Located about an hour and a half south of Charleston, Hilton Head Island is one of the largest barrier islands along the Atlantic coast. The island is rich with history, having been home to ancient Native American inhabitants, explorers from Europe, grand plantations, civil war battles and more. Many sites exist today for visitors to learn about the fascinating history of the island.

The island is particularly well known for its golf courses, most notably the Harbour Town Golf Links, which hosts the annual PGA Verizon Heritage Classic. The Harbour Town Lighthouse, which looms behind the 18th hole has come to represent the course and the island. Another symbol of the Harbour Town area is the age old Liberty Oak Tree. With the help of Hilton Head locals, this majestic tree has been carefully preserved and serves as a backdrop for many nights filled with entertainment and friends.

Another popular part of the island is the South Beach area. South Beach is home to many specialty shops, restaurants, and a marina. The most famous of the restaurants is undoubtedly the Salty Dog Cafe. Most vacationers would find a trip to Hilton Head incomplete without a visit to this landmark.

When it comes to outdoor activities, Hilton Head is in no short supply. The Sea Pines Forester Preserve is a stretching expanse of breathtaking plants and wildlife. You can explore the area on your own or take one of the many guided tours that are offered.

The island is also home to freshwater forested wetlands, freshwater marshes, and saltwater marshes, all which enhance the natural beauty of the island. Many people visiting Hilton Head hope for a chance to see the Loggerhead Sea Turtles which make their nests on the ocean shore. The people of the island have gone to great lengths to protect these turtles and ask that all guests enjoy the creatures from a distance.

All of the beaches on Hilton Head are open to the public, but a great deal of the beach access is private. To ensure that everyone can easily get to the beach, the town provides seven public beach access sites at various locations around the island. Some of the beaches have designated swimming areas and during the warmer months lifeguards are usually stationed at them and the other crowded beaches. When you feel like getting out onto the water there are many opportunities for sailing, parasailing, and day cruises.

Other activities the whole family can partake in include making your way around the island and checking out the nine lighthouses or visiting the Coastal Discovery Museum, a children's museum featuring displays on marine life, outdoor butterfly gardens, and more.