Top 50 Things for Families to do on Hilton Head
Welcome to Hilton Head Island. If you are looking for Fun Things to Do as a family here on the Island, look no further, here is your ultimate guide to 50 Fun Things for Families to do on Hilton Head!
TOP 50 THINGS FOR FAMILIES TO DO ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC. These are in no particular order, any combination of these would ensure you leave having the best family Vacation!
#1. Beach, Pool........ Repeat!!!
- Location - Beaches, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Best time to go: - With families, beaches can get quite crowded in the afternoons, morning or early evening are less crowded, but anytime to be at the beach is a good time😊
- Additional Info for Parents: Be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and water to keep those kiddo’s safe and hydrated
#2. Check out Low Country Celebration Park and Playground
- Location - https://www.thebestofhiltonhead.com/.../hilton-head-parks...
- Best time to go: - Be prepared to spend some time here as your kids may not want to leave. Mornings and evenings are less crowded.
- Additional Info for Parents: This is a well-maintained newer park, however, this can be quite busy at times. This is a sturdy playground that parents can join in on the fun.
#3. Hop on a bike and ride some of the 60 miles of beautiful trails around Hilton Head at www.Islandliferentalshhi.com and www.hiltonheadebikerentals.com
- Location - Explore the island's 60 miles of bike trails all around the island. There are several bike rental companies but the folks at Island Life Bike Rentals and Hilton Head E Bike Rental will take great care of you!
- Best time to go: - Plan your biking adventures during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon to get the most enjoyment with your bikes.
- Additional Info for Parents: Make sure everyone has the proper safety gear, including helmets and reflective clothing. Most rental companies offer bike trailers or child seats for younger riders. Click here for Hilton Head Island Pathway Map and plan your adventure. Reserve your bikes before your trip to Hilton Head to ensure availability. Not all plantations will allow you to enter on bikes so check with your rental company for more information.
#4. Pirate's Island Adventure Golf of Hilton Head Island - A must do for Family Fun
- Location - 8 Marina Side Drive
- Best time to go: - Beat the crowds by visiting during weekday mornings or early afternoons. Consider evenings for cooler temps and illuminated courses but plan for a busier course
- Additional Info for Parents: Bring sunscreen, hats and water. Drinks are available for sale. Enjoy some friendly competition among friends and family – Loser buys ice cream😊
#5. Dolphin tour with Dolphin Seafari - fun and educational
Cruise along the beautiful waters of Hilton Head Island and get up close to Dolphins, wildlife, and crabs. A fun and thrilling experience that promises laughter as well as an educational experience everyone will enjoy!
- Location – 1 Shelter Cove Harbour Shops & Restaurants
- Best time to go: – Dolphins are usually active all day long so anytime works. Mornings, you can get Donuts with Dolphins, but these guys know where to take you to maximize your dolphin sightings!
- Additional Info for Parents – Their boat is fully covered but don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and snacks. Water is available onboard. Make sure you don’t forget your cameras and binoculars as you never know what you will see!
#6. Rent a boat and be your own captain, Hilton Head Boat Rentals and Sales
Offering luxury pontoon boats as well as center console fishing boats for rent. Whether you're looking to spend the day cruising the waterways with the whole family or fishing with a couple of angler friends, we have the perfect boat for your adventure.
- Location – 43 Jenkins Island Rd, however they will bring your boat to a dock of your choice if you would prefer to launch from a public dock in HHI region or a private dock.
- Best time to go: – Anytime is a great time to be out on the water! Cooler temps in the morning and evening can help you get the most enjoyment out of your rental, but if you get hot, jump into the water for a quick swim!
- Additional Info for Parents – Make sure you pack sunscreen (preferably not spray on), sunglasses for all, hats, and waters/drinks to enjoy on the water. Keep in mind not all boats come with a bathroom so plan appropriately. If your not quite comfortable being your own captain in unfamiliar waters, you can hire a licensed Captain that does know these local waters and can get you around safely.
#7. Enjoy funny, not filthy, family fun at Comedy Magic Cabaret
Proudly presents top notch “Funny not Filthy” shows that have earned 5 stars and #1 for nightlife on TripAdvisor as well as a remarkable reputation for consistent quality entertainment.
- Location – 843 William Hilton Parkway
- Best time to go: – Check their website for show times Hilton Head Comedy Magic Cabaret - Comedy Entertainment, Comedy Magic, Comedy And Magic Club
- Additional Info for Parents – Arrive early before show time to snag a good seat. They do have good food and drinks available, check the menu out online.
