Hilton Head Island & Bluffton Vacations Spring 2021

VACATIONS

SPRING 2021

FREE GUIDE

Hilton Head Island & Bluffton

FLIP OVER FOR MENUS

Insider Tips

TO ENJOYING THE LOWCOUNTRY

All the FUN in

Palmetto Dunes resort

GOLF

Play three championship golf courses: Robert Trent Jones, Arthur Hills & George Fazio. NEW Toptracer Range at Jones!

TENNIS

#1 Tennis Resort in the Carolinas

by Tennis Magazine.

Junior & adult programs available

ALEXANDER’S

Upscale seafood restaurant & wine bar Open for dinner at 5:00 p.m. daily

BIKES

KAYAKS

Rent a bike at Hilton Head Outfitters to explore 5 miles of scenic paths or take it to the beach!

Rent a kayak or canoe at Hilton Head Outfitters & take a ride through a calm 11-mile salt water lagoon

PICKLEBALl

LAGOoN FISHING

Adult clinics & round robins daily.

Take a private lesson with Pickleball Touring Pro Sarah Ansboury!

BIG JIM’S

Offers southern favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner (catering also available)

Take a fishing trip & catch Redfish, Trout or Flounder. Catch and release

Located mid-island, Hwy 278, mile marker 8. Call 844-237-1109 PalmettoDunes.com

one location

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

Seven waterfront restaurants offering international & gourmet cuisine

DINING

Shops feature apparel, jewerly & accessories, Hilton Head Island gifts, art & more!

SHOPpING

ENTERTAINMENT

WATER SPORTS

FISHING CHARTERS

CRUISES & TOURS

Located mid-Island, adjacent to Palmetto Dunes. Call 844-237-1108 ShelterCoveHiltonHead.com

Luxury pontoon boats for families & center console fishing boats for anglers

Choose from many options including jet skis, SUP, sport crabbing dock, waterskiing, wakeboarding and tubing.

Try driving a two person cat boat!

Board any of our 10 fishing boats & fish inshore or offshore with our experienced & fun captains!

BOAT RENTALS

Enjoy live music nightly at various restaurants along the marina waterfront

Take in the view on our scenic cruises & tours including nature, sunset, dolphin, sport crabbing, sailing & kayaks

Located adjacent to the Neptune Statue SouthernTideHiltonHead.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

WELCOME TO THE

LOWCOUNTRY We’re glad you’ve made it to the Lowcountry.

You’ve earned this vaca¬tion. Kick off your shoes, grab a cold drink and relax while you flip through this guide to find out about all the great things Hilton Head Island and Bluffton have to offer.

Whether you are here for a family vacation, a business trip, a weekend getaway or just a day of fun in the sun, you will soon discover what attracts so many visitors to our corner of the world. After the beach and lots of outdoor activity during the day, you’ll enjoy exceptional cultural, dining, entertainment and shopping opportunities that will keep you engaged past sunset.

ANUSKA FREY Publisher anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

Navigating Hilton Head can be difficult. Founding visionary and developer Charles Fraser made beauty a high priority, putting nature first and limiting light pollution in our community. We are proud to be different, but it can sometimes make finding things difficult for visitors. Virtually everything is hidden behind a tree or two, but with this guide and GPS, you’ll be good to go.

Inside, you will find information on our most popular activities — golf, tennis, biking, boating, fishing, shopping, and much more. There are activities for adults and children, including a stateof-the-art park that’s a top attraction. You’ll also learn about a day trip to Daufuskie Island, which is just a short ferry ride away and offers natural beauty and a rich history.

We also touch on our local history, the laid-back lifestyle and offer compelling reasons why it’s worth considering making the Lowcountry your retirement home.

After all, many of the Lowcountry’s locals once were tourists who decided to stick around.

So, slide on your flip-flops, take a deep breath and soak in the beauty that surrounds you. Leave your stress behind.

Enjoy your visit.

Due to Covid, menus & hours may change. Please call ahead.

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HILTON HEAD ISLAND BLUFFTON SC

Published by Media and Marketing Team LLC 843-681-3800 | www.forkandfun.com Hilton Head Island & Bluffton and Lowcountry Restaurants The Hilton Head Menu Guide Vacation Guide | Visitor Map Explore & Enjoy | Locate & Go

Publisher Anuska Frey anuska@forkandfun.com

CEO Marc Frey CTO Marjan Jaklin Senior Creative Director Sasha Sweeney Graphic Design Madison Elrod Sales Anuska Frey 843-681-3800

Majka Mochnac 843-290-9372

Mary Ann Kent 843-384-9390

Markey McInerney 843-949-2591

Contributing Writer Jevon Daly, Anthony David, Carrie Hirsch, Sloan Kelly, Tim Watson, Carol Weiss Photography Madison Elrod, Rob Kaufman

DISTRIBUTION Express Delivery & Distribution 843-290-3278

While we strive to ensure accuracy, Trio Publishing, LLC, is not responsible for incorrect information. Menus, opening hours, services and prices are subject to change without notice. Please call the establishment directly to verify information. Design, concept and content of our publications and websites are copyrighted and trademarked. All rights reserved.

FORKANDFUN.COM

AN EPIC CELEBRATION OF FLEETWOOD MAC!

MAY 28 – 29 THIS FULL ROCK CONCERT BRINGS BELOVED, TIMELESS MUSIC TO LIFE!

EVENT SAFETY:

FLEETWOOD MAC’S LEGENDARY ALBUM True to the Fleetwood Mac sound with every note, the first act is the iconic album Rumours with the second act spotlighting more of the band’s greatest hits.

Rumours was an instant success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide within just a month of its release. It garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with praise for its production quality and harmonies. Rumours won Album of the Year at the 1978 Grammy Awards and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of all time. It has been certified 20× platinum in the US.

PHYSICAL DISTANCE

FACE COVERINGS 5

THEATER OCCUPANCY

TEMPERATURE SCREENINGS

H I S T O RY

STATE-OFTHE-ART ATTRACTION LOWCOUNTRY CELEBRATION PARK A HILTON HEAD MUST-SEE

BY CARRIE HIRSCH | PHOTOS BY MATT GARBADE STORY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF HILTON HEAD MONTHLY

Located on the south side of Pope Avenue between Circle Center Shopping Center and Coligny Beach parking lot, Lowcountry Celebration Park is a sought-after attraction.

The park includes a sprawling lawn, a small pavilion on a lake, a stage for events, walking trails, exercise stations, boardwalks and The Sandbox Children’s Museum.

It features a large reimagined Adventure Playground Ship, complete with mist cannons, named for the vessel captained by explorer William Hilton who discovered the island in 1663.

“The design of Lowcountry Celebration Park is a careful orchestration to address a number of community issues and needs in an effort to encourage reinvestment in the Coligny area,” said Town of Hilton Head Island project manager and urban designer Chris Darnell, PLA. Darnell said the park’s lagoon is part of a stormwater drainage project that will reduce flooding upstream in and around Coligny Circle and Pope Avenue as well as downstream on Tanglewood Drive and Cordillo Parkway.

