This is one of America's best kept secret.
Hilton Head Island is a hidden gem on the east coast of the USA. It lies southwest of Charleston in South Carolina, and northeast of Savannah in Georgia.
I had the opportunity to live and work there for nearly 4 months this summer, and felt the need to share my discovery with the travel blogging community. Although it is a well known vacation destination for most Americans, Hilton Head is relatively unknown here in the UK. When I was offered the job, I had to do a lot of research of where exactly I would be living.
One thing I will highlight in this post is that I left the island with great sadness. It's beauty captivated me and made me want to return for the rest of my life.
Set in the state of South Carolina, this Lowcountry resort oozes the southern charm that the south is known for, yet it provides an escape from the buzz of the mainland and daily life.
It is surrounded by postcard perfect beaches where you could spend all day sunbathing and dipping in and out of the warm atlantic ocean. Be careful of sharks though, I happened to see many whilst out there!
The summer sun and heat makes this place a great destination to catch a tan, yet the sea breeze keeps the humidity under control for an overall pleasant climate.
Being an island, there's plenty of delicious and fresh seafood restaurants to choose from including the famous Salty Dog Cafe which is internationally recognised. If you visit there, buy a t-shirt!
The island is home to the official marine animal of South Carolina, the bottlenose dolphin, so a dolphin cruise is a must! Other island activities include paddle boarding, surfing, kayaking and the well known mode of transport, biking! The island features numerous bike paths and scenic routes for a leisurely afternoon bike ride.
Golfing plays a big part in the island, and I actually rented a villa where the golf course was literally my backyard!
It is also home to a PGA golf tournament in the Sea Pines resort. To get a fantastic view of the golf course, go up the Harbour Town lighthouse to take in the stunning views.
You will find many beautiful houses that are owned by wealthy families here, but the island isn't expensive to vacation. Hotels like the Marriott, Omni, Holiday Inn as well as a Disney Vacation Club resort are found here. These accompany the array of bars, restaurants, shops and clubs found on the island.
Off the island, you have the chance to explore the nearby Old town Bluffton for a taste of the quintessential southern charm.
Savannah is only 45 minutes drive away and is known as one of the friendliest cities in America.
Charleston is a must to visit as well, and is only around 2 hours drive from the island.
Although you cannot fly directly to Hilton Head from the UK, you can get connecting flights that stopover in Atlanta, Charlotte and New York. I thoroughly recommend that you visit this island if you are looking for somewhere different to visit, or like many people do, you are looking for somewhere to stop off and stay on your way to Florida or the surrounding states.
A few days spent on this island will leave you feeling well rested and eager to return to the charming island that is Hilton Head.
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