Visitor Information

Welcome to Hilton Head Island! Whether you’re here for golf, beaches, dining, or relaxation, you’ve arrived at one of America’s premier resort destinations. Here’s everything you need to know to start your Lowcountry adventure.

About Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a 42-square-mile barrier island off the coast of South Carolina, known for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, tennis facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. With a temperate climate year-round, the island offers 12 miles of beautiful beaches, hundreds of restaurants, abundant shopping, and outdoor activities from kayaking to biking on over 60 miles of scenic pathways.

Getting Around

Most visitors rent a car to fully explore the island. Several rental car companies operate at the airport. Alternative transportation options include:

Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)
Hotel shuttles (check with your accommodation)
Bikes and golf carts (popular for getting around resort areas and communities)
The Breeze public trolley system (seasonal service)

Climate & What to Pack

Hilton Head enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters.

Summer (June-August): Temperatures 85-95°F, pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and swimwear
Spring/Fall (March-May, September-November): Temperatures 70-85°F, ideal weather for golf and outdoor activities
Winter (December-February): Temperatures 50-65°F, bring layers and a light jacket
Year-round: Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and rain gear

Things to Do

Beaches: 12 miles of wide, sandy beaches with public access points throughout the island.

Golf: Over 20 championship golf courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, and Robert Trent Jones.

Dining: 250+ restaurants ranging from casual beachfront cafes to upscale fine dining.

Shopping: The Shops at Sea Pines Center, Coligny Plaza, Shelter Cove Towne Centre, and Tanger Outlets.

Nature & Wildlife: Coastal Discovery Museum, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, dolphin tours, kayaking, and bird watching.

Activities: Bike trails, tennis, fishing charters, paddle boarding, zip-lining, and more.

Popular Attractions

Harbour Town Lighthouse & Marina
Coligny Beach Park
Coastal Discovery Museum
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Lowcountry Celebration Park

Visitor Centers

Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center
1 Chamber of Commerce Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 785-3673
Website: hiltonheadisland.org

Stop by the visitor center for maps, brochures, activity guides, and personalized recommendations from knowledgeable staff.

Nearby Destinations

Consider exploring the surrounding Lowcountry during your visit:

Savannah, Georgia (45 minutes) – Historic city with charming squares and architecture
Charleston, South Carolina (2 hours) – Historic port city with world-class dining
Beaufort, South Carolina (45 minutes) – Quaint waterfront town with antebellum homes
Daufuskie Island – Accessible only by ferry for a step back in time

Helpful Tips

Many resort areas and gated communities require a gate pass – check with your hotel or rental property
Beach access points have limited parking – arrive early during peak season
Bike helmets are required by law for anyone under 21
Alligators live in freshwater ponds and lagoons – observe from a distance, never feed
The island is very bike-friendly with an extensive pathway system
Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially during peak season

Emergency Information

Emergency Services: Dial 911
Non-Emergency Police: (843) 681-3011
Hilton Head Hospital: (843) 681-7000
25 Hospital Center Boulevard, Hilton Head Island