Hilton Head oceanfront villas offer the perfect vacation on
this enchanting island. Hilton Head, off the coast of South Carolina,
was named for William Hilton, an English sea captain who first visited
in 1663. Native Americans lived on the island as early as 4000 BC, and
the Gullah culture is still an important part of the culture of Hilton
Head. Picturesque old towns located near Hilton Head are perfect day
trip destinations. Water sports, lounging on one of the sandy beaches,
golf and enjoying the natural environment are activities that draw
thousands of tourists every year.
Hilton Head
Before setting out for some of the other historic towns, plan to see
the sights of Hilton Head. The island offers swimming, sailing,
kayaking and riding the bike paths. Tour the art galleries and shops,
or take one of the guided tours. If you're traveling with children,
visit the coastal Discovery Museum. Adults really enjoy this museum
too, and the Sandbox, Children's Interactive Museum. Festivals and
annual events take place on Hilton Head all year round. Harbour Town
has wonderful shopping and excellent restaurants, and Shelter Cove
marina is a Mediterranean village with shops and restaurants.
Daufuskie Island
Daufuskie Island is across from Hilton head on Calibogue Sound. The
area's Low Country history is evident on the island, which is home to
only a few residents. The island is a golfer's paradise and is only
accessed by boat. Reservations can be made by contacting the Jasper
County Chamber of Commerce.
Bluffton
Bluffton is a scenic, historic town situated on the May River where
the families from local plantations would gather in the summer to get
relief from the summer heat. Today, it's a destination that attracts
tourists with its restaurants, shops and galleries. Bluffton is
conveniently located close to most Hilton Head villas.
Beaufort
Beaufort is less than an hour away from Hilton Head, and is known
for its historic homes and nature trails. Bluffton has 25 miles of bike
trails. This is a wonderful way to explore the Old Town and surrounding
area. Calhoun Street is an area of art galleries in the center of the
Old Town. The Guild of Bluffton Artists is located in the Planters
Mercantile building and sells jewelry, pottery and other local crafts.
Walterboro and Colleton County
The South Carolina Artisans Center is located in Walterboro. More
than 200 juried craftspeople display their crafts. Craft demonstrations
are available. Bee City is a farm and petting zoo, and has observation
areas to see honeybees working in their hives. The Colleton Museum has
collections from the plantation era. The Forde Doll and Dollhouse
Museum has a permanent display of more than 50 doll houses, antique and
paper dolls, toy kitchens and room boxes. The Great Swamp Sanctuary is
800 acres of trails, a butterfly garden, a duck pond, beaver pond and a
kayak/canoe trail. The Sanctuary is open daily until dark.
Charleston
Charleston is one of the loveliest and most historic cities in the
country. Buildings date from the pre-Revolutionary and Civil War eras.
Quaint cobblestone streets are lined with restaurants, shops and
sidewalk cafes. Among the attractions are the Fort Sumter National
Monument, Charleston Museum, the South Carolina Aquarium, Cypress
Gardens and the elegant Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Vamoose is the top destination for planning day trips from your Hilton Head oceanfront villa. Visit Vamoose today to start planning the perfect trip.