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Family Friendly Parks & Playgrounds on Hilton Head Island!

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When I told my husband my newest blog post was about playgrounds and parks on Hilton Head Island, he quickly lent his opinion!  You see, when Gray (16 months) first started walking, my husband was so excited to find the “BEST” playground on the Island – he envisioned weekends of playground hunting where he and Gray would bond over stairs, swing-sets and slides.  Now, every weekend, you can find our family riding bikes on the miles of paths…either to the beach or to the park to play.

Here are our top three places to play - the hubby and my favorites…..just for you!

Jarvis Creek Park  – Located on the north end of the Island, right before Walmart, this park has it all, and as a mom, is my favorite.  When Gray was an infant, I would meet my mom friends for some stroller time on the trails that wind around the lake that features fish, turtles and the occasional American alligator.  Most recently, we had a mom meet-up picnic on the grass, perfect to let the little ones run around.  In the next couple of years, I can see hosting Gray’s birthday party at the open-air pavilion with grills adjacent to the playground!  Gray loves running on the fishing pier too!  Here are some pics from Jarvis….

 

The pavilion...

 

Gray on the fishing pier....

 

Can you see the turtle???

 

The playground!

 

Chaplin Community Park - Located mid-Island, off Hwy 278, my husband thinks Chaplin is the best playground on the Island.  It has two separate playgrounds for parents of multiple-age kids, but still adjacent so you can keep an eye on everyone.  And there is SO much to do!

Check out Gray climbing up the rock-steps!

 

He loves to slide!

 

Besides the playground, Chaplin is home to the local dog park, tennis courts, walking trails, basketball courts, soccer fields, and so much more.  Spend a morning exploring this playground and with easy and  free parking, take one of the trails to the beach!

Driesson Beach Park – Just off 278, Driesson is located at the end of Bradley Beach Rd  which is a community of both residents and rental homes, little-known to most Islanders and visitors.  It’s a great neighborhood and I love this park – it feels like we are playing in someones backyard!  Warning….it’s a pay-to-park area, however the ease of access to the playground and the boardwalk to the beach make the nominal fee worth it.  It’s also a perfect place for a family picnic!

Click here to see a video of Gray charging the big boy stairs and slide at Driessen!

 

Click here to access the Town of Hilton Head’s info on parks and playgrounds, along with location, pavilion rental and grill information. You can search by amenities or park type too!

Click here for access to the Town of Hilton Head’s Parks & Amenities Map!

Happy playing ya’all!

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Family Day Strawberry Picking!

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Last week I took my 15 month old son, Gray, to the strawberry picking fields at Dempsey Farms on St. Helena Island, close to Beaufort, SC.  About an hour’s drive from Hilton Head Island, across the marshes of the Lowcountry, St. Helena is rich in history and culture (home of the Penn Center), along with being an active farm community.  I love St. Helena, the smell of the salt-air and the “getting away from it all” allow for a sense of calm.

Dempsey Farms is located on St. Helena on the right side of the road toward Hunting and Fripp Island.  The land is a true “working” farm and has been in the Dempsey family for generations.  The day Gray and I went, Maryann Dempsey was running the stand and gave us the low-down on the land.  Two generations ago, they opened the fields to the public to “pick” and now they grow everything from cucumbers to eggplant to tomatoes (see list below) and depending on the harvest, they allow for “pickers” like myself!

When I heard about the farm, I knew I had to take Gray – what a wonderful treat, right in our backyard!  Salty Island air, expansive fields and fresh off-the-vine strawberries. Look how big it is, great to let the little ones run!

They were starting their harvest on the back field and I just had to get a picture of these amazing trees framing the road.

     It is a true working farm, Gray was obsessed with Mr. Dempsey on his tractor!

Farm equiptment for the kids and spanish moss for the parents!  Everyone is happy!

Come on mom, let’s go picking!

Look at these beauties!  The secret to picking is….you want to pick them close to red but not too ripe, unless you are eating them that day!

And the best part about Dempsey Farms……pick all you want at the market rate, but eat all you want in the field for FREE!  Check out the video….you can see Gray took full advantage!  Look at the 10 second mark where he removes the leaves on the cap of the strawberry!

