You don’t always have to have an excuse for a well-deserved trip with your groups of girls. Although celebrations like bachelorette trips are becoming more popular, sometimes it’s nice to reconnect with the fellow gals in your life for a restful getaway. There are plenty of places that would make a great destination for what we’re talking about, but in this case, let’s take a look at some tips and ideas on how to plan a girls trip to Hilton Head Island!
Planning Tips
- Having access to a full kitchen in your resort unit or villa is a game changer. Always eating out can not only get expensive, but honestly get a little tiring, especially on longer trips. Making a quick breakfast before hitting the beach to maximize your time getting z’s makes for a restful trip, not to mention saving on trip costs! We love a good brunch, but being able to whip up an easy meal before or at the end of a long day is sometimes all you need. At the very least, your group will be happy with plenty of room for all of your snacks!
- Girls trip or not, dining reservations can only add to your travel experience. Knowing that you have a for-sure table somewhere can take the stress out of your entire day, especially when it comes time to eat and you get to skip the very hungry-looking crowd in the restaurant’s waiting area! For traveling with groups, it’s often a bit tricky to choose somewhere to eat on the fly. Those with certain diets, food allergies, and just downright picky eaters can have a say in where they’d like to go, days if not weeks ahead of time! And I think we all like to take a sneaky look at the menu to figure out what we’re having ahead of time as well.
- Bikes are a great way to get around town, especially for groups. The early risers can take off and enjoy a ride down the beach at low tide—and fingers crossed, hopefully, pick up some coffees for those stuck in bed! As much fun as it is to stick together, sometimes there will be slight changes to the schedule and it’s nice to have access to something else other than a car. Plus, exploring the island by bike (or even golf cart) is an activity you don’t want to miss out on!
When to Go
Anytime is a great time to visit Hilton Head for a girls trip, but the very best time would be when the season slows down a bit in September and October. Throughout the fall, you’ll find fewer crowds, beautiful weather, and a long list of festivals and events to attend! Just remember that hurricane season ends at the end of November.
Activity Ideas
Wine Tasting
Pop into the Carolina Tasting Room at Coligny Beach and find some of the best locally sourced wine, beer, and other products! If you’re traveling with a larger group, you can make a reservation on their website, but otherwise walk-ins are always accepted. You’ll be able to taste six different wines for only $3, but some folks really go for the icy cold wine smoothies that come in a variety of delicious flavors.
Dinner or Dolphin Cruise
When visiting the island, the only thing that beats the beautiful views of the water is to get out on it! Reserve your spots on a Vagabond dinner cruise to catch the sunset, or hop aboard their newest fall tour, the Lowcountry Lunch Cruise to enjoy the sights and good food! Vagabond and other companies offering a more private setting, also offer dolphins cruises throughout the day, allowing you to not only see those playful dolphins within the Intracoastal waterway but also learn more about the area from the knowledgeable captain and guide.
Beach Day
This might be a given, but spending your days out on the pristine Hilton Head beaches is a must. But not all beaches on the island are the same, some are located near dining and shopping, while others feel a little out of the way and a bit wilder. Take a look at this guide for information about all of the public beaches to see what amenities they offer.
Go Dancing
Located in Shelter Cove Towne Center, the Rooftop Bar above the restaurant, Poseidon, is one of the best spots for nightlife on the island. This venue is a year-round hub for live entertainment and DJ dance parties. Check the schedule to see what each night will bring, but if you happen to be in town on a Wednesday, the Coastal Country Line Dancing is always a fun time.
Day Trip to Daufuskie Island or Savannah
Taking a ferry over to Daufuskie Island and Savannah for the day is a great way to shake up the itinerary and explore more of the region. On Daufuskie Island, you’ll discover what feels like an entirely different world. Grab a golf cart and follow the mostly dirt roads to find local artists, cuisine, historic landmarks, and beautiful views. Read more about this idyllic island here.
For cobblestones and charming historic streets, head over to Savannah, Georgia. This city is an easy drive from the island, but taking a ferry from Harbour Town is a unique and convenient way to access River Street and is an experience in itself. With a car, you have more freedom and an unlimited amount of time to see the sights. Savannah is a very walkable city, but hopping on and off a trolley tour is a better way to cover more land and get the inside scoop about the city’s history.
