Though Hilton Head is home to fewer than 40,000 residents, it is one of the most highly recommended coastal vacation destinations along the Eastern Seaboard, attracting roughly 2.5 million visitors annually. The island’s charm is difficult to put into words but instantly recognizable, beginning with the way locals rely on Hilton Head’s foot-shaped appearance to provide directions to visitors staying at Hilton Head vacation rentals (expect them to refer to the island’s toe, ankle or heel as geographic reference points).
Hilton Head’s 12 miles of powder-sand beaches are often the starting point when looking for an oceanfront vacation rental. Rozel Hilton Head located on Singleton Beach is perfect homebase for those looking for privacy and exclusivity. Known for its powder white stretch of unspoiled coastline, Singleton Beach is absolutely exquisite. Vacationers may also choose to visit local beaches such as Driessen, Folly Field and Islanders Beach which employ lifeguards during high season. Couples looking for a more remote and romantic beach experience may travel up the island’s heel to Fish Haul Beach.
Coligny Beach is undoubtedly Hilton Head’s most popular beach which benefits from the shops, restaurants, entertainment, and unique attractions at nearby Coligny Plaza. The beach is also popular among vacation rental guests with mobility issues as a conduit of rubber mats laid across the sand all the way to the sparkling Atlantic makes it easy to traverse.
While the island offers no shortage of boardwalks and trails for pedestrian exploration, it is nothing less than a bicyclist’s dream. Though less than 12 miles long and fewer than 5 miles wide, the island boasts more than 120 miles of pristine biking trails. In fact, Hilton Head is among a limited number of U.S. destinations awarded the coveted Gold Level by the League of American Bicyclists for its numerous scenic paths as well as it’s generally flat topography which makes cycling a breeze (not to mention the ocean breeze itself).
Beach biking is extremely popular on Hilton Head, with Burke Beach being one of the more notable spots due to the tightly packed sand near the water and the availability of wide-tired vacation rental bikes which make it easier to pedal across the sand.
Harbour Town, with its iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse—standing approximately 90 feet tall—is another great spot to explore. From the majestic views observed from the top of the lighthouse to the chic clothing boutiques, art galleries and unique shops and eateries that line the marina, travelers staying at vacation rentals in Hilton Head will not want to miss out on this shoppers paradise.
Of course, boating plays a prominent role in Hilton Head’s tourism offering with kayaks, Jet Skis and other vacation boat rentals available for visitors as well as numerous boat tours, including dolphin watching cruises and pirate adventures. A ferry to nearby Daufuskie Island, home to roughly 500 mostly-artisan residents—including John Mellencamp—is highly recommended.
Whether exploring by boat, by bike or by foot, take a moment to take in the picturesque Low Country nature. Miles of wetland boardwalk teeming with wildlife will be sure to bring out one’s inner poet.