Making sure the kids are entertained is sometimes not the easiest thing to do – especially while on vacation. That’s why going to a kid-friendly vacation spot is key. Hilton Head Island, SC has been entertaining kids and their families for decades. The 12-mile East Coast island has summer activities for all ages – including parents!
1. Biking Around the Island
Riding a bike might be a normal activity for kids at home, but when it is your way of transportation, it’s a different story! Here on Hilton Head, we consider bikes a way to get from Point A to Point B. Going to the grocery store, to lunch, and even packed up for the beach. It’s a fun and enjoyable summer activity, and a way to keep them occupied without even trying.
Whether you bring your own bike or need to rent one when you get here, it will be a great family activity! We recommend Wheelz of Hilton Head at (843) 842-4445 for all of your bike rental needs!
2. Rent Some Jet Skis
Now this is a fun summer activity that will have everyone smiling! You will need to obtain a valid driver’s license, but the kids can be in front or behind to join in on the fun. Speed through the waters of the Lowcountry and see the island from a different point of view. You will have a life jacket on, so safety is less of a concern. You might even be lucky and have a dolphin swimming next to you through the water. This is truly an activity that the whole family will enjoy!
3. Paddle Board Through the Water
If you are looking for a little less extreme water sport, paddle boarding is exactly what you need. This is a great summer activity and allows you to be right up close to it all. You can paddle through the creeks or right in the May River – just watch out for the boaters! This is also a great evening summer activity because the sky lights up in all sorts of colors preparing for the sunset. One of our favorites for jet skiing and paddle boarding is Lowcountry Water Sports at (843) 684-2004.
4. Pirate Cruise
This is Hilton Head’s first and only pirate ship! It is recommended for ages 2-10, accompanied by parents of course. Leaving from Harbour Town Marina, board this pirate ship for an hour and a half of pirate adventure! Your kids will be taught how to dress and talk like a pirate, and will then head out into the Calibogue Sound for the adventure.
Make sure to check the weather, rain or shine, as the ship will leave unless the captain fears the safety of his crew! There is also no restroom on the boat so make sure to takes care of that beforehand. This summer activity is available every day, all day long, so make sure to fit this in your week. This activity is sure to book up, so make sure to get your tickets in advance. Your children will remember this year-round and be begging to go back! For more information click here.
5. Ride the Zip-Line
Hilton Head is home to our very own zip-line and aerial adventure course! This course is rain or shine, so it’s a great summer activity for those rainy beach days. It is located at Broad Creek Marina and available every day of the week.
This 2-hour, eco-adventure, zip-line tour lets you soar through the trees and is surrounded by great views of the water! It is available for ages 10 and up, accompanied by a tour guide during each course. With Adventure Hilton Head, you will fly through the sky with heights up to 75 feet! Call ahead at (843) 682-6000 to book, as summer is their busiest time. Make sure to review their requirements and policies on their website prior to your arrival.
6. Kayak with the Dolphins
With Island Head, enjoy a great kid-friendly summer activity to fit into your vacation! You can have a tour guide take you through the water or rent your own boat. You will most likely be surrounded by our sweet dolphin friends, so don’t be alarmed if they come up to say hello! You can make this an all-day adventure, or head out for a couple hours of fun.
7. Surf the Waves
Although people don’t vacation in Hilton Head for great surfing, depending on the tides, we do have some great waves. If the kids have never tried it, this is the perfect place for them. You can schedule a surf lesson or just rent a surfboard, but if they have never tried – we would suggest a lesson! The kids will have a blast with this classic ocean activity.
Summer Activities for the Toddlers
Since most of our suggested summer activities require a certain age, we wanted to mention some great things to do with your toddlers. The Sandbox is a great indoor facility for those rainy days. Shelter Cove has a great public playground that they will love, and it also has some great places to dine. Climbing the Harbour Town lighthouse is fun for the whole family, and it will give you the best view on the island!
Everything you do during your summer vacation will be remembered, but having those special summer activities to keep the kids busy is always a necessity. Try something new and make it a summer tradition. Make sure to always schedule your tours and rentals beforehand, so there is no stress once you arrive on the vacation you’ve waited all year long for!
Some more options for Things To Do in Hilton Head.