The parking spaces are pervious, which reduces stormwater runoff and, along with the planted wetland shelves in the lagoon, improves water quality, Darnell said.

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The interactive water feature is an interpretation of the tides on the beach and in the marsh. Parents will find shaded seating options, Wi-Fi access throughout the park and charging stations for smart devices in the playground, he said.

“The Pavilion puts a new twist on Lowcountry architecture and is designed to host shows and concerts. Evening attractions include the unlighted “Setting Sun” sculpture and a fountain,” Darnell said.

Eugene Bell, AIA, LEED AP BD+C of the architectural firm Watson Tate Savory, said the buildings have their own unique character.

“While the buildings share a common materiality, each of them is conceived and executed in a different manner, giving each individual building its own character while simultaneously linking them all architecturally,” Bell said.

“Rendered in weathered gray wood, Savannah gray brick and tabby stucco, their design is tied deeply to the aesthetic and character of the Town of Hilton Head.”

Bell said Watson Tate Savory worked with Kyle Theodore (project lead) and her team at Wood + Partners.

The Sandbox, a non-profit interactive children’s museum, is also an integral part of the new park.

The new building has a dedicated outdoor exhibit space, an art studio, and a separate program room, according to Nancy Fish, executive director of The Sandbox.

Fish said in addition to upgrading current exhibits, The Sandbox has new exhibits that “reflect the culture of the Lowcountry.”

Said Darnell: “The town is excited to have The Sandbox Museum as a partner to complement the play and discovery themes of the playground.”

Lowcountry Celebration Park will likely attract locals and visitors year-round, which will benefit businesses.

“We could not be more excited about the opening of Lowcountry Celebration Park. We are a family community, and this will bring so many fun options to locals as well as our visitors,” says Erika Waronsky, owner of The Sandbar Beach Eats and Carolina Coffee & Crumbs in Coligny Plaza.

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H I S T O RY

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FORKANDFUN.COM

A Light from the Past HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSE IN PALMETTO DUNES GETS FACELIFT STORY AND PHOTOS COURTESY OF PALMETTO DUNES

A piece of history in Palmetto Dunes and the site of many legends, the Rear Range Lighthouse in Palmetto Dunes has been restored to its former glory.

In 1985, Greenwood Communities and Resorts, the parent company of Palmetto Dunes, refurbished the lighthouse, cistern and oil house and opened the grounds to the public. In the same year, the Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The lighthouse is part of the National Register of Historic Places and is a popular stop for visitors.

The distinctive structure, located in the Leamington area near the neighborhood’s Arthur Hills golf course, was built between 1879 and 1880 as part of a larger system of navigation lights guiding ships into Port Royal Sound.

A cast-iron skeleton tower built about a mile inland on six concrete piers, the lighthouse stands 94 feet tall and was activated on August 1, 1881. Light from the structure was visible from 15 miles away.

The lighthouse has been renovated again, including the addition of a new cedar shingle roof, which was stained, replacement of 360-degree observation deck boards and structural wood areas, cleaning and treating of the interior, cleaning of the exterior, and the structure was painted with an oil-based, marine-grade paint.

The windows and doors were replaced and painted in a “Charleston Green,” while overgrown foliage around the lighthouse was removed.

Featured on the National Register of Historic Places and part of the Inventory of Historic Light Stations, the lighthouse is Hilton Head Island’s only historic lighthouse.

It’s one of only a handful of surviving lighthouses in South Carolina.

“We are pleased with the recent renovation and improvements to this historic Hilton Head Rear Range lighthouse and excited to welcome visitors to see the completed project,” said Palmetto Dunes Vice President of Resort Operations Brad Marra.

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BEACHES

Beaches of Hilton Head Island

Sands. Surfing. Swimming. Sunning.

Shores. Sailing. Sanctuary. Whatever your vision of the “beach life” may entail, the sun-splashed beaches of Hilton Head Island offer as many experiences as there are shells on their sandy shores. From its heel to its toe, here’s an overview of some of the island’s popular beaches and hidden gems.

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Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park

1. SOUTH BEACH

Best For: Unique water sports opportunities (kayaking, sport fishing, parasailing, etc.), sightseeing and walking. Located in Sea Pines at the “toe” of the island near the South Beach Marina. Calibogue Beach is relatively quiet, nearly secluded, and is great for just watching the dolphins or a relaxing walk. If you are not a Sea Pines resident or registered guest, you must pay $8 per vehicle to enter the resort. Access: Near Sea Pines South Beach Marina, best accessed by bike or foot. $8 per vehicle to enter the resort.

2. SOUTH FOREST BEACH

Best For: Swimming, fishing, biking and walking. Part of Hilton Head’s “Ocean Community,” South Forest Beach is on a one-mile stretch of beachfront between the Coligny Circle and Sea Pines Plantation gate.

It is the largest of the island’s public beaches, and draws more crowds than North Forest Beach. Wide, comfortable and spacious, and buffered somewhat from nearby development, it’s a great all-purpose spot. Venture a little further away from the public access point that divides the north and south beaches, and you’ll find even more room to spread out. Access: Public access on Alder Lane and Seaside Villas, off South Forest Beach Road.

3. COLIGNY BEACH

Best For: Everybody. Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, biking, an early-morning jog or a romantic date night. At Hilton Head’s busiest beach you’ll find soft sand and wonderful clean water. Even better, it’s close to the island’s unofficial downtown area.

The beach is protected by security cameras and visitors can enjoy free WiFi, volleyball nets, scores of beach rentals and free parking — park at the beach parking, not Coligny Plaza. The beach and the shopping plaza do get a little crowded, but if you like an active and lively beach experience, this is your spot. Access: At Coligny Circle, at the intersection of Pope Avenue and South Forest Beach Drive.

4. NORTH FOREST BEACH

Best For: Swimming, walking and surfing Located near over 100 dining and shopping options in one of the island’s oldest neighborhoods. For surfers, the beach area at Jacana Street is known to offer some of the best waves at high tide on the island.

Locals swear by the shoreline as the best on Hilton Head, and the quaint mix of older beach cottages with modern ocean compounds makes for a compelling community feel.

Access: The one-mile stretch of beach starts at Coligny Circle and runs north to the Sonesta Resort located in Shipyard Plantation.

5. BURKES BEACH

Best For: Surfing, boarding, walking and pets. Located to the northern side of Chaplin Community Park, Burke’s Beach is adjacent to Singleton Beach, divided by the natural folly field. The beach offers seasonal lifeguards and limited parking, but boasts some of the best waves for surfing and boarding. The dog park at Chaplin Park is a nice touch and makes it a great destination for a bark-and-beach day with man’s best friend. Access: Just south of Palmetto Dunes at the end of Burkes Beach Road.

6. DRIESSEN BEACH

Best For: Day trips, swimming, sunning, locals and in-the-know. A long boardwalk connects the maritime forest to the white-sand beach. A long, wide shoreline leaves ample room to spread out, and the flat ocean floor and small waves make it kid-friendly and great for body boarding or just wading. Tucked in a heavily shaded and wooded area, it’s a bit hard to find, but with tons of amenities like parking and restrooms.

Access: Off William Hilton Parkway, at the end of Bradley Beach Road.

