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Hilton Head Island by Treetop

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Soar through the Island’s newest attraction

A trust exercise with my guide, Aaron, shows you can trust the equipment

As I stood on the first platform preparing to take off on my initial (I will be back for more!) Hilton Head Island zip line adventure, I had visions of the opening scene from the Sylvester Stallone blockbuster, Cliffhanger, run through my head.  However, as soon as I launched, any worry disappeared and the adrenaline that had been pumping through my veins as my feet left the safety of the platform quickly dissipated.  While high up in the Lowcountry tree canopy, a fear of heights could overcome you.  But, with your first zip any apprehension is gone.

ZipLine Hilton Head, a part of Broad Creek Marina Adventures, has brought the first aerial tour by zip line to the area.  The only one available within a 250 mile radius, this is an experience unlike any other.  With eight lines, three suspended sky bridges and one spiral staircase in the trees, you’ll have two hours of flying fun.

You'll depart from the 'crow's nest' on the guides' favorite line

Offering the highest structure you can stand on at 75 feet high (falls short only to the area water towers), you’ll get unparalleled views of Broad Creek.  You may even get so lucky as to see a dolphin or two frolicking in the water from high up on your treetop perch.  And, the guides don’t miss a beat!  They’ll make sure you take in all of the area wildlife (from egrets to white-tailed deer) that may make an appearance during your zipping.

Of the 8 lines, the easy favorite is the longest line on the course.  This 900 foot conclusion to your trip not only offers you the longest ride of the day, it allows you to race against someone else in your group.  Want a helpful hint to winning?!?  Weight wins this race.  Go against someone that weighs less than you and you’ll have a guaranteed victory!

Ask the guides what their favorite ride is and you’ll get a different answer.  They prefer the second to last line on the tour.  800 feet in length, it will take you from the ‘crow’s nest’ (one of the highest platforms on the course) through the canopy and down into the Lowcountry jungle.  Riders have been clocked at speeds up to 35 mph while on these longer lines.

And, Broad Creek Marina offers the best conclusion to the day – a bite to eat at the waterside Up the Creek Pub & Grill where, in my opinion, you can chow down on one of the best burgers Hilton Head Island has to offer!

ZipLine Hilton Head can accommodate groups of up to 8.  Riders must be between 80 and 250 pounds and must wear closed toe shoes.  While they’re not required, pants (or longer shorts) are recommended as the harness and equipment may rub.  You should arrive 20 to 30 minutes prior to your tour time as you will need to fill out some required paperwork.  Make sure you bring your camera – you do not want to miss the opportunity to catch a photo of yourself in that glamorous helmet.  Cameras are allowed but must have a strap.

ZipLine Hilton Head is open year round and is $89 per rider.

For more information or to make reservations, visit www.ZipLineHiltonHead.com or call (843) 682-6000.

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Into the Wild

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A day on one of the Lowcountry’s uninhabited islands

I must admit, I’m a little embarrassed to confess that in all my time living on/visiting Hilton Head Island, I had never been out to explore Pinckney Island.  What a mistake!

One of the residents at Ibis Pond

Pinckney Island, located between the two bridges connecting Bluffton, SC and Hilton Head Island, can be easy to miss to most newcomers.  However, I have no excuse.  I have driven by the turn off more than a thousand times and I’m just now finding my way there.

As you turn off of US 278, a single road sandwiched between Skull Creek and Mackay Creek takes you into this National Wildlife Refuge.  The drive onto the Island immediately sets the tone for your entire visit – serene, un-crowded, and shrouded in a bit of mystery (you’ll find yourself wondering what you’ll see around the next bend).

Pinckney Island trail maps are available on property in the parking area

Upon arriving for my first visit in the late afternoon, I made my way to Ibis Pond and found the trees snow capped with white egrets, white ibis and wood storks.  I only took advantage of a small portion of the available trails on Pinckney Island during my first visit.  With the 14 miles of trails (walkers, runners and bicyclists are all welcome), the Refuge offers a variety of trips with distances as short as 1.2 miles roundtrip and as hefty as almost 8 miles.  However, keep in mind before you take off for your trek, there are no restrooms beyond the parking area and you should bring your own drinking water.

In the over 4,000 acre refuge, there are 5 islands (although Pinckney is the only one open to public use) and nearly 67% consists of salt marsh and tidal creeks.  The various habitats are known to house a wide variety of birds including waterfowl, shore birds and wading birds, white-tailed deer and American alligators.