If you can’t make it to the Dempsey Farm, be sure to grab locally grown strawberries and more at the Hilton Head Island Farmers Market at Honey Horn (Fridays from 8:30 till1:00)and the Bluffton Farmers Market on Calhoun Street (Thursdays from 2 till 7).

Directions and Information to Dempsey Farms U-Pick

1576 Sea Island Parkway  Highway 21 South

St. Helena Island, SC 29920

843.838.3656

dempseyfarmsupick.com

 

Harvesting Dates:

Strawberries….April 5 – May 29 (may close earlier this season due to warm weather)

Green Beans (Snap)….May 15 – June 25

Squash and Zucchini….May 1 – June 30

Cucumbers….May 26 – June 30

Pickle Cucumbers….May 15 – June 30

Sweet Corn….June 1 – July 20

Okra….May 30 – July 15

Eggplant….June 10 – July 15

Cantaloupe….June 10 – July 20

Watermelons….June 15 – July 30

Tomatoes….June 10 – July 30

Bell Pepper….June 10 – July 30

*Dates may change depending on weather and growing season.

Happy Picking Ya’all!

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Furry Family Members are Welcome on Hilton Head Island

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Americans love their pets. It’s estimated that we will spend over $50 billion on our pets in 2011. We spoil them with treats and toys and bring them wherever we go. We feed them the very best food and frame their pictures. And now, our four-legged family members can join the family vacation too!

Ginger, a local pup, loves her time on the beach!
Ginger, a local pup, loves her time on the beach!
Pet friendly travel is on the rise, and in recent years some Hilton Head Island properties have added pet friendly policies, rolling out the welcome mat to your furry family members with special amenities and services.

Jason Manges is a marketing professional who spends a lot of time on the road for work. He loves when he travels to Hilton Head Island for business because he can bring his two dogs, Begonia and Sierra. He always stays at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. “I always bring my dogs to Hilton Head Island when I travel for work because it makes the experience feel more like home.  My dogs absolutely love the beach so it brings them a great deal of happiness as well,” says Manges.

With advance notice, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa gladly accepts dogs under 20 lbs. They offer a Heavenly Dog Bed for their special 4-legged guests. If you’re looking for a private home or villa for your family vacation, there are several rental companies that offer pet friendly homes and villas including Hilton Head Rentals & Golf, Sunset Rentals and Resort Rentals.

Helpful Hints:

  • Be sure to read the fine print and check for added fees.
  • Most pet-friendly designations refer to dogs—so confirm before you book if you want to travel with another type of pet.
A couple walking along the beach with their dog at sunset

The Island's 12 miles of beaches are perfect for long walks with your furry family members.

There’s plenty to do with your dog too! The Island’s 12 miles of hard-packed sandy beaches are heaven on earth for dogs who love to retrieve and swim. Grab a cup of coffee to go from Java Joe’s at Coligny Plaza and head to Coligny Beach for a morning romp on the beach—which is the best time to have your pets on the beach. It’s cooler and the beaches are not as busy as mid-day. Be sure to check out the seasonal guidelines for pets on the beach when planning your outing:

  • October – March: No leashes required at any time. The animal IS required to be under positive voice control.
  • April – May: Animals must be on a leash between 10 A.M. – 5 P.M.
  • The Friday before Memorial Day until Monday of Labor Day weekend: NO animals allowed on the beach between 10 A.M. – 5 P.M.
  • Tuesday after Labor Day – September: Animals must be on a leash from 10 A.M. – 5 P.M.
  • On the beach or not, local law requires owners to clean up after their pets.

After a morning romping on the beach, head on over to Tail-Waggers, Hilton Head Island’s only gourmet pet bakery and gift shop. You’ll be greeted by owner Abby Wirth and her trusted side-kick and co-hostess, Olive, an adorable basset hound. Your dog will love the fresh, hand-baked decorated Puppy Treats. The store is stocked with all the best pet supplies, including plush beds, toys and games, chew bones and beach essentials like travel bowls and Fido Floats. Be sure to pick up a custom Hilton Head Island collar for your pet as vacation souvenir!

Woman holding her puppy at Shelter Cove Harbour

Bistro 17 at Shelter Cove Harbour gladly welcomes four legged patrons.

