Hilton Head, SC is one of the most popular vacation spots in the country! Our charming island is famous for its wonderful beaches, golf courses, and boat tours. In addition to these well-known attractions, Hilton Head also offers a number of smaller destinations that are absolutely worth a visit. To help you make the most of your next getaway, we have put together a guide to the top five hidden gems in Hilton Head.
1. Sea Pines Forest Preserve
If you’re hoping to enjoy Hilton Head’s magnificent natural beauty, it’s hard to beat the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This stunning 605-acre park is teaming with impressive trees, Spanish moss, freshwater ponds, and vibrant wildlife. Animal lovers will definitely want to keep their eyes peeled (and cameras at the ready) for egrets, snakes, turtles, and alligators. Sea Pines Forest Preserve is home to miles upon miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking, so it’s easy to spend the whole day here. Please note that Sea Pines charges a daily admission rate of $6 per car.
2. Hilton Head Brewing Company
Hilton Head Brewing Company is another one of the island’s hidden gems. Frequented by both visitors and locals alike, this brewery features a small tap room where guests can try a variety of craft beers. Our favorite brew is the Hefe, which features a delightful banana aroma. If there are non-beer drinkers in your party, they can try one of Hilton Head Brewery’s excellent wines.
3. Mitchelville Freedom Park
During the Civil War, the newly freed slaves on Hilton Head Island established their own town with assistance from Union General Ormsby Mitchel. Named “Mitchelville” in the general’s honor, the community was the first self-governed freedmen’s town in the United States. The Mitchelville Freedom Park commemorates this important moment in American history with educational displays and re-creations of 19th-century buildings. Mitchelville Freedom Park is also a great spot to walk around and enjoy the beach.
4. Sno Cones by Chris
A snow cone is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer’s day in Hilton Head! Located in Palmetto Bay Marina, Sno Cones by Chris is the best spot to pick up one of these refreshing treats. Guests can choose from a number of unique snow cone flavors, including Rockin’ Root Beer, Pineapple Daiquiri, and Candy Apple. Sno Cones by Chris is open every day from mid-May through mid-October.
5. The Sea Shack
A meal at The Sea Shack never disappoints! This charming hole-in-the-wall specializes in mouth-watering fried seafood and all of your favorite side dishes. We highly recommend the crab cakes, shrimp po’boy, mac and cheese, fried okra, and the Key lime pie. The Sea Shack is a small restaurant with somewhat limited seating, but the fantastic food is absolutely worth the wait.
When you stay with Hilton Head Properties Realty & Rentals, you will be near all of these hidden gems in Hilton Head. Our vacation rentals come with your choice of fantastic amenities, including fully furnished kitchens, outdoor grills, internet access, flat screen TVs, and private swimming pools. With everything from 1 bedroom properties to 7 bedroom properties, we are guaranteed to have the ideal accommodations for your escape. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of Hilton Head vacation rentals!