7. FOLLY FIELD BEACH

Best for: Surfers, walking and biking.

A bit off the beaten path from the plantations and resorts, Folly Field

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has more of a locals’ beach feel. With a shorter walk to the beach than nearby Driessen Beach, it is both convenient and quiet. Take a long walk and grab a pit stop and a drink at the outdoor bar at the nearby The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. Access: Located on Starfish Road, a right turn off Folly Field Road.

8. ISLANDER’S BEACH

Best for: Locals and swimming. A favorite of locals, Islander’s Beach recently earned a high ranking in Coastal Living magazine’s Top 21 Beaches on the East Coast. It’s less crowded than most Hilton Head spots and swimmer-friendly, thanks to its gentle underwater slope. Parking is at a premium and is mostly reserved for residents and year-round pass holders. Access: Located at 94 Folly Field Road, at Sparkleberry Ln.

9. FISH HAUL CREEK BEACH PARK

Best For: Privacy, fishing, walking.

Many locals consider this beach Hilton Head’s best-kept secret.

Adjacent to Barker’s Field, this beach park (formerly Mitchelville Beach Park) was recently renamed. It’s not for swimming, but is great for beachcombing, hunting for sharks’ teeth and digging for clams. Access: Near the end of Beach City Road, on Mitchelville Road.

10. HISTORIC MITCHELVILLE FREEDOM PARK

Best for: Walking, birdwatching, clamming & fishing.The public beach access at this historic site is located on the “heel” of the island. It boasts 31 acres of mostly untouched nature, feels like your own private beach and is arguably the scene for the best bird watching in all of Hilton Head. The beach itself is a generous walk from the park. Access: Near the end of Beach City Road.

BIKING

Bike paths lead the way AWARD-WINNING PATHWAYS OFFER A QUINTESSENTIAL RIDE

BY BARRY KAUFMAN

There are few things more rewarding then saddling up on your bike, pointing your tire down a new pathway, and letting exploration unfold all around you. And there are few better places to enjoy a blissful bike ride than Hilton Head Island.

It’s not just in the gentle climate or the pathways that wind in and out of dense forests, beach parks and tranquil lagoon areas, it’s in the dedication that Hilton Head Island has demonstrated in creating the ultimate cycling experience.

Just look at the numbers when it comes to our pathways: We enjoy 6 miles of bike lanes, 117 miles of shared-use pathways, 108 miles of paved shared-use paths, 14 miles of planned pathways and one mile of single track. All told, 24 percent of our arterial streets have bike lanes or paved shoulders.

And the community has embraced the role these pathways play, with the Town of Hilton Head Island offering a help line so riders can report unsafe conditions and the Hilton Head Island Rotary Club dotting them with signage highlighting interesting facts about the community.

And the places these paths can take you simply dazzle. While the many private communities around the island are closed to public cycling, the arteries of our path system lead to many of our island’s most dazzling spaces.

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Go further and still have the energy for more miles! There is nothing more fun than electric.

Hourly, Daily and Weekly Rentals Available Also be sure to try one of our BIKE & DINE PACKAGES! Get a great deal on an ebike rental with a dinner from some of Hilton Head’s premier dining establishments!

Call us at (843) 940-8112 for more info or visit our website at:

Avocadobike.net

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BIKING

When riding on the north end, be sure to cycle over to Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park on Beach City Road, where you can pedal right up to a stunning observation boardwalk and bask in views of Port Royal Sound in a place whose history stretches back thousands of years. There is another observation deck not far off, at Mitchelville Road’s Barker Field. Here you can enjoy a panorama of water views where the Sound meets the Atlantic.

Our bike paths can also guide you on a trip through time, as they stretch along some of our awe-inspiring historical treasures. At the corner of Matthews and U.S. 278, you can park your bike at the Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery, where some of the island’s earliest families are interred.

This spot has played a key role in the island’s history dating back to the War for Independence, and the Heritage Library has taken the utmost care in preserving this space and making it a fascinating spot to take in history. But to really turn back the hands of time, you can bike over to Greens Shell Community Park, right off of the bike path. Here, an elevated platform takes you out over an archaeological wonder: a four-foot tall, 30-foot wide shell ring enclosure dating back to 1335 A.D. But Hilton Head Island’s pathways aren’t just for those seeing a relaxing pace as they tour the island’s sights and attractions. Serious cyclists are taking notice of the island’s pathways, as evidence by our role as host for the Southeast Biking Symposium and the popularity of our Pedal Hilton Head event. If you’re up for the challenge, you can retrace the Metric Century Route from Pedal Hilton Head, which takes you up and over our island’s three bridges. Think you can’t get a change in elevation in the Southeast? Try climbing up the Cross Island Bridge.

These pathways, and the community support behind them, are part of why our island was granted Gold Level Status by the League of American Bicyclists as a Bike Friendly Town. Our pathways run in and out of our many natural outdoor wonders, taking you from the bridges to the beach, crossing underneath U.S. 278 at Shelter Cove, and allowing full freedom of movement from point A to point B in a fun, eco-friendly way.

And the best part? Visitors don’t even need to worry about bringing their own bike. Some 20,000 bikes are rented each year from the multitude of bike shops all over the island. From beach cruisers to more serious cycles, you’re going to find your ideal ride for taking in our famed and award-winning pathways system.

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FORKANDFUN.COM

Rent Or Buy A Moke And Make Your Hilton Head Island Vacation Electric!

tackle, bikes, &apparel NEW FOR 2021

Rent or Buy Fishing Gear Your vacation is too valuable to be fishing in the wrong place with the wrong equipment.

We have a proven lineup of the top fishing gear and the knowledge of Hilton Head waters to point you to the hottest spots. Visit our store today and let us help you catch more fish.

The 007 San Monique Edition Inspired by LIVE AND LET DIE, and the world of James Bond.

All the Top Fishing Brands Penn, Shimano, Abu Garcia, SpiderWire, Ugly Stick, Okuma, Power Pro, Berkley, Stren, Owner, Killer Bee, Toadfish, and Pelagic

Rent a Moke for the day, a weekend, or your

Factory Certified Reel Repair

entire vacation! It’s street legal on roads up to 35mph with a range of 40 miles. Feel the

For Penn, Abu Garcia, Shakespeare, Johnson, Mitchell, and Pflueger Reels

open air and turn some heads driving a Moke on your Hilton Head vacation.

(843)785 - 3971

612 William Hilton Pkwy • bubbascabin.com TM

Carolina Rides

Bike Rentals

(844)378-6653 • carolinarides.com 59B New Orleans Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 007 and related James Bond Indicia © 1962-2021 Danjaq, LLC and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. 007 and related James Bond Trademarks are trademarks of Danjaq, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

LIVE AND LET DIE © 1973 Danjaq, LLC and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.

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BIKING

Best Bike Rides on H i lt o n H e a d I s l a n d

AS SELECTED BY LOCAL CYCLE EXPERTS RON KNIGHT AND FRANK BABEL

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MOST SCENIC RIDES

The boardwalk at Barker Field overlooking the marsh is simply amazing. If you’re on the south end, visit the “toe” of the island on the beach looking at the entrance to South Beach Marina. You’ll see Harbour Town in the distance, Daufuskie Island dead ahead and the Atlantic to the left.