The Island’s numerous outdoor dining options means you can bring your pet along for dinner too. Bistro 17 at Shelter Cove Harbour offers special doggy bowls and a gourmet puppy menu for its furry patrons, including FiFi’s Favorite, a dish made of brown rice, lean ground beef, ricotta cheese, pureed vegetables, organic wheat germ, organic flax seed and garlic. A feast fit for a furry King or Queen.

Plan your fall getaway now, and plan to bring your furry family member!

PS We’d love to see your pet photos! If you have pictures from your recent visit to Hilton Head Island with your pet, please post on our Facebook page!

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Dining Out, Family Style

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I’ll never forget the first time we took my oldest son out to a restaurant. We were new parents treading new waters…and we were nervous. We chose to have brunch at our favorite spot, and after I had thoroughly disinfected the entire table top and high chair (because that’s what first-time new mothers do), installed all the ‘gear’ (high chair cover, travel fold-out suction placemat, etc.), we opened our menus and ordered up Bloody Mary’s (pronto).

Patrons enjoying the patio at The Salty Dog Cafe

The Salty Dog Cafe has been an Island favorite since 1987.

Ten minutes later, our son had emptied the salt and pepper shakers, spilled a glass of water, ate a lemon wedge and squeezed the jelly containers all over the table. We looked at each other in silent agreement…we would never go out to eat again. We would be banished to delivery and fast food if we wanted to eat ‘out’ with our kids.

Looking back, I think we were a little too up-tight about the whole dining-out-with-kids experience. We noticed every squeal and spill, but no one else seemed to mind (and we did tip our waitress handsomely). We did venture out again with our son, and we’ve made baby steps. (We’ve conquered Fiesta Fresh and Street Meet without driving out all their patrons.) All parents of little ones know this dilemma: To dine out or not to dine out. That is the question.

View of the South Beach Marina from the water

South Beach Marina is located in The Sea Pines Resort and offers dining, shopping and watersports.

On Hilton Head Island, you can feel at home at a number of our family friendly restaurants. When the weather is nice (which is basically all the time), you can dine outside. No worries if your kids spill something or want to get up and wander around. In fact, several of our Island eateries provide entertainment for your kids before and after you eat.

One of the best known family friendly restaurants on the Island is The Salty Dog Cafe. Serving families since 1987, The Salty Dog is located at South Beach Marina in The Sea Pines Resort. You’ve probably seen the iconic Salty Dog T-Shirt in all parts of the country—in fact, my boss hiked Mt. Kilimanjaro a few years ago and her African guide was wearing a Salty Dog T-shirt. How’s that for world-famous?! There’s even a famous ‘tail’ to be told of the legend of The Salty Dog.

Sign outside of The Salty Dog Ice Cream Shop

Be sure to stop by The Salty Dog Ice Cream Shop for a cool treat this summer.

You can dine waterfront inside The Salty Dog in Captain John’s Galley, or dine outside on the deck overlooking the water. The Salty Dog serves up a delicious menu of seafood fare, from shrimp to crab legs, from fish & chips to shrimp & grits. If you have a hankering for Lowcountry cuisine, you can find it here. And, the kids menu is a homerun with all the favorites. The best part of The Salty Dog for those with kids is the outdoor entertainment during the peak season.

It’s always a party at The Salty Dog when the sun goes down. Live music from Dave Kimmerly or Bruce Chricton will have you singing along, and the children’s entertainment and activities will keep your little ones smiling from ear to ear. There are clowns, magicians, music and more! Plus, Jake the Salty Dog makes appearances for family photo ops. (Wouldn’t that make a cute Christmas card?) And a visit to The Salty Dog (or Hilton Head Island for that matter) is never complete without the purchase of your very own Salty Dog T-shirt. See you at The Salty Dog!

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Casting Call for Hilton Head Island Reality TV Show!

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Golfer teeing off while other players observe

Does your group have what it takes to star in a reality show on Hilton Head Island?

By Jessica Gardo

 

We know Hilton Head Island is made for families…but is your family made for TV?

Every family is special in its own way, but maybe your family has an extra special story to tell. Maybe you’re a family of athletes or comedians. Or, maybe your family has overcome a huge obstacle and you’re an inspiration to everyone around you. Or, maybe you’re a group of guys that ‘mancation’ every year or a family reunion.

Kids playing the the wake waters

Casting Call for all families who love Hilton Head Island!

