Ultimate Hilton Head Travel Guide 2025

1. Welcome to Hilton Head Island — From Someone Who’s Seen It All

Pack your flip-flops, charge your camera, and get ready to explore one of the most beloved destinations in the South — through the eyes of someone who’s called it home for almost 30 years.

Hi! I’m Kellie McCann, a longtime local, beach portrait photographer, and former photojournalist here in the Lowcountry. I’m also a proud former New Yorker who — like many others — traded snow boots for sandy toes and migrated south in search of sunshine and Southern charm. I’ve seen Hilton Head Island change in big ways — from sleepy beach town to world-class vacation spot — and I’ve been right in the middle of it, camera in hand, since 1996. From covering local festivals and shrimp boat docks for the newspaper, to capturing barefoot toddlers racing through the surf, I’ve lived and breathed this island for decades.

Back in the day, I had a cozy studio in Old Town Bluffton — long before it became the charming, high-end shopping district it is now. These days, you’ll spot my studio just past Moss Creek if you're headed toward the bridge onto Hilton Head Island. (Yep, right before paradise officially begins.)

This isn’t your standard travel guide. This is the *real deal*, built on years of experience and love for this land of 12 miles of pristine beaches, sun-kissed porches, and that signature laid-back Lowcountry charm. Whether you’re here for a beach week with the kids, a romantic escape, or your first oyster roast, I’ve got you covered with insider insight and local flavor.

Recognized as America’s Favorite Island®, Hilton Head offers something for everyone — pristine beaches, world-class golf, hidden food gems, and unforgettable family moments. We’ll also touch on special 2025 events like the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament and Bluffton’s Mayfest, both springtime favorites among locals and visitors alike.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make your next Hilton Head getaway your best yet — from where to stay and what to eat, to how to capture those once-in-a-lifetime beach memories. So grab your cup of sweet tea, kick back in a rocking chair, and let’s get started!

2. Where to Stay on Hilton Head Island in 2025

Choosing where to stay on Hilton Head can set the tone for your entire trip. From beachside resorts to quiet golf communities and historic Bluffton charm, there’s a perfect place for every kind of traveler.

Coligny Beach is one of the island’s most popular areas for public beach access, offering shops, restaurants, and great people-watching — not to mention a beachside bar scene at the iconic Tiki Hut. Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes are also favorites, with bike paths, coastal views, and plenty of family-friendly fun.

If you're drawn to peaceful riverfront luxury, look just off the island to Montage Palmetto Bluff. It’s a stunning resort tucked along the May River — and yes, it’s where Justin Bieber got married. With mossy oaks, timeless architecture, and Lowcountry elegance, it’s also one of my favorite spots for portrait photography.

And don’t forget Old Town Bluffton — where I had my first photography studio! These days, it's packed with art galleries, boutique shops, and Southern charm just a short drive from the beach.

👉 Want the full breakdown of neighborhoods, resorts, and vacation rentals?  Stay tuned — I’ll be sharing a detailed blog post soon with all my favorite spots, tips, and hidden gems!

COMING SOON! Check out the full post: Where to Stay in Hilton Head: 2025 Guide to Resorts, Rentals & Hidden Gems

3. Best Things to Do on Hilton Head Island

If you’re wondering what to do beyond the beach chair and sunscreen, Hilton Head has a little something for everyone — from active adventurers and foodies to history buffs and families with little ones.

Start your day by renting bikes and exploring the island’s 60+ miles of scenic, shady paths (pro tip: beach biking during low tide is a local favorite). Get up close with nature on a kayaking tour through Broad Creek or visit the Coastal Discovery Museum to learn about the island’s wildlife and Gullah culture.

For family fun, spend the afternoon mini golfing, dolphin watching, or climbing to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Couples and food lovers will love the live music, oysters, and sunset views at Hudson’s Seafood on the Docks or the elegant ambiance at ELA’s on the Water.

And don’t forget — there’s always a festival or event happening, especially in spring when the RBC Heritage Golf Tournament and Bluffton Mayfest take over the calendar.

🎉 Want the full activity list? Stay tuned — a full adventure guide is on the way with all the must-do experiences, local tips, and can’t-miss fun!

COMING SOON! Check out the complete guide: Best Things to Do in Hilton Head: 2025 Activity & Adventure Guide

💬 Have a favorite Hilton Head memory or a question about visiting? Leave a comment below or send me a message — I’d love to hear from you and help you plan the perfect Lowcountry getaway!

4. Where to Eat & Drink on Hilton Head Island

If there’s one thing Hilton Head knows how to do right (besides sunsets), it’s food. From upscale seafood dinners to casual beach bites and cozy coffee shops, there’s something to please every palate — and trust me, I’ve taste-tested plenty over the years.

Skull Creek Boathouse is a local favorite for good reason — waterfront dining, breezy patios, and one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset. It’s also a great place to see shrimp boats cruise by while you sip and savor. Their Sunday brunch is a go-to if you’re easing into your weekend or just not rushing to the beach.

For an upscale date night or a special celebration, you can’t go wrong with ELA’s on the Water. It’s elegant, coastal, and perfect for sunset views with a glass of wine. And yes, Hudson’s on the Docks still makes the list — they serve up shrimp straight off the boat, with unbeatable views and that classic Lowcountry vibe.

Looking for something casual? Java Burrito serves up quick, delicious Tex-Mex and locally roasted coffee, while Nectar Farm Kitchen is a farm-to-table gem with Southern-inspired breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Frankie Bones offers retro steakhouse vibes and is always a solid pick for comfort food with flair.

The Tiki Hut also deserves a shoutout — the menu isn’t exactly my favorite, but let’s be honest: no one’s going there for the culinary excellence. It’s the beachy drinks, the live music, and that sand-between-your-toes energy that makes it a must-stop for the full Hilton Head vibe.

🍴 Stay tuned! I’ll be sharing a full foodie guide soon with all my favorite restaurants, hidden gems, and where to grab the best shrimp and grits on the island.