Discover The Carolinas Discover The Carolinas
  • Towns
  • Top Lists
  • Things To Do
    • North Carolina Coast
    • North Carolina Piedmont
    • North Carolina Mountains
    • South Carolina Lowcountry
    • South Carolina Midlands
    • South Carolina PeeDee
    • South Carolina Upstate
    • Browse All Posts
  • Stays
    • North Carolina Coast
    • North Carolina Piedmont
    • North Carolina Mountains
    • South Carolina Lowcountry
    • South Carolina Midlands
    • South Carolina PeeDee
    • South Carolina Upstate
    • Browse All Posts
  • Communities & Homes
    • Beach Communities
    • Mountain Communities
    • Lake Communities
    • Golf Communities
    • City Living
    • Other Communities & Homes
    • Browse All Posts
  • Where To Eat
  • Features
  • Events
    • Upcoming Events
    • Event Venues
  • Buy A Print
Planning Your Next Trip? Search for a town…
The #1 Travel Newsletter In The Carolinas
  • Partners
  • Newsletter
  • Travel Deals
  • Giveaways
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy
  • Partners
  • Newsletter
  • Travel Deals
  • Giveaways
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy
Facebook 1K
Instagram 112K
TikTok 92K 0
Subscribe
Discover The Carolinas Discover The Carolinas
Discover The Carolinas Discover The Carolinas
  • Towns
  • Top Lists
  • Things To Do
    • North Carolina Coast
    • North Carolina Piedmont
    • North Carolina Mountains
    • South Carolina Lowcountry
    • South Carolina Midlands
    • South Carolina PeeDee
    • South Carolina Upstate
    • Browse All Posts
  • Stays
    • North Carolina Coast
    • North Carolina Piedmont
    • North Carolina Mountains
    • South Carolina Lowcountry
    • South Carolina Midlands
    • South Carolina PeeDee
    • South Carolina Upstate
    • Browse All Posts
  • Communities & Homes
    • Beach Communities
    • Mountain Communities
    • Lake Communities
    • Golf Communities
    • City Living
    • Other Communities & Homes
    • Browse All Posts
  • Where To Eat
  • Features
  • Events
    • Upcoming Events
    • Event Venues
  • Buy A Print
  • South Carolina Lowcountry Activities
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Budget Friendly Beach Fun: Free Things To Do In Hilton Head SC

  • JP Grice
Sunrise at the beach in Hilton Head Island SC
Sunrise on Hilton Head Island South Carolina.
Total
29
Shares
0
0
0
29
0
0

Hilton Head is one of the most popular resort islands in the USA and the top tourist destination in South Carolina, primarily due to the abundance of beaches and waterfront activities. But beaches aren’t all it offers; Hilton Head has plenty of other outdoor activities and sights you can enjoy around the island. The best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to explore this destination. If you are planning a vacation in Hilton Head but are on a budget, here are some of our favorite free things to do in Hilton Head SC!

Explore The May River

No “Hilton Head Island Things To Do Guide” can be complete without mentioning the beautiful May River. I remember the first time I saw this beautiful body of water. It was on the Palmetto Bluff property, from their Bluffton public dock (pictured below)…it truly is a special waterway. The May River is a tidal river winding through the Hilton Head Islands from the middle of Bluffton. The river is home to a diverse variety of fish, including the black drum, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, sheepshead, flounder, red drum, largemouth bass, and more. My favorite though is all the dolphin.

Sunrise over the May River near Bluffton SC

You can take an eco-tour or fishing charter to explore the May River during your visit. You can also go kayaking, paddle boarding, or explore other waterfront activities near the river. 

Relax on the Beaches

Hilton Island is one of the most popular islands in the US primarily because of its 12 miles of pristine beaches. You can take a short trip to the beachside and spend the day basking on the sunny beaches. Watch the waves crash on the shoreline, build a sand castle, or watch the sunset at the end of the day. My personal favorite of the free things to do in Hilton Head SC list! Everyone loves lounging on the beach listening to the ocean, going for a walk, or making a sand castle.

Coastal Discovery Museum

The Coastal Discovery Museum is an interactive museum located on Hilton Head Island. The museum is a nonprofit organization that allows you to explore the history of the South Carolina Lowcountry. The 68-acre property includes exhibits on the history and wildlife of Sea Islands around Southern Carolina, including Hilton Head. They also offer guided tours, walks, cruises, and various family-friendly events throughout the year. 

Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge

The Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge is a back barrier island located between the South Carolina mainland and Hilton Head Island. It covers over 4000 acres of land. They aim to preserve and protect the endangered natural flora and fauna of the area. You can visit the refuge to explore the wildlife, go bicycling around the paved walkways or take a trip hiking through the region. It is one of the top things to do in Hilton Head with kids.

Beaufort County Libraries

The Beaufort County Libraries has a popular branch at Hilton Head Island.  The library includes a beautiful outdoor reading space where you can settle down with a book for a peaceful reading session. There is also a ‘Friends of the Library’ bookstore where you can source your favorite pieces of literature. 

Apart from this, you will find a collection of magazines, DVDs, public computers, a children’s storytelling area, and a reading room. Overall, it is a beautiful, fully equipped library, well worth the visit and a favorite among the free things to do in Hilton Head SC!

Downtown Bluffton SC

Explore Old Town Bluffton

Old Town Bluffton is a one of the best free things to do in Hilton Head SC. This quaint and charming historic district overlooks the May River. Here you can spend the day exploring historic homes, chic boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and art galleries. The streets are seeping with the rich history of this area and its community and are well worth exploring. 

