Best Day Trips from Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head is a planned resort island, but just offshore and a short drive away is the authentic Lowcountry. Spanish moss-draped oaks, saltwater marshes, and towns with genuine character define the region. Savannah, Georgia—one of America’s most beautiful cities—is just 35 miles away.
Savannah, Georgia — 35 Miles / 50 Minutes
One of America’s most beautiful cities. 22 historic squares connected by oak-lined streets. Riverfront district, historic homes, Spanish moss, and exceptional restaurants and bars.
Why go: Savannah’s historic district is pedestrian-scale and genuinely walkable. Forsyth Park is iconic. River Street has restaurants with river views. The squares are gathering spaces with specific character—each feels distinct. The city avoids the commercialization of some Colonial sites and feels lived-in rather than preserved.
Must-see: Forsyth Park, the River Street, Bonaventure Cemetery, and at least three of the 22 squares. Restaurants like The Sentient Bean or The Collins Quarter. Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
Cost: Walking is free. Restaurant meals run $15-50 depending on venue. Some historic homes offer tours for $10-15.
Beaufort, South Carolina — 40 Miles / 1 Hour
A small port town with Spanish moss-draped trees, historic waterfront, and genuine Lowcountry character. Less touristy than Savannah, more authentic.
Why go: This is where the Lowcountry comes into focus. The waterfront is working—you see shrimp boats, fishing activity, and actual community. The historic homes are stunning. The pace is slower than Savannah but the culture is more genuine.
Must-see: The waterfront walk, the historic district, and restaurants like Plums or The Beaufort Inn. The Beaufort history museum.
Cost: Walking is free. Museum admission is $5-10. Meals run $12-35.
Bluffton — 10 Miles / 20 Minutes
A quiet village on the May River with Spanish moss, oyster shells, and an artisan community vibe. The old town has galleries, studios, and restaurants.
Why go: Bluffton is close and less crowded than Savannah or Beaufort. The May River Walk is beautiful. Artist studios are open to visitors. This is where locals eat when they want to escape the Hilton Head resort bubble.
Must-see: The May River Walk, the Old Town with its galleries and studios, and restaurants like The Bluffton Oyster Company.
Daufuskie Island — Ferry from Hilton Head / 45 Minutes
A quiet island with no bridge, no cars on some sections, and a vanishing way of life. Ferries depart from Calibogue Crest on Hilton Head.
Why go: Complete contrast to Hilton Head. The ferry ride crosses pristine saltwater marsh and open water. The island has a golf resort but largely preserves its isolated character. The beaches are wide and undeveloped. You can rent golf carts or bicycles and explore.
Must-see: The Daufuskie Island Lighthouse, the beaches on the Atlantic side, and lunch at one of the island restaurants (Fay’s Restaurant, the Iron Fish Grill).
Cost: Ferry is approximately $20-25 round-trip per person. Golf cart rentals run $50-80 per day. Bikes $15-25 per day.
Tybee Island, Georgia — 50 Miles / 1.5 Hours
Savannah’s beach town. A barrier island with a long sandy beach, a working pier with restaurants, and a lighthouse.
Why go: A full beach day with Savannah culture nearby. The beach is wide and less crowded than developed Florida alternatives. The Tybee Island Lighthouse (built 1773) offers climbs to the top with views. The pier is functional (working fishing, restaurants, not just shops).
Must-see: Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum ($5). The beach itself. Dinner at one of the pier restaurants.
Cost: Beach access is free. Lighthouse is $5. Meals run $15-40.
Charleston, South Carolina — 100 Miles / 2 Hours
America’s most beautiful city (by many measures). Historic district with colonial architecture, the Battery waterfront, and one of the nation’s great restaurant scenes.
Why go: If you have a full day, Charleston deserves it. The historic district spans centuries. The Battery walks a seawall overlooking the harbor. Fort Sumter (where the Civil War started) is accessible by ferry. The food is world-class.
Must-see: The Battery and waterfront, the historic district (King Street and downtown), Fort Sumter National Monument, and restaurants like Leon’s Oyster Shop or Husk.
Cost: Ferries to Fort Sumter are $15-17. Historic home tours run $10-15. Restaurant meals are typically $20-60.
Hunting Island State Park — 45 Miles / 1 Hour
A barrier island with maritime forest, 5 miles of beach, and a historic lighthouse (built 1859). Less crowded than nearby beaches.
Why go: This is authentic Lowcountry beach without resort development. The lighthouse offers views. The trails through maritime forest show the ecosystem. The beach is clean and less crowded than touristy alternatives.
Cost: Park entry is $5 per vehicle. Lighthouse climb is $2.50.