#8. Soar to new heights and see the island from a different perspective at Hilton Head Helicopter Tours
See Hilton Head from a different vantage. Flying above the beaches, the ocean and the island can be thrilling and beautiful! Make sure you bring your cameras to capture those aerial memories. A thrilling experience for the whole family to enjoy!
- Location – 38 Gateway Cir.
- Best time to go: – Anytime during a clear weather day is a great day to fly. The smoothest time to fly is often in the morning as winds and conditions provide less turbulence and a smoother ride
- Additional Info for Parents – They will provide headsets for all participants to wear during your flight. Be sure to check age and weight restrictions before booking to ensure everyone can participate.
#9. Private Sunset or Afternoon sail with Anchors Away Sailing Charters
Private sailing, Fun for the whole family - Jump in on the action or sit back and enjoy the ride with a cocktail in your hands! Sail off into the sunset, or enjoy an exciting afternoon sail. See local dolphins and wildlife (they often get very curious with these boats that move through the water without a loud motor running)
- Location – 1 Waterway Lane (Skull Creek Marina) by reservation only
- Best time to go: – Anytime out on the water is a great time, mornings are typically more calm, Afternoons are typically more exciting with stronger winds and Sunset sails are just the best!
- Additional Info for Parents – Pack Sunscreen (preferably not spray), sun glasses and some snacks. Water, Coke, Diet Coke and Sprite are available on board (included with the sail) but feel free to bring drinks for the little ones as well as some adult beverages for the bigger ones 😊 Make sure you bring your camera as you never know what you will see out there. Dress to be comfortable as temperatures are often 10 degrees cooler out on the water – We do provide blankets if needed. Anchors Away Sailing Charters | Hilton Head Island, Bluffton SC – Reservations need to be made prior to your sail and often books up so book early.
#10. Escape Island HHI
Can you figure out how to escape and beat the clock? Dive into an immersive experience, solving puzzles, unlocking mysteries in their themed escape rooms. Fun for all skill levels and ages. Multiple escape rooms available and all of them are a blast!
- Location – 2600 Main St, Suite 103
- Best time to go: – Advance reservations are required and available throughout the day.
- Additional Info for Parents – ensure you speak with the staff to book the appropriate room for your family's interests and child’s age. Encourage teamwork and communication to enhance the fun and problem-solving.
#11. Indy Karting & Amusement
Beat the family around the track in the fastest go karts in town! Satisfy that “Need for Speed” with both adult karts and kid karts. With a multi-level track, this is a great place for family fun. Also offering Axe Throwing, bowling, and arcade. Food/ snacks, and drinks are available
- Location – 71 Towne Dr. Bluffton SC 29910 (about 15 minutes off the island)
- Best time to go: – This is an indoor facility but not nearly as crowded in the early afternoon.
- Additional Info for Parents – Review the height requirements for kids to ensure everyone can participate. Make sure that everyone is wearing closed-toe shoes, and women with long hair will need to tie it up before getting out on the track.
#12. Kilwins Hilton Head Shelter Cove
Whatever sweet treat you’re craving, Kilwins Shelter Cove has something for everyone. Great ice cream, chocolates, candies, and goodies. Grab some ice cream and treats before walking around Shelter Cove.
- Location – 28 Shelter Cove Ln, Suite 112b
- Best time to go: – It’s always time for Ice Cream!
- Additional Info for Parents – Get your treats to go and head down to the Shelter Cove park where you can make some sweet memories with your family while enjoying some sweet treats!
#13. Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Walk around and enjoy shops, restaurants, and the great park/playground
- Location – 40 Shelter Cove Lane
- Best time to go: – Shelter Cove is great to visit all day long. Typically, later in the day will have more activity going on, but a great option all day long
- Additional Info for Parents – Set up similar to a Tanger Outlets, there is something for everyone here. It is a fairly large place with the marina next door, so bring those walking shoes.
#14. Hilton Head Segway
Effortlessly breeze through Hilton Head on your own Segway.
- Location – 70 Honey Horn Dr. By Reservation Only!
- Best time to go: – Check out their website for tour times, Hilton Head Segway - Segway Tours on Hilton Head Island
- Additional Info for Parents – Speak to the staff to make sure you understand the height and weight requirements so everyone can participate.
