Hilton Head Island Travel Guide: Top Picks for an Unforgettable Visit

Want to find the best places to soak up the sun, enjoy a round of golf, savor delicious food, and explore Hilton Head Island, South Carolina? Look no further. While Hilton Head has plenty to offer, these are our top recommendations for an unforgettable experience.

Picture via https://hiltonheadislandsc.gov/.

Hilton Head Beaches Worth Checking Out

Stretching from the northern tip to the southern shores of Hilton Head Island, here are some of the most well-known public beaches and access points worth visiting:

Mitchelville Beach: A peaceful, uncrowded spot that’s perfect for a tranquil walk along the shoreline rather than swimming.
Folly Field Beach: A family-friendly beach known for its relaxed atmosphere and easy access to nearby facilities.
Bradley Beach: Another family favorite, offering calm waters and a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.
Burke’s Beach: Popular with families, it provides ample space to spread out and enjoy the day.
Coligny Beach: As Hilton Head’s most iconic and bustling beach, Coligny is packed with nearby amenities, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a hotspot for both locals and tourists.

Picture via https://www.hiltonheadisland.org/.

Top Golf Courses in the Lowcountry

South Carolina has long been a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, with Hilton Head Island offering some of the most exceptional courses in the region. With 24 courses ready to challenge and inspire, here are a few standout favorites:

Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort

This iconic course put Hilton Head Island on the golfing map over 40 years ago and remains one of the world’s most revered courses. Its challenging design, crafted by Pete Dye, continues to draw golfers from around the globe. Harbour Town is a must-play for any serious golfer.

Course Details:

18 holes
Designed by Pete Dye with Jack Nicklaus as a consultant
Opened in 1969
Resort course
Year-round golf season

Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

As the oldest course at Palmetto Dunes, this Robert Trent Jones design underwent extensive renovations led by his protégé, Roger Rulewich. Named South Carolina’s “Golf Course of the Year” in 2003, it boasts breathtaking ocean views and a rewarding layout for golfers of all levels.

Course Details:

18 holes
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.
Built in 1967
Resort course
Year-round golf season

Heron Point by Pete Dye at Sea Pines

This Pete Dye masterpiece is the result of a multimillion-dollar reconstruction in 2007, transforming the original Sea Marsh Course into one of the Lowcountry’s most exhilarating golf experiences. Known for its demanding layout and creative design, Heron Point showcases Dye’s genius.

Course Details:

18 holes
Designed by Pete Dye
Opened in 2007
Resort course
Year-round golf season

Oyster Reef Golf Club

Since opening in 1982, Oyster Reef Golf Club has been recognized as one of America’s Top 25 New Courses and remains a favorite on Hilton Head Island. Known for its natural beauty and well-maintained layout, Oyster Reef offers a pure, unforgettable golf experience.

Course Details:

18 holes
Designed by Rees Jones
Built in 1982
Semi-private course
Year-round golf season

George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

The George Fazio Course is one of the youngest courses to earn a spot on Golf Digest’s list of “America’s 100 Best.” With its tight fairways and challenging layout, this course is perfect for players looking to test their skills.

Course Details:

18 holes
Designed by George Fazio
Opened in 1974
Resort course
Year-round golf season

Enjoy an Unforgettable Meal After a Round of Golf

If you’re looking for a place to refuel, rest your feet, and unwind after a day on the greens, Bowdie’s Chophouse is the perfect golfer’s retreat. Known for its high-class quality, Bowdie’s attracts golf groups looking to savor an exceptional meal in a relaxed, upscale setting. Whether you’re celebrating a great round or simply enjoying good company, our premium steaks and handcrafted cocktails provide the ideal end to your day on the course.

Restaurants That Are Sure to Become Your All-Time Favorites

Bowdies Chophouse

Bowdie’s is a luxury steakhouse perfect for date nights, business dinners, and more, offering exceptional cuisine, drinks, and high-class service that will keep you coming back.

Old Oyster Factory

A family favorite since 1989, this waterfront restaurant offers fresh-caught seafood and stunning panoramic views of Broad Creek. Enjoy a variety of oysters and seafood at the oyster bar.

Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

Blending South Carolina’s charm with Italian flavors, Nunzio’s serves classic and contemporary dishes using locally sourced ingredients for an authentic Italian experience.

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

Watch as Hudson’s delivers fresh seafood straight from the dock to your table, offering a low-country seafood feast that’s been a Hilton Head Island tradition for over 50 years.

Black Marlin Bayside Grill

Known for its coastal atmosphere and marina views, the Black Marlin offers delicious seafood and a laid-back vibe, perfect for a romantic meal or gathering with friends.

Picture via https://www.seapines.com/.

Must-Do Activities in Hilton Head

From outdoor adventures to iconic landmarks, Hilton Head Island offers a variety of fun activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some highlights to add to your itinerary:

Visit Harbour Town Marina

Discover the charm of this vibrant marina, where you can climb the iconic lighthouse for stunning views and relax under the famous Liberty Oak. Enjoy a variety of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment in this must-see destination.

Go Shopping at Coligny Plaza

Coligny Plaza offers more than 60 unique shops, restaurants, and local entertainment, making it the perfect spot for a fun day by the beach. For over 60 years, it’s been a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Catch Fireworks, Live Music, and More at Shelter Cove

As part of the summer HarbourFest, Shelter Cove Harbour comes alive with Tuesday night fireworks, live music, entertainment, arts and crafts, and plenty of activities for kids. It’s a summer tradition you won’t want to miss.

Boat Tours & Water Adventures

Experience the water with dolphin tours, nature cruises, or crabbing expeditions. But for a closer look at the island’s natural beauty, paddle through calm creeks and marshes on your own or with a guided tour.

Bike Around the Island

With over 60 miles of scenic bike paths, Hilton Head is perfect for exploring on two wheels. Rent a bike from one of the many local shops or bring your own for a fun and easy way to see the island.

Discover All That Hilton Head Island, SC Has to Offer

From stunning beaches and world-class golf courses to vibrant dining and exciting outdoor activities, Hilton Head Island is a treasure trove of experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing getaway, an adventure-filled vacation, or a taste of local culture, this island has something for everyone.

Bowdie’s Chophouse: A Heart for Hilton Head

Hilton Head holds a special place in the Bowdish family’s heart as a beloved vacation spot with a charming, small-town atmosphere. That’s why it brings us great joy to bring Bowdie’s northern flavors—our premium steaks and crafted cocktails—to Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Just minutes from Sea Pines Resort, Bowdie’s delivers exquisite cuisine, exceptional drinks, and unparalleled service for a luxury experience you won’t forget.

Hilton Head Island Travel Guide: Top Picks for an Unforgettable Visit

Hilton Head Beaches Worth Checking Out

Top Golf Courses in the Lowcountry

Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines Resort

Robert Trent Jones Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

Heron Point by Pete Dye at Sea Pines

Oyster Reef Golf Club

George Fazio Course at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

Enjoy an Unforgettable Meal After a Round of Golf

Restaurants That Are Sure to Become Your All-Time Favorites

Bowdies Chophouse

Old Oyster Factory

Nunzio Restaurant + Bar

Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks

Black Marlin Bayside Grill

Must-Do Activities in Hilton Head

Visit Harbour Town Marina

Go Shopping at Coligny Plaza

Catch Fireworks, Live Music, and More at Shelter Cove

Boat Tours & Water Adventures

Bike Around the Island

Discover All That Hilton Head Island, SC Has to Offer

Bowdie’s Chophouse: A Heart for Hilton Head

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