Planning a trip to Hilton Head Island and wondering how much you can realistically fit into three days? I’ve got you covered!
My family and I have been coming to Hilton Head for years, so I’ve had plenty of time to explore the island and figure out what’s actually worth doing. Three days is a great amount of time to experience everything Hilton Head has to offer without feeling too rushed.
This itinerary includes a trip to Daufuskie Island and time in Harbour Town, as well as the chance to go kayaking or dolphin watching. And of course, I’ve also left plenty of time for the beach and some amazing Lowcountry food! I’ve included timings, driving information, and all of the need-to-know logistics, so all you need to do is follow along and enjoy yourself. Let’s get into it!
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My Top Choice

The tour I loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
My FAVORITE thing I did on Hilton Head Island was this guided Daufuskie Island tour! I cruised over by boat, spotted dolphins along the way, then explored the island by golf cart while learning about its fascinating Gullah history!
- My Top Choice
- Itinerary Overview
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Breakfast – Carolina Coffee & Crumbs
- Morning – Explore Shelter Cove
- Quick Lunch – Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta House
- Early afternoon – Uncover the incredible stories of Daufuskie Island
- Evening – Spend time exploring Harbour Town
- Dinner – Dine out in Harbour Town
- Evening – Enjoy one final walk around the marina
- Day 3
- Where to Stay on Hilton Head Island
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Book your Airport Taxi in advance
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Itinerary Overview


Hilton Head Island is pretty spread out, so I definitely advise having a rental car or your own vehicle for this itinerary. Most of the places I recommend visiting are only around 10-25 minutes apart, but having a car makes it much easier to get around! Just remember that if you’re driving into Sea Pines to visit Harbour Town, there’s a vehicle entry fee.
If you can, it’s best to stay close to Coligny Beach. It’s one of the most convenient areas on the island, with the beach and plenty of restaurants within walking distance. It also means you can leave the car behind for quite a few of the meals and evening activities in this itinerary – yay!
And to make sure that you don’t miss out on any of my favorite Hilton Head experiences, I recommend booking your tours and hotel well in advance, especially if you’re visiting during the summer. I like to do this a few months ahead of time if possible! Restaurant reservations are a good idea, too, although you don’t need to make these as far ahead.
🚲 Day 1: E-Bike Around the Island and Relax at Coligny Beach
Explore Hilton Head by e-bike, visit the Coastal Discovery Museum, and finish the day with some downtime at Coligny Beach.
🏝️ Day 2: Discover Daufuskie Island and Explore Harbour Town
Explore Shelter Cove and grab a quick lunch before taking a guided tour to Daufuskie Island, then spend the evening exploring Harbour Town and its famous lighthouse.
🐬 Day 3: Kayak or Spot Dolphins and Enjoy Coligny Beach
Choose between a guided kayaking tour or a dolphin-watching cruise, then enjoy a flexible final afternoon before dinner and drinks near Coligny Beach.
*This itinerary was crafted around staying in the Coligny Beach area of Hilton Head Island.
Hilton Head Island is fairly spread out, so where you stay can make a big difference when it comes to exploring the island. We’ve based this itinerary around staying near Coligny Beach, which makes it easy to enjoy the beach, restaurants, and nearby attractions without spending all your time in the car. Courtyard by Marriott Hilton Head Island is our favorite hotel in the area because it’s just a couple of blocks from the beach and offers great value. Read our blog about where to stay in Hilton Head for more detailed info about hotels and areas.
Day 1
Breakfast – Plantation Cafe & Deli

We’re starting bright and early this morning! You can always grab breakfast at your hotel, but if you fancy heading out, we recommend Plantation Cafe & Deli. The South End location is right by Coligny Beach, so it’s super convenient if you’re staying nearby.
The cafe has served Southern-style breakfasts on Hilton Head Island for almost 50 years, so it is a great place to kick off the trip with something local! You’ll find all of the classics on the menu, including shrimp and grits, crab cake Benedict, and fried green tomatoes. If you want something hearty before this morning’s e-bike tour, the Plantation Breakfast is a good shout.
Try to leave at around 8:15 am, as you’ll need roughly 20 minutes to drive to Shelter Cove Marina, park up, and check in for your 9 am tour.
Morning – Explore Hilton Head’s pathways by e-bike


