Family Vacations: Hilton Head Island

The Harbour Town Yacht Basin is a favorite attraction on Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island is one of the premier beach getaway destinations in the Southeast. It was named for William Hilton, an English sea captain who explored the island in the 17th century. The foot-shape barrier island is only 42 square miles. But the semitropical paradise of white-sand beaches, salt marshes, lagoons, and lush forests of mossy oaks, palmettos, magnolia, and pine is irresistible.

The island's pristine natural environment is balanced with the graceful aesthetics of some of the finest resorts and golf courses. The combination is a magnet for visitors: Though the year-round population is just 31,000 people, Hilton Head Island sees more than 2.5 million tourists each year. They come not only for the lush scenery, posh resorts, and great golf, but also for many deep breaths of fresh coastal air, abundant peace and quiet, and those beautiful sunsets that play out over the mainland on the western horizon.

Hilton Head Island Information

Address: Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Visitor & Convention Bureau at 1 Chamber Dr.,

Hilton Head Island, SC

Telephone: 843/785-3673 800/523-3373

To learn more about family vacation destinations, see:

Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.

Charleston City Guide: Find out where to stay, what to do, and where to eat when you visit Charleston.

South Carolina State Guide: Learn about Mobil Travel Guide-rated hotels and restaurants in South Carolina, as well as other recreational activities.

Scenic Drives: For those who think that getting there is half the fun, we have compiled more than 100 of the most scenic drives throughout the country.