AAA Traveler - Fall 2020 - 32

IDYLLIC ISLANDS

HILTON HEAD
MUCH OF SOUTH CAROLINA'S BARRIER ISLAND REMAINS AS IT WAS WHEN WILLIAM HILTON
SIGHTED IT FROM HIS SHIP MORE THAN 350 YEARS AGO. HILTON HEAD CONTINUES TO LURE
TRAVELERS WITH ITS RICH HISTORY, NATURAL BEAUTY, PREMIER GOLF COURSES AND
UPSCALE ACCOMMODATIONS.

HISTORY

A visit to the island's Coastal Discovery Museum provides a
thorough look at - and a greater appreciation for - the people and
events that shaped Hilton Head's physical, cultural and economic
landscapes. Housed in a former plantation home, the museum is
encompassed by 68 acres of protected forest, field and marsh land.
Inside the museum, permanent and temporary exhibits showcase the
culture and history from Native American settlers through the resort
boom of the '60s and '70s. The museum also offers engaging classes
like traditional sweetgrass baskets and guided tours of historic sites, as
well as a Discovery Lab for younger visitors that includes a walkthrough butterfly habitat filled with native species.
Gullah Heritage Trail Tours, led by island residents of Gullah
descent, shed light on the broad narrative of the Gullah people in
South Carolina and the establishment of America's first selfgoverned freedmen's town of Mitchelville. Because of the isolation
of coastal settlements on the Sea Islands from Reconstruction to
the Depression, the Gullah created a rich culture with authentic
West African elements including a distinctive language, food and
artistic traditions.
A bridge was constructed to connect Hilton Head to the
mainland 1956, paving the way for increased tourism. During that
time, developer Charles Fraser envisioned building a resort
community without sacrificing the island's natural beauty and
ecology. The result was Sea Pines Plantation. Strict architectural
guidelines continue to preserve Hilton Head's natural beauty -
signage is subdued and buildings are painted in earth tones.
FOUR DIAMOND STAYS

Situated within Sea Pines Plantation, The Inn & Club at
Harbour Town is the perfect marriage of boutique luxury and a
laid-back Lowcountry vibe. Guests enjoy chic furnishings and
upscale amenities with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and
Calibogue Sound. Three golf courses are also situated within Sea

Pines - Harbour Town Links, Ocean Course and Heron Point.
Head to Harbour Town's waterfront for almost limitless recreational
activities. Dining and nightlife options are also plentiful. Climb the
iconic red and white striped Harbour Town Lighthouse for epic
views of the marina and beyond.
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa offers an
oceanfront escape with private beach access. Pamper yourself with a
rejuvenating treatment at the Heavenly Spa. Set on 11 acres of
beautifully landscaped beachfront property, Sonesta Resort Hilton
Head Island is another great option for island visitors. A shaded lap
pool, Arum Spa and a zero-entry heated lagoon swimming pool are
just a few of many upgrades following a $30 million renovation.
With convenient access to championship tennis and golf and a
pristine private beach, Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront is the ideal
backdrop for a memorable island getaway. The 11-mile lagoon at
Palmetto Dunes is perfect for a leisurely morning of kayaking,
canoeing or paddle boarding. Grand live oaks dot the landscape of
oceanfront Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations. Feel at
home in one of the well-appointed suites that include fully
equipped kitchens, separate dining areas and private balconies.
ISLAND DIVERSIONS

Time spent on any of Hilton Head Island's 12 miles of stunning
beaches is an ideal way to relax and recharge. Cycle or walk along
the more than 60 miles of bike paths. Additionally, scenic hiking
trails weave through wooded preserves teeming with birds and
other wildlife. Birders should explore Pinckney Island National
Wildlife Refuge, a popular stop for thousands of migratory species.
Visitors may also spy deer, alligators and other local wildlife.
Coligny Beach Park, located at the southern end of the island, is
a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. During the summer
enjoy live music as you peruse the boutique shops or savor ample
dining and nightlife options within the plaza.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL AAA OFFICE

CALL 800-750-5386

CLICK AAA.COM/TRAVEL

HILTON HEAD ISLAND CVB

- Kristy Tolley

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AAA Traveler - Fall 2020

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of AAA Traveler - Fall 2020