After breakfast, drive around 20 minutes to Shelter Cove Marina for this 2-hour guided e-bike tour. Hilton Head has miles of bike trails, so exploring on two wheels is one of the best ways to get a feel for the island. And if you don’t fancy working too hard first thing in the morning, the e-bike makes things much easier!
The tour starts at Shelter Cove, where your guide will show you how to use your Pedego electric bike before you set off. So if you’ve never ridden an e-bike before, don’t worry. They’re pretty simple to get the hang of, and the electric assistance means you can cover plenty of ground without tiring yourself out too much.
As you ride along Hilton Head’s pathways, your guide will share stories about the island’s history and wildlife, and Lowcountry culture more generally. You’ll come away knowing a lot more about the island!
Another big plus is that the group is capped at just six people, so you won’t be trying to follow a huge line of bikes around the island. The tour lasts around two hours, finishing at roughly 11 am, which works perfectly with your next stop for lunch at Shelter Cove.
Lunch – Poseidon


After the e-bike tour, I recommend sticking around Shelter Cove for lunch rather than heading all the way back toward Coligny. Poseidon is just a short walk away through Shelter Cove Towne Centre, and it has lovely views over Broad Creek. If the weather’s nice, try to grab a table on the covered patio to make the most of the vistas!
Unsurprisingly, seafood is the big draw here! I went for shrimp and grits (when in the South, right?), but they also have burgers, salads, and sushi if you’re not much of a seafood lover.
Poseidon can get busy, especially during summer and on weekends, so making a reservation is a good idea. I booked a table for 12 pm, and my family and I took a little time to check out Shelter Cove Towne Centre on our way over after the tour. We had a leisurely lunch and spent about 1.5 hours here, before driving 10 minutes over to the Coastal Discovery Museum for this afternoon’s sightseeing.
Afternoon – Learn all about Hilton Head’s Lowcountry heritage


After lunch, drive around 10 minutes to the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn. It’s the perfect place to learn more about Hilton Head beyond the beaches, and admission is free, although donations are encouraged.
The museum spans a historic 70-acre (28-hectare) property, so there’s much more to see than the indoor exhibits. You can wander beneath huge live oaks and follow the nature trails, enjoying views across the salt marsh along the way. There’s even a butterfly habitat! In fact, it almost feels like part museum, part nature walk!
Inside, the exhibits cover the Lowcountry’s wildlife, ecology, history, and Gullah culture, giving you a much better sense of the island and the people who have shaped it. Allow about two hours, which gives you enough time to see the main exhibits and wander the grounds without rushing.
It’s also worth checking the museum’s schedule before you visit, as it often has guided walks, wildlife programs, workshops, and seasonal events. Once you’re done, head back toward Coligny for a little downtime before hitting the beach later this afternoon.
Late afternoon – Relax beside the ocean at Coligny Beach


After a busy morning and afternoon, head back toward Coligny and spend a couple of hours relaxing at Coligny Beach Park. This is one of Hilton Head’s most popular public beaches, so it’s definitely not a hidden gem, but that also means there are loads of handy facilities, including restrooms, outdoor showers, changing areas, shaded seating, and even beach matting to make getting onto the sand easier.
My family really likes coming here later in the afternoon, when the heat is starting to ease off, and the whole pace feels a little more relaxed. You can go for a swim, take a walk, or just find a spot and read for a while after all that cycling earlier!
Beach access is completely free, and if you’re staying near Coligny, like we always do, you can walk over without worrying about parking. I’d head back to the hotel at around 6:30 pm, so you’ve got plenty of time to rinse off and get ready for dinner.
Dinner – The Sandbar

