Craig & Jaime's HHI Guidebook
Our favorite spots on Hilton Head Island — from hidden beaches to the best local eats.
Sightseeing
There's so much to see across the island — here are a few of our favorites!
Fish Haul Beach Park
A hidden gem on the island, renowned for beach walks, bird watching, and nature. Overlooks Port Royal Sound and is directly next to the resort — accessible right from the beach.
Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park
Explore the history of Mitchelville from 1860 with exhibits and groomed walking trails. Located directly next door to the Spa — you can access it from the beach or the road. Check the local schedule for events hosted at the park.
Coastal Discovery Museum
Explore 70 acres of authentic lowcountry with trails, wildlife exhibits & special programs. Admission and parking are FREE, with donations welcome.
Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Pristine & primitive wildlife preserve with lots of gators, birds, turtles and other wildlife along its trails, piers, and many lakes. Home to the alligator boat tour by H2O Sports (highly recommend). Note: per-vehicle entry fee into Sea Pines, valid for the day.
Captain Mark's Dolphin Cruise
A fun dolphin-watching cruise — a great activity for the whole family.
H2O Sports
Get up close with alligators on their alligator tour in Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Fun for the whole family! Note: per-vehicle entry fee into Sea Pines, valid for the day.
Lawton Stables
Horseback riding and a petting zoo located in Sea Pines. Great for kids! Note: per-vehicle entry fee into Sea Pines, valid for the day.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
A beautiful nature preserve just off the island with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Food Scene
From waterfront seafood to the best breakfast dive on the island.
The Crazy Crab Jarvis Creek
Great food in a fun atmosphere with waterfront dining — one of our family favorites!
Hudson's Seafood House On The Docks
A go-to for great seafood and waterfront dining.
Giuseppi's Pizza & Pasta House
Definitely in the running for best pizza on Hilton Head! Great Italian food & fun sports-themed environment. You'll especially love the atmosphere if you're a Pittsburgh sports fan ;-)
Up the Creek Pub & Grill
Casual dining — great burgers & beers with waterfront dining.
Harold's Diner
Great breakfast dive — as local & authentic as it gets! Their slogan says it all: "Eat here or we both starve!"
San Miguel's Mexican
Solid Mexican food, a local favorite on the island.
Skull Creek Dockside
Family favorite restaurant with waterfront dining.
Fiesta Fresh Mexican Grill
Super casual fresh Mexican food. Highly recommend!
Sunset Grille
Great food with beautiful sunset views.
One Hot Mama's BBQ
Best BBQ on Hilton Head? You'll have to try it and decide for yourself!
OKKO Japanese
Contemporary Japanese & Thai cuisine with sushi, hibachi, and a sleek atmosphere. Reservations recommended!
Street Meet
Fun American tavern with prize-winning hot dogs, great burgers, and a 1930s pre-prohibition vibe. Dog-friendly outdoor seating!
Hilton Head Diner
Classic diner with breakfast served all day, famous sundaes & milkshakes. Great for the whole family!
Live Music & Food
Check out the lively music scene on the island, especially in the summer months but also in the off-season. Many breweries also have live music. Check each vendor for concert schedules.
The Bank
Live music venue with great food and atmosphere.
The Sandbar
Beachside vibes with live music and drinks.
Tiki Hut
A local institution for live music and tropical drinks.
The Jazz Corner
Lively music scene and upscale dining — great date night! Advance reservations required.
Shopping
From outlet malls to local artisan markets.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
A great mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment with beautiful harbor views.
Coligny Plaza Shopping Center
Plenty of unique local shops & restaurants right across from Coligny Beach.
Harbour Town
Iconic shopping village in Sea Pines with the famous lighthouse, waterfront dining, and unique boutiques.
Farmers Market Hilton Head Island
Fresh produce, baked goods, coffee & drinks, specialty art & crafts. Tuesdays 9 AM – 1 PM year-round at the Coastal Discovery Museum.
Old Town Bluffton
Lots of local artisan shops & boutiques in this beautiful walkable historic district just off the island.
Tanger Outlets
Tons of brand-name outlets with a few local shops mixed in as well, like Spartina.
Local Brews & Spirits
HHI has a thriving craft brewery and distillery scene.
Hilton Head Distillery
The island's original distillery — tours and tastings available.
Burnt Church Distillery
Craft spirits in a beautiful setting just off the island in Bluffton.
Hilton Head Brewing Co
One of the island's OG breweries with a solid tap list.
Southern Barrel Brewing Company
Great craft beer with a laid-back taproom.
Lincoln and South Brewing Company
Local craft brewery with a rotating tap list.
Side Hustle Brewing Company
Newer brewery with creative brews.
Local Legend Brewing Company
Craft brewery with a fun, local vibe.
lot 9 brewing co
Small-batch brewing in Bluffton.
Island Winery
Local winery with tastings and a relaxed atmosphere.
Coffee & Sweets
Fuel up for the day or treat yourself to something sweet.
Hilton Head Island Coffee Co.
Just down the road from the Spa — the island's premier coffee scene!
Carolina Coffee & Crumbs
Great coffee and baked goods.
Origin Coffee Bar
Specialty coffee done right.
Hilton Head Social Bakery
Delicious pastries and baked goods.
Sweet Al's Cafe
A sweet spot in Coligny with coffee and treats.
Duck Donuts
Made-to-order donuts with your choice of toppings.
Alljoy Donut Co
Fresh donuts in Bluffton — worth the short drive.
Paris Baguette
French-inspired bakery with pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
Swimming Beaches
Five beautiful beaches, each with its own personality.
Folly Field Beach
A popular Atlantic-facing beach with gentle waves, perfect for families and boogie boarding.
Coligny Beach Park
The most popular beach on the island with a lively boardwalk, restaurants, and shops right across the street at Coligny Plaza.
Driessen Beach Park
A quieter beach with great parking, picnic areas, and a playground — perfect for a full beach day with kids.
Burkes Beach
A peaceful, uncrowded beach with beautiful Atlantic views. Great for long walks and surf.
Islanders Beach Park
A laid-back local favorite with easy access and a relaxed vibe.
Ready to experience it all?
Book direct with us and get personal recommendations, local tips, and the best rate — guaranteed.