#15. Palmetto Axes
Enjoy some great family time throwing sharp objects , In a controlled environment of course! This can actually be a fun family outing
- Location – 4375 Bluffton Parkway Suite F, Bluffton SC
- Best time to go: – Only open in the evenings
- Additional Info for Parents – Their staff is excellent and ensuring everyone’s safety, however, you will still need to keep a close eye on any smaller children to help them follow the rules and do this safely
#16. More beach time/pool time, I mean you are at the beach... Make sure you enjoy it.
#17. Wake up early at least one morning and get out on the beach at least 30 minutes before the sunrise to see a beautiful Sunrise, dolphins playing in the surf, wildlife, and the peace, serenity, and the power of the ocean!
#18. Make your own candle and create your own scent at Sea Love Hilton Head
You can create your own candles and your own fragrance or choose from home fragrance products at this boutique. Discover the magic of scent by exploring 100+ fragrances and creating your own unique candle
- Location – 71 Lighthouse Rd, Suite 612
- Best time to go: – Open 10 – 6 they are a great option anytime of day
- Additional Info for Parents – you can help your little ones or their great staff can assist to ensure everyone has a safe and fun experience.
#19. Get in some family fun at Top tracer range, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
Driving range at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course with high-speed cameras, ball tracking and 14 hitting bays.
- Location – 7 Trent Jones Lane
- Best time to go: – Open 7 am to 8 pm, can be enjoyed all day long
- Additional Info for Parents – There is no age limit, Children (accompanied by an adult) are welcome to play, there are even kid-approved games just for them.
#20. The Golf Club at Hilton Head Lakes for some family fun golf
- Location – 2130 Club Way, Hardeeville, SC (off the Island by I-95)
- Best time to go: – Open 7 am to 5 pm, mornings would provide the coolest temperatures to play
- Additional Info for Parents – This is a full-size golf course with the option to rent a golf cart. This course is a great course for smaller players as they aren’t rushed as much by other players, however, you should speak with the staff and find the best time to visit with smaller golfers
#21. Deep sea fishing with Above and Below Inc. - Captain Dave will take great care of you!
- Location – 1 Waterway Lane (Skull Creek Marina) by Reservation Only
- Best time to go: – depending on where you would like to fish and what you are hoping to catch, speak with Dave and he will let you know the best time to go.
- Additional Info for Parents – This is deep sea fishing and while it's great for all ages, remember your sunscreen, glasses, hats, and waters. There are some great motion sickness patches, but need to be tested on land with smaller children first before getting on the boat to ensure the patch doesn’t make them sick. If you would prefer an inland fishing trip, talk to Dave to see if they can make that happen for you.
#22. Native Son Adventures Surfs up Surfing lessons or catch a Shark Tooth beach combing tour
Native Son Adventures has several options available. Dolphin and eco tours, surf lessons, beach combing excursions, and sunset tiki trips. Check with Native Son to find the best fit for your family Native Son Adventures | Adventure Hilton Head Boat Tours
- Location – Surf Lessons are held at various beach locations depending on current conditions and skill levels
- Best time to go: – Offered year-round, with warmer months being better for surf lessons
- Additional Info for Parents – Advance reservations required, ensure your child is equipped with the appropriate swimwear and sun protection. Encourage your children and adults to listen to their instructors as your safety is their top priority.
#23. Walk the Beach in the morning or late evening.
No better way to enjoy the beach other than getting out there at all hours of the day to do just that!
#24. Grab some Homemade Ice Cream at Hilton Head Ice Cream
Located at 55 New Orleans Rd, Suite 114. This is a great spot to come and enjoy some sweet downtime on the island. They have outdoor seating available.
#25. Grab some Gelato Italian Ice Cream at Nonna Marie’s Gelato
- Location – 1000 William Hilton Parkway Suite G1
- Best time to go: – Open Monday – Saturday, 5-10 pm.
#26. Grab a date night and leave the kiddos in the very capable hands of Hilton Head Nannies
Hilton Head Nannies comes to you with their very capable and vetted nannies. They have caregivers available 24 hours a day, 365 day a year. They care for newborns to 15 years old. Their caregivers go through one of the most extensive vetting processes in the industry.
#27 - 30. While on your date night, be sure to visit
Lincoln & South Brewing Company - Local Craft beer, food and live music
Hilton Head Brewing Company - Local craft beer and food items
Hilton Head Distillery – Local spirits, daily Distillery tours available as well as cocktail making classes
Tiki Hut – Welcomed laid-back locals and fun-loving visitors for nearly 50 years. Ready to sink your toes in the sand, listen to live tunes and sip a cocktail or two? Drop on by!