For dinner tonight, I’d keep things nice and easy with The Sandbar Beach Eats, a lively spot near Coligny Plaza. If you’re staying close to Coligny Beach, you can even walk here!
The menu mixes Lowcountry seafood with Southern and Caribbean flavors, so there are plenty of fun things to try. My kids loved the loaded hush puppies, while I was very tempted by the chargrilled oysters! We also tried the tacos and Parmesan-crusted grouper for our mains, and everything was delicious. There were also a few good meat-free options for anyone looking for something plant-based.
The Sandbar is pretty popular, especially during summer and on weekend evenings, but it’s also walk-in only. The coolest places always are! You might have to wait for a little bit, but the queue tends to move fairly quickly, and the food and vibes make it all worth it.
Evening – Wander through Coligny Plaza after dusk
If you’ve still got some energy left after dinner, spend a little time wandering around Coligny Plaza. You can browse any shops that are still open and maybe grab an ice cream before heading back to your hotel. The Ice Cream Cone is popular and has lots of fun flavors, like brown butter bourbon (yum) and black raspberry chip!
Another lovely option is to take an evening walk along Coligny Beach, especially if it’s a warm evening. But no worries if you want to head straight to bed instead – after an early start and a busy first day, you’ve definitely earned a good rest. And the good news is that if you’re staying near Coligny Beach, you should only be a short walk from your accommodation whenever you decide to call it a night.
Day 2
Breakfast – Carolina Coffee & Crumbs

We’ve got another early start this morning, so you can either grab breakfast at your hotel or head to Carolina Coffee & Crumbs, a cute little cafe near Coligny Beach.
And despite the name, this is definitely not just a coffee-and-pastry situation! The breakfast menu is pretty impressive. If you’re hungry, the Tips & Grits comes with cheddar grits, beef tenderloin, eggs, and hollandaise, which should definitely keep you going through this morning’s tour. And of course, there’s plenty of coffee too, including cold brews and flavored lattes, so caffeinate accordingly!
This spot opens at 7 am, and I’d aim to get there around 7:30 am. You don’t need to rush through breakfast, but try to leave by around 8:30 am. It’s roughly a 20-minute drive from Coligny Beach to Shelter Cove, so you’ll have a couple of hours to explore before lunch and your Daufuskie Island tour.
Morning – Explore Shelter Cove

Before your Daufuskie Island tour this afternoon, spend a couple of hours exploring Shelter Cove. It’s a nice way to ease into the day, with plenty to see and do without needing to squeeze in another major attraction.
Start with a stroll around Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, where you can wander along the waterfront, admire the boats, and enjoy the views over Broad Creek. Then, head over to Shelter Cove Towne Centre to browse some of the shops and grab a coffee or a little treat if you’re in the mood.
If you’re traveling with kids, Shelter Cove Community Park is another fun option, with a playground and plenty of space to let them run around for a bit. I’d spend around two hours here before grabbing a quick lunch and heading back to the marina.
Quick Lunch – Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta House

This morning’s Daufuskie Island tour starts at 1 pm, so after spending some time exploring Shelter Cove, you’ll probably be ready for a quick bite before heading to the marina. I recommend stopping at Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta House, which is right in The Plaza at Shelter Cove and just a few minutes from the harbour.
Giuseppi’s has been a Hilton Head favorite for more than 40 years, and it’s a great spot for a casual lunch. My family loves the pizza here, and our favorite is the Giuseppi’s Special, which is loaded with toppings, but you can also build your own if none of the house options tickle your fancy.
Short on time? You can easily grab a slice to go, which is what I’d recommend for this itinerary. There are also plenty of other options if pizza isn’t calling your name, including pasta, chicken parms, and their signature Weggies, which are basically folded pizza sandwiches – yum! If you have a little more time, you can sit down and enjoy your meal, and they even have zeppoli (deep-fried Italian donuts) on the menu if you’re in the mood for something sweet.
Giuseppi’s doesn’t take reservations, so there may be a short wait during busy times. I’d aim to grab lunch around 11:30 am and head back to Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina by about 12:15 pm, giving you plenty of time to get ready for your 1 pm Daufuskie Island tour.
Early afternoon – Uncover the incredible stories of Daufuskie Island