BEST NATURE TRAIL

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BEST PICNIC SPOT

Jarvis Park, Chaplin Park and Coligny are great spots to picnic — as is, you know, the beach.

6.00 OFF

BEST BEACH TO CYCLE

Start at Palmetto Dunes, hit the beach and travel south to the tip of the island at South Beach — preferably with the wind at your back. Assuming cooperation from the tides and tourists, this is as good as it gets.

BEST FAMILY RIDE

The rice dike trail in Sea Pines to the horse stables and into the Sea Pines Forest Preserve is incredibly rich in natural beauty, and it’s often almost empty.

2 OR MORE BIKE RENTALS AT WEEKLY RATE.

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Start at Coligny Circle and take the pathway west along Pope Avenue to New Orleans Road. Then turn right along the pathway and follow Arrow Road across the William Hilton Parkway to the Palmetto Bay Marina and back; you’ll stay off the main drags and discover a lengthy hidden ribbon of trail behind the shops and restaurants. For an alternate route, turn onto the William Hilton Parkway from New Orleans Road, follow the pathways to the Shelter Cove Marina and back.

GET OUTSIDE

Get Out on the Water KAYAK FISHING GROWING IN POPULARITY

BY JUSTIN JARRETT

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Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruises FORKANDFUN.COM

DEPARTING FROM SHELTER COVE HARBOUR Attention Families!

Check our Prices OUR RATES ARE GREAT! PLEASE CALL! Infants to age two are free.

All calm water • Reservations not necessary. • 1 hr. 45 minute narrated cruise features over 45 points of interest including:

LOOK $13

Children

• Bottle-nosed dolphins • Long Cove Club • Salt Water Marshlands • Wexford Plantation • Cross Island Expressway • Spanish Wells • Tides • Spectacular Homes • Buck Island • Statue of Liberty • Harbour Town • Daufuskie Island • Wading Birds

Book online at CruiseHiltonHead.com

The 80’ double deck cruise ship “Holiday” departs from Dock C at Shelter Cove Harbour, Business Hwy 278 across from Palmetto Dunes Resort

Captain Mark’s Dolphin Cruise • 843-422-2504 DAYTIME DOLPHIN WATCH CRUISE March Mon-Fri @ 2:00, Sat @ 3:00 April & May Mon-Fri @ 11:00 & 2:00, Sat @ 3:00 June, July & August Mon-Fri @ 11:00 and 2:00, Sat @ 3:00 Sept. & Oct. Mon-Fri @ 11:00 and 2:00, Sat @ 3:00 Nov. Tue-Fri @ 2:00, Sat @ 3:00

$23 Adult • $13 Child (3-12) Free (2 & under) No Reservations

SUNSET DOLPHIN WATCH CRUISE April & May Mon-Sat @ 7:00 (plus Sunday May 30*) June – October Days and times vary,

SUNSET DOLPHIN WATCH There is nothing better than a Southern sunset. No wait … we take that back. What we meant to say was that there is nothing better than watching a Southern sunset from our boat, the “Holiday.” Enjoy all the sights of Hilton Head’s waterways and marshes including, Atlantic bottle-nose dolphin, sea birds, private plantations, Daufuskie Island, and the famous Harbour Town lighthouse, with the added bonus of Mother Nature’s most beautiful (and magical) time of day. The colors will take your breath away! Fully narrated by your captain, our Dolphin Watch Sunset Cruise will be the highlight of your vacation. Don’t forget your camera!

Adult $26 • Child (3-12) $14 No Reservations Required

please visit cruisehiltonhead.com

*Please Note: We are normally closed on Sundays. However we will be open for Sunset Dolphin Cruises on the following Sundays in 2021: June 13, 20, 27 @ 7:15 / July 11, 18, 25 @ 7:15 / Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 @ 7:00 Sept. 5 @ 6:30

$28 Adult • $14 Child (3-12) • Free (2 & under) No Reservations

DOLPHIN FIREWORKS CRUISE June 15, 22, 29 @ 7:30 - July 4, 13, 20, 27 @ 7:30 August 3, 10, 17 @ 7:30

$33 Adult • $22 Child (3-12) • Free (2 & under) Reservations Required

Dolphin cruises are 1 hour, 45 minutes in duration

GO CRABBING ON THE CRABBER J II

They laughed when I said I was going with the kids to catch some crabs. They are not laughing anymore. What we did was make reservations on the sport crabbing boat Crabber J II which departs out of Shelter Cove Harbour. Once everyone was on board, the Crabby crew untied the lines and we motored out to the calm waters of Broad Creek. Along the way we saw two dolphins playing. We anchored in the shallow water right next to the salt marsh and everyone fished for blue crabs. It was a lot of fun. The crabby crew kept score and a girl from Cincinnati won the world famous Crabber J II T-shirt cause she caught the most crabs. Please call for current prices.

Call (843) 422-5110 for schedule and reservations

Book online at CruiseHiltonHead.com All calm water. Convenient mid-island location. Just 10 minutes from anywhere.

No security gate. No gate fee. Plenty of free parking. Stay all day. All trips weather permitting & subject to minimum number of passengers. All 19 cruises depart from Dock C, Shelter Cove Harbour.

Purchase tickets on the dock at the boat.

K AYA K I N G

The Lowcountry has always been a paradise for fishermen and shrimpers, many of whom have made their living on their skill on the water, thanks to the pairing of the tidal marshes and creeks with ample opportunity for deep-sea and freshwater fishing.

And the kayak has long been an excellent mode of transportation in and around the calm waters of Broad Creek and other estuaries separating our sea islands.

Now, more folks are marrying the two, making kayak fishing one of the area’s hottest outdoor activities.

Numerous charter companies lead fishing tours via kayak.

If you’re over age 16, you’ll need to obtain a South Carolina Saltwater Fishing License prior to your trip through the S.C. Department of Natural Resources — a 14-day pass is $5 for residents or $11 for non-residents or you can snag an annual or three-year pass — and brush up on your casting skills, and you’ll be ready to rock.

Well, maybe don’t rock in a kayak, but you should be set for a positive experience, especially if you have a guide like Outside Hilton Head’s Wesley Hodges.

Hodges started as an intern at Outside in 2017 and has been a full-time guide since 2018. He knows his way around the local waters and has plenty of tips for firsttimers and experienced anglers alike.

While the Hobie Mirage Pedal Drive kayaks (which are hands-free and specifically designed for fishing) used at Outside Hilton Head are intuitive and easy for most users of all ages to operate, fishing out of them can be another story for a novice angler.

For absolute newcomers, a traditional charter might be a better fit. On a charter boat, the captain can do as much as needed to help an inexperienced angler find success, but in a single kayak, you’re on your own.

“Kayak fishing can be challenging if you don’t have experience fishing,” Hodges says.

With that said, experienced anglers may find that being closer to the water and being able to work their way into remote honey holes provides a new thrill.

“My favorite thing about fishing from a kayak is access,” Hodges says. “You can get into a lot of areas that you can’t with most boats, and you can get there a lot quicker.”