 

Look closely - thousands of Periwinkle Snails retreat to the grass at low tide

Kayaks are welcome to explore the many waterways surrounding the refuge and there is a public boat ramp across US 278 at Last End Point.  Motorized vehicles are not allowed beyond the parking area and pets are not allowed off or on the leash.  Please be sure to read all regulations before setting off to explore.

Want a guided tour of Pinckney Island?
The Coastal Discovery Museum offers a walking tour with historical and natural history overviews of the property.  Tours are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 AM and will take you on a two hour (1.5 miles roundtrip) exploration with your guide.  Adults are $12 and children (ages 4-12) are $7 and reservations can be made by calling the Museum (843-689-6767 ext. 223).

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A Gallery Like No Other

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Honey Horn Comes Alive with Art

Art on display under the beautiful oaks at historic Honey Horn

One of the staple annual events on my Hilton Head Island social calendar is fast approaching.  The Art Market at Historic Honey Horn, April 28 & 29, displays a variety of juried fine arts and crafts in a setting unlike any gallery I’ve ever seen.  Under the draping Spanish moss that flows from the strands of live oaks, among the salt marshes and alongside some of the oldest structures still existing on the Island, artists and craftsmen will compete for prizes.

Among the media on display, you can find something to fit any budget including pieces in clay, wood, fibers, metals, glass, jewelry (my favorite), watercolors, oil, mixed media and photography.  Combining artists from all over the United States coming from as far as Connecticut and Wisconsin with some of the best known local artists, Judge Holly Keris, Curator at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens, will surely have a difficult time picking the winners.

Pottery on display at the Art Market

Make sure not to miss some of the finest arts and crafts on display this year on Hilton Head Island.

What to expect when attending the Art Market:

  • The event is open to the public on Saturday, April 28 (10am to 5pm) and on Sunday, April 29 (11am to 4pm).
  • Admission is FREE but there is a $6 parking donation per car.
  • Check the schedule of events for the Art Market – demonstrations will be held throughout the weekend’s festivities.
  • Food by Two Tomatoes Catering (including hot dogs, BBQ Pork sandwiches, shrimp and chicken salads and more ranging in price from $5 to $7) and beverage is available for sale on-site during the event.
  • Want to mingle with the artists?  Join in honoring the prize winners, including Best in Show, from the 2012 Art Market at a special artist’s reception on Saturday evening (April 28) from 5:30pm to 7pm.  Admission to the party is $20 and includes food & beverage.  Reservations to attend are required and can be made by calling (843) 689-6767 ext. 223.

For more information on this year’s Art Market, click here or call (843) 689-6767.

For more information on the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn, the Art Market’s host, click here.

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Giddy Up and Tour the Island on Horseback

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One of my favorite ways to explore one of the most beautiful spots on the Island is on a trusty steed.  And the staff at Lawton Stables has a stable full of reliable partners for your adventure.

Trail rides at Lawton Stables take you by a number of the lakes in the Forest Preserve

Whether a beginner or an experienced rider, upon your arrival, the folks at Lawton Stables will choose from one of their 45 trail horses to get you on the best suited equine for your trip.  Some fan favorites include:

  • If you’re looking for a little more adventure and want a faster trip, Rabbit is a go to for you.
  • If you’re new to horseback riding, Mr. Ed is a good bet…he keeps to a slow and steady pace.
  • Have younger ones in your party?  Casey is a great match for kids.
  • Shop in the Big & Tall section?  Petunia, one of the larger horses, can handle the extra challenge.

Once saddled up, you’ll depart the stables on a one hour trail ride that will take you through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, 605 acres of untouched, pristine Lowcountry landscape.  On your ride, you will pass by some of the fresh water lakes that are home to alligators and an array of over 100 species of birds that call the Preserve home.  You’ll venture through the vanishing swamp under the oak tree cover draped with majestic Spanish moss.  And, you’ll gallop by the acres of native flora in bloom in the wildflower meadow (at its most beautiful in the spring time).  This setting makes for a quiet and tranquil ride.

A few tips before setting off on your horseback adventure:

  • Participants must be 8 years of age or older
  • There is a 240 pound weight limit
  • Closed-toe shoes are required
  • Long pants are not required but are strongly recommended
  • Plan ahead and schedule your trip at least 24 hours in advance
  • Arrive early (you will have some paperwork to fill out before departing)
  • You are allowed to bring a camera on the ride
  • If you are not staying in The Sea Pines Resort, you will have to pay a $5 fee at the security gate

The Stables' resident deer, Callie

Have a rider that is under the age of 8?  No problem!  Lawton Stables offers pony rides for children weighing 55 pounds or less.  And, don’t miss the Small Animal Farm on property, housing everything from goats and donkeys to pigs and chickens and even a resident deer, Callie.

