50 Fun Things For Families
To Do on Hilton Head
Your ultimate guide to family fun on Hilton Head Island!
Published 2/22/2024
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
31. Discover The Zone
Prepare for a day of wonder and exploration at the Kids' Zone, where young adventurers can dive into interactive exhibits and hands-on activities designed just for them! Dress up in costumes from Colonial Days while playing the games of the era. Put puzzles together, create your own puppet show, or enjoy a book from the library of children’s books, or search through Native American pottery, replicas of artifacts, bones from loggerhead sea turtles, and a variety of shells from Hilton Head beaches.
• Location: Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive
• Best Time to Go: Anytime you're looking for indoor fun, whether it's a rainy day or a break from the sun's rays.
• Parent Tip: Before you go, check out the museum's website for any special events or programs happening during your visit. Encourage your little explorers to ask questions, touch, and explore everything they see – it's all part of the learning experience! And don't forget to bring along a camera to capture those priceless moments of discovery and excitement. Make sure you say hello to Diamondback Terrapin turtle, Myrtle.
32. Have a Family Ice Cream Social
Get ready for a super fun family treat – an ice cream social! Use our cool Ice Cream guide to find the perfect place to grab some scoops, sundaes, and smiles together. From classic cones to awesome creations, there's something yummy for everyone!
• Location: Check out any ice cream parlor in our Ice Cream guide or try out a new local spot nearby – it's all part of the adventure!
• Best Time to Go: Whenever you're in the mood for something sweet and fun, whether it's a sunny day or a cozy evening at home.
• Parent Tip: Make it extra special by letting each family member pick their favorite flavors and toppings. And why not turn it into a mini picnic? Grab a blanket, find a shady spot in the park, and enjoy your treats together. It's a simple way to create sweet memories with your loved ones!
33. Hang Ten with Surfing Lessons
Dive into the thrilling world of surfing. Whether you're a beginner catching your first wave or looking to improve your skills, experienced instructors will guide the whole family through the fundamentals of surfing in the beautiful waters of Hilton Head Island.
• Location: Native Son Adventures. Lessons are held at various beach locations, depending on conditions and skill levels.
• Best Time to Go: Surf lessons are available year-round, with optimal conditions typically found in the warmer months. Check the website or contact Native Son Adventures for current lesson availability and scheduling.
• Parent Tip: Book lessons in advance to secure your preferred date and time, especially during peak vacation seasons. Ensure your child is comfortable in the water and equipped with appropriate swimwear and sun protection. Encourage them to listen to their instructor, practice patience, and embrace the excitement of learning a new skill while enjoying the beauty of Hilton Head's coastline.
34. Dig In The Sand... Inside!
Get ready for a day of play and discovery at The Sandbox, a hands-on children's museum packed with interactive exhibits and activities! From building sandcastles to exploring imaginative play areas, there's endless fun for the whole family to enjoy.
• Location: The Sandbox,18A Pope Ave.
• Best Time to Go: Anytime you're looking for indoor fun, rain or shine!
• Parent Tip: Book your time slot on their website in advance! This is a great option for when the weather is rainy or simply too hot. Bring along a change of clothes for the little ones, as they're sure to get messy while exploring the sandboxes and water tables. Don't forget to check The Sandbox's website for any special events or exhibits happening during your visit.
35. Wing It With The Birds
Get ready for a fantastic family birdwatching adventure at the Audubon Newhall Preserve, courtesy of Hilton Head Island Audubon Society. Trek through this lush sanctuary on Hilton Head Island, where you'll be greeted by a symphony of bird calls and sightings. With its tranquil trails and diverse habitats, Newhall Preserve is the perfect playground for aspiring birdwatchers of all ages!
• Location: Audubon Newhall Preserve,
• Best Time to Go: Anytime the mood strikes! The preserve is open year-round for your avian exploration pleasure. Check the Hilton Head Audubon website for trail conditions and special events.
• Parent Tip: Dress comfortably and grab your binoculars, sunscreen, and bug spray, and hit the trails for a day of bird-spotting fun! Bring along a field guide or download a birding app to help identify the feathered friends you encounter. Encourage your little adventurers to listen for bird calls, spot nests, and marvel at the colors of nature's avian artists. It's a delightful way to bond as a family while discovering the beauty of Hilton Head's birdlife!
36. Glide Through The Skies
Experience the thrill of flying high above the sparkling waters of Hilton Head Island with a family parasailing adventure! Take to the skies and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and ocean breeze as you soar like a bird. With experienced guides and top-notch equipment, parasailing is unforgettable fun for all ages!