Whatever camp you fall in, Hilton Head Island has a very special opportunity for you!

Right now you have the opportunity to ‘take the show on the road’ by entering for the chance to star in a new family-friendly, reality TV show called, “Getting Away Together.” Filmed on Hilton Head Island, this 30-minute episode will chronicle a vacation getaway by a family (or group) and how the experience of visiting the Island together and staying in an oceanfront home, benefits the group’s relationships with each other and fosters a renewed sense of well-being. The show will be filmed in September of this year (2011) and will air in the early part of 2012 on PBS member stations across the country.

If this opportunity sounds like something you might want to try, you’ve come to the right place!  Now is your chance to enter a casting call for Getting Away Together. If chosen, you and your group will be the stars of the show and will be filmed on Hilton Head Island, enjoying a beautiful vacation rental home plus experiencing the wide-range of activities and amenities available.

So, do you think you have a unique story to tell?  Do you want to be cast in this new reality show on Hilton Head Island?  Please tell us why YOU should be chosen for this opportunity.  Enter now for your chance to shine!

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Summer Camps at The Arts Center

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Hilton Head Island is known for its legendary golf, world-class resorts and pristine beaches, but it’s also home to a thriving arts community. At the hub of it all is the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina—which features a year-round, robust calendar of performing and visual arts events. And they don’t just cater to the adult crowd; they also offer an exciting menu of children’s camps and workshops for locals and visitors. So if you have an aspiring Picasso (like I do) or a blossoming Laurence Olivier in your family, you don’t want to miss these two fun-filled camps:

Mixed Up Masterpieces:

During this week-long visual arts camp, your child will be guided by the very capable Margaret Hancock. Hancock holds her M.Ed. from the University of Virginia and her B.A. in Art History from Duke University. She has served as a docent at several art museums, taught undergraduate courses, and leads design-based educational programs and workshops across the country, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

Young girl picking out colored pencils

Visual arts camps are held in the sunny Disney Studio in the Arts Center. Photo Courtesy: The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

During Mixed Up Masterpieces, Margaret will introduce the campers to the famous works of Henri Matisse, Man Ray, Georgia O’Keefe, Eero Saarinen and Frank Lloyd Wright. Margaret has chosen this set of artists for a very specific reason—she has personal experience with each artist. She interned at the National Gallery of Art where Matisse’s cut-outs are on view, and she curated an exhibit of Eero Saarinen’s furniture at the Virginia Center of Architecture. “I think having viewed and spent time with the works that I share with the students provides a more personal element to my teaching and to their learning, “says Hancock.

The students will explore Matisse’s cut outs, Frank Lloyd Wright’s stained glass windows from the Avery Coonley Playhouse, Man Ray’s photograms, Georgia O’Keefe’s still lifes, and Eero Saarinen’s womb chair.  “This will expose the students to a wide range of art elements and design principles – color, line, shape, form, etc. in everything from paper and paint to photos and furniture.”  After they explore these famous works, then they will create their own creative, unique “masterpiece” with everyday materials.  This includes a mixed media cut-out, stained glass window design, acrylic still life painting, magazine-based photogram, and model chair.

A painting titled "La Gerbe" by Matisse

"La Gerbe" (1953). Students will find inspiration from Matisse's cut outs during Mixed-Up Masterpieces camp. Photo Courtesy: www.Henri-Matisse.net

At the end of the week, the class will host an exhibition so they can display their artwork for friends and family. “I believe that no project is complete without a chance to share and reflect, and so this is the students’ chance!  The exhibition provides an opportunity to talk about their work and to see the value in letting others view their art,” says Hancock.

The Mixed Up Masterpieces Camp runs July 18-22, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm for Ages 5-7, and 10:00 am to Noon for Ages 8-12.  The cost is $100. Please call 843-686-3945, ext. 233 to register for the camp.

Theatre Camp:

Your inspiring actor will learn from the best at this week-long theatre camp (typically a sell out at 20 kids). Jay Apking has invested the last 15 years of his life to the development of young people in the performing arts. He is founder and artistic director of the Janus Project, a theatre in Cincinnati, and has worked at the Cincinnati Shakespeare Festival, the Barter Theatre in Virginia as well as touring the Eastern US and Russia with various productions.