Of everything my family and I did in Hilton Head, this guided tour of Daufuskie Island was our favorite! Most days, the tour starts at 1 pm from Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, but it’s best to arrive about 30 minutes early to ensure you have plenty of time to park and get checked in before boarding.
Even the journey there is part of the fun! Daufuskie is only accessible by boat, and the cruise across the waterways gives you some lovely views of Hilton Head and the surrounding islands. We even spotted dolphins on the way over! Of course, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but keep your eyes peeled because there’s plenty to look out for.
Once we reached Daufuskie, we swapped the boat for golf carts and headed off to explore the island. The tour covers historic sites like the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School, along with local artisan stops, so there’s loads of variety packed into the experience.
For us, though, learning about Daufuskie’s Gullah history was the most fascinating part. Hearing the stories while actually visiting the places connected to them made everything feel so much more real, and it gave us a completely different perspective on this part of South Carolina.
We absolutely loved this tour and honestly think that if you only book one experience in Hilton Head, this should be it! The whole experience lasts around 4.5 hours, so you’ll arrive back at Shelter Cove at roughly 5:30 pm. From here, it’s an easy 15–20-minute drive to Harbour Town.
Evening – Spend time exploring Harbour Town


After your Daufuskie Island tour, head over to Harbour Town. It’s one of Hilton Head’s most recognizable spots, so it’s definitely worth spending a bit of time here. This is where you’ll find the famous red-and-white lighthouse, plus a very pretty marina where you can watch the boats coming and going.
If the lighthouse is still open when you arrive, head here first so you have time to climb to the top. Admission costs $8 USD, and the views over Calibogue Sound are 100% worth it – plus, there are displays about Hilton Head’s history and maritime heritage on the way up. Even if you don’t fancy the climb, it’s still worth coming down to see the lighthouse from below!
After that, take your time exploring the marina. We loved browsing the boutiques here, and we even stopped by the huge Liberty Oak to catch some live music.
Just remember that Harbour Town sits inside the gated Sea Pines community, so there’s a vehicle entry fee if you’re driving in. Parking can also be tricky around Harbour Town, but there is valet parking available toward the back of the parking lot if you can’t find a spot. Once you’re done exploring, stick around for dinner at one of our Harbour Town picks below!
Dinner – Dine out in Harbour Town

For dinner tonight, I’ve got two great options in Harbour Town depending on what kind of evening you’re after and, perhaps more importantly, what you can actually get a table for! Both restaurants keep you right in Harbour Town, which means you can enjoy dinner and then stick around for an evening walk by the marina.
The Quarterdeck
If you fancy something a little more special, I’d go for The Quarterdeck, which sits right beside the lighthouse and offers gorgeous harbor views from its wraparound deck. The menu is designed to showcase the very best of Lowcountry seafood with dishes like charcoal-roasted oysters and local catch on the menu, but there are also options like filet mignon and honey-glazed chicken if you’ve had enough seafood by now!
The Quarterdeck is perfect for a romantic evening, or just dinner with a view. But unsurprisingly, it’s very popular, so this is somewhere you would need to book well in advance!
The Crazy Crab
For something a bit more casual, there’s The Crazy Crab, which is one of the places my family and I always like to come back to. There are lots of great options for the kids, and the fun, laid-back atmosphere makes it an easy choice for a family dinner. We came here and ordered the steamed seafood pot to share, which meant we got to sample lobster, shrimp, snow crab legs, and oysters in one delicious meal!
We still made a reservation here as this is another popular spot, but it’s a lot more casual and you don’t need to do it quite as far in advance.
Evening – Enjoy one final walk around the marina

