Hilton Head was Made for Families

Photo: Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

With its tree-lined streets, broad paths and 12 miles of wide beaches, there’s little doubt Hilton Head, South Carolina was made for families.

Upon arrival, get your family out and exploring the island by bicycle. Those broad paths are perfect for riding along and getting your bearings. You can get off the path, too, and venture onto dirt trails and even ride along the beach. Can you believe there are more than 60 miles of interconnected multiuse trails on which to ride? Why not take a picnic and make an afternoon of exploring?

One place to ride your bike is the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum in the Sea Pines community. Climb the 114 steps to the top for 360-degree views of the island, and plan your next stop on your bicycling journey. That next stop before you leave Harbour Town may very well be for a scoop of ice cream at Cups & Cones.

If you’d rather be out on the water than on dry land, there are plenty of options to do just that. Outside Hilton Head will get you, well, outside and onto the water in no time. Join a guided kayak tour and you’ll not only stretch your muscles, but learn a lot about the area’s history, as well as the plant and wildlife that make their homes here. You may even spot dolphins and manatees swimming in the same waters in which you’re paddling. If you’d rather not put effort into your time on the water, Outside offers boat tours, too. They’re also open to creating a customized day of fun just for your family — let them know what you’d like to do, and they’ll make it happen.

Photo: Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

Known for its golfing, your kids can get into the swing of things, too, at the International Junior Golf Academy in Hilton Head. Junior golfers in grades 5 to 12 can take advantage of the most comprehensive golf instruction in the world for golfers their age. IJGA is offering three-day mini camps over winter break this year, and weeklong and multi-week programs are available in the summers. Your kids can go fore it while you hit the links yourself. Or, for a more leisurely round, play a game of miniature golf at one of the island’s mini golf courses.

Photo: Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of options from which to choose on Hilton Head, from rental homes to all-out resorts. One to consider is Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, on the southeast side of the island tucked beside residential communities. Not only are the resort’s rooms spacious and comfortable, but so are its grounds, complete with a large pool for splashing. If you have a tee time you just can’t miss, or need some alone time, Sonesta’s Just for Kids program will watch your 3-12 year olds. Age-specific programs may include game time, beach adventures, swimming and arts and crafts, and sometimes even off-property adventures like visiting the firesStation, playing a round of miniature golf, going on a dolphin cruise or visiting The Sandbox, an interactive children’s museum (that you can visit on your own, too).

Photo: Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

We all know families can have at least one picky eater, but there’s no need to worry when visiting Hilton Head — the island boasts more than 250 restaurants, so you’re sure to find one that suits everyone’s tastes. Be sure to sample the Lowcountry cuisine (think shrimp and grits) when you’re on the island, and don’t miss the sunset from waterfront spots like Hudson’s. Or, enjoy oysters fresh from the water with a bushel from Bluffton Oyster Company.

With so many family-friendly options on Hilton Head, you’re sure to find the perfect way to spend time with your family.