There’s no fuel or major maintenance involved, and kayaks are much easier to transport than boats. Plus, the accessibility is a major boon when fishing the tidal waters around Hilton Head Island, where the prime fishing involves accessing shallow areas known as “flats” to sightfish for red snapper, trout, and the occasional flounder.

“Fishing out of a kayak is a huge advantage as far as the types of water you can get into,” Hodges says.

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“FISHING OUT OF A KAYAK IS A HUGE ADVANTAGE AS FAR AS THE TYPES OF WATER YOU CAN GET INTO”

But it does come with a bit of a learning curve, so it’s important that prospective anglers have some experience casting before trying to do so from a kayak.

Reaching the areas where the fish will bite still requires some skill with the rod and the ability to cast a reasonable distance.

When you are ready to go out on your own without a guide, a newcomer to kayak fishing has a few tips.

Bluffton resident Renato Bruto da Costa is a longtime angler who recently bought a kayak and began paddling and fishing in the May River and around Pinckney Island.

His advice for newbies is to plan ahead, pack lightly, and organize smartly. Only bring the optimal equipment for the species you’re targeting, have important tools like pliers in a handy spot, and pack a small anchor to keep the kayak from drifting when you find a good spot.

More than anything, have fun and enjoy the time on the water.

“I love it,” Bruto da Costa says. “It’s so much better than shore fishing.”

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FISHING

Going fishing PLENTY OF OPTIONS TO ENJOY A DAY ON THE WATER

BY JOHANNA JACKSON

Fishing is a year-round activity on Hilton Head Island. For those that want to keep their feet on the land, lagoon and surf fishing are popular choices. For those looking for a bit more adventure, inshore and offshore fishing may be the ticket.

LAGOON FISHING Most of the lagoons on Hilton Head are brackish, meaning they are both fresh and salt water. Don’t let the calm waters fool you; fish can grow to enormous sizes (red drum can weigh more than 50 pounds). Other fish caught in the lagoons include tarpon, striped bass, black drum and the occasional blue fish. Live bait such as shrimp and finger mullet are your best bets, but they are usually hard to come by unless you catch your own or are fishing off of a private charter boat. Spinning and top water lures fished with a lightweight spin rod are another popular option.

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PRIVATE DOLPHIN & SUNSET CRUISES

DAY TRIPS & TRANSPORTATION TO DAUFUSKIE Vanishing Island & Shark Teeth Excursions

SURF FISHING There are a lot of junk fish (skates, rays, small sharks) in the Carolina surf, which can be thrilling to catch, but frustrating for those in pursuit of game fish. Red drum, kingfish, and flounder are some of the more prized fish that can be caught. Squid strips, minnows and bunker chunks are the most common types of bait used in the surf. They can be purchased at any tackle shop along with 2- to 3-ounce sinkers to combat the rough water.

Don’t feel like you have to cast halfway to the horizon to catch fish, some of the biggest can be taken right out of the breaking waves. The best times to surf fish are early mornings and evenings, when the beach crowds have subsided and the fish are most active.

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INSHORE & OFFSHORE FISHING If you are feeling particularly adventurous, and willing to spend a majority of the day surrounded by water, inshore and offshore fishing can provide some real thrills.

Party boats accommodate large numbers of passengers, but private charters are also available (usually for groups less than 6). Half and full day trips are typical. These trips generally target fish that are specific to the season, and can include marlin, tuna and cobia. Most offer specialized shark fishing trips all year. Your vessel may travel many miles out to sea, or stick to the inshore waterways.

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LICENSES AND REGULATIONS Fishing Hilton Head Island South Carolina law requires that all anglers over the age of 16 have a state fishing license to fish from the surf or water banks. A 14 day license is $5 for residents and $11 for non-residents.

Commercial fishing boats provide all their passengers with licenses. Private plantations and resorts usually restrict fishing to owners and guests, and each is subject to its own set of rules. For more information, go to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources homepage, www.dnr.sc.gov.

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TENNIS

GAME SET

MATCH Tennis, like golf, is a year-round activity on Hilton Head Island and in Bluffton. One of the top 50 tennis destinations in the United States, the Lowcountry has the courts and the competition to satisfy the most discriminating player. Oh, and Stan Smith calls this home. The area’s 20-plus tennis clubs offer more than 300 courts. All three Grand Slam courts can be found here: Clay, grass and a variety of private plantations if they make arrangements. Ask for details when reserving your court time.

BY SLOAN KELLY

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Tennis ANYONE? TENNIS CLUBS Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, 843-785-1152; 19 clay tennis courts (four courts are lighted for night play) and 24 pickleball courts.

Shipyard Racquet Club Shipyard Plantation, 843-686-8804; Adjacent to Sonesta Resort. Full complement of facilities and instruction.

Call about their free weekly pro exhibitions much of the year. 14 clay, 6 hard courts, 8 lighted

Port Royal Racquet Club Port Royal Plantation, 843-686-8803; Racquet club, pro shop, 10 clay, 4 hard, 2 grass courts, 4 lighted

South Beach Racquet Club Sea Pines Resort, 843-671-2215; Located near South Beach Village. 11 clay courts, 2 lighted

Sea Pines Racquet Club Sea Pines Resort, 843-363-4495; Tennis facility located in Harbour Town in Sea Pines. It offers a complete pro shop and instruction. 24 Har-Tru, 5 hard courts, 5 lighted

Van Der Meer Tennis Center 19 DeAllyon Road, 843-785-8388; Hilton Head’s largest facility. Full complement of facilities, instruction. 21 hard, 11 clay courts, 8 lighted

PUBLIC COURTS HILTON HEAD The Island Recreation Association maintains the Town of Hilton Head’s public tennis courts.

Play is on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is no fee. In the event that courts are being used for team play and/or lessons, signs are posted directing players to other locations.

Call 843-681-7273 for more information.

BLUFFTON Bobcat Public Tennis Center The Bobcat Public Tennis Center is located at 12 McCracken Circle in Bluffton. It has four outdoor courts that are not lighted.

Bluffton Recreation Center The Bluffton Recreation Center is located at 61 Ulmer Road in Bluffton. There are two hard surface courts that are located in the park. For more information, call 843-757-1503.

Court Locations: • Chaplin Community Park, Singleton Beach Road 4 courts, lighted

Tennisclub of the Lowcountry Conveniently located in the heart of Bluffton, Tennisclub of the Low Country at Rose Hill provides the latest in tennis instruction, as well as tennis programs with a personal touch you just won’t find anywhere else. 843 271-6401

• Cordillo Courts, Cordillo Parkway: 4 courts, lighted.

