50 Fun Things For Families
To Do on Hilton Head

Your ultimate guide to family fun on Hilton Head Island!

Welcome to Hilton Head Island, where family fun knows no bounds! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned island explorer, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make the most of your Hilton Head family getaway. From thrilling adventures to relaxing outings and unforgettable activities, here is your ultimate guide to 50 Fun Things for Families to Do on Hilton Head Island!

50 FUN THINGS FOR FAMILIES TO DO
ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND

1-10

21-30

11. Shrimp Boat Tour

Embark on a hands-on shrimping expedition aboard the Tammy Jane shrimp boat and learn about the island’s rich maritime heritage. Watch as the crew demonstrates the art of shrimping while you soak in the scenic beauty of Hilton Head Island's waterways. It's a fun-filled adventure that promises to delight both kids and adults alike!

• Location: Vagabond Cruise, Hilton Head Island, SC. Check the website for tour departure details.

• Best Time to Go: Afternoon tours coincide with shrimp trawling activities, providing a firsthand look at the shrimping process.

• Parent Tip: Dress in layers and bring sunscreen and hats to protect against the sun. Encourage your kids to ask questions and learn about the shrimping process from the knowledgeable crew. The days catch is split evenly among the guests on your trip! So bring a cooler to store freshly caught shrimp, and ask the crew for recipe ideas to prepare your catch for dinner.

12. Arts & Crafts at The Art Café

Get ready to unleash your creativity at the Art Cafe with pottery painting, canvas art, and other crafty activities for the whole family. The whole family can enjoy a fun-filled art session where you can paint, sculpt, and create to your heart's content. With a variety of art supplies and guidance from friendly staff, the Art Café is the perfect place to let your imagination run wild and bond with your loved ones through the magic of art.

• Location: The Art Café, Hilton Head Island, SC. Check their website or give them a call for hours and directions.

• Best Time to Go: Plan your visit during quieter hours to ensure plenty of space and personalized attention from the staff. Weekdays are often less crowded than weekends.

• Parent Tip: Reserve a table in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, and encourage kids to create personalized souvenirs to take home.Dress for mess and embrace the creative chaos! Encourage each family member to express themselves through their artwork without worrying about perfection.

13. Horseback Riding with Lawton Stables

Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride through Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

• Location: Lawton Stables, Sea Pines

• Best Time to Go: Early mornings offer breathtaking views and cooler temperatures for both riders and horses.

• Parent Tip: Book early to secure preferred ride times, and be sure to follow safety guidelines provided by experienced guides. There is a strict age minimum and weight max of for the trail and pony rides.

14. Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Test your balance and core strength with a stand-up paddleboarding adventure on Hilton Head’s tranquil waterways.

• Location: Outside Hilton Head, Shelter Cove Marina

• Best Time to Go: Morning sessions provide calm waters and fewer boat traffic, ideal for beginners.

• Parent Tip: Choose stable, wide paddleboards for younger kids or first-time paddlers, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen liberally to avoid sunburn.

15. Visit a Wildlife Refuge at Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Discover a pristine natural habitat teeming with indigenous wildlife, including alligators, deer, and migratory birds.

• Location: Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

• Best Time to Go: Early mornings and late afternoons offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities, especially during bird migration seasons.

• Parent Tip: There is no visitor center on the island. Bring binoculars and a field guide to identify birds and other wildlife species, and remind kids to stay on designated trails for their safety.

16. Family Movie Night Under the Stars

Grab a blanket and popcorn and enjoy free outdoor movie screenings under the stars.

• Location: Shelter Cove Community Park

• Best Time to Go: Outdoor movie nights are seasonal, so check the event schedule for movie nights held throughout the summer months.

• Parent Tip: Arrive early to claim a spot on the lawn, and bring along bug spray and extra layers for cooler evenings.

17. Go Fish

Cast your line and reel in the big one at this family-friendly fishing dock. It's a perfect spot to teach kids how to bait, fish, and reel in their first catch... which will likely be bass.

• Location: Jarvis Creek Park

• Best Time to Go: Spring and fall for mild weather and plentiful fish.

• Parent Tip: First and foremost, be mindful of the gators. Make sure you grab a South Carolina fishing permit online before heading out. Bring sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of patience for a fun day on the water.

18. Chill Out with Chris

Cool off with a delicious treat from Snow Cones by Chris, where vibrant flavors and refreshing shaved ice await! Plus, while you savor your icy delight, take a peek at the mesmerizing LEGO creations featured on their website, adding an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

• Location: Sno Cones by Chris, 114 Helmsman Way (Palmetto Bay Marina)

• Best Time to Go: Anytime the sun is shining and you're craving something cool and tasty!

• Parent Tip: Planning a family outing on a hot day? Consider stopping by Snow Cones by Chris for a refreshing treat that everyone will enjoy. It's a great way to take a break from the heat and indulge in a sweet and satisfying snack. Don't forget to explore their website for any special promotions or new flavors before you go!

19. Go For a Glow Up

Embark on a thrilling nighttime biking adventure with Glow Bikes Hilton Head! Pedal through the moonlit streets with your family, adorned in vibrant glow gear and riding illuminated bikes that light up the night. It's a unique and unforgettable way to experience Hilton Head Island after dark!

• Location: Glow Bikes Hilton Head

• Best Time to Go: Evening hours, when the sun sets and the glow bikes truly shine!

• Parent Tip: Before heading out, make sure everyone is outfitted with comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for biking. Bring along water bottles and snacks to stay energized during your ride. Additionally, check the website for any age or height restrictions for riders, and consider booking a guided tour for a safe and guided experience. Most importantly, don't forget to capture the magical moments of your glowing adventure with plenty of photos to cherish for years to come!