The picturesque beach town of Hilton Head Island is a kid’s paradise! With over 12 miles of beaches, dozens of outdoor activities, and plenty of family friendly attractions, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. From biking trails to dolphin tours to golf lessons, your family is sure to have a blast exploring the island. Let’s take a look at some of the best things for kids to do in Hilton Head Island!
Turn into a Mermaid
One fun and unique thing that you will only see on the South Carolina coast is people turning into Mermaids with our Turn into a Mermaid Experience and Photoshoot. This experience starts with a mermaid tail fitting and then you get a 15 minute photoshoot with a professional photographer. This can be done on the beach at sunset or in our indoor beach studio. Everyone wants to be a mermaid.
Biking Trails
One great way to explore the island is by bike. There are over 60 miles of paved trails that will take you through the island's forests and marshes. Some trails even lead you right up to the beach so you can take a break and relax while taking in the stunning views.
If you don't have your own bikes, there are plenty of rental shops around town that offer bikes for all ages. There is nothing more relaxing then riding through the live oaks that line the bike paths all over the island.
Dolphin Tours
What better way to experience Hilton Head Island than on a guided dolphin cruise? This is an activity that your whole family can enjoy together. You'll get up close and personal with dolphins as they swim alongside your boat.
Plus, if you're lucky, you might catch sight of other sea creatures like sea turtles or stingrays! It's an experience
your kids won't soon forget. Our Dolphin tours go out daily and we have kid friendly props like shark teeth and a dolphin skull.
Golf Lessons
Hilton Head Island has long been known as a golfer's paradise but it's also great for kids who want to learn how to play golf too! There are plenty of golf courses on the island where kids can take lessons from experienced pros. You can even sign them up for classes tailored specifically for youth players so they can hone their skills in no time.
If golfing like the pros is not your style you can always check out one of the mini golf course for an evening or day of fun. Adventure Cove is always one of our favorites, they also have an indoor arcade if you get a rainy day while you are on vacation.
Beaches and Water Activities
Hilton Head Island has some of the best beaches on the East Coast! Spend your days playing on the beach or rent out a kayak or paddle board to explore. There are also boat tours you can take and dolphin watching charters if you want to see the wildlife up close.
Plus, with so many great restaurants, it’s easy to find a spot for lunch or dinner after a day in the sun. We always recommend spending at least one of your days of vacation on the beach, it is relaxing and does not cost you anything.
Go out and find a Mermaid in the wild
One thing you can do in Hilton Head that you cannot do any where else, is take a boat tour that sends you on a magical and educational adventure to find Mermaid Nina. She spends her days swimming around the waters of Hilton Head and talking to people on our Mermaid Encounter Tour.
This tour has won many awards from Best Wildlife Experience in South Carolina to the Best thing to do with kids. You don't just get to talk with a real Mermaid but you also will have to help save her from an evil villain, Professor Al G. This is a must do for all families with kids, the tour runs Mid May through Mid September.
Shopping Sprees at Tanger Outlets
Hilton Head Island is home to several outlet malls where you can find great deals on designer brands. With over 100 stores at Tanger Outlets alone, there’s something for everyone in your family and chances are they won't be able to pass up all those bargains!
Tanger Outlets have 2 locations in Bluffton as you head onto the island. Tanger 2 is closest to the island and if you stop by make sure you checkout or retail store located in there. Kids will love all the stuffed animals, clothing, books and other great items for sale. The outdoor plaza also hosts seasonal events like movie nights throughout the year.
The Coastal Discovery Museum
The Coastal Discovery Museum is one of the best family friendly attractions on the island. It has miles of trails winding through its 68 acre property, which feature a wide variety of wildlife, plants, and birds. The museum also offers camp programs designed specifically for kids ages 6-12, a great way to get them excited about nature and learning! Plus there are educational exhibits throughout the year that explore local culture and history.
Hilton Head Ice Cream
This may not sound like an activity at first glance, but trust us it’s one your whole family will love! They are located on the south end of the island where you can get delicious ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients. Kids will especially love all the unique flavors available here, from classics like chocolate chip cookie dough and strawberry cheesecake to more adventurous options like caramel macchiato or cotton candy. Plus you can grab some homemade waffle cones or milkshakes too!
Hilton Head Helicopters
If you want a unique experience that will make your trip even more special, consider taking your family up in a helicopter! Hilton Head Helicopters offers tours over some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes from lush forests to pristine beaches. Kids will be thrilled by this thrilling adventure as they soar above it all! Plus you can even customize your tour with special stops along the way if there is something specific that you want to see.
Take a Pony Ride or Trail Ride
One of the great attractions in Sea Pines is Lawton Stables, so stop buy and check them out. The offer one hour guided trail rides that will take you into the 600+ acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve. You will experience a true feel of the untouched Lowcountry on horseback, beneath a canopy of Palmettos and moss covered oaks.
As you can see Hilton Head Island is full of activities perfect for families with kids! Whether it's biking trails, dolphin tours, or golf lessons there’s something fun for everyone on the island.
The next time you plan a trip with your family, be sure to add Hilton Head Island to your list and explore all these amazing activities together! With these ideas in mind, you can create lasting memories that your kids will always remember! Happy exploring, and if you have any questions feel free to reach out.