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Hilton Head Island is a natural choice for vacationers seeking environmental beauty as well as recreation, culture and cuisine. One of the first ecologically planned communities in the United States, Hilton Head Island combines a coastal location, semi-tropical climate, marshes, lagoons and forests into an idyllic environment for wildlife as well as lovers of nature and history.
The Island is practically a visual time-line of American history. Native Americans, Spanish, English and African Americans have left their traces on Hilton Head Island. Here you'll discover the Indian Shell Ring, created by discarded oyster shells and bones, dating from approximately 1450 B.C. A visit to the Coastal Discovery Museum on the 63-acre historic Honey Horn property, will reveal South Carolina's largest South Red Cedar tree, dating from 1595, as well as exhibits including portraits and photographs of natural and historic significance. The Gullah, descendants of West Africans who were brought to the Sea Islands in bondage more than 200 years ago, have preserved their vibrant culture for generations. Each February, the month-long Gullah Celebration showcases the Native Islander's unique sea grass baskets, storytelling, art, music, history and delicious Lowcountry cuisine.
Speaking of food, Hilton Head Island's diverse dining scene offers something for everyone. Tucked away behind the trees and trails are more than 200 restaurants. Many of the Island's talented chefs feature locally harvested sustainable seafood, fresh-grown produce and other local foods as part of South Carolina’s Fresh on the Menu program in everything from finger-licking southern fare to haute cuisine, and seasonal festivals celebrate the Island's culinary bounty. Savor local dishes like Lowcountry shrimp boil and grilled sea bass from local waters.
Throughout its many changes from Native American territory to Colonial exploration to modern vacation paradise, this magnificent barrier island has sustained its stunning natural beauty. Hilton Head Island has more than 600 acres of nature preserves, including the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and the Audubon Newhall Preserve. Shaded trails and 12 miles of pristine ivory beaches are ideal for hikers and bicyclers. Kayaking tours, accessible for novices as well as seasoned paddlers, offer spectacular views of the Island's amazing array of lush foliage, flowers, dolphins, fish and waterfowl.
And at the end of the day, thanks to the Island's limits on light pollution, you can marvel at the Loggerhead Sea Turtles' march to the moonlit sea and the magical night sky thick with stars.
For planning assistance from our Online Concierge and to request a free Vacation Planner, contact the Hilton Head Island Visitor & Convention Bureau. www.hiltonheadisland.org | 800.523.3373
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