#31. Family Photography on the beach About You Photography of Hilton Head
Contact today to schedule a family beach photoshoot Family, New Born Children and, Vacation Photographers and Photography Hilton Head
#32. Visit Harbour Town Lighthouse & Museum for great views and history of our great Island.
Climb to the top of the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse for breathtaking views of Calibogue Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, and Daufuskie Island. Learn about the Island, Lighthouse and maritime history as you climb your way to the top observation deck.
- Location – 149 Lighthouse Rd
- Best time to go: – Open daily, so pick the time that works best with your family. Sea Pines has an entry fee for all vehicles, so plan a day in Sea Pines
- Additional Info for Parents – Harbour Town area is full of great shops, play areas, restaurants and great views.
#33. While you're in Sea Pines, lace up your boots for a family Nature Hike at the Sea Pines Forest Preserve
- Location – Sea Pines
- Best time to go: – Plan your hike for cooler temps. The morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot afternoon. This is open year-round
- Additional Info for Parents – Pack waters, sunscreen, hats, and don’t forget the bug spray! Take your time exploring the trails and finding some hidden gems throughout, but especially off the paths😊
#34. Go Horseback riding, Lawton Stables
- Location – Sea Pines
- Best time to go: – Mornings often provide stunning views and cooler temps.
- Additional Info for Parents – Make advance reservations to secure the best ride times available. Talk with staff to ensure you understand the age and weight restrictions before you book
#35. Paddle through the saltmarshes with Saltmarsh Paddle Tours
Explore the amazing waterways of Hilton Head Island, gliding through salt marshes, playing with dolphins and seeing wildlife up close in their natural habitats.
- Location – 101 Marshland Rd
- Best time to go: – Early mornings tend to offer calmer waters, and is a wonderful time to catch wildlife doing what they do best, be in the wild!
- Additional Info for Parents – They offer both single and tandem kayaks. For younger children, please place them in the front of a tandem kayak for some great family fun. Make sure you bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats along with plenty of water.
#36. Get out on an Island Skiff with Bluewater Adventure
Bluewater Adventure’s offers two-seat catamaran tours and the first ever party cycle boat. On all our boat excursions you can learn about rich local history and beautiful surrounding ecosystems while having a blast on the water.
- Location – 1 Shelter Cove Lane
- Best time to go: – Mornings are a great time with cool temperatures, abundant wildlife and calmer waters
- Additional Info for Parents – Anyone born in 1988 or later, must have a boater’s safety course before operating the boat. They have a link to this course online. Pack plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses, and waters to drink
#37. Full Moon Sail with Anchors Away Sailing Charters
- Location – 1 Waterway Lane (Skull Creek Marina) By Reservation Only
- Best time to go: – A new offering that will be coupled with a Sunset sail. On Specific nights (around the full moon schedule), instead of coming in at last light, we will stay out and sail a bit longer under a full moon
- Additional Info for Parents – Bring extra snacks for the kids, bottled water, Coke, Diet Coke, and Sprite are included in the sail. Bring a light jacket as the temperatures will cool off after sunset. We have Blankets on board if anyone needs one
#38. Dolphin Cruise with Island Explorer - Hilton Head Island Dolphin and Nature Tours
Offering personalized dolphin and nature tours on their 12 passenger boats.
- Location – 101 Marshland Rd
- Best time to go: – Morning and Evenings provide the best conditions and temperatures during a playful time for dolphins and other wildlife
- Additional Info for Parents – Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, cameras and water to drink.
#39. Picnic in the park or beach with Blade and Board, they will put together everything you need!
Spread out your beach blanket, dig your feet in the sand and enjoy a delicious meal and the company of loved ones. Set up beach games, make some friendly competitions. Blade and Board can help you put this together, Contact them today to see what they can do for you and your family. Create unique memories without the effort to prepare and remember everything. Blade and Board
#40. Movie night under the stars and weekly fireworks show in Shelter Cove Park (Seasonal)
Grab a blanket, popcorn, snacks, and enjoy a movie night under the stars (typically on Thursdays), and a weekly fireworks show (typically on Tuesdays). Check the event schedule for both throughout the summer months. Shelter Cove, Hilton Head Island
- Additional Info for Parents – Arrive early to claim a great spot, bring bug spray, and extra layers for cooler evenings. Be prepared for the traffic leaving both events, but it is worth it! (and you're on vacation😊)
#41. See some alligators at Jarvis Creek Park on the North side of the island
Affectionately known as “alligator park”, Jarvis Creek Park features a 53-acre park including a large pond, fishing pier, open fields, picnic shelters, playground, restroom facilities and a one-mile walking trail and workout stations. To see alligators, walk out onto the fishing pier and look down, generally several baby alligators can be seen close to the shore. Be careful as alligators are wild animals and need to be seen from a distance. Never taunt or harass the gators! Where there are little gators, the BIG ones are never far behind!
