HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC | Travel Diary, Where to Eat, Beach, and Sleep
My family and I have been vacationing on Hilton Head Island for as long as I can remember. Over the years I have discovered some of my favorite spots and new ways to enjoy the beautiful island. If you are planning a getaway to Hilton Head, this is for you!
Where to Stay
Palmetto Dunes - There are so many options of places to stay in Palmetto Dunes and most are with in feet of the beach. Robert Trent Jones golf course is located in Palmetto Dunes witch is a favorite in the area.
Sea Pines - In this gated community, you have Harbor Town, beautiful golf courses, and the best location for a beach sunset. I love going to Sea Pines to ride bikes because the houses back there are unreal. And what’s a vacation without scoping out houses that you will never be able to afford?
Shelter Cove - This might be one of the most conveniently located areas on the Island. There are tons of shops, a grocery store, and plenty of food spots. My favorite place to watch the sunset is also located in shelter cove with great views of Broad Creek.
Forest Beach - I recently explored Forest Beach after years of staying in Palmetto Dunes. We stayed at this Air Bnb during the off season and it was an amazing and affordable stay. It’s close enough to the action of Coligny Plaza but has much less of a crowd.
Where to Beach
Palmetto Dunes Beach - My favorite beach to watch the sunrise. You have to stay in Palmetto dunes to have access to this beach but that makes it a bit less crowded than some of the open access beaches, although it still gets very busy over the summer months.
Singleton Beach - All of the beaches on the island are beautiful but this one takes the cake for me. It is open to the public but if you are not staying in one of the beach front properties, you will have to walk a bit. There is a public parking lot off Singleton Beach Road and then to get to the beach, you walk down Singleton Beach Road, through the neighborhood and on either side, there are access points. On the walk there, you go over a bridge which is a spot that I have crabbed with my dad for years. I have such fond memories of this beach and whenever I’m on the island for the day, Singleton is the beach I go to. It also has a lovely beach shack with some sugary over priced drinks but it adds to the ambiance.
Burke’s Beach - Right next door to Singleton, this was the least populated beach I’ve been to on the Island. It is considered a local beach by islanders with no resorts or tourist attractions that you may find at other beaches down the stretch. It also has a pretty long walk so If you are traveling heavy, this may not be the beach for you.
South Forest Beach - I just recently found this beach and love it. Its close to Coligny but without the crowd. I visited in November and surprisingly was able to enjoy sunsets from the beach although I’m not sure if the sun sets there year round.
Where to Eat
Java - Think Chipotle but better. This is hands down my favorite meal on the island. If you like burritos you must try Java! They also have great coffee and a breakfast menu that I have yet to try!
Kenny B’s - For when you want ta taste of New Orleans on Hilton Head Island. The voodoo pasta is my go to and with an order of beignets you will be highly satisfied.
The French Bakery - The cutest cafe! I love riding my bike over to The French Bakery for croissants and coffee.
Skull Creek Boathouse - Another great dinner spot. The food is great but the atmosphere is better. A great view of the sunset and an outdoor patio, this is such a fun dinner spot if you want a bit more of a lively vibe.
Things To Do
Harbor Town Light House - This is a must see at least once during your trip. It is also located in proximity to tons of shops and The Salty Dog Cafe.
Bike Trails - There are tons of bike trails on the Island. Every year, we rent bikes and use them as our transportation to and from the beach and other various locations. The paths are very well kept and relatively flat making it the perfect biking environment.
Shelter Cove Kayak Tour - This was always my favorite part of visiting the Island. We typically booked through Outside Hilton Head and it was always a great time. The guides are so knowledgeable about the area and wildlife.
Savannah, GA - Honorable mention to Savannah, GA! It is within a 45 minute drive from Hilton Head and in my opinion, one of the best downtown atmospheres in the south. You have to visit if you’ve got the time!
And thats that! I hope you are ready for your Hilton Head getaway and if you have any questions, drop a comment!
until next time, devon