Not comfortable touring the Preserve by horse?  There are other ways to enjoy one of the Island’s most serene settings.  Wetland boardwalks, observation decks, bridges and fishing docks and walking trails (ranging from 1 to 2 miles) are all available to experience this natural setting.   They even created Fish Island Trail to allow cars to drive to the fresh water lakes located centrally in the Preserve.  Looking for a guided tour?  Check out the boat, walking, fishing and wagon tours all available in the Preserve.

For more information on all of the activities available at Lawton Stables, click here.

For more information on the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, click here.

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Bike & Trikes & Zikes, oh my…

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With more miles of bike paths than actual square miles on Hilton Head Island, most of the Island can be discovered on two wheels. The 80 miles of pathways and 12 miles of white, sandy beaches offer cyclists of all levels a great experience.

The road(s) less traveled

Most visitors will find themselves pedaling along William Hilton Parkway (aka 278, aka the ‘main drag’) and down Pope Avenue towards Coligny Beach. But, I want to give you some back roads worth exploring that offer surprises and rewards along the way.

Marshland Road

Accessible via Matthews Drive from 278, Marshland Road runs parallel with beautiful Broad Creek and offers a quiet, canopy covered pathway traveled mostly by residents. At the end, you have two choices. The first requires slightly more distance while the second has a pretty serious climb.

    • Option 1 takes you further north. From Marshland, turn right on to Spanish Wells Road. Upon arriving at a stoplight, go straight across to Wild Horse Road. Once reaching Gum Tree Road, stay left. You will approach a roundabout. Go a quarter of the way around to Squire Pope. Your reward? Three great waterfront restaurant stops (Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, Skull Creek Boathouse and the Chart House) to grab a delicious bite to eat to regain your energy before biking back. Approximate mileage (one way): 8 miles.
A sign indicating Fort Howell

One of the 4 historical spots you'll cross on the Beach City Road route

  • Option 2 will take you over the Cross Island. From Marshland Road, turn left on to Marshland Lane. You will see a bike path accessing the Cross Island Parkway. While it is the hardest climb on the Island, once you reach the top, it is well worth it. The view out over the water is spectacular and not too far from the bottom, you will come to Palmetto Bay Marina (turn left on Arrow Road and then left on to Helmsman Way) with, again, great dining spots (Sunrise Café, Captain Woody’s and Black Marlin Bayside Grill). Approximate mileage (one way): 7 miles.

Beach City Road

Unless you arrived via the Island airport, here is another stretch unknown to most visitors. From 278, turn on to Beach City Road and continue to head straight. Upon reaching the stop sign, turn left on to Fish Haul Road. Then, take a right on to Baygall Road which will lead to Mitchelville Road. Turn right. You will run out of actual bike path but the tree-lined, dirt road will take you back in time. Plus, you will run into Mitchelville Beach Park which offers public beach access. The end of Mitchellvile Road takes you right back on to Fish Haul. And, you would be surprised to know that this loop will lead you to, count them, 4 historical markers. Approximate mileage (one way): 3.2 miles. Learn more about historic Mitchelville.

Unconventional means of transportation

Red Zike and a blue zike

Zikes for Rent at Hilton Head Outfitters

Want a new way to explore the Island bikeways? The Island’s bicycle rental companies offer a number of fun alternatives. I would suggest trying your hand (or feet) on a Zike Bike. Less than a year old to the Island, Zikes have made it here by way of Hilton Head Outfitters located in Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. A mobile elliptical machine, if you will, the Zike offers a greater level of workout than a standard cruiser. I can vouch…you will feel it working your quads and gluts. While I was a little uneasy launching off on my first Zike ride, once I got going, it was just like riding a bike (but with more head turns). Want to try a Zike out yourself? Contact Hilton Head Outfitters at (866) 380-1783.

For more information and tips on biking Hilton Head Island, click here.

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Hilton Head Island: Music, Fireworks & Family Fun

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Island Rec hosts Summer Jams Party

If you like great music, great food and a great, fun-filled family-friendly atmosphere, then you will not want to miss the Island Recreation Association’s “Summer Jams Party in the Park.” If you’re already familiar with this crowd-pleasing outdoor soiree, then you’ll definitely mark your calendar for Tuesday, August 9, and be sure to get yourself to Hilton Head Island’s Shelter Cove Community Park for the last jam of the season.