• Fairfield Square, Adrianna Lane: 2 courts • Hilton Head High School, School Road: 6 courts

Port Royal Racquet Club Port Royal Plantation, 843-686-8803; Racquet club, pro shop, 10 clay, 4 hard, 2 grass courts, 4 lighted

• Hilton Head Middle School, Wilborn Road: 4 courts

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GOLF

Tee Time THE LOWCOUNTRY IS GOLF COUNTRY Atlantic Dunes 100 N. Sea Pines Dr., Hilton Head seapinesgolf.com 843-842-1477 Country Club of Hilton Head 70 Skull Creek Dr., Hilton Head hiltonheadclub.com 843-681-4653 Crescent Pointe Golf Club 1 Crescent Pointe, Bluffton crescentpointegolf.com 843-706-2600 Eagle’s Pointe Golf Club 1 Eagle’s Pointe, Bluffton eaglespointegolf.com 843-757-5900

Harbour Town Golf Links, Sea Pines Resort

Golden Bear at Indigo Run 100 Indigo Run Dr., Hilton Head clubcorp.com/Clubs/Golden-BearGolf-Club-at-Indigo-Run 843-689-2200 Harbour Town Golf Links 11 Lighthouse Lane, Hilton Head seapinesgolf.com 843-363-8385 Heron Point By Pete Dye 100 N. Sea Pines Dr., Hilton Head seapinesgolf.com 843-842-1477 Hilton Head Lakes 2005 Wiregrass Way, Hardeeville hiltonheadlakesgolf.com 843-208-5353

Argent Lakes, Sun City

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Hilton Head Lakes

Island West Golf Club 40 Island West Drive, Bluffton islandwestgolf.net 843-815-6660

Pinecrest Golf Club 1 Pinecrest Way, Bluffton pinecrestsc.com 843-757-8960

Old South Golf Links 50 Buckingham Plantation Dr., Bluffton oldsouthgolf.com 843-785-5353

Port Royal Planter’s Row 10 Clubhouse Dr., Hilton Head portroyalgolfclub.com 843-681-1700

Oyster Reef Golf Club 155 High Bluff Rd, Hilton Head oysterreefgolfclub.com 843-681-1764 Oyster Reef Golf Club, Hilton Head Plantation

Palmetto Dunes Arthur Hills 2 Leamington Lane, Hilton Head palmettodunes.com 843-785-1138 Palmetto Dunes George Fazio 7 Carnoustie, Hilton Head Island palmettodunes.com 843-785-1138 Palmetto Dunes Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course 7 Trent Jones Lane, Hilton Head palmettodunes.com 843-785-1138 Palmetto Hall Arthur Hills 108 Fort Howell Dr., Hilton Head palmettohallgolf.com 843-342-2582 Palmetto Hall Robert Cup 108 Fort Howell Dr., Hilton Head palmettohallgolf.com 843-342-2582

Robert Trent Jones Course, Palmetto Dunes 27

Port Royal Barony 10 Clubhouse Dr., Hilton Head portroyalgolfclub.com 843-681-1700 Port Royal Robber’s Row 10 Clubhouse Dr., Hilton Head portroyalgolfclub.com 843-681-1700 Rose Hill Golf Club 4 Clubhouse Drive, Bluffton golfrosehill.com 843-757-9030 Shipyard Golf Club 45 Shipyard Drive, Hilton Head Island shipyardgolfclub.com 843-686-8802 Sun City - Argent Lakes 1291 Sergeant William Jasper Blvd.

843-645-0507 Sun City - Hidden Cypress 672 Cypress Hills Drive, Bluffton 843-705-4999 Sun City - Okatie Creek 60 Sun City Club Lane, Bluffton 843-705-4653

SHOPPING

Shelter Cove Towne Centre

Shop local 28

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WHATEVER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR, WE ARE BOUND TO HAVE IT.

BY JOHANNA JACKSON | PHOTOS BY LE XI L APOINTE AND MADISON ELROD

THE SOUTH END Coligny Plaza (One North Forest Beach Drive): The south end of the island is the heart of the vacation area. The very first shopping center on the island and a perennial favorite is Coligny Plaza. Considered Hilton Head’s “downtown” there are more than 60 stores, 15 restaurants, a unique movie theatre and even a store specializing in kites, Coligny Kite. Candy, T-shirts, and great apparel are there along with groceries, restaurants and a hardware store. Several new stores and restaurants have opened recently including The Sandbar Beach Eats, FISH Seafood & Raw Bar, Traveling Chic Boutique and the The Pelican’s Pouch.

Harbour Town Shops (149 Lighthouse Road): At the landmark destination of Harbour Town, the scenery is picture-perfect; the backdrop vividly stunning yet, in addition to the incredible views at every turn, Harbour Town is also an incredible shopping destination, with over 20 boutiques, galleries and gift shops.

Shaded red rocking chairs along the harbour encourage you to rest and recharge, perhaps with an ice cream cone or your favorite beverage.

MAIN STREET VILLAGE

The Shops at Sea Pines Center (71 Lighthouse Road): An interesting variety of customized retail shops and boutiques with a mix of top-quality jewelry, resort casual men’s and women’s clothing, decorative accessories, antiques as well as a full-service day spa. Sea Pines’ only gas station is located at the east entrance and a post office is nestled within the promenade.

South Beach Marina Village (232 South Sea Pines Drive): Located at the southern tip of Hilton Head Island, this unique shopping center has a quaint New England feel to it. It is home to shops, and restaurants, on most days you can also enjoy live entertainment.

The Village at Wexford (1000 William Hilton Parkway, Mile Marker 10.5) “The Heart of Shopping Local” comprised of over 30 award-winning, locally-owned restaurants, shops and boutique services. Be sure to stop by Gifted for the perfect gift or keepsake. villageatwexford.com

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COLIGNY PLAZA

SHOPPING

MID-ISLAND Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina (Shelter Cove Lane): Hilton Head Island’s awardwinning Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is situated just off the Intracoastal Waterway across from Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, and offers year-round waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment, all with stunning harbour and sunset views. Take a photo with the iconic Neptune Statue, which was sculpted in 1983 and has become a very special symbol of the area. Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is also home to Hilton Head Island’s only Southern Tide Signature Store, offering coastal charm and laid-back lifestyle products for men, women and children.

The Plaza at Shelter Cove (50 Shelter Cove Lane): This shopping center is home to many locally-owned landmarks, including Outside Hilton Head. It is also home to medical and real estate professionals, a nail salon, a liquor store and features popular national chains such as TJ Maxx and Whole Foods.

Shelter Cove Towne Centre (40 Shelter Cove Lane): The former Mall at Shelter Cove has been transformed into this new shopping center overlooking Broad Creek.

The village features 290,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space surrounded by natural amenities and luxury residences.

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

THE NORTH END Sea Turtle Marketplace (formerly Pineland Station) (430 William Hilton Parkway): Located at the intersection of William Hilton Parkway and Mathews Drive, this new shopping center includes Steinmart, West Marine, Petsmart, Jersey Mike’s and Orange Theory.

Main Street Village (1500 Main Street): Each building has a different style and this very walkable area is reminiscent of Main Street in a small town. Here you can find great restaurants, handmade crafts, gift items, salon services, and more.

Festival Center (145 Pembroke Drive): Here you can find big stores like Walmart, Publix and Barnes & Noble with some smaller offerings like Wildbirds Unlimited, Row Fitness, Walgreens and Robert’s Jewelers.

Shelter Cove Towne Centre

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Buckwalter Place

BLUFFTON Old Town Bluffton Promenade Area

Berkeley Place (106 Buckwalter Parkway): This popular mixed-use development includes a movie theatre, shops, restaurants and more.