After dinner, take a little time to wander around Harbour Town while everything is lit up for the evening. The marina looks so pretty after dark, with the lighthouse glowing in the background and boats lined up along the water.
If you’re traveling with kids, there’s also a fun playground nearby that’s especially nice once the sun goes down and the temperature cools off. It’s a great way to let the kids burn off some energy before heading back to your hotel.
Not ready to head home just yet? Stop for a drink at The Quarterdeck’s rooftop bar, which has sweeping views over Harbour Town and Calibogue Sound. Otherwise, make your way back to Coligny Beach whenever you’re ready – it’s around a 20-minute drive from here, depending on traffic.
Day 3
Breakfast – Watusi Cafe

For a great spot to start your final morning, Watusi Cafe is a locally owned spot just a couple of blocks from Coligny Beach. The coffee bar opens at 7 am, and the kitchen gets going from 7:30 am, so it’s the perfect spot to fuel up before either of this morning’s tours.
There’s loads to choose from, but the crab Benedict or one of the amazing bagels would be our top choice this morning! There are also plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options on the menu as well, so this place should suit pretty much everyone.
Watusi doesn’t take reservations, although you can join the Google waitlist before you arrive to ensure you can snag a table! You’ll probably want to get here just before 8 am so it shouldn’t be too busy at that time anyway. Then, try to leave by around 8:45 am, as it takes roughly 15 minutes to reach Shelter Cove Marina for the kayak tour, or less than 10 minutes to get to Palmetto Bay Marina for the dolphin cruise.
Morning – Choose your Lowcountry wildlife adventure

For this morning, I’ve got two popular ways to explore Hilton Head’s waterways, depending on your interests and how active you’re feeling! You can either paddle through the salt marshes on a guided kayak tour or take things a little easier on a dolphin-watching cruise. Departure times vary, especially for the tide-dependent kayak tour, so I recommend choosing an option that gets you back around midday, but don’t stress too much as this afternoon is flexible.
Option 1 – Paddle through the salt marshes on a guided kayak tour


One of the best ways to experience Hilton Head’s Lowcountry scenery is from the water, and this 2-hour guided kayaking tour takes you right through the heart of it! It starts at Shelter Cove Marina, where you’ll get a quick paddling lesson before heading out into Broad Creek. You’ll explore salt marshes and smaller creeks along the way, so this is a lovely chance to see a quieter side of Hilton Head.
Of course, one of the most exciting parts is looking for wildlife! Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are often spotted around Broad Creek, and you may also see manatees during the warmer months, plus plenty of birdlife along the way. How cool is that?
Your naturalist guide will also teach you about the local ecosystem and Hilton Head’s history as you paddle, so there’s much more to this tour than simply kayaking around for a couple of hours.
And don’t worry if you’ve never kayaked before because no previous experience is necessary. You’ll get all of the equipment you need, including your kayak, paddle, and life jacket, and there’s a safety briefing before you head out.
We think this is such a fun choice for nature lovers, especially if you want to get active while seeing some of Hilton Head’s wildlife up close. Just remember that departure times can vary with the tides, so choose a morning slot that gets you back around lunchtime.
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Option 2 – Cruise around Hilton Head in search of dolphins


If you’d rather enjoy Hilton Head’s wildlife without doing any paddling, this 90-minute dolphin cruise is such a fun alternative! The tour leaves from Palmetto Bay Marina and cruises through the calm waters around Hilton Head, so you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery, keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins, of course!
The best thing about this tour is that it has a dolphin sighting guarantee. Yup, Hilton Head is home to THAT many Atlantic bottlenose dolphins! We loved watching them in the wild, but there’s plenty more to look out for too, including lots of seabirds and all of that beautiful Lowcountry scenery.
Our guide also shared lots of interesting information about the dolphins and the surrounding ecosystem as we cruised, so we got to learn along the way. This is definitely the easier-going option of the two morning tours, so it’s a great choice for families or anyone who doesn’t fancy kayaking first thing! It only lasts around 90 minutes too, which means you’ll still have plenty of time for lunch and the rest of today’s itinerary.
Lunch – One Hot Mama’s BBQ

