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Hilton Head, South Carolina
Sometimes we feel like we have one of the best-kept vacation secrets: Hilton Head, South Carolina. Our summer is never quite complete without a trip to this beautiful island, even if it is only for a weekend. Just a short drive from home, this east coast paradise offers the best of everything.
We love the Carolina foliage, lush with Live Oaks. The island maintains much of it’s natural landscape. Aesthetically, it is alluring, but can make finding even the Wal-Mart, quite a challenge. It has taken us years to learn our way. With round-a-bouts and businesses under much-appreciated architectural controls, this island is a visual charm.
Harbor Town is our favorite venue. The marina offers a display of magnificent ocean vessels, unique shopping and savory dining. Crazy Crab’s Restaurant is always a must, (their hush puppies are amazing!) and the lengthy seating wait usually gives our party time to venture to the lighthouse for a calorie-burning climb and spectacular birds-eye view of the harbor. After dinner we enjoy creative, live entertainment on the boardwalk, nestled beneath sprawling oaks. It is a family friendly experience you will not want to miss. Do not forget your camera and do not be shy about parking just inside Sea Pines and boarding the shuttle trolley for convenience and adventure!
The Hilton Head Island coast is gorgeous, with natural, preserved sea oats and sand dunes. The sand is darker on this eastern coast; it’s packed consistency makes for an easy walk or run on the beach. The waves are frequently impressive here, and, consequently, surfing is an exciting plus. Many residents and vacationers also enjoy early morning and evening play with their family dog on the pet-friendly beaches.
There are plenty of condos, townhomes and beach houses to rent for your stay. We have tried several different options, but the private beach home is our favorite. Twice we have had the pleasure of staying in the Surfside House, as seen in the ad below. This established beach front home is perfect for large groups, comfortably, sleeping up to 12. It offers an open kitchen and living area with wall-to-wall glass overlooking the ocean. It’s own private swimming pool is beach front as well. You can actually sit at the pool and watch friends and family on the beach.
This North Forest Beach home is also near Coligny Beach, which is the public hub of the island. Shop at Coligny Plaza for great treasures. We love the Black Market Mineral store. Also, make sure you visit the Market Street Cafe. We tried it out on our last trip and it was an absolutely scrumptious lunch.
Another noteable area of the island to experience is Shelter Cove, in the Palmetto Dunes area, which has many fine restaurants and a Disney resort. Hilton Head is also a favorite among golfers, with it’s beautiful, lush green courses. There is something here for the entire family.
We hope we have tempted you to give Hilton Head a try. May you and your family have a memorable vacation!