During this camp, the students will learn theatre A to Z. Apking will work on teaching the students what he defines as “the three most important skills needed for theatre—a strong voice, a healthy controlled body and a creative imagination.”

Theatre Camp participants posing for a group photo

Theatre Camp is held in the Black Box rehearsal room in The Arts Center. Photo Courtesy: The Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

The camp runs 9:00 am to 3:00 pm each day, and the first half of the day is spent playing improvisation games that help develop those three important skills. After lunch, students will work on a mini-production of their own original one-act play! The play is entirely written and developed by the children in the camp.

Not only will they will write the scripts, play the cast and serve as the production crew, they’ll also get to be part of set design, props, hair and make-up and costume design! “On the last day of the camp, the students present their play to their family and friends. Every year the play is different as it is totally the creation of the kids in that year’s camp,” says Apking.

Theatre Camp Session 1 with Jay Apking is offered to children ages 9-14 and runs July 11-15, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. (Theatre Camp Session 2 with Harry Culpepper runs July 25-29, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.) The cost is $150. Please call 843-686-3945, ext. 233 to register for the camp.

In addition to these two fabulous camps, the Arts Center offers an amazing array of other camps. Please visit www.artshhi.com, or call the Education office at 843-686-3945, ext. 233 for more information and to register for the camps.

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America the Beautiful: Fourth of July on Hilton Head Island

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Growing up on the Island, I have fond memories of my Fourth of July celebrations. Festive red, white and blue gatherings at the Country Club of Hilton Head—with a traditional spread of Americana food on picnic tables spanning the driving range; greased watermelon relays in the swimming pool; glow bracelets and face painting; and lying side by side with my best friend in the grass under the starry summer sky awaiting the colorful (and ooh and awing) display of fireworks with the national anthem blaring for all to hear.

View of the crowd for a performance by Gregg Russell under the Liberty Oak

Harbour Town in The Sea Pines Resort will host a special Fourth celebration, including a concert by Gregg Russell under the Liberty Oak.

Fireworks display over the Statue of Neptune

Shelter Cove Harbour offers a spectacular Fourth of July celebration.

This Fourth of July, Hilton Head Island warmly welcomes visitors to celebrate Independence Day with three public celebrations and fireworks displays. As an Islander for 23 years, I have done the Fourth in almost every way possible: at Harbour Town in The Sea Pines Resort, at Shelter Cove Harbour, at South Forest Beach, at Skull Creek, on a boat on the Intracoastal, at restaurants, at private homes, etc. There’s no bad view of the fireworks on the Island—in fact, you’re likely to see more than one display from where you plant yourself this Fourth of July!

Here’s your guide to enjoying the Fourth of July on Hilton Head Island with your family:

Harbour Town in The Sea Pines Resort
Harbour Town will celebrate the Fourth with a variety of festivities including children’s activities, an inaugural 4th of July parade, live music by Gregg Russell, food and beverage, and a fireworks display launched from a barge in Calibogue Sound, starting about 9:15 (dusk).  There is a $5.00 gate fee to enter the resort and a free shuttle service will be offered between Harbour Town and various parking lots in The Sea Pines Resort.  For additional information about the Harbour Town event, contact the Sea Pines Resort by phone (843-785-3333) or visit their www.seapines.com.

Shelter Cove Harbour
Shelter Cove Harbour offers a special HarbourFest celebration featuring special patriotic selections performed by Shannon Tanner at 6:30 and 8:00 pm.  The fireworks display will begin right after dusk.  For the convenience of home & villa guests staying in the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, the Palmetto Dunes Buggy will continue operating until after the fireworks display is concluded.  For more information about the Shelter Cove Harbour event, call toll-free 800-827-3006 or visit www.palmettodunes.com.

Skull Creek
Located on the north end of the Island, the fireworks will be launched from a barge in the Intracoastal Waterway/Skull Creek at 9:30. For a prime view of the display, plan to have dinner at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Chart House or the Skull Creek Boathouse. Not only will you have front row seats for the fireworks but they also offer live, outside entertainment beginning at 6:00 pm.

It’s important to note that the town of Hilton Head Island ordinances prohibit the launch or discharge of fireworks within town limits and specifically from the beach.

This year, we plan to take our sons to see their first Fourth of July fireworks display at Skull Creek (that is, if we can keep them up!). Where will you be spending your Fourth of July celebration this year?