After your morning on the water, head to One Hot Mama’s BBQ for lunch! It’s around a 10-15 minute drive from Shelter Cove Marina and even closer if you’ve chosen the dolphin cruise, so it goes nicely with either option.
This place is all about proper Southern barbecue and is even part of the official South Carolina BBQ Trail. Yup, it’s got credentials! And with items like honey jalapeño cornbread and 15-hour smoked brisket, we would recommend arriving hungry.
There are also some really yummy dessert options like banana pudding and pecan pie, but we were too full! After this, the afternoon is flexible, with options to play mini golf, explore Coligny some more, or sink into your food coma at the beach.
Afternoon – Spend your afternoon your way!


Spend some more time in Coligny Plaza
We only had a quick wander through Coligny Plaza on Day 1, so this afternoon is your chance to explore it in depth! There are more than 60 shops and restaurants here, so it’s a fun place to browse without needing much of a plan.
You’ll find everything from Hilton Head souvenirs and beachwear to jewelry, gifts, and local food products. There are also plenty of places to stop for ice cream and fudge while you’re wandering around, although maybe don’t go too wild with dinner coming up later!
There’s often live music and seasonal entertainment here too, especially during summer, so it’s worth checking what’s on while you’re visiting. Opening hours vary between individual stores, but the plaza is generally busiest through the afternoon and early evening.
Get your tan on at the beach
If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to the beach yet, this is your chance to squeeze in one last visit to Coligny Beach! You can go for a swim, take a walk along the sand, rent a chair during the main season, or simply find a spot by the ocean and do absolutely nothing for a while. All of the above sound good to us!
Coligny Beach Park has excellent facilities too, including restrooms and outdoor showers. There are seasonal lifeguards and free public parking off Pope Avenue, although it can fill up pretty quickly during summer and on weekends.
I’ve already included some beach time on Day 1, so this is definitely an optional extra. But if sunshine and sea are your idea of the perfect final afternoon, we say go for it!

Play miniature golf at Legendary Golf
If you fancy doing something a bit more playful this afternoon, head to Legendary Golf, which is only a few minutes from One Hot Mama’s. This family-run spot has two beautifully landscaped 18-hole courses spread across four shaded acres, so it’s a fun little change of pace from all the beaches and boat trips!
You can choose between the Professional Course or the slightly trickier Championship Course, both of which wind around water features and tropical landscaping. One round usually takes around an hour to an hour and a half, so it fits really nicely into the afternoon.
You normally don’t need to book ahead, so this is a good last-minute option if the mood suddenly strikes! Once you’re done, head back to the hotel at around 5 pm so you’ve got time to relax and freshen up before dinner.
Dinner – Sage Room

For your final dinner on Hilton Head Island, I recommend going somewhere a little bit special! The Sage Room is an intimate spot near Coligny Beach that’s been around since 2002, with a menu focused on creative American dishes, steaks, and seafood.
If you can, try to get a seat at the chef’s counter, where you can watch everything happening in the open kitchen. As for what to order, the almond-crusted tuna and champagne-poached scallops are the standout seafood options, but there’s also filet for meat lovers and vegetable primavera for those who don’t want meat tonight.
This is definitely one to book ahead, especially if you want the chef’s counter. Just bear in mind that The Sage Room is closed on Sundays, so if your final day happens to fall then, Flatbread Grill & Bar is a great backup nearby.
Evening – Toast your trip at Tiki Hut

End the trip in the best way I know how – with a drink by the ocean! Tiki Hut is an open-air beachfront bar just a 10-minute walk from The Sage Room. It’s been a Hilton Head favorite since 1977 and has live music throughout the year – weather permitting, of course.
We recommend ordering a Rum Runner or a frozen Local Secret, which are the house classics, but there’s plenty of cold beer and wine on offer if you’d prefer! Whatever you order, it’s sure to be extra refreshing with the ocean breeze on your face and sand underfoot. It’s the perfect way to wrap up three days on Hilton Head Island!
Tiki Hut is open to everyone, so you don’t need to be staying at the adjoining Beach House resort to enjoy a drink here. It usually closes at around 10 pm, which gives you plenty of time for a final drink before calling it a night – cheers!
Related Read: Looking for more things to do? Check out my guide to the best things to do on Hilton Head Island for more of my favorite activities and experiences.
Where to Stay on Hilton Head Island


