10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Hilton Head Island in Winter

If you’re looking for a winter getaway that allows you to escape the snow and still enjoy the outdoors in temperate weather, Hilton Head Island might just be the perfect choice for you and your group. Sure, the island is a classic summertime vacation destination, but most people don’t realize that you can still experience Hilton Head year-round and have a terrific time. Some visitors even prefer to visit during the winter months.

We’ve already revealed 10 Reasons Why Taking a Fall Trip to Hilton Head Island is Always a Good Idea, but in this guide, we’re going to give you reasons why you should book your winter trip!

Let’s start with the most important factor: the weather. To us locals, Hilton Head’s temperatures are pretty chilly, but one look at anyone else’s scheduled forecast reminds us to count our blessings. Average highs tend to stay anywhere in the 60s or high 50s–a far cry from our friends inland or up north. In these temperatures, wearing a cozy sweater is adequate, and once that Carolina sunshine hits you, you’re ready to get outside and enjoy the island’s beautiful scenery. Sure, we have some cold days, but they don’t hang around too long.

Did you know that sunsets are scientifically proven to be more beautiful in winter? No, we didn’t just make that up–it’s true! Find out why sunsets are more vivid and therefore more breathtaking during the winter months in this article. You’ll also discover some recommended places to catch the sunset on Hilton Head Island.

At the start of the winter season, the island feels merry and bright as it hosts families, friends, and couples during the holiday season. There will be plenty to see and do with your group to get into that festive spirit, like finding beautiful Christmas lights throughout the island, meeting Santa to take a picture or two, and even celebrating New Year’s Eve!

While the island is a popular travel destination during the holidays, the remainder of the winter season is calm, and peaceful, and welcomes far fewer crowds. During your visit, you might stop and wonder if you really do have the island all to yourselves! If you’re looking for some rest and relaxation after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Hilton Head Island is the place to be!

And on that note, since the crowds have dwindled and there’s just less activity in general, you’ll have more opportunities to spot wildlife. As mentioned in our fall guide, birding is a great pastime for visitors–even if you know what you’re looking for or not! It’s hard not to notice all of the beautiful birds and other wildlife enjoying winter on the island just like you are.

The island’s temperate weather lends itself well to still getting outside and enjoying almost all of the same activities visitors look forward to when visiting in summer. If you ask the locals, they’d almost always prefer outdoor activities during the cooler months, anyways. Getting out on the water in a kayak or a dolphin cruise, going for a bike ride along the wide-open beaches, and exploring the trails in a wildlife preserve or park are way more enjoyable when it’s less hot and humid.

Some of the most popular outdoor activities fall under the sports category. Golf is arguably the most popular outdoor activity visitors and locals look forward to during the winter months. Some golfers even prefer the game during winter over any other season on the island, and as an added bonus: you’ll be met with lower rates. But of course, coming in as a close second and third (we don’t really know which is which at this point), are tennis and pickleball. Both are popular, but pickleball is close to taking over! Read our guide to find out where you can play the fastest-growing sport on the island!

We’re singing the winter weather’s praises, but sure, sometimes it feels great finding something to do that’s inside and warm. Our favorite thing? Grabbing tickets to the latest show! The Art Center of Coastal Carolina always has a great lineup of live performances to choose from, with the current musical being “42nd Street,” and “The Cottage” starting at the end of January. Click here for a list of their upcoming performances.

When you’re not spending your days out at the beach, your day really opens up. In addition to the various outdoor activities that we’ve already mentioned that are still perfect to plan for during your wintertime getaway to the island, you might be more inclined to take that day trip off-island. It can be as short as a few hours exploring Old Town Bluffton, shopping at the Tanger Outlets, or taking half a day or more to discover the beauty of historic, Beaufort, South Carolina, or Savannah, Georgia. Visitors are also often surprised at how close Charleston actually is to the island, and we definitely recommend giving yourself a full day to tour the charming downtown and surrounding areas.

Another schedule you’ll need to get into the habit of checking is the island’s calendar of festivals and events! While we see a ton of great events in the fall, the fun doesn’t end there. Keep an eye out for oyster roasts, fun runs, and races, as well as some of the bigger annual events like the local favorite, Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival happening February 17-23, 2025.