After a hugely successful turnout and positive feedback during last year’s Summer Jams series, The Island Recreation Association, along with its sponsors, Budweiser, The Smokehouse restaurant and Adventure Radio Group, decided to host this free Summer Jams Party in the Park event again this year.

In addition to the rockin’ entertainment, tasty refreshments and exciting activities, such as inflatable bounce houses and face painting, locals and visitors enjoy this all amidst Hilton Head Island’s beautiful natural landscape and relaxing atmosphere.

Jeff Taylor, of 103.1 FM’s The Drive’s, adds his unique flair to the Summer Jams Party in the Park, and the fabulous evening ends with a smile-inducing fireworks display over Shelter Cove Harbour at around 9 pm.

Incredible barbecue from The Smokehouse, hot dogs, Giuseppi’s pizza, Coca-Cola, Bud and Bud Light will be available for purchase, and all proceeds benefit the Island Recreation Association’s children’s scholarship fund, which helps guarantee that “no child is denied” recreation opportunities.

Bring your friends, family, neighbors, visitors you just met at the grocery story, etc. and get down to the Shelter Cove Community Park for Summer Jams in the Park – a casual, down-home good time.

For more information regarding this event, the Island Rec Center or its many other fine programs and activities, contact the Island Recreation Association at (843) 681-7273 or visit islandreccenter.org. You can also follow the rec center on Facebook: Island Recreation Association.

Summer Jams “At a Glance”

What: Super fun “Summer Jams Party in the Park”

Who: 103.1 FM The Drive’s Jeff Taylor

When: Tuesday, August 9, 2011; 7 – 10 pm

Where: Shelter Cove Community Park (mid-island, near Shelter Cove Harbour)

Cost: Admission is ‘free’; food & refreshments available for purchase

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Paddle Boarding Hilton Head Style

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Hilton Head Paddleboarding

Instructor Glen Barroncini, instructor at H2O Sports, paddle boarding around Hilton Head Island.

So the newest craze on Hilton Head Island is paddle boarding.  Seems like everyone is doing it now…or at least everyone knows about it.  Called the sport of, “Hawaiian Kings,” it is essentially paddling on a surfboard (slightly fatter and heavier), bringing together the joy of being out on the water and gliding on its surface, almost like “walking on water,” and the discipline of paddling, akin to kayaking, but standing up.

I have been paddle boarding and paddle surfing for three summers now and I love it.  On Hilton Head Island, paddle boarding means getting out on our coastal ecosystem of creeks and estuaries. Once you get the hang of it (doesn’t take long to do) you just can’t beat being on the water on a paddle board for great exercise and a great tour of the Lowcountry’s marine environment. Personally, I really enjoy standing up on a board, and having a higher visual perspective over the marsh landscape.  In addition to the verdant greens and golden colors of the marsh, plus the pale Carolina blue skies and silvery grey East Coast waters that surround you, paddlers around the Island will also enjoy glimpses of snowy egrets, blue herons, pelicans, dolphin, otters and schools of fish.

Paddling in the early morning or late evening is a wonderful way to begin or end your day in the summer. Cooler temperatures and mild wind across the water are helpful. The core fitness workout is deceivingly good (you don’t feel it as you are paddling, but when you arrive home you will know that you have gotten some good exercise,) plus it simply is a peaceful, “natural” excursion.

Paddle surfing, as opposed to paddle boarding, is more challenging than flat water paddling.  Paddle surfing, also called, “stand up,” or “SUP” combines the art of surfing waves whilst paddling along. It means actually getting out onto the beach, into the surf and into the oncoming waves of the ocean.

Hilton Head Island, typical of the East Coast, doesn’t have swells like the Pacific, but, if you’ve never surfed, you would be surprised how powerful and strong a 3-4 foot waves can be. The sport is a ton of fun, but if you are a novice, I suggest getting instruction before venturing out – the combination of a big, heavy board, a paddle, and oncoming wanes can be tricky if you aren’t prepared.

There are several boat landings for paddle boarding access if you bring your own equipment to the Island.  Or, there are numerous outdoor adventure companies that now provide rental boards, instruction and guided tours.

Hopefully while on the Island you will get your nerve up and try paddle boarding, or even better, if you are more daring, paddle surfing.  I think you will have a lot of fun experiencing something new and the pleasure of Hilton Head Island’s marine environment.  Why not, you are on an Island!

