The South Carolina Lowcountry is truly one-of-a-kind. One of the brightest gems of the Lowcountry though, is right in our backyard; Hilton Head Island is loaded with natural beauty, a vibrant foodie scene, and only the best in craft drinks, if we do say so ourselves. Located smack dab in the middle of Savannah and Charleston, two of the South’s most popular destinations, Hilton Head Island is a favorite of those who love to hit the beach, but still have fun things to do when they need a break from the Carolina sun.
If you’ve never ventured to our Island, just take a moment to let us convince you why you should. We promise not to take up too much of your time.
Revel in the Pristine Beaches
Hilton Head Island has more than 12 miles of some of the best beaches in the country. From South Beach to Folly Field, Forest to Driessen, and every beach in between, it’s no wonder Hilton Head Island has been recognized as one of the Top Ten family beaches in the country. With pristine stretches of sand, warm waters, and days upon days filled with sunshine, our beaches are perfect for relaxing or family fun. There’s room for everyone!
If you haven’t already heard, Hilton Head Island has been ranked #1 Island in the Continental US and #1 Island in the US by readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine, as well as Conde Nast Traveler for the past several years.
Enjoy an Excursion
But, if you’re looking for a little more than just relaxing on the beach, you’ve come to the right place!
If you or someone in your group is a golfer, we have a feeling they’ll be thrilled. Our Island has some of the most beautiful golf courses in the country. One of our very favorites may be a splurge, but we think it’s worth it. Harbour Town Golf Links is where they host the annual PGA golf tournament RBC Heritage. Which, you should put on your calendar for next year if you can. If your golf game is more “mini” in style – we recommend Pirate’s Island Adventure Golf (aye, matey!) and Legendary Golf for an all-day play option.
Looking for water activities? Live Oac offers every sort under the sun; dolphin tours, boating, tubing, jet skiing, kayaking, and an array of others that will leave every member of your group exhilarated. Adventure Hilton Head also offers activities ranging from zip-lining to an aerial adventure course, and even a go-kart race track for those who prefer staying on land.
Before you leave, the infamous Harbour Town Lighthouse is a must see. As the beacon of our Island, this lighthouse is one of the most iconic sites on Hilton Head. Once you reach the top, incredible views of the marsh surrounding the Island await you.
Taste the Local Flavor
We hope you came with an appetite, because we have an array of incredible cuisine lined up here for you. From fresh, local seafood, to authentic Lowcountry cuisine, and even classic Southern fare – you can find the flavor you’ve been searching for.
An Island tradition of over 50 years, Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks has all the fresh, local seafood your heart desires with nothing short of a spectacular view. Sitting at the edge of the Port Royal Sound, each of the tables on their dock offers extraordinary views of a truly special Lowcountry dining experience. They use one of only two remaining local fishing fleets on Hilton Head Island to catch their seafood and serve it straight to your table.
One Hot Mama’s is the perfect place on the Island to take the whole family, offering authentic southern barbecue and elevated comfort food. Not only is Executive Chef Orchid Paulmeier’s award-winning barbecue the star of the menu, but Orchid herself has a claim to fame. As a Food Network Star, Orchid brings her expertise in southern barbecue straight to your table. From classic meat and three combo platters to hand-cut steaks, and their infamous wings, One Hot Mama’s is the perfect destination for date night, birthdays, or just a regular old Wednesday.
One of our favorite new additions to the Island, Nectar Farm Kitchen works directly with local farmers who are as passionate about food as they are. Their group of distinguished chefs thoughtfully prepare each dish using ingredients grown in the Lowcountry whenever possible. Paired with a farmhouse atmosphere and local southern charm, Nectar is a pleasure you can only experience in our little corner of the South.
One of our favorite parts about these three Island gems is that you can find unique craft cocktails using BCD spirits at each of them. Win-win!
Get a Craft Brewery Buzz
Hilton Head Island and Bluffton have some of the best kept secrets in craft brewing. Two of our favorites? Side Hustle Beer Co. and lot 9 brewing co.
Side Hustle Beer Co. is located on HHI and is actually the smallest craft brewery in the state. But, as we all know, size doesn’t always account for quality. Co-owned by our very own Billy Watterson, you can swing by their taproom on the Island while you’re out and about, or grab their 16 oz. cans at the distillery. Either way, you’ll be blown away by the exceptional taste and quality ingredients.
lot 9 brewing co. is every local’s secret hangout spot. With a passion for celebrating the culture of beer while delivering quality brews to friends, they put the fun in craft beer. With an ever evolving tap list and a host of local food trucks, you’ll be in good hands with those folks.
Experience the Spirits
Lastly, it wouldn’t be very Southern of us if we didn’t personally extend you an invitation to pay our distillery a visit on your next trip to Hilton Head. We are just a quick 10 minute drive from the Island, and will certainly make it worth your while.
Our distillery was brought to life with the question, where does a name like Burnt Church Road come from? Founders Billy and Sean Watterson were led on a multi-year journey in uncovering the truth, not only discovering the answers, but a few Lowcountry spirits as well. We invite you to spend an afternoon visiting our 20,000 square-foot campus where you’ll find more than just exceptionally crafted spirits, but also the answers to legends and folklore that’s been passed down from generation to generation.
In our grand 7,000 square-foot tasting room, formally known as The Sanctuary, you’ll be able to taste and experience our lineup of nine craft spirits: Anita’s Choice Bourbon, Johnny Fever Bourbon, Bluffton Whiskey, Palmer’s Stretch Rye Whiskey, Sin Eater Cinnamon Smoky Whiskey, Devil’s Elbow Gin, Burnt Church Vodka, Sippin’ Saint Moonshine, and Amethyst Non-Alcoholic Botanical Spirit.
Come relax with your friends, enjoy live music, and indulge in classic and signature cocktails crafted by our skilled mixologists. We can’t wait to host you!
