Despite what some may call a sleepy town, Hilton Head Island turns up the heat when it comes to things to do and places to go. There is no excuse for being bored while in our town. From fast paced activities, to relaxing on the beach, Hilton Head has something for everyone. Wet and Wild Island activities may include wave runners, parasailing, water skiing, water park, kayaking, and of course... the beach!

Hilton Head is a great place to relax and do nothing, but the Island also has plenty of opportunities to bring out your competitive side. For example, did you know that the Island has over 18 miles of bike paths? Grab your bicycle or roller blades and hit the pavement. The temptation of the island is irresistible. Hilton Head’s beaches are a big crowd puller also with so much to do that you would keep asking for more. The island offers a myriad of opportunities for recreational treat. With limitless things to do and a pleasant year-round climate, Hilton Head Island is one big arena for a variety of sports activity. The beaches are clean and once on the beach, you can walk for miles or simply make sand castles. You can bike, jog or walk, play golf and tennis or indulge in various open water sports; there is a range of activity for all ages.

With any visit to Hilton Head, you'll soon find out the area is rich with art and culture. During your stay, you may consider visiting our Arts Center or Island Museum to discover the true hidden beauty of our natural Island environment. Below are a few Hilton Head activities that best represent the local flavor of the Island.

Waterdog Outfitters
Call (843) 686-3554 for reservations.
Kayak the nature and history rich waters of Broad Creek. Get up close and personal with dolphin, otter, eagle, osprey and many shore birds. Watch and listen, as the mysteries of the maze of tributaries are unlocked. From the Marsh Wren to the Mud Snail. From the oyster to the crab. From 10,000 years ago to the present. Your island guide will give you an unforgettable trip. A fun must while on the Island.

Lawton Stables Horseback Riding
190 Greenwood Drive, 843-671-2586
Would you like to pretend to explore Hilton Head as the Spanish once did? Horseback riding offers a unique way to discover the natural beauty of our island. You don't even need knowledge of horses or horseback riding experience to enjoy a relaxing ride through the 605-acre trail at our Lawton Stables in Sea Pines Forest Preserve. It's fun for the whole family and great for couples looking for a romantic excursion. Lawton Stables is a full service equestrian center. Riding lessons and one hour rides available for ages eight and up. Pony rides available for seven and under. Summer rides leave daily except for Sunday at 8:30am. 10:00am. 11:30am, 4:00 and 5:30pm. Please call for off-season hours. Advance reservations required and you must arrive 20 minutes before the ride begins.

Fireworks Tuesday
In season, Shelter Cove Harbor hosts "Fireworks Tuesdays" right on the water. The event and parking is free and makes for a great evening for the entire family! Some visitors like to picnic in the surrounding fields while others like to stroll the harbour's boardwalk. You can also enjoy dining and shopping at Shelter Cove during or after fireworks.

Pau Hana & Flying Circus Catamaran Sailing Charters
Call 843.686.2582 for more information and reservations.
The Island's Biggest Catamaran Sailboat offers comfortable seating plus plenty of walk around deck area. A narrated interactive fun experience customized for all ages! No microphones! The Island's BEST "happy Hour" Sunset Cruise! Bring along your favorite food and libations (including alcohol)! Soda, water and chips are also available on board. The Pau Hana is the best way to see Dolphins and other marine wildlife on Hilton Head from the water. Enjoy the area's special natural beauty with a 360-degree view under the relaxing and peaceful quiet power of smooth sailing on this safe and stable catamaran sailboat.

Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
18 Shelter Cove Lane. Call 888-860-2787 for box office information.
The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina is a focus for all that's entertaining, moving and wonderful in the arts. Thier goal is to delight you, entertain you, challenge you, and help you explore new vistas. They produce musicals, comedies and dramas. They also host visiting performers, musicians, vocalists, artists, puppeteers and more. They are theater, with a 350-seat mainstage house and two smaller venues for youth and experimental theater. They are a gallery for the visual arts. They are a center of learning. And we are the community, taking our offerings to the world as we invite the world to us.

Always plan ahead on your Hilton Head vacation! As soon as you arrive, look over the visitor’s guides and plan out your first few days (if you have not already). This will save you time and money and allow you to see all of the major attractions at your leisure. Be sure to also keep your eye on the Island weather conditions. Frequent rain showers can interrupt your sunny vacation if you are not prepared with a back-up list of things to do. Read our section of “Rainy Day Fun” inside this website.