Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Charleston, SC to Hilton Head Island, SC

Charleston and Hilton Head Island are two renowned vacation destinations located in the southern U.S. state of South Carolina. A road trip between these two destinations allows tourists and locals alike to savor distinctive and memorable experiences, from the sandy beaches to quaint towns and historic sites. The journey comprises approximately 100 miles one way and takes a little over two hours. The halfway point of the road trip is at Jacksonboro, where visitors can sample Southern cuisine, enjoy lakes, and explore the history of the American Revolution. Here are some of the best things to do when embarking on a road trip from Charleston to Hilton Head Island.

Shem Creek Park

Shem Creek Park is a quaint marina located just ten miles north of downtown Charleston. The creekside park is home to some of the best seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy lunch and stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. The historic district of Mount Pleasant is nearby, and Shem Creek Park serves as a backdrop to some of the grandest homes in the area.

Interesting Fact: Shem Creek Park once served as a hotspot for pirates during the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries, where they would stealthily glide in their boats to receive the loot.

Beaufort's Historic District

Beaufort is an enchanting coastal town located about an hour's drive from Charleston. The town is famed for its historic district, where visitors can stroll through and admire the pristine pre-modern architecture. Beaufort is also known for its Gullah Geechee culture, a unique African American culture that dates back to the era of slavery and has a significant influence on low country cuisine, literature, and art.

Interesting Fact: Beaufort's Historic District has been used as a shooting location for various movies, including "Forrest Gump," "The Big Chill," and "The Prince of Tides."

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is a barrier island located in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. The park is known for its picturesque beaches, long stretches of sand dunes, lagoons, and tidal creeks, making it a paradise for water-based activities including fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The park also features a 137-meter tall lighthouse that offers a breath-taking view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Interesting Fact: Hunting Island is known for its large number of nesting sea turtles that come to the island during the summertime to lay their eggs.

Hilton Head Island’s Coastal Discovery Museum

Situated in an idyllic location west of Hilton Head Island, the Coastal Discovery Museum is a museum and learning center that preserves the Lowcountry's natural and cultural history. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or guided tours of the various exhibits, including the collections of native sea creatures and local modern art.

Interesting Fact: The Coastal Discovery Museum is situated in a building that was once a historic plantation home, illustrating a piece of the area's antebellum history.

Bluffton Historic District

Located just twenty minutes away from Hilton Head Island, Bluffton is a charming small town with historical significance. The town features many preserved buildings, such as the Bluffton Oyster Factory, as well as modern shops, galleries, and restaurants. The historic district is known for its Gullah Geechee cultural heritage, which is still evident in the food, crafts, and music available in the area.

Interesting Fact: Bluffton's oyster community has been a pillar of the city's economy and culture for centuries and has even been recognized for its amazing culinary contributions to the seafood industry in the U.S.

Conclusion

A road trip between Charleston and Hilton Head Island provides an opportunity to experience the beauty, history, and culture of Lowcountry South Carolina. Along the way, visitors can indulge in seafood, lounge on beautiful beaches, and explore quaint towns and historical sites. A round trip takes two hours and 15 minutes when using the fastest route, without any stops, but with stops, you can make it a full-day trip or weekend getaway. Don't forget to make stops at the various scenic spots and make unforgettable memories.