brewery features a warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic decor that embodies the Lowcountry spirit.

3. Side Hustle Brewing Company

Address: 59 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 715-3942
Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sat: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 10 PM

Brewery Overview

Nestled in the heart of Hilton Head Island this beloved local gem is renowned for its meticulously crafted beers. Quality beer starts with carefully selected ingredients that contribute to unique flavors, aromas, and overall character. Whether it’s a refreshing lager or a hop-forward IPA, the perfect tasting beer leaves you with a sense of satisfaction!

4. Hilton Head Distillery

Address: 14 Cardinal Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 686-4443
Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 12 PM – 6:30 PM
- Sun: CLOSED

Distillery Overview

Hilton Head Distillery is the island’s only distillery and a craft spirits destination. A favorite and must-do activity for locals, vacationers, day-trippers, corporate retreaters, and everything in between. This distillery offers tiki cocktails, a tasting bar, daily tours of the production facility, cocktail classes, and a bottle shop.

5. Island Winery

Address: 15 Cardinal Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 842-3141
Hours:
- Mon-Sat: 12 PM – 5 PM
- Sun: 12 PM – 4 PM

Winery Overview

If you’re a wine lover, then this beachy winery is for you! Explore a variety from distinct blends to coastal specialties. With a laid-back atmosphere and community-oriented events, it’s a popular stop for wine lovers.

Hilton Head Vacation Homes

Start and finish each day of fun & exploration inside one of Sunset Rentals’ finest Hilton Head condos and home rentals. Most vacation rentals feature private pools, gas fireplaces, chef’s kitchens, free parking, walk-out patios, and distinctive interior designs—all within steps of the Atlantic Ocean’s sandy shoreline. Life at the beach has never been this enticing! Call us at 800-276-8991 to start the booking process.

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