Hilton Head Island is one of those places that works for families, couples, and groups who want a mix of beach time, biking, good food, and a slower pace. We have put together our top tips covering where to stay, what to pack to avoid tourist-price markups, and a sample week-long itinerary. Some links in this article are Amazon affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you buy through them at no extra cost to you.
1. Where to stay in Hilton Head
Hilton Head has a range of accommodation options depending on your budget and what kind of trip you are planning.
Our pick: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort. It sits right on the beach with spacious rooms, private balconies, three pools, a full spa, and several on-site restaurants. It is near Palmetto Dunes, so you have easy access to golf, tennis, and bike trails. We liked it for the combination of location and amenities without feeling like we had to leave the property to find things to do.
Other options we considered:
- Sea Pines — known for luxurious resorts and private beaches. Great for a higher-end experience.
- Palmetto Dunes — ideal for families and golf enthusiasts, with plenty of outdoor activities.
- Forest Beach — close to Coligny Plaza with lots of dining and shopping. Good if you want to be in the middle of things.
- Shelter Cove — marina vibe with restaurants, shops, and water views. Works well for couples and families.
2. What to pack: avoid paying tourist prices
A few items are worth bringing from home instead of buying at island prices.
If you are packing for more than one beach trip this year, we use a similar money-saving approach in our Myrtle Beach quick tips and our broader Caribbean checked-bag packing list.
Backpack cooler
Let’s face it, drinks on the beach is where it is at. On some of our vacations, a couple of cocktails at the beach bar costs as much as one of these backpacks. We saved a lot by packing a few cold beers and seltzers and walking right past the bar.
Packable beach chair
Get out of the resort and explore. Bringing your own packable beach chair means you can set up anywhere on the island in comfort. Compact and portable enough to carry to the beach without it being a hassle.
Sun hat
A packable, lightweight, breathable sun hat keeps the sun out of your eyes without making your head too hot. Simple, classic, and effective. At the price point for most of these, maybe grab two.
Inflatable pool float hammocks
These are perfect for lounging in the calm waters off one of the many beaches or floating in the pool. Since they are inflatable, they pack small and are easy to transport. One of those items that feels like a luxury but costs almost nothing.
3. Plan your itinerary: sample 7-day vacation
Here is a rough week that covers the highlights without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Arrival and beach time. Check in, head straight to the beach. Coligny Beach Park is a popular starting point. Dinner at a beachfront spot like The Sandbar.
Day 2: Explore the island. Rent bikes and ride the extensive trail network. Visit Harbour Town and climb the iconic lighthouse. Dinner at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks.
Day 3: Outdoor adventures. Kayaking or paddleboarding at Shelter Cove in the morning. Dolphin-watching cruise in the afternoon. Beach picnic and sunset in the evening.
Day 4: Day trip to Savannah. Drive to Savannah, Georgia, about an hour away. Explore the historic district, visit Forsyth Park, and take a riverboat cruise. Return to Hilton Head for the evening.
Day 5: Golf and spa day. Play a round at one of the island’s golf courses. Spa treatment in the afternoon. Dinner at Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana.
Day 6: Nature and history. Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum. Explore Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Dinner at Skull Creek Boathouse.
Day 7: Relax and reflect. Leisurely breakfast, last beach time, shopping at Shelter Cove Towne Centre, then head home.
Bonus tips
- Book activities in advance. Popular tours fill up fast during peak season.
- Use bike rentals. Hilton Head is very bike-friendly and cycling is one of the best ways to see the island.
- Check for local events. Festivals, farmers markets, and local events can add something unexpected to the trip.
- Respect wildlife. The island is home to diverse wildlife, including alligators. Be mindful.
- Stay safe. Follow beach safety guidelines and check ocean condition advisories.
Our bottom line
Hilton Head is a reliable family destination with enough variety to fill a week without repeating yourself. Pack smart, book early, and leave room for the unplanned moments that end up being the best part of the trip.
For a busier boardwalk-style beach week, our Myrtle Beach vacation tips are the closest cousin to this itinerary.