Hilton Head, SC: What to do?
 

My mother and I will be in Hilton Head, SC in December and not sure what there is to do in the area. We do not golf and realize it will be too cool for the beach. We already plan to take day trips to Savannah and Charleston. Any tips on things to do, see and where to eat in Hilton Head. We will be staying at the Marriott Harbour Club @ Harbour Town. If anyone has stayed there, please let me know what you thought.

Yes, it will be too cold for swimming in the ocean, but unless it is windy, it will probably be warm enough to walk on the beach. Hilton Head has some shopping.

Savannah is closer than Charleston.

What do you like to do when you are on vacation? It would help if you let us know what your interests are.

Not really into sports. Mostly sight-seeing. Everything should be decorated for the holidays, which will be nice. Any quaint shopping areas and/or nice places to eat? Also, any movie theatres near by?

I've lived here on HHI for twenty seven years. I guess the nearby "quaint" shopping center would be Sea Pines Center, within walking distance of your accomodations.

The nearest movie theater is in Park Plaza shopping center, just outside Sea Pines main gate. A half dozen or so screens.

My current favorite restaurant is Riviera Oaks on New Orleans Road, again not far from Sea Pines main gate. If you need more info just ask. Cheers.

I live in Charleston and one of my favorite cities anywhere is Savannah (don't tell people here buy I prefer SAV to CHS for a visit) - but a visit to Beaufort would also be a really nice addition to your stay. It's smaller and really manageable but quite lovely.

I understand there is an Off5th (saks outlet) in one of the Hilton Head malls now - they are always interesting perusing.

Enjoy

It's very possible that the beach will be very enjoyable. SP's is minutes from the endless beach and miles of bike paths and golf courses (which are great for walking at the end of the day). There are many nearby reataurants that are great. Please also try to visit the many squares in SAV that will be decorated for Christmas. Like your other respondee, I greatly prefer SAV which is much closer to HHI than Charleston.HHI also has a local newspaper (Island Packet) with lots of local events. To me, you have picked a perfect spot while still reasonably warm.

From Harbortown you can bike all of Sea Pines on flat, safe, civilized bike paths. You can actually bicycle to a couple of shopping plazas with restaurant options.

Depending on weather, you might pick up a nature cruise and see ocean and inland wildlife.

Between HHI and SAV is an extensive outlet mall.

Hilton Head has many restaurants. Dining is a big part of a HH vacation.

This site has many Hilton Head threads. Check out others advise.

Have fun.