Hilton Head Island Top Ten

DAY TRIPS

Within an hour of Hilton Head Island, discover beauty, history, and culture. By car or boat you can reach numerous locations worth your time and effort. While many towns can claim famous movie sets, homes to authors and artists, wonderful one-of-a-kind restaurants, unique shops and galleries, we took day trips to only a few of them. There was so much more we could have done, but honestly, I just didn’t want to leave paradise very often.

We devoted 3 days to the following spots:

SAVANNAH, GA

I won’t be repetitive. You can read about our trip to Georgia – complete with a visit to Paula Deen’s restaurant right here:

http://wind-inspired.com/2012/06/17/exploring-savannah-ga/

BEAUFORT, SC

During our boating adventure, this was our ultimate destination. Home to author Pat Conroy. Filming location to a number of famous films, to include The Prince of Tides, Forrest Gump and The General’s Daughter.

Our stay was confined to the small Downtown area, as we were on foot.

We checked out the local shops.

 

We saw some unique wildlife.

We finished our visit with lunch and Panini’s. While they do not have a Gluten Free menu, they were incredibly creative and accommodating in the chef’s preparation of our meals.

In addition to lunch, our support of the local economy included a pair of Tom’s and 2 water-color prints. And what did we save for next time? The old-fashioned Ice Cream parlour, some more shopping, and the beautiful playground (that we only skipped because of time constraints – don’t tell Harry.) If you are planning a day in Beaufort, get some more information here:
http://www.beaufort.com

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PALMETTO BLUFF, SC

Rumor has it there are a number of celebrities that own vacation spots on this plantation. The homes start around a million and work their way up. Way up. Lucky for us, there is an inn where those who don’t claim millionaire status can stay. The “main street”  has lovely spots to eat, some shops, a post office and a small wildlife museum.

There is a gorgeous chapel.

Can’t you just imagine a beautiful bride walking down this aisle?

If you have a boat, they have an impressive launching system. Observation kept a certain 8-year-old boy endlessly entertained.

The residents drive some really cool cars.

My children had no problem imagining themselves at ”home” as they took to the swings nestled under the acres and acres of Live Oaks.

If you plan to be in the area, stop by Palmetto Bluff for a few nights at the Inn, or just lunch at Buffalos and a chance to wander about. Check out all your options here: 
http://www.palmettobluff.com

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If you can pull yourself away from the beach, check out various options for sightseeing near Hilton Head Island. You will find they are all well worth a visit.

Savannah, GA:
http://www.savannah.com/

Beaufort, SC:
http://www.beaufort.com

Palmetto Dunes, SC:
http://www.palmettobluff.com

Bluffton, SC:
http://www.bluffton.com/

Tybee Island, GA:
http://tybeeisland.com/

Dafuskie Island, SC:
http://www.daufuskieisland.com/

For the movie buffs:
http://www.beaufortfilm.org/

Civil War Sites:
http://www.sccivilwar.org/