In July 2015 we took a road trip down to Hilton Head for a week with family. We rented a house with a pool on a quiet street right across from the beach. This meant we spend a lot of time swimming, relaxing, and taking walks. However, Hilton Head does have plenty to offer especially for families. Here are some of the activities available that we ventured out for while we were there:
Coligny Beach
This is the public beach at Hilton Head and can get very crowded. We actually visited for a different reason. At the very entrance there is a little splash pad area for little ones. It was mostly shaded and had bench areas around to sit. We went in the morning before it got too crowded. This was perfect for younger kids!
Dolphin Cruise
I didn’t expect much from this but was pleasantly surprised. We saw a ton of dolphins! It was almost as if they were showing off for us. The kids really enjoyed it and it was the right amount of time that just when the kids were getting antsy the tour was ending. I do recommend getting there early if it is hot. That way you can get a seat in the shade.
Fishing Charter
The boys chartered a short fishing trip for part of a day. Not my cup of tea, but they did enjoy themselves. The captain through nets out to get bait fish then use that to catch bigger fish. They do all the work. Once there is a bite they guys get to reel the fish in and take credit. They enjoyed that. They caught mostly mackerel and then as a finale happened to snag a shark.
Harbour Town Lighthouse
Toward the end of the island in Sea Pines is a historic lighthouse. It is a hike up the stairs especially while carrying little munchkins so be prepared. I wasn’t ready to work-out that day. However, it is a beautiful panoramic view at the top. There is also a gift shop and some educational facts along the way. Also, harbour town has a marina, gift shops, and restuarants to visit while you are here. Unfortunately, not only do you have to pay to climb the lighthouse you also have to pay just to enter Sea Pines.
Helicoptor Tour
Here was the big splurge! This was amazing and terrifying. I had no idea how small these things were in person. The only thing keeping me from falling to my death was the skinny little door that I wasn’t confident could hold my weight, yet somehow we survived. I was less scared sky diving than I was taking this little ride. It was also great when the pilot starting talking about all the sharks he sees in the waters. My son didn’t even flinch and just acted like it was something he does everyday. He is obviously much cooler than I am.
Salty Dog Cafe
I know, I know….tourist trap! When I had little monsters my views on things changed a bit. This is actually a great place to go eat with family. It was a waterfront restaurant with a kids menu. You can eat outside where it is fun, lively, loud, drinks are flowing and they won’t even bat an eye at a raging toddler. They have Jake the Salty Dog that you might even catch for a photo op. Happy kids=Happy parents! Oh, let me not forget that you have to pay that darn entry fee into Sea Pines again though.
Summary
Hilton Head is a great destination for families. With that said, I don’t think I feel the need to return. It has a beach similar to many others and nothing really stood out as unique that gives me a strong desire to come back. Been there, done that!
…