Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner
Everything You Need to Plan the Perfect Trip — In One Place
We've distilled the best of Hilton Head Islanders into a single, printable vacation planner. Use it to organize your trip, share it with your travel group, and arrive on the island ready to make the most of every day.
Before You Arrive
- Book accommodation (12–18 months ahead for summer; 3–6 months for shoulder season)
- Reserve golf tee times (2–3 weeks ahead in summer)
- Book dolphin tours, kayak tours, or fishing charters (1–2 weeks ahead)
- Make restaurant reservations for Friday and Saturday nights
- Reserve beach wheelchair if needed (call Town Parks & Rec: 843-341-4600)
- Check the events calendar for what's happening during your visit
- Download a tide chart for your dates (useful for beach walks and fishing)
- Purchase a Sea Pines day pass if you plan to visit Harbour Town (non-guests pay $10 at the gate)
Packing List
- Reef-safe sunscreen (required on many Hilton Head beaches)
- Beach chairs and umbrella (or plan to rent at Coligny)
- Bike helmet (if you plan to use the trail network)
- Insect repellent (essential for marsh and forest activities)
- Light rain jacket (summer afternoon storms are common)
- Water shoes (useful for marsh kayaking and some beach areas)
- Reusable water bottles (stay hydrated in summer heat)
- One nice outfit for fine dining
Beach Quick Reference
- Coligny Beach Park — most amenities, most crowded, seasonal paid parking Memorial Day–Labor Day (fills early)
- Driessen Beach Park — north end, less crowded, playground, accessible, seasonal paid parking
- Folly Field Beach — north end, seasonal paid parking Memorial Day–Labor Day, local favorite
- Alder Lane Beach Access — south end, quieter, free parking year-round (limited spaces)
- South Beach (Sea Pines) — requires Sea Pines day pass, quietest option
Dining Quick Reference
- Fine dining: The Sage Room, Michael Anthony's, CQ's — reserve ahead
- Waterfront: Skull Creek Boathouse, Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks
- Casual local: One Hot Mama's, Stu's Surfside Subs, The Salty Dog Café
- Breakfast/brunch: Skillets Café & Bar, The Crazy Crab
- Breweries: Lincoln & South, Local Legend, Hilton Head Brewing Co.
Activities Quick Reference
- Dolphin tours: depart from Shelter Cove Marina — book ahead
- Kayaking: guided marsh tours available from multiple operators
- Fishing: inshore charters for beginners; offshore for experienced anglers
- Biking: 60+ miles of paved trails — rent near Coligny or in Sea Pines
- Golf: 26+ courses — compare at hiltonheadislanders.com/golf/compare
- Pinckney Island: free wildlife refuge, 4-mile main trail, no reservation needed
Practical Notes
- Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV) — 45 min from most island locations
- Cross Island Parkway (toll) is the fastest route to the bridge and airport
- Sea Pines day pass: $10 at the gate for non-guests
- Summer afternoon storms: plan outdoor activities for morning, indoor for 2–4 PM
- Uber/Lyft available but slow on peak evenings — plan ahead
- Emergency: Hilton Head Regional Medical Center, 25 Hospital Center Blvd
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the vacation planner free?+
Yes — the Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner is completely free. Print it, save it to your phone, or share it with your travel group.
How do I get the most out of the planner?+
Work through the 'Before You Arrive' checklist as soon as you book your trip. The earlier you book activities and restaurants, the better your options — especially for summer visits.
Where can I find more detailed guides?+
Hilton Head Islanders has detailed guides for every section of this planner — beaches, golf, restaurants, activities, neighborhoods, and more. Use the links in the 'Key Guides' section above to explore.
Ready to Start Planning?
Browse the full Hilton Head Islanders directory for verified listings, hours, and contact details.