With 12 miles of pristine beaches and endless outdoor adventures, you may already know that Hilton Head Island, South Carolina is an elite summer vacation destination, but did you know that the island’s shoulder season is its best kept secret?
In fact, Hilton Head Island has seen an increase in shoulder season visitors in recent years, with the average monthly hotel occupancy in the offseason rising to 47.2% in 2024, up from 44.4% in 2023.
• Where to stay?
o As the summer crowds fade and crisp coastal breezes roll in, fall is the perfect time to experience Hilton Head Island’s oceanfront charm. Properties like Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island and The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa offer scenic accommodations where golden sunsets and quieter beaches set the tone for a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re indulging in upscale luxury at The Sea Pines Resort or planning an affordable fall escape at Beach House, Hilton Head Island provides the ideal backdrop for a cozy, carefree getaway this autumn. What’s more, travelers can find the latest hotel deals for the fall, here.
• What to do?
o Outdoor Adventures: Travelers can bike along shorelines or explore miles of Spanish moss draped oak trees. Guests can also choose their own adventure from dolphin tours to water sports and nature experiences.
o Spa Day: Travelers looking to get pampered can indulge in ultimate relaxation from massages and facials to hot stones and full body exfoliation. Visitors can head to the Heavenly Spa by Westin, Ocean Tides Spa, or The Indigo Spa for some much needed relaxation.
o Culinary Escapes: Home to over 250 restaurants, Hilton Head Island is a culinary delight with diverse cuisine offerings and renowned for its locally sourced seafood. Enjoy extraordinary waterfront views and local history at Hudson’s on the Docks, a waterfront restaurant which is one of the only two remaining local fishing fleets on the Island that brings in fresh-caught seafood from the docks to the tables. Nunzio Restaurant + Nectar Farm are just two local favorite restaurants where diners can taste the flavors of the Lowcountry.
o Events: Travelers can celebrate the season with marquee events, from the Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival (Oct. 29 – Nov. 2) to the famed Oyster Festival (Nov. 7-8, 2025), one of the Lowcountry’s most anticipated traditions.
