Hilton Head Island’s history is extensive, and many visitors tend to go about their time on the island without learning much about its past at all. Hidden beyond the pines and tidal creeks, Hilton Head holds landmarks and sites filled with the stories of years gone by. Some are easier to find than others, but most of the time, visitors need to actively seek them out.
But now, discovering the Gullah Geechee history and culture on Hilton Head Island is right in the palm of your hand, with the new Experience Gullah interactive app.
The following are two examples of historical sites you’ll find on the app:
Hilton Head Island’s history is deeply intertwined with the Gullah Geechee people. Once home to more than 20 working plantations, the island was inhabited by enslaved West Africans who, over time, blended their languages and traditions to form what is now known as Gullah culture. This rich cultural heritage has endured through generations, preserved in the island’s oral histories, cuisine, language, and more.
The Experience Gullah app was created by the Gullah Geechee Historic Neighborhoods Community Development Corporation (“GGHNCDC”) and launched at the beginning of October 2025. The app guides visitors on a self-paced, GPS-enabled tour of significant Gullah landmarks across the island. From a well-preserved tabby structure from the 1820s or 1830s to historic schools, fishing camps, and freedmen’s communities, the app connects the past to the present with audio narratives, videos, and photos.
Whether you’re walking the Mitchelville Freedom Park or passing through other Gullah neighborhoods rich with history, the app provides cultural context and personal stories that bring each location to life. It’s a meaningful way to explore the island and honor the resilience and contributions of the Gullah people.
The Experience Gullah app is available for free on both iOS and Android. Visit the Experience Gullah website for additional information on Gullah neighborhoods, upcoming events, and more. So, next time you’re on Hilton Head, take a moment to look beyond the beaches and golf courses—you might just walk into a story that’s just been waiting to be told.
