Make Memories and Photos with 8 Can't-Miss Family Activities in Hilton Head
A family vacation at Hilton Head is a time to form beautiful memories. Sometimes it is hard to find fun activities that the family will enjoy when traveling with kids. Fortunately, there are so many activities for kids in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
Be sure to bring your camera and make memories by spending time at any of these family-friendly Hilton Head attractions.
1. Pirates of Hilton Head
Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Arrg, do your kids like pirates? During this action-packed 90-minute adventure, your kids can be pirates on a real Coast Guard-certified boat. This activity is suitable for children aged two through eight.
From the start, your kids will meet the crew of the Black Sparrow, who will guide them on their seafaring fun. First, the kids will transform themselves into pirates with scarves, eye patches, and fun accessories. Then they will enjoy a boat ride in the Calibogue Sound. They join in with songs, games, a treasure hunt, and even get to fire a water cannon. If you have a stroller, you can fold it and leave it with the dock crew. Also, be aware that the boat doesn’t have a restroom, so plan accordingly.
2. The Sandbox
Location: 80 Nassau Street, Hilton Head Island, S.C. 29928
The Sandbox is an interactive museum and playground that promotes “hands on discovery and imaginative play.” Kids can dress up using costumes and accessories to become a princess, a pirate, or just about anything they can dream up. If your child is fascinated by flight, the flight deck, complete with pilot uniforms, may be their go-to. The fun is both indoors and outdoors since the patio contains exhibits like a music wall, pool noodle first and more fun surprises.
In addition to the standing exhibits and play areas, The Sandbox has a busy calendar of family-friendly events like STEM activities, reptile or animal encounters, or puppet shows. Be sure to see what’s on during your visit. While kids love The Sandbox, some adults can’t resist joining in on the fun with their family.
3. Vagabond Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Location: 149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
If you really want to make happy memories, it’s hard to beat seeing an adorable dolphin playing during sunset. A 90-minute cruise gives you the chance to see some of the island’s most breathtaking sights. The ship’s knowledgeable naturalist captain narrates the tour and shows you some of the unspoiled estuaries behind Bull Island. Vagabond guarantees you will see a dolphin since they know the best places to go.
The ship has a small bathroom and snack bar, and beer and wine service. Cruises run rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the projected weather. Be sure to come ready to take pictures!
4. Lawton Stables
Location: 190 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
If your family includes animal lovers, Lawton Stables is a must-do! With a small animal farm, the price of admission includes a cup of approved food to feed the animals. You may see goats, miniature donkeys, pot-bellied pigs, alpacas, ponies, and chickens. The stables offer a guided walking tour where you can see how they feed and care for the horses.
While you are here, you can’t leave without a ride. They have three options depending on your interests and the age of the participants. The little ones aged 18 months to seven years may enjoy a pony ride. The whole family may enjoy a one-hour carriage ride touring the Sea Pines Forest Preserve narrated by the driver. People aged eight and older may take a trail ride, which is one of the best ways to explore the Lowcountry as you meander through forests and by lakes on horseback.
5. Hilton Head Island Bike Trails
Location: Various entry points, see All trails or Trip Advisor to find the closest trail
Hilton Head Island has an extensive network of bike trails, making it easy to get around to the shops, beaches, and nature trails. If you didn’t bring your own bike, you can rent one from Outfitters and also pick up a trail map while you are there.
During your ride you may get a chance to see local trees, flowers, and wildlife. Be careful since some of the trails have natural safety concerts like overhanging branches, roots, and areas without guardrails. We recommend using an app like All Trails or Ride with GPS to get the details on the paths closest to you. You can easily spend the day exploring by bike or just enjoy a short ride to an attraction like a beach or park.
6. Coligny Beach
Location: One Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Chances are you came to Hilton Head Island for the beach, it just so happens that Coligny Beach is one of the most popular oceanfront parks in the area. The park features boardwalk access to the beach and chair rental so you can chill while your kids play in the sand. It’s a designated swimming area with an on-duty lifeguard during the peak season of April 1 through September 30. If you are lucky, you might even spot marine mammals like dolphins!
The parking lot is free, and the beach has ADA features like mobimat and free beach wheelchairs. This attraction comes with a family-friendly bonus. Lowcountry Celebration Park is near the Coligny Beach parking lot. Your kids can blow off steam playing on the Adventure Ship Playground or cooling off in the wading pool. Why not take a photo near some of the public art, such as the "Carolina Parakeet" Sculpture?
7. Coastal Discovery Museum
Location: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926
This 70-acre property offers ample opportunities to learn about the local environment, plants, wildlife, and its history. Check the schedule if you want to join a guided tour or one of the museum’s excursions. The activities vary seasonally and may include bird watching or a kayak tour through the marshes.
Daily activities include access to a fitness walking trail, nature trails to explore, and a pavilion with grills. The museum’s three boardwalks lead you on self-guided tours with educational signage. Views include salt marshes and waterways. If you are observant, you might even see fishing birds in action.
8. Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum
Location: 149 Lighthouse Road. Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
You may notice the bright red and white striped lighthouse right away. It’s been the face of the island for the past 50 years. You can climb the 114-step lighthouse to the top for a better view of the area and the waters. The lights flash every thirty minutes. The Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum also has exhibits like the Coast Guard Exhibit and hosts special events like talks and author readings.
Like any attraction, it has a gift shop and is an easy walk from other shops and boutiques in the area. People use the lighthouse as a wedding and special occasion venue, so don’t be surprised if you see people posing for photos.
Wherever your Hilton Head adventures take your family, you will need a home away from home during your stay. Our partner Bestnest by Beverly Serral Vacation Rentals offers accommodation with special amenities like a private pool, grills, or a balcony. Owner Beverly Serral vacationed in Hilton Head with her family while growing up so she knows first hand how special this place is.