Audubon Newhall Preserve

The Audubon Newhall Preserve is a 50-acre nature preserve located at the south end of Hilton Head Island. The preserve is a native forest ecosystem that helps preserve its many inhabitants. 

Visitors are allowed to visit the preserve every day from sunrise to sunset. Inside, you will find a fantastic variety of trees and bushes. There’s even a pond brimming with stunning bird species. These include White Ibises, Herons, Egrets, and Anhingas. 

Mitchelville Freedom Park

The Mitchelville Freedom Park is a historical park located on the north end of Hilton Island. Inside the park, you will find many exhibits dedicated to the Mitchellville settlement. It is also the first place in the US where the Africans, just out of slavery, governed themselves. This park preserves the rich history of Mitchelville and educates the public on the story of its inhabitants as they established a self-governed community. 

Walk Around Shelter Cove

Shelter Cove is a popular waterfront area located at the center of Hilton Head Island. On over 285 acres of saltwater coastline, it is a bustling community of shops, parks, plazas, a marina, outdoor shopping centers, and plenty of entertainment centers. 

Access to the community is free and openly accessible, with an abundance of biking paths and walkways and plenty of parking. You can visit the cove to simply walk around and explore its sights or partake in the many activities available there. It is one of the top-recommended things to do in Hilton Head.

The Church of the Cross in Bluffton

The Church of the Cross is a historic church in Bluffton, South Carolina. It was originally constructed in 1857 atop the May River and has been well-preserved since. It has even been listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. You can spend the day at the church exploring its serene beauty in the outside seating area and study the stunning gothic architecture of the main church. 

Palmetto Oaks Sculpture

The Palmetto Oaks Sculpture garden is a famous sculpture garden and art studio in Bluffton at Hilton Head Island. Visitors can freely explore the low country woodland garden and its many sculpted artworks. There are many fun and whimsical projects within the garden. Next to each sculpture is a description of the artist and the story behind the sculpture. It is one of the top free things to do in Hilton Head.

Harbour Town Lighthouse in Hilton Head South Carolina
Harbour Town Lighthouse in Hilton Head South Carolina

Visit The Harbour Town Lighthouse

Visit the 93 feet tall, the Harbour Town Lighthouse is an unforgettable sight beloved by Hilton Head Island locals and tourists alike. Built in 1969, this iconic landmark reflects the island’s proud maritime heritage and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding waters. Visiting it is free, however to reach the top is a small admission fee. If you do pay, you can climb the 114 steps and marvel at the stunning scenery. The lighthouse also houses a fascinating museum showcasing the history of both the island and the lighthouse’s construction. Either way, after your visit, why not take advantage of the surrounding Harbour Town area’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and marina? Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, the Harbour Town Lighthouse promises an unforgettable experience that’s worth your while.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of things to do in Hilton Head SC at no cost. So, just because you are a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an amazing vacation! Hilton Head Island and its natural beauty, rich history and culture are waiting, and it is easily doable affordably!

Pinehurst NC - Home Of American Golf
Total
29
Shares
Share 0
Share 0
Tweet 0
Pin it 29
Share 0
Share 0
JP Grice

Art Director and co-founder of QC Exclusive. Probably traveling the Carolinas, photographing sunsets, or fly fishing in a river somewhere.

Travel Guides & Giveaways!

Receive The Carolinas # 1 Newsletter

You May Also Like
Peach Festival Candor NC
View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Celebrate Peach Week 2025 in Moore County

Azaleas flowering at the gardens at the Weymouth Center in Southern Pines North Carolina
View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

The 2025 Iris Festival in South Carolina

View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Experience The Holiday Magic on The Outer Banks

View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Underrated Carolina Towns: Things To Do In Hillsborough, NC

View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Western NC Hurricane Helene Immediate Resources By Town

View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Asheville, NC Resources + Hurricane Helene Emergency Information

View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

How To Help Western NC + Hurricane Helene Emergency Information

Pinecone Pathways Program in Southern Pines NC
View Post
  • Top Lists - Best Of The Carolinas

Discover the Hidden Pottery Treasures on Great Trails State Day

Planning Your Next Trip? Search for a town or activity.
Storied Real Estate
Carolina Town Guides
Search By Town
Asheville, NC
Boone, NC
Charleston, SC
Charlotte, NC
Crystal Coast, NC
Greenville, SC
Old 96 District, SC
Pinehurst & The Sandhills, NC
Browse All Towns
Our Partners

Follow Us On Instagram
The Ivey's Hotel - Charlotte NC
The Constant Wayfarer - Travel Planning - Charlotte Travel Agent
Travel Perks
Travel Deals - Discounts on NC and SC Getaways
View Posts
POPULAR POSTS
  • Old Fort NC
    Old Fort, New Chapter
  • catawba falls old fort nc
    Shooting Catawba Falls on Film: A First-Person Hike with the Nikon F3 and Portra 800
  • Peach Festival Candor NC
    Celebrate Peach Week 2025 in Moore County
  • banner elk summer of music
    Banner Elk Debuts First-Ever Summer of Music
  • Jockey’s Ridge State Park Celebrates 50 Years!
Omni Hotels And Resorts - Charlotte NC
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TWO NIGHTS STAY AND MORE AT THE SPECTATOR IN CHARLESTON
DEAL OF THE WEEK
  • Outer Banks Kiteboarding Corolla NC Pamlico Sound
    50% Off – Learn How To Kite Surf In The OBX – Offer Available Through 7-1-2023
The Swag Hotel - NC Mountains

Subscribe

Receive The #1 Travel Newsletter In The Carolinas

Discover The Carolinas Discover The Carolinas
  • Partners
  • Newsletter
  • Travel Deals
  • Giveaways
  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Privacy

Input your search keywords and press Enter.