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On Your Mark, Get Set, Learn!

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These days, it seems as though kids (and adults) are more connected to the latest technology than they are to the great outdoors. Are you ready to shed the gadgets and get back to nature? If so, Hilton Head Island is the perfect vacation spot to unplug, and connect with Mother Nature.

There are so many fun ways for your kids (and you) to learn about the rich eco-system and wildlife on our barrier island. Your starting point should be the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn. Established in 1985, the museum offers an array of hands-on explorations and investigations into the natural history of the Lowcountry.

Sea Turtle hatch-lings heading into the water

Sea Turtle hatchlings on Hilton Head Island. Photo Courtesy: Coastal Discovery Museum

“Teaching our residents and visitors about our natural history and cultural heritage is our main objective here at the Coastal Discovery Museum,” says Natalie Hefter, VP of Programs at the Museum.  “This summer we put together a great assortment of programs – many of them hands-on – that appeals to families,” she added.

One of the most popular summer programs for kids is the ‘Animals of the Lowcountry.’  “We have invited back our friends from the Oatland Island Wildlife Center to share some of the common critters that you’ll find around this area.  It’s a great way to see some of these animals – including a baby alligator – up close,” says Hefter. In addition to a baby alligator, there will be appearances made by an owl, flying squirrel, opossum, corn snakes and more! You can catch this program every Wednesday, now through August 10 at both 10:30 and 11:30 a.m.

People preparing crab to be cooked

Learn how to harvest, cook and eat Atlantic Blue Crab at the Blue Crab Discovery Tour. Photo Courtesy of Coastal Discovery Museum

The museum hosts a number of kid-friendly talks, walks and programs but here’s a guide to top summer activities not to miss:

  • Blue Crab Discovery: This wildly popular summer tour will be offered twice a week.  Participants will learn all about Atlantic Blue Crabs and their habitat, the salt marsh. You’ll also learn how to harvest and cook the crabs…and then the art of picking ‘em! This program runs Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 to noon, now through September 27. Adults $15, Child $10
  • Butterfly Discovery: The Native Butterfly Enclosure is open during regular museum hours – but for those who want to learn more – join the docent-led tours. Over the course of an hour, you’ll learn about the different stages of a butterfly’s life cycle – see a live caterpillar and a chrysalis!  The tours are Mondays at 10 a.m. and Wednesdays at 3 p.m., now through October 26. Reservations are required. 843-689-6767 ext 223. Adult $10, Child $5 (ages 4-12).
  • Evening Turtle Talk & Walk:  While you’re not guaranteed to see a turtle (as they don’t make reservations for when they’re coming to lay a nest), the museum does guarantee that you’ll learn all about Loggerhead Sea Turtles – their biology, nesting habits, and local conservation efforts.  By law they can only take 20 people out on a program at a time, so these sell out quickly.  Be sure to call ahead to make your reservations before you come to town. The Talk & Walk is offered Tuesdays and Thursdays, June through August, 8 to 10 p.m. Adult $20, Child $15 (no children under 4).

In addition to the programs, talks and walks, families can learn quite a lot by visiting Honey Horn and touring the grounds on their own.  “Interpretive panels around the property help to teach our visitors about the natural history of the salt marsh and Lowcountry in general.  Plus, we have a Scavenger Hunt for our younger visitors – just stop in and ask for one at the front desk.  It’s a fun way to explore the property – and learn a little something along the way!,” says Hefter.

At the end of your time at Honey Horn, be sure to stop in the museum’s Discovery House for a visit to the Kids Zone where your kids can examine replicas of artifacts, bones from loggerhead sea turtles and shells from our beaches. Plus there are all sorts of fun souvenirs to bring home!

The Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn is located at 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island. For more information or to make reservations, call 843-689-6767.

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I Scream, You Scream, We all Scream for Ice Cream!

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On any given summer evening on Hilton Head Island, you are bound to find a row of sun-tanned, smiling little faces enjoying a frozen treat after a long day of fun in the sun. Whether it’s scooped in a bowl or piled high on a cone, ice cream is a summer time staple on Hilton Head Island.

This past weekend, we took our boys to Hilton Head Ice Cream for an after dinner treat. We got ours to go (Superman for our 3 year old, Raspberry Sorbet for mom and dad to split, and Praline for Poppa). We made our way over to Poppa’s house to enjoy our frozen treat on the porch.

