Paradise lies just on the other end of Route 278: at Hilton Head Island, to be exact. An unpolluted marine estuary borders the idyllic island, and vacationers flock to Hilton Head year round to enjoy its soft coastal breezes and well-kept beaches and golf courses. About those beaches: Hilton Head Island has 12 miles of public-accessible oceanfront, where you can read a book, play in the surf or even go for a bike bicycle. We recommend renting a bike on the island, which has 25 bike-ready paths and weather conducive to a leisurely ride. And of course, you’ll likely have brought your clubs with you, so head to the Harbour Town Golf Links for a round bordering the Atlantic. The Pete Dye-designed course features the designer’s signature red-and-white striped lighthouse and spans more than 7,000 yards from the tips — make sure to bring that new driver. The Sea Pines Resort, where you’ll find the Harbour Town Links, also offers its Ocean and Sea Pines courses. While you’re there, check out the rest of Sea Pines Resort, which offers you and your family horse rides at its Lawton Stables, more than 500 acres of forest preserve and Four-Star The Inn & Club at Harbour Town. You may never want to venture to the rest of the island — though there’s still plenty more to see and do.
