You came to Hilton Head Island for a tropical vacation in the sun, expecting the daily temperatures to be warm and the beverages to be cold. You came to play golf or tennis, to relax on the beach, to ride bicycles everywhere, to dine al fresco by the harbor. Before you know it, IT RAINS! Do not despair! There is still plenty of fun to keep everyone occupied, happy, and delightfully satisfied with the trip. Here are some suggestions for those rainy day blues:

• Shopping
  We have an indoor shopping mall and several other shopping centers under canopies and covered breezeways ideal for puddle-jumping.
   
• Dining
  So you can not sit outside and watch boats sail past, but you can still get a great view from many island eateries. Take this opportunity to enjoy a long, leisurely lunch at some favored spots of the locals.
   
• Library
  If you like to read and want to catch up on the news or use the internet, both the Hilton Head Island (342-9200) and Bluffton (757-1519) branches of the Beaufort County Public Library are here to serve you. Read up on local history and maybe even catch a kid’s story hour while you are there.
   
• Movies
  Our movie theaters are open year-round. Both show the latest releases and offer matinees at reduced prices. The newest cinema is the Sea Turtle Cinema. Visit their website for more details: www.seaturtlecinemas.com.
   
• Museum
  A rainy day is a good time to check out the Coastal Discovery Museum. Some programs are held onsite rain or shine, and the exhibits are always on view during operating hours (689-6767).
   
• Arcade
  Adventure Cove Family Fun Center offers two arcades just for you! Choose from either Adventure Cove on Highway 278 at Folly Field, 842-9990, or “Goin’ Bananas” at the Shelter Cove Mall, 686-6279. These GIANT arcades feature the hottest video and prize redemptions games on the planet!
   
• Bowling
  Strike up some fun at AMF Bowling Lanes! They also offer a great new food & beverage menu that i s sure to amaze you. They will even serve you lane - side so you can keep the fun flowing without interruption. Try their Xtreme Bowling ; they turn down the lights and crank up the music and fun . They are located at 2600 Main Street, 681-7750.