Hilton Head Island is a beautiful destination for a beach getaway any time of year, but May is an especially wonderful time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (24 Celsius) and low temperatures in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (18 Celsius). The water temperature is also warm, averaging in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (24 Celsius), making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
In addition to the great weather, May is also a relatively quiet time on Hilton Head Island. The crowds are smaller than in the summer months, so you’ll have more space to relax and enjoy the island’s many attractions. There are also a number of special events and activities that take place in May, such as the Hilton Head Concours d’Elegance & Motoring Festival and the Hilton Head Arts Festival.
If you’re planning a trip to Hilton Head Island in May, be sure to check out some of the island’s many attractions, including:
Beaches
Hilton Head Island is home to 12 miles of beautiful beaches, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include:
- Coligny Beach Park: This beach is located in the heart of Hilton Head Island and offers a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.
- South Beach: This beach is known for its soft, white sand and clear waters. It’s a great place to go for a swim, sunbathe, or build sandcastles.
- Burkes Beach: This beach is located on the north end of the island and is known for its natural beauty. It’s a great place to go for a walk, watch the sunset, or spot dolphins.
Golf
Hilton Head Island is a golfer’s paradise, with over 20 golf courses to choose from. Some of the most popular courses on the island include:
- Harbour Town Golf Links: This course is located in the heart of Harbour Town and offers stunning views of the marina and Calibogue Sound.
- Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club: This course is located on the north end of the island and offers a challenging layout with beautiful views of the marsh and ocean.
- Long Cove Club: This course is located on the south end of the island and is known for its beautiful scenery and challenging layout.
Shopping
Hilton Head Island is a great place to go shopping, with a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and gift shops. Some of the most popular shopping destinations on the island include:
- The Village at Harbour Town: This shopping center is located in the heart of Harbour Town and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Shelter Cove Towne Centre: This shopping center is located on the north end of the island and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
- Coligny Plaza: This shopping center is located in the heart of Coligny Beach Park and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and a coffee shop.
Dining
Hilton Head Island is home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from seafood to steak to Italian food. Some of the most popular restaurants on the island include:
- The Sea Shack: This restaurant is located on the beach and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh catch of the day, shrimp, and oysters.
- Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks: This restaurant is located on the docks in Harbour Town and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including crab legs, lobster, and shrimp.
- The Old Oyster Factory: This restaurant is located in a historic building on the waterfront and offers a variety of seafood dishes, including oysters, shrimp, and fish.
If you’re looking for a place to stay on Hilton Head Island, there are a variety of hotels and resorts to choose from. Some of the most popular hotels on the island include:
- The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa: This hotel is located on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
- The Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island: This hotel is located on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
- The Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa: This hotel is located on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants.
Culture
Hilton Head Island has a rich culture that is influenced by its Lowcountry heritage. The island is home to a number of museums and historical sites, including the Coastal Discovery Museum and the Mitchelville Freedom Park. There are also a number of cultural events that take place on the island throughout the year, such as the Gullah Heritage Trail Tour and the Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Hilton Head Island is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October). During these months, the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, Hilton Head Island is a great destination year-round, with each season offering something different. The summer months (June-August) are hot and humid, but there are plenty of opportunities to cool off in the ocean or at one of the island’s many pools. The winter months (November-March) are mild, with average temperatures in the mid-50s Fahrenheit (13 Celsius). However, there can be some cold spells, so be sure to pack accordingly.
Nearby Transportation
Hilton Head Island is easily accessible by car, plane, or boat. The island is located just off the coast of South Carolina, and there are several bridges that connect it to the mainland. The nearest airport is the Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH), which is located just a few miles from the island. There are also several ferry services that operate between Hilton Head Island and the mainland.
Local Food
Hilton Head Island is known for its fresh seafood, and there are a number of restaurants on the island that serve up delicious seafood dishes. Some of the most popular local dishes include shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and oysters. In addition to seafood, Hilton Head Island is also home to a number of restaurants that serve up other types of cuisine, such as Italian, American, and Mexican food.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels on Hilton Head Island, and the best hotel for you will depend on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is a great option. The hotel is located on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Hilton Garden Inn Hilton Head Island is a great choice. The hotel is located just a short walk from the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including a fitness center and free Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
Hilton Head Island is a beautiful destination for a beach getaway any time of year, but May is an especially wonderful time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are smaller, and there are a number of special events and activities that take place on the island. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active getaway, Hilton Head Island has something to offer everyone.
