This article goes out to those who love a good turn around a jam-packed gift shop full of items that run the gamut between cute and hilarious. Sometimes great gift shops just pop out at you on your way to dinner, and you have to take a peek—there’s time before your reservation, right? Whether you need to add a magnet to the collection on the fridge, stock up on postcards to send to friends or family, or are even out to find the perfect gift to thank the house or pet sitter, we all end up thinking the same thing: “I hope my suitcase is big enough!”
We’ve put together a list of some of the best souvenirs to bring home to friends and family that make great gifts, but also make great reminders of your time on Hilton Head Island if you decide to keep them for yourself.
TidalBall
Grab this beach game early on during your trip, and your group will have hours of fun during your beach day. Fun for all ages, this game is a combination of bocce ball and cornhole and was actually invented in South Carolina!
There are a few locations on the island where you can purchase a set, and if you want to order it ahead of your trip (or order more for your beachgoing friends, because it’s that fun) you can order it online.
If you do find it on the island, don’t worry about it taking up too much room in your luggage, it comes in a small water and sandproof bag and only weighs 8 ounces.
Chocolate Alligator
Wouldn’t it be fun to watch your friends’ faces when you say, “I brought you back an alligator!” A chocolate alligator, that is.
These delicious milk chocolate gators are just the start since The Island Fudge Shoppe located in Coligny Plaza offers various fun molds including sand dollars, golf bags, golf balls, and even a hunk of chocolate molded into the shape of Hilton Head.
This island’s favorite sweet spot is known for its fudge, praline patties, salt water taffy, and more!
Piggly Wiggly T-shirt
If you grew up with a Piggly Wiggly down the street, this souvenir probably won’t be as appealing to you as it will be for others who didn’t, but there’s something about the fun name and the cute mascot that people just can’t get enough of. The Hilton Head location, once Gene Martin’s Red & White that opened in 1969, is an island institution. When you walk in, you’ll see a wall of colorful t-shirts and other fun souvenirs to take home.
A Book (or Two)
We should clarify: we’re not suggesting a specific book that you need to take home, but rather a specific spot where you’ll be able to find one or two. Head to the Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum not only so you can visit the actual museum, learn more about the area, and climb to the top for an amazing view, but also for the equally amazing selection of educational and entertaining books about Hilton Head and the surrounding Lowcountry. From beautiful coffee table books that offer gorgeous pictures of the natural landscape and wildlife, to books about the Gullah culture, and even children’s books—you’ll surely find a great gift for someone or something to read during the trip back home.
Christmas Ornament
Some families collect magnets, others collect mugs, but one souvenir trend that you might want to join in on is creating a Christmas ornament collection that not only decorates your tree but reminds you of the trips that you’ve been on. A great memento for you and your family, you may want to include your ornament in your carry-on bag if you’re flying so there’s less chance of it breaking! A great spot on the island for finding ornaments is located in Coligny Plaza, called Mingles. A store filled will all sorts of goodies, you’ll find an extensive collection of Hilton Head Island or general beach-themed ornaments.
