For thousands of years, travelers have made their way to an unmistakable paradise on the South Carolina coast, discovering a more soothing lifestyle amidst scenic views of some of the greatest natural beauty found anywhere. With its impressive golf courses and tennis courts, incredible spas, tranquil beaches and pristine waterways – ideal for kayaking and boating, residents and visitors to the area enjoy endless and varied opportunities for relaxation and recreation. This paradise is part of an amazing community where diverse dining and shopping abound and world-class entertainment and events dot the calendar, but that feeling of closeness you get from a small town never goes away.

Island at a crossroads

Hilton Head Island’s modern history is defined by several watershed moments, when decisions put this special place on a different course than other beach communities.

As resort towns like Myrtle Beach — and countless others along the East Coast — sold out for high-rise hotels, homes that encroach into sand dunes and touristy franchises, Hilton Head’s soul has always been its deliberate attempt to preserve what makes this place such a good place to live and visit: the stunning natural beauty of an island maritime forest.