Hilton Head, with its reputation of coastal luxury, is often synonymous with vacations centered around our beautiful beaches, renowned golf courses, exceptional restaurants, and boutique shops. But beyond the obvious tourist attractions lies a world of unique and unusual things to do in Hilton Head. If you’re looking to explore beyond the expected and find true hidden gems during your stay, we’ve compiled a list of our ten favorite activities. From cultural immersion to historic sites, it’s all here. Check them out and add a few to your must-do list when you visit.
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1. Explore the Gullah Heritage Trail
Deep in the Lowcountry, on the islands between Charleston and Savannah, the Gullah Geechee people are keeping their culture and heritage alive. Descendants of enslaved West Africans, they have managed to preserve their customs, traditions, art forms, and beliefs despite centuries of unspeakable atrocities.
When you visit the Gullah Heritage Trail on your Hilton Head vacation, you can learn all about unique pieces of their culture. Highlights of the trail include the Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island, remnants of juke joints from the 1940s, and the first Freedom Village Historic Marker. The guided tour will make sure you don’t miss a thing, so be sure to book this incredible adventure during your stay.
2. Visit the Kazoobie Kazoo Museum
We mostly think of kazoos as birthday party favors or silly additions to celebrations. Similar to party horns and poppers, these tiny plastic contraptions were sprinkled throughout our childhood and were likely a source of great fun. At the Kazoobie Kazoo Museum in Beaufort, less than an hour from Hilton Head, you can tour the factory and see how kazoos are made, view exhibits, and even make your own kazoo! A top-rated family activity, you’ll learn about American history through a unique lens when you visit.
3. See the Grave of Corinne Elliot Lawton
Though this site requires another short drive from Hilton Head, a day trip to Savannah, Georgia, is always worth it. At the famed Bonaventure Cemetery, you’ll step into the real Garden of Good and Evil. See hauntingly beautiful statues like that of Corinne Elliot Lawton and Little Gracie, the tombstone of songwriting sensation Johnny Mercer, and so much more.
For the absolute best tour of the cemetery, there’s only one choice: Bonaventure Don. If you’re looking for ghost stories and make-believe, this is not the tour for you. But, if you want the true, rich, deep history of the area, this name-your-own-price tour delivers on all fronts.
Don Teuton knows first-hand how magical and reverent this cemetery is, having generations of his own family laid to rest here. His tour runs six days a week, has a cap of 15 people, and is by reservation only, so be sure to book in advance and secure your spot.
4. Search for Sand Dollars on Vanishing Island
Accessible only at low tide, Vanishing Island is a truly unique and unusual thing to do in Hilton Head simply because of limited accessibility. Located near Daufuskie Island, you can take a boat tour to this hidden gem and explore the distinct ecosystem, hunt for sand dollars and sea shells, and get a glimpse of fascinating marine life like starfish, which become temporarily grounded as the water recedes.
Each day, the time of low tide changes, so it’s important to visit with a professional who understands how and when to navigate the area. Standing on the sandy plain in the middle of the water is an almost otherworldly experience, so be sure to try it when you vacation in Hilton Head.
5. Fly High at Adventure Hilton Head
At Adventure Hilton Head, you and the family can spend a day soaring over the treetops on ziplines, towering above the ground on ropes courses, or racing each other on the go-kart track. No matter which adventure you choose, you’re in for a treat!
With seven ziplines, 50 ropes obstacles, a swinging sky bridge, and a staircase that winds through the trees, this unique and unusual activity is sure to get the blood and adrenaline pumping. Get the highest view of Hilton Head Island as you slide across the canopy, or conquer the course as you advance through different challenges. Certain restrictions apply, and reservations are highly encouraged, but the adventure is well worth it.
6. Go Crabbing
Lots of people book fishing charters on their beach vacation, but for a truly unique and unusual thing to do in Hilton Head, trade the fishing poles for crab nets and head out on the Crabber J for a day full of fun! You’ll depart from Shelter Cover Harbour and enjoy a narrated ride to the crabbing waters.
From there, the crew will teach you all about catching these tasty crustaceans. Once they’ve covered the basics, you’re armed with your crabbing equipment, and the person with the most crabs by the end of the adventure wins a prize!
Mostly a catch-and-release program, this fun activity is great for families and kids of all ages.
7. Uncover Mysteries at the Coastal Discovery Museum
Shortly after you cross into Hilton Head, if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll see signs for a true hidden gem: the Coastal Discovery Museum. Located on a 68-acre property, this museum is home to three centuries of history.
Enjoy nature trails that lead past some of the area's oldest landmarks. Boardwalks jut out over Jarvis Creek, allowing you to glimpse marshes and native wildlife with ease. From exhibits covering all things Lowcountry to guided tours, events, and unique experiences, there’s always something happening at the Discovery Museum. Open 7 days a week, this free activity is a can’t-miss when you’re in town.
8. Experience Mitchelville Freedom Park
Home to the first freedmen community of the Civil War era, Mitchelville Freedom Park holds incredible significance not just for African American visitors but for everyone lucky enough to visit.
Explore historic exhibits as you wander trails that wind through beautiful coastal landscapes. With beach access, picnic areas, and an observation pavilion, it’s a unique way to experience this important piece of South Carolina’s history. The park is one of six sites to be recognized on the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network and continues to play a vital role in preserving the past.
9. Enjoy Nature at Pickney Island National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re looking for excellent hiking, biking, or walking trails on your Hilton Head vacation, Pickney Island National Wildlife Refuge offers an abundance of options. It’s also a vital link in the eco-chain of refuges along the Atlantic Flyway.
Each year, thousands of migratory birds visit these grounds and waters to nest, making this a go-to for birders or nature enthusiasts. Catch a glimpse of majestic ibis, egrets, and herons, and take a moment to unplug and connect with nature during your Hilton Head vacation.
10. Board a Pirate Ship Adventure
Last on our list is a swashbuckling adventure aboard the Black Dagger with Pirates of Hilton Head. Perfect for families with kids as young as 2 years old, this seafaring voyage comes complete with interactive moments with the crew, face painting, tattoos, pirate names, costumes, and more! Enjoy the fire of cannons as you ride through the open waters, and at the end of each adventure, a treasure awaits every child.
Help the crew battle Stinky Pete and finally win an epic battle at one of the most fun activities on the island.
Book Your Hilton Head Vacation Today!
With this list of the top 10 unique and unusual things to do in Hilton Head, the only thing standing between you and an unforgettable trip is booking your vacation rental. At Island Getaway Rentals, we have properties designed to fit every family’s needs. Whether you’re looking for pet-friendly properties, homes with private pools, or oceanfront rentals, you’ll find it all here.
Plus, when you book directly with Island Getaway, you bypass all the extra fees tacked on by online travel agencies. Get the best rate on your Hilton Head vacation and discover why so many people return to book with us year after year. Browse our vacation rentals and book direct today!