Things to Do in Hilton Head This Summer

Bask in the sun-soaked, sandy splendor of Hilton Head, South Carolina, where Atlantic Ocean shorelines lie. From thrilling water adventures and charming shops to vibrant wildlife, this coastal island has long been a southern summer paradise.

Hilton Head Beaches

Hilton Head Island boasts a myriad of spectacular beaches. When summertime rolls around, there's no better first stop than the nearest sandy shore. Coligny Beach, a vacationer's dream, reigns as the top hotspot.

Coligny Beach is a one-of-a-kind beach park. Soak up the summer sun while lounging on rented chairs and umbrellas, or retreat and rejuvenate under some much-needed shade in nearby gazebos. There’s also a playground area for kids. Guests rave about the pristine restrooms and changing spaces as well as the mats paving a path to the sand, which is great for wheelchair users.

Coligny Beach is keeping up with the tech times by offering free Wi-Fi. So grab your towel, lather on some sunscreen, and gather all your gadgets for endless beach day fun.

Hilton Head Island is home to an amazing variety of beachfront experiences, such as Coligny and Folly Field Beach Park. The latter has become a go-to spot for locals looking to soak up the sunny vibes along the shoreline.

Other Hilton Head Activities

Shop at Coligny Plaza

Get ready to embark on a delightful shopping adventure at Coligny Plaza. Within walking distance from the beach, this area has over 60 boutiques and eateries. Visitors can chow down on ice cream, lunch bites, and dinner. Seafood lovers will enjoy freshly caught meals. To fill a rainy day, Coligny Plaza also has a movie theater and a spa, and during the summer, the plaza hosts live music concerts.

What’s fun about Coligny Plaza is the eclectic nature of the variety of shops. Think traditional souvenirs and accessories, last-minute needs like bathing suits and t-shirts, and even cute trinkets and gifts. With a fun combination of specialty stores and outdoor kiosks, it’s easy to spend hours wandering the stores and filling your arms with bags of goodies. 

Grab a Bike and Go Explore

Check out the nooks and crannies of this coastal paradise as you pedal through 60 miles of bike paths. In fact, the city received a gold-level ranking for being a bicycle-friendly community, according to the American League of Bicyclists. Bring your own ride or grab a rental, and let the island exploration begin.

Practice Your Golf Swing

Golf lovers visiting Hilton Head can tee off with a choice of 40 courses spread across the island.

Go Dolphin Sight-Seeing

Embark on a captivating one- to two-hour adventure, guided through the island's waters in search of dolphins’ favorite hangouts. 

Explore the Coastal Discovery Island Museum

Dive into a colorful world of wonder at the Coastal Discovery Island Museum, encompassing 68 acres of buildings and gardens. The museum offers an array of educational events, talks, tours, and a zoo. The exhibits rotate so you’ll always have a fun, new experience. 

The museum also offers visitors the chance to explore Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge, a 4,053-acre wildlife preserve.

Climb a Lighthouse

Discover the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, nestled in the Yacht Basin of Hilton Head. This charming 50-year-old beacon welcomes you to scale its 10 levels.  

Rent a Water Toy

Choose from a myriad of exhilarating water toy options, including jet skis, pontoon boats, or kayaks–all available by rental companies on the island. For a breathtaking experience, hop on a sunset boat cruise. 

Interested in homebuilders in the Hilton Head area or looking for reasons to live in Hilton Head? See new construction homes in Hilton Head here.

Contributed to Your Home blog by Alexandra Shimalla, a Georgia-based freelance writer