Hilton Head in South Carolina is undoubtedly one of the most magical and beautiful places in the United States. Approximately 2.5 million people come to visit and enjoy the 12 mile island every year. There is so much to see and do on this small barrier island, making it a perfect place for families and people of all ages.
In this blog post, we will highlight 10 great activities to do when you visit Hilton Head Island. These include taking a sunset cruise, turning in a mermaid, dolphin watching, chartering a private boat, and much more. Let's get started with this Hilton Head travel guide to activities you will love.
1. Take a Sunset Cruise
Watching the sunset over the salt marches is a must-do experience when you visit Hilton Head. It's a great way to unwind after a busy day and take in the sheer beauty of nature.
At the Mermaid of Hilton Head, we offer 75-minute sunset cruises that are great for all ages. Not only can you watch the sunset, but there's also the chance to spot dolphins and other wildlife. There are also lots of fun activities for the young ones and you are free to bring food and drinks on board to make it extra special.
2. Go Dolphin Watching
Did you know that dolphins are second only to humans when it comes to intelligence? They are incredible creatures with a close bond to humans, which is why you'll love seeing them in the water on a dolphin-watching boat tour.
Our Dolphin Experience Tour is perfect for people of all ages, especially those who love nature and are curious about these wonderful animals. With fun props on board such as a dolphin skull and shark teeth, you're sure to have a fun time.
3. Take a Magical Mermaid Tour
Have you ever met a mermaid before? When you come to Hilton Head, you can! On our amazing Mermaid Encounter Tour, you will have the chance to take an incredible journey to find Mermaid Nina.
This tour is all about family fun and friendly adventure. You'll have the chance to meet a real-life mermaid and ask her any questions you have, as well as become an O’fish’al Ocean Ambassador and take home a special badge.
4. Meet Friendly Elves
If you pay a visit to Hilton Head during the festive season, be sure to join an adventure with one of Santa's best elves, Noel Narwhal. This amazing experience lasts for 75 full-filled minutes and even includes a Zoom call with the big man himself, Santa Clause!
There's a fun quest to find dolphins and, back on land, there are s'mores and snow to enjoy. Also, don't forget to bring your letters to send to Santa!
5. Take a Spooky Halloween Tour
We couldn't forget about Halloween, could we? At this spooky time of year, why not tour the site of the Wreck of the Carolina Snowball and meet the ghost of the Blue Lady and help her find her lost item?
With 60 minutes on the water, this tour is fun-filled and suitable for all ages. There are also candy bags and magic name tags for each child.
6. Charter a Private Boat
When you come to Hilton Head, leave your worries and problems on land by taking a relaxing private charter. Our boats hold up to 24 people and are perfect for enjoying special times with family and friends.
You'll have the chance to hang out with some of our favorite bottlenose dolphins while enjoying being on the water with the ocean breeze and the salty air.
7. Turn Into a Mermaid
With our unforgettable Mermaid Experience & Photoshoot, you can quite literally transform into a mermaid. There is a mermaid makeover and tail fitting so you can look like the perfect mermaid for your photoshoot with a professional photographer.
All photos taken are professionally edited and uploaded to an online gallery. There's even a starfish hair clip you get to take home!
8. Play a Round of Golf
It's fair to say that golfing fans are spoiled for choice when they come to Hilton Head. There are more than 20 championship golf courses, designed by some of the most famous golf architects.
Some of the best courses and clubs to play include Harbour Town Golf Links that overlooks the Harbour Town Lighthouse, Atlantic Dunes, Heron Point by Pete Dye, Barony Course, Robber's Row and Arthur Hills in Palmetto Dunes oceanfront resort.
9. Visit Hilton Head Distillery
Hilton Head Distillery is absolutely worth a visit when you come to Hilton Head. it's full of good vibes, good booze, and good people. There are tours and tasting options along with a very casual and relaxed environment to enjoy.
10. Take a bike ride
You can take a bike ride on one of our 60 miles of bike paths that curve in and out of the live oaks and can lead you to our world class beach parks where you can ride along the Atlantic Ocean. If you bike on the beach it is best to do it at low tide so you have more room to navigate.
If you are on the north end you can bike over to the Coastal Discovery Museum and check out some history and learn about some wildlife. It's a perfect place to visit for people of all ages and features a beautiful gift shop so you can bring back a souvenir to remember your trip.
If you your biking adventure takes you to the south end of the island be sure to stop in to Coligny Plaza for some shopping or ice cream. If you are biking in the afternoon or evening you can find several restaurants in the Coligny and Forest beach road area with live music.
Fun Activities to Do When You Visit Hilton Head
As this blog post highlights, there is no end to the fun activities you can do when you visit Hilton Head. It's truly a magical place, whether you visit during the summer months or at any other time of the year.
While you are here make sure you respect our wildlife and never touch a sea turtle or alligator if you see them. They are wild animals and need to be left alone. If you would like to learn more about our amazing experiences, don't hesitate to contact us at Mermaid of Hilton Head. We're here to ensure that your vacation to Hilton Head is truly unforgettable.