• Location: H2O Sports, 149 Lighthouse Rd. in Harbour Town
• Best Time to Go: Opt for morning or late afternoon sessions to enjoy calmer winds and milder temperatures. Parasailing is typically available during the warmer months, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Parent Tip: Before heading out, ensure everyone wears sunscreen and comfortable clothing suitable for water activities. Consider bringing waterproof cameras or smartphones to capture breathtaking aerial views. And don't forget to encourage each family member to embrace the adventure and enjoy the unforgettable experience of parasailing together!
37. Satisfy Your Need For Speed
Let the kids race or race as a family. Get your engines roaring and embark on a thrilling family adventure go-karting on Hilton Head Island! Experience the excitement of speeding around the track through twists, turns, and straightaways for an adrenaline packed experience. With well-maintained karts and a dynamic track layout designed for all skill levels, Adventure Cove ensures non-stop excitement and laughter for the whole family!
• Location: Adventure Hilton Head
• Best Time to Go: Plan your visit during weekdays or earlier in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy shorter wait times. Check Adventure Cove's website for current hours of operation.
• Parent Tip: Review their Requirements & Policies to be prepared and ensure that all riders fit the age, height, weight requirements. Before hitting the track, make sure everyone wears closed-toe shoes and follows safety guidelines provided by Adventure Cove. Consider purchasing multiple races to maximize your family's enjoyment and competitiveness.
Explore The Island In A Breeze
Hop aboard the Breeze Trolley for a delightful family excursion around Hilton Head Island! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views as you travel in comfort to various attractions, beaches, and shopping destinations. With convenient stops and friendly drivers, the Breeze Trolley offers a stress-free way to experience the best of Hilton Head with the whole family.
• Location: Various stops throughout Hilton Head Island. Visit the Breeze Trolley website for route maps and schedules.
• Best Time to Go: Take advantage of the trolley service during peak tourist seasons or busy weekends to avoid parking hassles and traffic congestion. Check the schedule for specific operating hours and plan your day accordingly.
• Parent Tip: Bring along snacks, drinks, and sunscreen for the journey, especially if you're traveling with young children. Consider purchasing an all-day pass for unlimited rides, allowing your family to hop on and off at multiple destinations throughout the day. And don't forget to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride while creating unforgettable memories with your family!
39. Sing Along With The Guys
Immerse yourself in the vibrant family entertainment scene of Hilton Head Island with live performances by the legendary Shannon Tanner, the beloved Gregg Russell, and the dynamic Jevon Daly! Each show offers a unique experience, from Shannon's pirate tales and sing-alongs and fireworks at Shelter Cove to Gregg's enchanting performances under the live oak in Harbour Town, and Jevon's lively performances at Coligny Plaza featuring songs like Sharks are our Homies and I've Got Sand In My Pants. These talented musicians create unforgettable moments for the entire family, often inviting kids up on stage for interactive fun.
• Location: Shannon Tanner: Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, Gregg Russell: Harbour Town, Jevon Daly: Coligny Plaza.
• Best Time to Go: Enjoy the lively performances during the busy season and holidays, when these entertainers are sure to captivate audiences with their energetic performances. Check the schedules for specific performance times and dates as they are generally set pretty far in advance.
• Parent Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot for the show, as these performances tend to draw large crowds, especially during peak times. Consider having any early dinner beforehand at one of the many Shelter Cove, Harbour Town or Coligny restaurants. Early dining also means early bird dinner and happy hour pricing, so this can be a low cost night out. Bring along some snacks and drinks for the show, and also a blanket or some chairs for seating comfort. And be sure to join in the fun with the kids by singing along and participating in the interactive elements of the shows!
40. Go Golfing... Virtually
Experience the excitement of golfing on world-renowned courses without leaving Hilton Head Island at Chronic Golf! Step into their state-of-the-art indoor facility and immerse yourself in virtual golf simulations that replicate the thrill of playing on iconic courses from around the globe. In addition to golf, there are over a dozen other virtual game options including sports like, football, basketball and soccer. With high-definition graphics and realistic gameplay, Chronic Golf offers a fun and engaging experience for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
• Location: Chronic Golf Hilton Head
• Best Time to Go: Chronic Golf is open year-round, providing the perfect indoor activity for those rainy days or when you want to escape the heat. Check their website or call ahead to inquire about availability and make reservations for your preferred time slot.
• Parent Tip: Chronic Golf offers a family-friendly environment, making it an excellent option for a fun outing with the kids. Encourage friendly competition by challenging each other to virtual golf matches, or simply enjoy the experience of playing together in a unique indoor setting. Don't forget to bring snacks and drinks to enjoy during your gaming session!
