White sandy beaches, soft breezes, and the lapping tide of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean seem like a dream this time of year. Although one isn’t apt to head to the coast for fun and sun during this season, Hilton Head Island is a thoroughly wonderful getaway for a rejuvenating winter weekend. Refresh your mind, body, and soul on South Carolina’s premiere vacation island.
What makes Hilton Head Island so special in winter? No one is here! As a popular vacation destination since the late 1950’s the seasonal crowd on Hilton Head swells from about 37,000 year-round residents to over 150,000 in the warmer months. While the temperatures are a little more conducive to a Tommy Bahama sweatshirt dress than a two-piece bikini in the winter, it is by no means cold, and almost all of the sought after summer amenities are still available.
Recharge your mind with a morning beach yoga class, provided by most of the resorts on the island. If you’re up for a challenge try a SUP yoga class on the water. If you need to relax even more take advantage of one of the world-class spas available. Some even offer to have sessions available beachside, not something that would be necessarily recommended during the summer months.
To reinvigorate your body, no trip to Hilton Head would be complete without getting some exercise. Hiking the 114 steps up to the top of the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse is the perfect way. From there you can see a panoramic view of the island as well as its varied topography. The island’s twelve miles of hard packed beaches are perfect for long walks and bike riding. The island also has fifty-plus miles of trails to hike, walk, bike, and run. While the temperatures may not be great for swimming in the ocean there are plenty of other water activities to do; sailing, kayaking, fishing, and dolphin watching are just a few.
If you are looking for a less outdoorsy adventure, revive your soul with a trip to the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Located in the heart of Hilton Head Island there are various theatrical and musical performances throughout the year. For the foodies out there winter brings oyster season to the Carolina’s coasts. Try a waterside sunset dinner to accompany your oysters. While the days may be shorter than ideal, the sunrises and sunsets on Hilton Head are even more spectacular in winter than they are during the warmer months.
Primarily known for its world-class golf and tennis facilities, Hilton Head Island has so much more to offer. It is definitely recommended for a refreshing winter getaway.