For this itinerary, I recommend staying near Coligny Beach for easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops, and more. From relaxing resorts to budget-friendly hotels, there are plenty of great options in and around this area. Here are my top picks for every budget and travel style!
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island – $$$
If you want to splurge a bit while staying close to Coligny Beach, Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is a great choice. While it’s technically located in Shipyard, it’s roughly a 25-minute walk or a quick bike ride to Coligny Beach Park.
One tip if you’re traveling with kids: go for a ground-floor terrace pool-view room. You can get in and out easily while the kids are asleep, and you’ll also have direct access to the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent through a third party, which works out cheaper than the resort’s $50 daily rate.
Food can add up quickly at a resort, so the mini fridge comes in handy if you want to save a little. You can also drive to local restaurants for dinner. Shipyard has paved trails and bike rentals too, so it’s super easy to get around. Prices usually start around $220 USD per night, depending on the room and season. Check your dates and book your luxury resort stay here!
Courtyard by Marriott Hilton Head Island – $$
My family and I didn’t want to spend a fortune on a hotel, but we also wanted to be close enough to walk everywhere, so Courtyard by Marriott Hilton Head Island was an easy choice. It’s roughly two blocks from Coligny Beach Park, and the free seasonal Breeze Trolley stops right here, connecting you to places like Folly Field Beach.
We got way more than we expected for the price, and that rooftop pool was definitely a bonus. It’s the perfect spot for cocktails and snacks while enjoying the views. Our room had a balcony overlooking the pool, and you can probably guess where we spent our mornings, drinking coffee in our pajamas! Or, grab your Starbucks favorite from The Bistro in the lobby and take it up to the rooftop.
Prices typically start at around $140 USD per night. Browse current prices and book your great value stay here!
Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island – $
For a more budget-friendly stay that’s still close to the beach, Holiday Inn Express Hilton Head Island is definitely a great bargain. It’s right across from Lowcountry Celebration Park, so the location really couldn’t be more convenient.
I also love the newly transformed space. Yes, everything feels fresh! The hotel sits between two scenic lagoons and is surrounded by massive oak trees, which gives it a nice, peaceful feel. You also get free breakfast, lawn games, bike rentals, and a golf cart trolley to shuttle you around. Need I say more?
You can even bring up to two dogs for a fee, and parking is available for $10 USD per day. Prices typically start at around $120 USD per night, which is a bargain if you ask me. Read the great reviews and book your budget stay here before it sells out!
Looking for other options? Check out all the hotels on Hilton Head Island here!
Related Read: Want more help choosing where to stay? Check out my detailed guide to where to stay on Hilton Head Island for a breakdown of the best areas, hotels, and what to expect from each part of the island.
Book your Airport Taxi in advance
Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!
Renting a Car in the USA

The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
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I’ve had so many fun trips to Hilton Head with my family over the years, and three days is honestly a great amount of time to enjoy the island without feeling like you’re constantly rushing around! This itinerary packs in some of my favorite experiences, from exploring Daufuskie Island and Harbour Town to getting out on the water, while still leaving plenty of time for the beach, good food, and relaxing with the family.
Before you go, browse more USA travel guides here for helpful tips, travel inspiration, and ideas for your next adventure. You can also scroll below to explore more of my favorite destinations. Happy travels!
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Theresa is a US-based traveler with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a soft spot for road trips, hidden gems, and following wherever the adventure leads. Her travels have taken her all across America—from beach towns and national parks to ski slopes and city streets—always with an eye (and appetite!) for the local flavors. Whether traveling the coast or mountains with her family or sneaking in a spontaneous getaway, she loves chasing places that surprise and inspire and telling the stories that make each destination feel personal.