Hilton Head Ice Cream has been an Island treasure (and treat) for almost 30 years, and has been touted by the likes of Southern Living and CNN! Many local restaurants feature Hilton Head Ice Cream on their menus.

Teenage girls holding ice cream

Hilton Head Island is home to numerous ice cream shops--try them all!

Their ice cream flavors run the gamut and include all the traditional favorites, and here’s a preview of some of their unique flavors to whet your appetite:

  • Bananas Foster
  • Brownie Cheesecake
  • Butter Pecan
  • Candy Cane
  • Cayenne Chocolate
  • Cappuccino
  • Cherry Vanilla
  • Cinnamon (my FAVORITE)
  • Espresso
  • Kahlua Chip
  • Lemon Custard (YUM)
  • Mocha Pecan
  • Peanut Butter
  • Pistachio
  • Pumpkin
  • Spumoni
  • Toasted Coconut

In addition to their scrumptious ice cream, Hilton Head Ice Cream also serves up creamy Non-Fat sorbets including Lemon, Mango and Raspberry, plus a delicious Watermelon Sherbet.

You can dine in at Hilton Head Ice Cream (located at 55 New Orleans Road), or pick up your treat to go—you can even stock your villa’s freezer with a gallon to last you the week! To dine in is definitely a memorable experience. From the pirate hanging from the ceiling to the huge salt water fish tank to the eclectic collections hanging on the walls… a visit to Hilton Head Ice Cream is a fun experience for ALL your senses.

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Make HarbourFest a Family Vacation Tradition

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As a new parent, I am always mindful of the memories and traditions we are beginning to form as a family. This past Memorial Day weekend, we began what I believe will be an important family tradition—a summer kick-off trip to the lake with several of our close family friends. It was a fun trip (8 adults and 7 kids under 3), and you could feel that this was an important memory-making moment for our children.

Shannon Tanner performing at HarbourFest in Shelter Cove Harbour

Shannon Tanner celebrates his 23rd season at HarbourFest in Shelter Cove Harbour.

Hilton Head Island is an important summer tradition for so many families across the country. And for thousands of families, the Shannon Tanner family show during HarbourFest at Shelter Cove is a magical moment.

A visitor recently wrote of Shannon Tanner “I am one of those kids now turned adults that used to see your shows every year at the shelter cove pavilion.  I was able to take my son to see you last year and what an amazing feeling.  I sat in the same seat where my grandfather and I used to sit.  Thank you so much for all the memories you helped my family create for me and thanks in advance for the future memories you will help me make for my son and daughter.  See you in a couple of weeks.” -Ray 4/14/2011

HarbourFest is a popular summer-long festival held at Shelter Cove Harbour featuring the nightly Shannon Tanner family show, fun activities with Cappy the Clown, and fireworks every Tuesday night. This summer marks Shannon Tanner’s 23rd year at HarbourFest. This Island icon entertains the crowds with his sing-a-longs, classic covers and original tunes. You don’t want to miss the show! Your kids (and you) will look forward to this every year! Shannon Tanner performs Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, Monday thru Friday, 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Come early to get your seat!

Fireworks display over the Statue of Neptune

Don't miss the spectacular summer fireworks display, every Tuesday night June 14 to August 9 at HarbourFest.

In addition to Shannon Tanner, HarbourFest features other memory making moments you don’t want to miss including:

  • Tuesday night fireworks! Catch an amazing fireworks display every Tuesday night, June 14 to August 19, with a special show on July 4 (there’s no fireworks show on Tuesday, July 5).
  • Cappy the Clown entertains the crowd with a little clown magic, Memorial Day to August, Sunday thru Friday, 6:00 – 9:30 p.m.
  • Outdoor dining: Enjoy outdoor dinner, or a little adult time with a cold beverage, at San Miguel’s and Scott’s Fish Market. Both feature nightly outdoor entertainment 5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
  • Kid’s Activities: As if Shannon Tanner and Cappy the Clown weren’t enough, HarbourFest also features face painting, bouncy houses and other kid’s activities.

Make sure you schedule HarbourFest during your next Hilton Head Island summer vacation! And check back for a future post on all the fun your family can have at Shelter Cove Harbour!