When researching beaches to visit, you’re certain to hear or read about Hilton Head Island, which is often referred to as “America’s favorite island,” mostly because of its fabulous beach. If you’re planning to visit Hilton Head Island, you’ll need to know some logistic information like where’s the closest major airport to Hilton Head, but you’ll also be interested in what else there is to do there besides go to the beach. Here are some helpful facts about Hilton Head Island that will make you want to book your next vacation today.
Closest Airport
The closest major airport to Hilton Head Island is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and it is about a 45-minute drive from the island. This airport features 15 gates that service flights for Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Avelo Airlines, jetBlue, Allegiant, Breeze, Silver Airways, Southwest, Suncountry Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. Several airlines have direct flights from major U.S. cities to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport.
To get from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport to Hilton Head Island, there are several ground transportation options. The K-Shuttle is the official shuttle for the airport and provides rides to and from various locations in HIlton Head every day after 10:00 a.m. Some hotels also offer their own shuttles to and from the airport, or you can take advantage of the taxis that frequent the terminal. There are several car rental agencies onsite at the airport that can rent you a car as well, including Thrifty, Budget, Hertz, and Avis.
Historical Attractions
While Hilton Head is mostly known for its 12 miles of pristine beaches, it also has a number of historical attractions that are worth experiencing, as Hilton Head’s strategic location near the mouth of the Savannah River and the opening of Port Royal Sound placed it squarely at the center of major historical events. For example, Hilton Head played a pivotal role in the blockade of Confederate shipping during the Civil War. This blockade effectively cut off supplies from the Confederate Army and led to the end of the war.
When Hilton Head was captured by the Union, it became a place where freed slaves could rebuild their lives, attending school and receiving government subsidized housing. Fort Walker, originally a Confederate fort located on the northwest corner of Hilton Head Island, is the place to visit to discover more about this incredible time in South Carolina and U.S. history.
Other Activities
Relaxation is the primary activity that Hilton Head visitors indulge in, but there are other fun things to do as well. You can take part in numerous water sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing, play golf on more than 33 courses, take a dolphin tour, check out the Hilton Head Pirate Experience, sail over the canopy at Zipline Hilton Head, or get a bird’s eye view of the island in a helicopter.
Conclusion
Whatever you decide to do when you visit Hilton Head Island, you’re sure to never forget your experience. It’s a splendid place for a vacation, whether you’re on your own or with a family. So, set a date and explore your travel options today!
