It’s all about being outside when you want to experience the best of what Hilton Head has to offer. Once you’ve left the cozy confines of your Beachside Hilton Head villa, you’ll find that the Lowcountry is never low on outdoor adventure. Without further ado, here are the top 10 excursions that’ll entice and excite the adventurer in you and your family.
1. Native Son Dolphin Tours
You can’t have a fun time on the waves without mentioning dolphins, but here’s the problem with dolphin tours:
Many (not all) operate between November and March.
What if you’ve booked your Hilton Head holiday outside that time window? Native Son Tiki Dolphin Boat Tours has you covered.
Aboard a boat that looks like it’s fresh out of Hawaii, you and your family will soon be gliding on the waves as you get a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins. And if you venture sometime in the afternoon, you’re in for a sunset view that’ll change your life.
The tour costs anywhere from $170, depending on the season. The boat seats about six people, so don’t worry if you’re bringing all your kids or pals along.
2. Island Explorer Dolphin Tours
Does your family crave a closer connection with nature? Make Island Explorer Dolphin Tours your next excursion.
The Island Explorer fleet takes small groups out to explore Hilton Head’s calm waterways. Depending on your mood, you can pick between one-hour discovery cruises, two-hour dolphin encounters, or a three-hour Vanishing Island adventure. Kids can hunt for shells and sand dollars, while parents snap photos of playful dolphins and the stunning backdrop of the Lowcountry marshes.
Tours are two hours long and seat 12 people. If you’ve got a large group with you, you can’t go wrong with Island Explorer.
3. Dolphin Seafari
If you’re after an educational twist, Dolphin Seafari is the perfect pick. Besides directing your attention to the dolphins playing in the water, the guides share fascinating facts about the ecosystem, the local wildlife, and even lead hands-on crabbing demonstrations. It’s a family favourite for curious minds and a great way for kids to learn while soaking up the sea breeze.
For just $40 per person, you’ll experience one of the best excursions you can be on. And feel free to foot the extra $5 if donuts and dolphins are your jam!
4. Kayak Hilton Head
Nothing beats the feeling of gliding quietly through the calm waters. Kayak Hilton Head’s guided tours are safe, beginner-friendly, and ideal for families.
With multiple daily departures (and even fireworks tours on summer Tuesday nights), it’s a fun way to paddle together and see Hilton Head from a new angle.
5. Saltmarsh Paddle Tours
If you’re feeling more adventurous, some paddling action on your own boat is sure to hit the spot.
Saltmarsh Paddle Tours offers a mix of serenity and excitement. You’ll paddle through winding saltwater estuaries filled with herons, blue crabs, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. It’s an hour-and-a-half escape into Hilton Head’s wild side — with just enough challenge to make it feel like a real adventure.
The tour is $35 per person and open seven days a week.
6. Beach Discovery Tour
If your idea of exploring involves sand between your toes, the Coastal Discovery Museum’s Beach Discovery Tour is perfect. Led by local naturalists, this beach walk unearths the secrets of Hilton Head’s shoreline, from the nesting habits of sea turtles to the stories behind the shells you’ll find along the way.
It’s educational, but in the best, most beach-day kind of way.
7. Gullah Heritage Trail Tour
For a hop back in time to the historic happenings of Hilton Head, look no further than the Gullah Heritage Trail Tour.
Aboard an air-conditioned bus, you and the fam will get an up-close look at Hilton Head’s living history through the eyes of its native islanders. The Gullah Heritage Trail Tour dives deep into the rich culture, language, and traditions of the Gullah people.
The tour is a fascinating, heartfelt journey through time that offers meaning and connection beyond the island’s beaches.
8. An Exploration of Pinckney Island
Who doesn’t love a good nature walk? Grab your packs and lace up those Merrell hikers to explore the natural marvels of Pinckney Island.
Pinckney Island is a national wildlife refuge, home to herons, ibises, and even alligators (seen from a safe distance, of course). You’ll explore salt marshes, maritime forests, and lagoons teeming with life.
And bring your binoculars. As any birdwatcher will tell you, Pinckney Island is the place to be for a birdwatching experience you won’t get elsewhere.
9. Forts of Port Royal Walking Tour
Step back into history with a guided walk through Hilton Head’s Civil War and Spanish-American War sites. The two-hour Forts of Port Royal tour blends storytelling, scenic exploration, and a bit of mystery.
Kids who love adventure stories will enjoy the tales of cannons and hidden ruins, while adults will appreciate the rich history behind the island they’re exploring.
10. Kayak Tour of Jarvis Creek
If you’d prefer a peaceful paddle through Hilton Head’s quieter corners, the Kayak Tour of Jarvis Creek is a perfect choice. As part of the Coastal Discovery Museum’s excursions, this two-hour tour winds through calm salt marshes teeming with bottlenose dolphins, wading birds, and other native wildlife.
Because Jarvis Creek isn’t heavily traveled by recreational boats, you’ll enjoy a more intimate nature experience. Children aged five and up are welcome, with younger paddlers sharing a double kayak with an adult.
Your Beachside Home Base for Every Adventure
Whether you’re paddling through peaceful creeks, tracing Civil War footsteps, or catching sight of dolphins at sunset, there’s no shortage of ways to make memories on Hilton Head.
And if you’re planning for these excursions, won’t you want a place that’s close to them all?
Every one of these excursions is just a short trip from your Beachside Hilton Head rental.
Ready for your next adventure? Book your stay today and start planning your perfect Hilton Head getaway.