Best sandwiches on the Island...period!

Buckwalter Place This booming commercial area includes a bowling alley, a huge new Kroger supermarket, the Town of Bluffton’s Don Ryan Center for Innovation, and the future site of the Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Culinary Institute.

PROUDLY SERVING

Kittie’s Crossing (25 Bluffton Road): Home to many popular national chains, including Target and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Tanger Outlets (1270 and 1414 Fording Island Road): Because you are making your purchases directly from the manufacturer and avoiding the middleman, brand name merchandise can be purchased at up to 70 percent below retail prices.

Old Town Bluffton (Calhoun and Promenade streets): Comprised of onesquare mile, Old Town Bluffton includes Calhoun Street, which is home on Thursday afternoons to the Bluffton Farmer’s Market, where you can find beautiful produce and locally made goods. Just to the west, Calhoun Street Promenade is a popular shopping and nightlife district. During the day, visit the Heyward House historic center for a walking map of the Old Town.

55 New Orleans Rd. Hilton Head, SC 29928

843-785-9966

SERVING LUNCH 11am until 5pm • Monday-Saturday phillyscafe.com • orderphillyscafe.com Catering Available 31

ACTIVITIES

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Passion for turtle patrol

BY ESTON PARKER III REPRINTED FROM HILTON HEAD MONTHLY

At 5 a.m., most people are still sleeping or slowly starting their day. But Amber Kuehn and the dedicated members of Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island embody the term “early risers.”

Before sunrise, Kuehn, Sea Turtle Patrol HHI manager, and members of the nonprofit group head to the beach in a coordinated effort to preserve the lives and spread awareness of sea turtles.

Members are organized into groups of two, per S.C. Department of Natural Resources and coronavirus guidelines, to inspect the various nests on the beaches of Hilton Head Island. Sea Turtle season runs from May to the end of October.

Sea Turtle Patrol, a 501(c)(3) organization, consists of volunteers ranging from former CEOs to those with backgrounds in science. All 16 members commit a large amount of their time to sea turtles and the organization, even though many still work full- or part-time.

“I worked for a long time as an elementary school teacher so educating people comes easy to me, but now that I can educate people on how magnificent these turtles are is almost like living a dream,” said longtime member, Kym Castillo.

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ACTIVITIES

Turtle Trackers, also a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is also run by volunteers who are dedicated to public education and outreach for sea turtle awareness. Established in 2016 by Kuehn, Karen Kindermann, and seven co-founders, Turtle Trackers has about 350 members and seven chapters on Hilton Head.

leaving trash and other items on the beach at night.

Artificial lights disorient hatchlings and distract them from reaching the water. Natural predators are birds and crabs that make the land portion of the journey dangerous.

Once a sea turtle is in the ocean it must avoid larger fish, sharks, birds, and other animals. Sea turtles may face an array of challenges, but Sea Turtle Patrol and Turtle Trackers are fully committed to ensuring the safety of these creatures on the beach.

Sea Turtle Patrol and Turtle Trackers work in unison; members of both organizations are on the beaches every day and every night. Turtle Trackers complete tasks such as cleaning up trash, filling holes, and acting as beach ambassadors to answer any questions that people have.

Many members of Turtle Trackers acknowledge that the preservation of sea turtles is their passion. Linda Zambelli, Turtle Trackers president, summarized the members’ shared dedication.

The dedicated Sea Turtle Patrol volunteers inspect sea turtle nests and protect newly discovered ones. They set up a triangular marker made up of three poles standing in the sand and post a sign indicating that the nesting site is federally protected. After establishing the location of a nest, they check for evidence of emergence after 45 days of incubation.

“You see a momma turtle dig her nest and lay her eggs once, or a nest hatch and all the hatchlings run to the ocean once… you are hooked for life,” Zambelli said.

For more information, contact Kuehn at SeaTurtlePatrolHHI@ gmail.com or Zambelli at TurtleTrackersHHI@gmail.com

Once evidence of hatchlings is discovered, a three-day period must pass before the nest is inventoried. When a nest is inventoried, the Sea Turtle Patrol members designate how many eggs came from the nest; how many turtles successfully emerged; how many hatchlings and eggs did not survive; and a variety of other technical aspects.

Turtle Trackers focuses its efforts on public awareness by hosting events such as “Turtle Talk” with Sea Turtle Patrol where members of both organizations educate the public.

Sea turtles face a myriad of challenges, including residents of oceanfront properties who leave outside lights on past 10 p.m. (despite an ordinance that prohibits exterior beachfront lights past 10 p.m. from May 1-Oct. 31), to 34

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ACTIVITIES

Daufuskie Time GET AWAY FOR A DAY ACROSS THE WATER

BY JUSTIN JARRETT | PHOTOS COURTESY OF HAIG POINT

Just a couple miles across Calibogue Sound from Harbour Town lies Daufuskie Island, a small, largely undeveloped barrier island begging to be explored.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can rent a golf cart or bike — or bring your own bike on the ferry — and explore more of the island. And there’s plenty to explore along Daufuskie’s dirt roads.

A 45-minute ferry ride up the Intracoastal Waterway whisks visitors back in time when, depositing them on Daufuskie — accessible only by boat — and a world away from from the trappings of modern-day life.

A number of unique galleries dot the island. Most notable among them is the Iron Fish Gallery, where 17-year Daufuskie Island resident Chase Allen — who has sold more than $1 million worth of art — produces metalworks in an open-air studio and accepts payments on the honor system when he isn’t present at the gallery. Another must-see for art lovers is Daufuskie Blues — located in the famed Mary Fields School, where author Pat Conroy taught in the 1960s — where organic indigo harvested on the island is used to create stunning and unique fashions.

Daufuskie, steeped in history and drenched in natural beauty, is divided into two distinct worlds — the private Haig Point community, where cars are prohibited and residents access top-notch amenities by golf cart or bicycle, and the rest of the island, virtually undisturbed for decades.

Native American artifacts are frequently unearthed on the island’s beaches, including arrowheads and pieces of centuries-old pottery.

Haig Point is mostly for members only, but the club does rent rooms in the historic Strachan Mansion and the Haig Point Lighthouse (rumored to be “eternally occupied” by Maggie, the former keeper’s daughter).

Visitors have two other options if they want a look behind the gates: Booking a horseback ride via Daufuskie Island Trail Rides, one of the few places in the country where you can still ride horses on the beach, or snatching up one of the limited number of public tee times available on the club’s renowned Rees Jones signature golf course.

If private clubs aren’t your speed, fear not. The rest of Daufuskie is another world entirely. On weekends during the summer, Freeport is the place to be: It’s where visitors hop off the ferry and gather to eat and drink at the Old Daufuskie Crab Company, dance the day away to live music, play cornhole, and hit the public beach that looks across Calibogue Sound toward Hilton Head. The area near the marina is something of a town center, with a general store, a few cottages for rent, and a handful of shops.