- Location – 50 Jarvis Creek Road
- Best time to go: – Mornings or evenings are a great time to see these cool creatures (from a distance)
- Additional Info for Parents – Don’t allow your kids close to the water, you may not see the gators but they see you. Respect all of the wildlife on Hilton Head and they will respect you back! Never allow kids to throw sticks or rocks at the gators, mommy gators are VERY protective!
#42. Try your hand at eFoil Hilton Head
Come try the only electric hydrofoil in Hilton Head. Surf above the water with these cool new toys! Efoil’s staff will help teach you how to stand up and maximize your fun!
- Location – By Reservation only, they will instruct you on where to meet them
- Additional Info for Parents – Check with Efoil for weight and age restrictions to ensure everyone can participate
#43. Go Tubbing with Live Oac
- Location – 1 Waterway Lane (Skull Creek Marina) by Reservation Only
- Best time to go: – all day long is a great time for watersports.
- Additional Info for Parents – Check with Live Oac Staff for weight and age restrictions to ensure everyone can participate. Pack Sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, hats and bottled waters.
#44. The Sandbox an interactive children's museum
This is an indoor educational play area with activities for kids 8 and under. Includes a climbing wall and a spaceship.
- Location – 80 Nassau St
- Best time to go: – Open from 10 – 4:30 M- Sat and 12:30 – 3:30 on Sundays
- Additional Info for Parents – Get your tickets in advance, there is on-site parking and restrooms. They have a limited capacity and often reach it. The Sandbox – Interactive Children's Museum Hilton Head Island South Carolina
#45. Explore Hilton Head while riding Breeze Trolley
Hop aboard the Breeze Trolley for a free family excursion around Hilton Head Island! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as you travel in comfort to various attractions, beaches, and shopping destinations. With convenient stops and friendly drivers, the Breeze Trolley offers a stress-free way to experience the best of Hilton Head with the whole family, and a great way to get a break from the heat!
- Location – Various stops throughout Hilton Head. Visit the Trolley | Breeze Trolley | Hilton Head Island for route maps and schedules.
- Best time to go: – Taking advantage of this free trolley service during peak tourist season to avoid parking hassles, parking fees and traffic congestion.
- Additional Info for Parents – Bring along snacks and drinks and enjoy the ride!
#46. Coastal Discovery Museum explore and learn about wildlife and local history through their 68-acre property. Offering a learning center, tours, live performances, gift shop, ancient buildings, trees, and wildlife
- Location – 70 Honey Horn Dr
- Best time to go: – open M-Sat 9 to 4:30 and Sundays 11 to 4:30 PM
#47. Atomic VR Virtual Arcade Interactive virtual games
Offers players an unlimited amount of entertainment and virtual reality escape rooms. Players can choose to explore one of more than 40 virtual experiences for solo missions or with other players. (Currently Closed for Renovations but expected to be back up and running this summer)
- Location – 38 Gateway Cir #200
- Best time to go: – Open daily 11-5 pm
- Additional Info for Parents – Check to make sure they are open and operating before heading out there
#48. While your on the island, You have got to stop by The Shell Shop – Souvenir Shop
- Location – 1 N Forest Beach Dr, suite K-4
- Best time to go: – Open 10 – 8 M-Sat. Sunday 11-7PM
- Additional Info for Parents – They have a good selection of seashells, hermit crabs and tons of Hilton Head souvenirs
#49. Another staple of the area is Camp Hilton Head – Island Themed apparel and gifts.
- Location – 3 locations to choose from
- Best time to go: – Open 10 – 8 M-Sat. Sunday 11-7PM
#50. Last but certainly not least is Black Market Minerals - Hilton Head – Vibrant store showcasing a sizable selection of jewelry, polished gemstones, fossils & other gifts
- Location – 1 N Forest Beach Dr, Suite C-4
- Best time to go: – Open 10-7 M – Sat and Sunday 11-6 PM
For more information about these businesses or to find additional businesses, discounts, places to eat, places to stay, area information, visit www.thebestofhiltonhead.com
For a completely free resource to help you get the most out of your time on the island!
