12 Free Things to Do in Hilton Head Island in 2024

Hilton Head Island comes with sugar-sand beaches and nature-filled sunshine. Are you in search of things that you can do in Hilton Head Island but for free? Here’s the secret: Hilton Head has incredible experiences that won’t cost you a penny!

12 Free Things to Do in Hilton Head Island

From relaxing on the shore to exploring hidden wildlife refuges and uncovering the island’s rich history, we came up with 12 free things to do in Hilton Head Island waiting to be discovered on your 2024 Hilton Head getaway. Get ready to explore these things one by one!

1.  Coligny Beach

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If you want to enjoy free fun on Hilton Head Island, Coligny Beach is the best option to go for. For a touch of play fun and activity, there’s a lively pavilion with restrooms, changing facilities, and even volleyball nets for a friendly match. Also, you can relax at this beach if you will get tired after playing for longer time.

Nearby Attractions:

• Harbour Town
• Coligny Plaza
• Lowcountry Celebration Park

Nearby Restaurants:

• Stu’s Surfside Subs
• It’s Greek to Me
• The SandBar Beach Eats

2. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Relax yourself from the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.

This 4,000-acre wildlife refuge is the best place for nature enthusiasts. You can hike or bike along scenic trails, keeping your eyes on scenic and natural views that will change your mood.

Nearby Attractions:

• Coastal Discovery Museum
• The Church of the Cross
• Skull Creek Boathouse

Nearby Restaurants:

• Sunset Grille
• Kenny B’s French Quarter Café
• Hogshead Kitchen and Wine Bar

3. South Beach & Mitchelville Historic District

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South Beach offers a delightful mixture of sun-soaked relaxation and an amazing glimpse into the past. Relax on the soft sand, perfect for the kids or taking a refreshing swim.

This beach is known for its calmer waves, ideal for families with young children. If you are in search of a family vacation in Hilton Head Island, this is the perfect place.

Nearby Attractions:

• Historic Mitchelville
• Cypress Point Park
• The Dunes House

Nearby Restaurants:

• The Salty Dog Café
• The Purple Cow
• Taste of Europe

4. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve

Get ready your walking shoes or rent a bike and go on a scenic adventure through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This fascinating 600-acre preserve comes with a network of well-maintained trails, perfect for exploring lush forests, serene lagoons, and vibrant wildlife.

Nearby Attractions:

• Lincoln & South Brewing Company
• Hilton Head Distillery
• Wooden Skiff Brewing Company

Nearby Restaurants:

• Street Meet the American Tavern
• Bella Italia
• OKKO Japanese Sushi

5. Jones Island

Get rid of the crowds and enjoy your company in Hilton Head’s rich history with a visit to Jones Island. Explore the network of scenic trails coming through maritime forests, salt marshes, and amazing beaches. Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species especially if you are a bird lover and want to see different types of birds.

Nearby Attractions:

• Fort Fremont
• Coastal Discovery Museum
• The Dunes House

Nearby Restaurants:

• Pazzo’s Pizza
• The Salty Dog Café
• Watusi Café

6. Shelter Cove Harbour

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Shelter Cove Harbour is a vibrant place combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty. Walk along the scenic harborfront, admiring the luxurious yachts and sailboats. Live music often fills the air during the spring and fall seasons, creating a lively atmosphere for a relaxing evening that is totally free.

Nearby Attractions:

• Hilton Head Island Bike Trails
• Nash Gallery
• Art League of Hilton Head

Nearby Restaurants:

• Hilton Head Social Bakery
• Bistro 17
• San Miguel’s Mexican Café

7. Burkes Beach

Burkes Beach offers a delightful combination of relaxation and artistic inspiration. Here, the focus is on soaking up the sun and exploring artistic history nearby. Burkes Beach is a beautiful beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles. This beach is ideal for families with young children and families.

Nearby Attractions:

• Driessen Beach Park
• Folly Field Beach Park
• Sea Pines Forest Preserve

Nearby Restaurants:

• Sea Salts Beverage Co
• Harold’s Diner
• Barnacle Bill’s Fresh Seafood

8. Audubon Newhall Preserve

The Audubon Newhall Preserve occupies a space of a 50-acre located on the south end of Hilton Head Island. It’s owned and operated by the Hilton Head Island Audubon Society, a non-profit and volunteer organization. The preserve is free to enter and open every day from sunrise to sunset making it worth trying destination freely.

Nearby Attractions:

• Picture This Gallery
• Coligny Beach
• Palmetto Dunes

Nearby Restaurants:

• Red Fish
• Delisheeyo
• The Smokehouse

9. Singleton Beach

It is a public beach located on the north end of Hilton Head Island. This beach is famous for its wide, sandy beach and calm waters.  Parking can be a challenge, especially during peak season, so be prepared to arrive early or use alternative transportation like a bike or public bus. Other than that, it is recommended not to visit during peak season.

Nearby Attractions:

• Coastal Discovery Museum
• Shelter Cove Harbour
• Pinckney Island

Nearby Restaurants:

• Coco’s on the Beach
• The Sandbar
• Big John’s Café

10.  Fish Haul Beach Park

Fish Haul Beach Park offers a tranquil experience on Hilton Head Island, perfect for those tourists seeking a break from the crowds and a chance to connect with nature.

At this place, you can enjoy some experiences like bird watching, exploring nature, deck views, and explore scenic beach views.

Nearby Attractions:

• Mitchelville Freedom Park
• Hilton Head Distillery
• St. Francis

Nearby Restaurants:

• Sprout Momma
• The Purple Cow
• Lagerhead Tavern

11. Lowcountry Celebration Park

This park would be one of the best options if you want to enjoy a free family outing and party. At this park, you can bring your kids with you as this park includes an adventure playground area where your kids can play and enjoy themselves freely. Also, you can do some workouts as there’s a fitness station area in this park.

Nearby Attractions:

• Coligny Beach
• Van Der Meer Tennis Center
• Coligny Beach Park

Nearby Restaurants:

• Stu’s Surfside Subs
• Southern Coney & Breakfast
• Sage Room Restaurant Bar

12. The Village at Wexford

The Village at Wexford isn’t exactly a spot for free activities, but it’s a charming outdoor shopping center with a beautiful atmosphere. You can enjoy free window shopping here along with enjoying artistic sceneries at Nasha Gallery and Karis Art Gallery. This place is best for everyone where all can enjoy something.

Nearby Attractions:

• AR Workshop Hilton Head
• Palmetto Dunes
• Coligny Beach

Nearby Restaurants:

• Nunzio Restaurant and Bar
• Java Burrito Company
• The Jazz Corner

Final Words!

These are the 12 fantastic and free things to do in Hilton Head Island to make the most of your Hilton Head Island tour memorable.

From exploring amazing beaches and wildlife refuges to strolling through charming villages and biking scenic trails, you can experience the island’s beauty and culture without breaking the bank. 

Remember this list for the next time when you want to go to Hilton Head Island as these things are the best and free things to do with infinite memories and culture!