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The school is also home to School Grounds Coffee, but those looking for something a little stronger won’t leave the island disappointed. Stop

by Silver Dew Winery for a tasting and check out the museum inside the old Bloody Point Lighthouse, or slip over to Daufuskie Island Rum Company, where its locally distilled spirits have been served to visitors from every U.S. state and 64 countries. The distillery is located next to a quaint pond, where visitors sometimes enjoy a picnic lunch.

If you’re not the do-it-yourself type, you can book one of a number of tours, including one led by Daufuskie native Sallie Ann Robinson, who was Conroy’s star pupil in “The Water Is Wide.”

After a day on Daufuskie, you’ll either be left yearning for more or convinced you never need to go back. Life on Daufuskie isn’t for everyone, and its full-time residents have a saying: “We’re all here because we’re not all there.”

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R E L O C AT E

Making the Move HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER THE LOWCOUNTRY YOUR RETIREMENT HOME

BY TIM WOOD

More than 10,000 people reach retirement age each day in the U.S. and that number is only expected to grow over the next two decades. But not all retirements are created equal.

The South Carolina Lowcountry has become one of the leading retirement destinations not just for its beauty, but because the region fosters an evolved view of senior life – a next chapter filled with new adventures and opportunity that makes many of the “junior” residents envious of the lifestyle.

Simply said, life in the Lowcountry is a daily spiritual elixir.

Here are just a few reasons why the Lowcountry has become such a treasured playground and landing spot for so many seniors.

NATURAL BEAUTY Incredible beaches, pristine tidal creeks, calming marshes, pluff mud and Spanish moss are boundless. The Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island (coastaldiscovery.org) has 68 acres of nature trails open for walks and picnics. The seashell trail leads to Jarvis Creek, 38

while the camellia garden boasts 120 different varieties of bloom and color.

The Museum has a constant schedule of paid tours and activities, but book early, as they fill up quickly.

The island’s Audubon Newhall Preserve (55 Palmetto Bay Road) has 50 acres of plants and nature trails. In Bluffton, check out the Victoria Bluff Heritage Preserve (Sawmill Creek Road), ideal for bird watching and hiking.

The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is located between Hilton Head and Bluffton and includes more than 4,000 acres of salt marsh and maritime habitat. Fishing is allowed, or hike and bike the 14 miles of roads that wind through the island.

Hilton Head Island offers Bike Trails that connect people to the wonderful places the town has to offer. There are 6 miles of bike lanes on the island, with 117 miles of shared-use pathways.

There are more options both along the U.S. 278 corridor and within a short drive north or south. See southcarolinalowcountry.com for more information.

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If you’re more of a beachgoer, your options are equally plentiful. On Hilton Head, nationally renowned Coligny Beach is the most trafficked (and has a full array of shops and restaurants within walking distance), but Burkes and Driessen beaches are lesser known but equally beautiful public beach options.

South Carolina residents ages 60 and older not seeking a degree. Admissions to classes is available on a space-available basis.

ACTIVE OPTIONS GALORE

offers an array of not-for-credit classes and programs in topics such as philosophy, history, art, music, current events and literature, both live via Zoom calls during the pandemic and a full library of on-demand classes..

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at USCB (uscb.edu/ lifelong_learning/osher_lifelong_learning)

Golf and tennis enthusiasts know the Lowcountry to be a hotbed for options, with active tennis leagues and more than 20 championship public courses in Hilton Head Island and Bluffton. Plus, a PGA Tour event, the RBC Heritage, attracts the world’s best golfers to the island.

The area offers a full palette of volunteer opportunities, from animal shelters like the Hilton Head Humane Association (hhhumane.org) to any niche or passion you wish to serve. VolunteerMatch.org is a great place to start your volunteer journey.

Regardless of what you want to learn or experience, chances are you can find an event, a place or club, a class or a teacher to make it happen.

ASSISTED LIVING AND MEDICAL OPTIONS

Sun City Hilton Head residents have more than 100 clubs alone to serve any hobby or passion. The Island Rec Center has a packed calendar of senior-specific programs through its Hilton Head Senior Center (hiltonheadseniorcenter.org). Beaufort County Parks and Recreation offers sports and aquatic programs as well as resources for senior care (bcscrec.com).

The area continues to offer more and more assisted living options as the wants and needs of the senior population evolve. New facilities such as Vineyard Bluffton continue to pop up across the U.S. 278 corridor. Websites such as A Place For Mom, Seniorly and GetCareSC offer centralized information and are great starting points to explore the more than 50 assisted living facilities in the area.

Tennis courts and public parks are sprinkled throughout the area. Local governments prioritize recreational resources to stay ahead of needs and trends, such as the growing popularity of pickleball.

Likewise, the Lowcountry’s selection of general practitioners, specialists, hospitals and urgent care providers continues to grow. Seniors no longer need to focus on traveling to Savannah for top-level care, with hospitals in Hardeeville and Hilton Head and large providers such as St. Joseph’s/Candler, Hilton Head Regional and Beaufort Memorial Hospital building medical campuses in Bluffton.

Fans of music and the arts have a litany of options as well. The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina (artshhi.org) has a continuous schedule of concerts and shows, while venues like The Jazz Corner (thejazzcorner.com) and groups like the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra (hhso. org) help fuel a vibrant Lowcountry music scene.

FINANCE FRIENDLY, PLEASING CLIMATE AND PEACE OF MIND

Foodies and shoppers alike have countless options, with Tanger Outlets in Bluffton and more than 200 on-island shops and boutiques on Hilton Head. The island’s 250plus restaurants and a growing scene in downtown Bluffton offer something for every taste, including Lowcountry favorites such as she-crab soup and Frogmore stew.

South Carolina is a senior-friendly state when it comes to your wallet. In addition to not taxing social security income, it has additional tax deductions for retirement income beyond social security. Property taxes are comparably lower here as well.

LOCATION AND ACCESSIBILITY

Winter in the Lowcountry is far from what many Northerners have endured. No road-blocking snowstorms, no dealing with salt and shovels and snow blowers. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures routinely pushing 90 degrees. Milder sun-drenched days are abound November through February, with temps a bit more unpredictable – think 80 degrees one day and 40 degrees the next, though forecasters are expecting hotter than usual “winter” temps across the Southeast in 2020-21.

One of the big draws of the Lowcountry is its day-trip driving distance to Southeast hotspots like Savannah, Charleston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Jacksonville, Orlando and the North Carolina mountains, but also its increasingly plentiful accessibility via the air.

Direct flights from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport include 29 destinations. The airport was recently named the nation’s No. 1 airport in the 2020 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and served more than three million passengers in 2019.

Then there’s the less definable but very real peace of mind of the Lowcountry.

The smaller but growing Hilton Head Island Airport currently offers seasonal and full-year flights through Delta, United and American Airlines.

The natural beauty of the May River and Atlantic Ocean create a seaside chill vibe that permeates through every facet of life. The pace is slower (you’ll hear the region charmingly referred to as the “Slowcountry” for good reason), and the traffic is lighter. Neighbors and strangers alike are friendlier and more welcoming — as if we all know we’ve luckily stumbled into Nirvana and want to pay that happiness forward.

VOLUNTEER AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES With campuses across Beaufort County, University of South Carolina Beaufort grants free tuition to full-time 39