Discover South Carolina’s Hilton Head Island

Expanse of beach and ocean at Hilton Head Island

(Image credit: Courtesy of Hilton Head Island)

In partnership with Hilton Head Island

Visit and explore Hilton Head Island during ‘shoulder seasons’ – those quieter, golden, off-peak periods, in the spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) when the weather is pleasantly warm and the local seafood is bountiful. Here’s what Wallpaper* recommends to make the most of your time on America’s Favourite Island.

Stay and Dine at The Sea Pines Resort

Located within Sea Pines Resort, The Inn & Club at Harbour Town is well-regarded as a premier luxury destination. The sprawling 5,000-acre grounds invite exploration with their serene Harbour Town Yacht Basin, championship golf courses, scenic beaches, and lush landscape – the lifelong vision of American real estate developer Charles E Fraser, who transformed Hilton Head Island from a sparsely inhabited island into a world-class destination. The Inn’s 60 coastal-inspired rooms depict soft sea glass blues and dune tones, allowing moments of relaxation. For extra indulgence, the Fairway Suite awaits with two master bedrooms, a kitchenette, and a private terrace. Dining within the Sea Pines Resort is a treat, with restaurant Quarterdeck’s signature grill dishes and award-winning wine list being the perfect end to any day.

7 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

seapines.com

Rent a bike, go kayaking or simply enjoy nature

On Hilton Head Island, expect greenery to envelop you all year round – Carolina’s signature Spanish moss adorns ancient oaks, while palm trees line the pathways. Biking is the ideal way to navigate it all, with more than 60 miles of leisure pathways to explore. Nearly 30 rental shops offer around 15,000 bicycles, making it easy to discover the island at your own pace. For a different experience, consider renting a kayak to paddle through the island’s scenic creeks and lagoons. Hilton Head Island is home to eight public beaches, including favourites like Coligny Beach and Burkes Beach.

Lunch at Hudson’s Seafood House On The Docks

A beloved fixture on the island, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks combines 44 years of coastal dining with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Originally an oyster processing facility founded by the Hudson family in 1912, the venue transitioned to a restaurant in 1968 and now stands as one of the island’s largest eateries. The emblematic spot presents an extensive menu centred around fresh, locally sourced seafood. With over 30 entrées, highlights include fresh oysters, barbequed shrimp, and soft shell crabs straight from the day’s catch when in season, capturing the essence of Lowcountry flavour.

1 Hudson Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

hudsonsonthedocks.com

Visit Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

For a deeper understanding of Hilton Head Island’s history, visit the Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, a cherished cultural landmark dedicated to preserving the legacy of Mitchelville – America’s first self-governed town of freedmen, founded in 1862 by formerly enslaved people. The park features walking trails, restrooms, parking and beach access. Local Gullah, direct descendants of the original Mitchelville residents, honour their ancestors’ traditions through events like the annual Gullah Celebration, Juneteenth, and a holiday lights show each December.

229 Beach City Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

exploremitchelville.org

Dinner at The Jazz Corner

The Jazz Corner on Hilton Head Island delivers an intimate, candle-lit atmosphere where live jazz harmonises with Southern-inspired cuisine. Founded by late jazz musician and enthusiast Bob Masteller, the venue recalls the ambience of classic Northeastern jazz clubs. Hosting two shows each evening, The Jazz Corner presents a diverse line-up of jazz, swing, rhythm and blues. Savour performances from global artists while enjoying dishes like Cajun Shrimp with smoked gouda grits and the Southwestern Black Bean Cakes with roasted red pepper coulis.

1000 William Hilton Parkway, The Village at Wexford, C-1, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

thejazzcorner.com

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Sofia de la Cruz is the Travel Editor at Wallpaper*. A self-declared flâneuse, she feels most inspired when taking the role of a cultural observer – chronicling the essence of cities and remote corners through their nuances, rituals, and people. Her work lives at the intersection of art, design, and culture, often shaped by conversations with the photographers who capture these worlds through their lens.