6 Best Sights in Hilton Head and the Low Country, South Carolina

Located within the Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town is a charming area centered on a circular marina that's filled with interesting shops and restaurants. Distinctive paths covered with white gravel and rows of red rocking chairs add to the small-town feel, while families are attracted to the large playground and live entertainment underneath the Liberty Oak during the summer. Stroll down the pier for excellent views of Daufuskie Island or catch one of the many vessels docked there and ready to set sail for adventure. Rising above it all is the landmark candy-cane-stripe Harbour Town Lighthouse, which visitors can climb to enjoy a view of Calibogue Sound. Summer nights are particularly lovely here, with a breeze coming off the water and music in the air; soak in the atmosphere with a drink at one of the welcoming outdoor bars and seating areas.

Located off Bay Street in downtown Beaufort, Waterfront Park represents the heart of this charming coastal town. It's a great place to stroll along the river walk and enjoy the hanging bench swings. Parents enjoy the spacious park where kids can run in the grass or play on the enclosed playground with views of the Richard V. Woods swing bridge that crosses the Beaufort River. Trendy restaurants and bars overlook these seven beautifully landscaped acres that also feature a pavilion, stage, and historical markers and lead into the marina.

Charming Old Town Bluffton has historic homes and churches on oak-lined streets dripping with Spanish moss, intermingled with newer businesses like the Salt Marsh Brewing Company. The Promenade Street area is newer and features trendy bars and restaurants. At the end of Wharf Street is the Bluffton Oyster Company (63 Wharf St.), a place to buy fresh local seafood. Grab a sandwich from the Downtown Deli (1223 May River Rd.) and head to the Calhoun Street Public Dock for a picnic with a view of the May River. Another incredibly beautiful spot to visit is the grounds of the historic Church of the Cross (110 Calhoun St.). Originally inhabited by Yemassee people who were driven out by the first English settlers, the town's later population of slaveholders played a key role in South Carolina's secession.

There are walking trails, a self-guided tour, a pond, and eight distinct areas to explore on this 50-acre preserve located off Palmetto Bay Road. Native plant life is tagged and identified in the pristine forest, and many species of birds can also be found here.

This 1724 church (founded in 1712) was turned into a hospital during the Civil War, and gravestones were brought inside to serve as operating tables. While on church grounds, stroll the peaceful cemetery and read the fascinating inscriptions.