Islands near Charleston, South Carolina from north to south:

Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Edisto Island, Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island

Discovered by English sea captain William Hilton in 1663, Hilton Head Island boasts some of the most luxurious accommodations in the country. The development of the island began in the 1950s, when Charles Fraser developed Sea Pines Plantation.

The largest sea island between New Jersey and Florida, Hilton Head covers 42 square miles of broad beaches, nine marinas, over two dozen championship golf courses, and more tennis courts than any other resort of its size. Shopping abounds on the island. Hilton Head’s four main resort communities of Palmetto Dunes, Port Royal Resort, Sea Pines Plantation, and Shipyard Plantation offer a wide variety of accommodations, including villas, houses, inns, and oceanfront hotels.

While on Hilton Head Island, you may wish to explore the Indian shell ring at Sea Pines Forest Preserve. The ring is believed to have been built around the same time as the great pyramids. Scientists believe that it was intended as a refuse heap, with oysters, clams, and mussel shells, as well as the bones of deer, raccoons, bear, and fish. The ring is approximately 150 feet in diameter and several feet deep and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Explore more than four miles of Hilton Head Island’s pristine beach, maritime forests and salt marshes. Observe white-tailed deer and more than 125 species of birds. Fish for whiting, spot, bass, and drum. Campsites and cabins are within easy walking distance to the ocean.

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