If you are looking for things to do in Hilton Head with kids, well…you’ve picked a fantastic destination to visit. There are so many things to do in Hilton Head and Bluffton SC for the family! It was hard to narrow down to be honest. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, Hilton Head family activities abound, and these are our favorite 14, in no particular order…but the dolphins are super cool!
Here’s our list of some of the best things to do in with kids in Hilton Head and Bluffton.
Driessen Beach Park
Looking for a spot to relax and have fun in the sun? Driessen Beach Park in Hilton Head is an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy a day at the beach. With ample parking and restrooms, spending the day playing in the sand and surfing is easy. Kids can also explore the nearby boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding marshes.
The Sandbox Children’s Museum
The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn while having fun. The museum has many interactive exhibits, including a ship, a play kitchen, and a veterinary clinic. The exhibits are designed to teach children about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) concepts. The museum also offers programs and events throughout the year, including summer camps, storytime, and special workshops.
Not to forget, the 11 kid-friendly, interactive exhibits with a hands-on focus are available at the specially designed Sandbox Children’s Museum to teach children about the world. It is one of the top-recommended things to do in Hilton Head.
Adventure Cove Mini Golf and Arcade
Adventure Cove Mini Golf and Arcade is another family-friendly destination in Hilton Head. The facility features two 18-hole mini-golf courses with a pirate theme, as well as an arcade with a variety of games. There is also a snack bar on-site, serving hot dogs, pizza, ice cream, and more.
The range of classic and trendy video games in the arcade will appeal to kids, and they will especially enjoy collecting tickets to exchange for prizes like an Xbox, Play station, and other items. It is one of the top things to do in Hilton Head with kids.
Beaufort County Libraries
A range of resources and programs for kids are available at the Beaufort County Libraries in Hilton Head and Bluffton. Kids can attend story time events, participate in summer reading programs, and access educational materials such as books and digital resources. Tech programs and homework help are also available to children. Cultural programs provide opportunities to explore and celebrate different traditions and cultures. These libraries provide a fun and enriching environment for children to develop a love of learning and improve their academic skills.
Park Plaza Cinema
Park Plaza Cinema in Hilton Head and Bluffton offers a family-friendly movie experience for kids. The cinema features the latest movies suitable for all ages and special screenings of children’s films. With comfortable seating and a snack bar, kids can enjoy a fun movie outing with their families or friends.
Park Plaza Cinema also hosts birthday parties, making it an excellent destination for a special celebration. It is the perfect destination for a fun day out with your children.
Dolphin Excursions
Kids can have an exciting and unique experience of watching dolphins in their natural habitat with Dolphin Excursions available in the Hilton Head SC area. Children can learn about the ecology and behavior of these fascinating creatures while observing them in their natural environment. Dolphin Excursions offers a variety of boat tours and private charters to accommodate families of all sizes. This is a fun and educational activity that kids will remember for years. It is one of the top things to do in Hilton Head with kids.
The Coastal Discovery Museum
The Coastal Discovery Museum in Hilton Head and Bluffton features a variety of interactive exhibits and programs for kids to learn about the history and ecology of the Lowcountry. Children can explore the museum’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, including a butterfly enclosure and the salt marsh boardwalk.
The museum also offers a range of educational programs, including summer camps and nature walks, to engage kids in hands-on learning. The Coastal Discovery Museum is a must-visit for families seeking to expand their area knowledge.
Explore The May River
We cannot finish our Hilton Head Island things to do guide without mentioning May River. Explore May River in Hilton Head and Bluffton offers a unique and exciting opportunity for kids to discover the natural beauty and wildlife of the Lowcountry. Children can take guided boat tours, kayaks, or paddleboard along the river and even try their hand at fishing. With stunning scenery and a wide variety of wildlife, May River is the perfect destination for a fun family adventure.
These are our two of our top May River excursion options in the area:
Shelter Cove Harbour
For families seeking a fun day out, Shelter Cove Harbour in Hilton Head and Bluffton is a recommended destination to create lasting family memories. With a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities, there is something for everyone. Kids can enjoy a scenic boat tour, rent a boat for the day, or try their hand at fishing. The harbor also hosts many events throughout the year, including live music and fireworks displays.
ZipLine and Aerial Adventures
ZipLine and Aerial Adventures in Hilton Head and Bluffton offer kids an exciting and unique experience. Children can soar through the treetops on zip lines, navigate aerial obstacle courses, and even try their hand at rock climbing. With various challenges and courses for different ages and skill levels, ZipLine and Aerial Adventures provide the perfect opportunity for adventurous families.
Lawton Stables
Lawton Stables provides an educational and amusing encounter for kids in Hilton Head and Bluffton. Children can enjoy pony rides and learn about horse care and riding techniques. With a variety of programs and events throughout the year, Lawton Stables is a great destination for families looking to connect with nature and animals. The knowledgeable staff and friendly animals make this a memorable experience for kids.
Station 300 Bowling Lanes
For families seeking an enjoyable indoor activity, Station 300 Bowling Lanes is an attraction worth visiting. This state-of-the-art facility features 24 bowling lanes, laser tag, an arcade, and a restaurant. Whether your kids are avid bowlers or first-timers, Station 300 will surely provide a memorable experience.
Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge
For a unique nature experience, one of the best things to do in Hilton Head with kids go to the Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge. It is one of the top-recommended things to do in Hilton Head if you love WILDLIFE. The 4,000-acre nature preserve is home to alligators, otters, and hundreds of bird species. Explore hiking and biking trails, take guided nature walks, or go on a kayaking tour. You can also spot ibis, woodpeckers, and cardinals in their natural habitats. It is a great opportunity to spend quality outdoor time with your family while appreciating the beauty of nature and observing the animals.
This is a VERY important note 🙂 Remember to use the restroom and carry enough water since there is no visitor center.
Coligny Plaza
Located in the heart of Hilton Head, Coligny Plaza is a lively outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that is perfect for families. Kids will love exploring the plaza’s shops, restaurants, and outdoor playgrounds. And with live music performances and other events held throughout the year, there is always something new to experience at Coligny Plaza.
The plaza is situated just a few minutes away from the beach, so you can indulge in some shopping and dining activities before going to the beach for a refreshing and enjoyable day under the sun.
Final Thoughts
Hilton Head and Bluffton, South Carolina, are excellent destinations for families looking for a fun and exciting vacation. From museums to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Whether you are interested in science, history, or just having fun, Hilton Head and Bluffton have something for everyone.