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Hilton Head Island’s Sensational Summer Camps

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Coastal Discovery Museum campers catch phytoplankton. Image courtesy CDM

Coastal Discovery Museum offers hands-on adventure & exploration of the Lowcountry

From majestic birds and mammals to playful dolphins and scampering crustaceans, Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Lowcountry abound with an amazing assortment of awe-inspiring creatures, large and small. Some are more easily visible or readily encountered amidst the area’s park-like setting, while others maintain a low profile within their lush landscape.

 

Thanks to the Coastal Discovery Museum at Historic Honey Horn, and its staff of knowledgeable naturalists and expert guides, nature lovers of all ages can meet and learn about a broad range of fascinating animals, as well as plants, that make Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry their home.

 

The museum offers a variety of interesting programs year round, but its summer camp programs are particularly popular and offer young people a wonderful opportunity to have great fun, while also learning and exploring South Carolina’s unique Lowcountry.

 

According to Amy Tressler, Curator of Education for the museum, “Barrier Island Discoveries Camps encourage children to get outdoors and explore the surrounding environment. During these camps, children will have the opportunity to take an up-close look and hands-on approach to learning about plants and animals living in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. We encourage participating campers to explore and experience in order to build a lasting sense of enthusiasm and interest in Lowcountry wildlife.”

 

Some of the museum’s programs take place directly on its enchanting 68-acre property, which is resplendent with spectacular centuries-old hardwoods and surrounded by a salt marsh and maritime forest, while others take participants to nearby beaches, which are rich with myriad natural ‘treasures.’ The camps, well suited for children ages 7-11, also include many fun activities and take-home projects.

 

Upcoming Barrier Island Discoveries Camps Themes

“Fur & Feathers: Mammals & Birds of the Lowcountry”
June 29-July 1 (Wed-Fri), 10am – 3pm
Location: Coastal Discovery Museum

 

 

Campers will have the opportunity to learn about the amazing adaptations of Lowcountry birds and mammals through hands-on explorations and crafts. Participants will also learn what owls have been eating, create mammal tracks and learn how to identify common backyard animals.
Price: $160 for museum members; $175 non-members

“Fishing, Crabbing & Ocean Adventures”
July 6 (Wed); 10am – 3pm; Location: Coastal Discovery Museum
July 7 (Thu); 8am – 1pm; Location: Mitchelville Beach Park
July 8 (Fri); 8am – 1pm; Location: Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks (lunch included)

 

 

This camp emphasizes marine organisms and participants will get an up-close view of mollusks, crustaceans and marine mammals as they explore the beach, board the “Tammy Jane” shrimp trawler and enjoy crabbing and fishing off the docks at Honey Horn. Campers will also create a take-home shell collection and create a fish-print T-shirt.
Price: $210 for museum members; $225 non-members

 

Coastal Discovery Museum programs tend to fill up quickly and advance reservations are recommended. To reserve your space for one of the camps featured here, or additional camps offered this summer, please email or call Amy Tressler: atressler@coastaldiscovery.org or 843.689.3033 x228.

 

You can learn more about the Coastal Discovery Museum and its many other fine programs online: coastaldiscovery.org. To learn more about other programs offered on Hilton Head Island or in the Lowcountry, please visit hiltonheadisland.org.

 

 

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Enjoy Hilton Head Island's Natural Splendor by Kayak

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Renowned Naturalist Todd Ballantine, author of "Tideland Treasure," leads a kayak tour. Photo courtesy Outside Hilton Head.

Outside Hilton Head Hosts Renowned Naturalist Todd Ballantine

With its vast and intricate network of picturesque waterways, there is no better and more relaxing way to experience the natural splendor of Hilton Head Island, or the surrounding Lowcountry, than by kayak. This is particularly true for those who take advantage of expert-led excursions.

 

Thanks to Hilton Head Island’s subtropical and consistently mild climate, kayaking is always in season and some organizations offer tours 365 days of the year.

 

Outside Hilton Head, for example, has been offering a variety of outdoor adventures for 30 years and is well recognized for its range of quality programs, as well as the knowledgeable and passionate professionals who guide them. Experience is generally only required for more lengthy, advanced kayak tours and many are family-friendly enough for children as young as three years of age.

 

On Saturday, June 25, as part of its environmental education distinguished speaker program, Outside Hilton Head will host a very special kayaking opportunity guided by award-winning naturalist Todd Ballantine.

 

Ballantine, an internationally recognized educator, environmental scientist, writer and artist, is the author of “Tideland Treasure,” a Lowcountry field guide, as well as a highly regarded and long running newspaper column, “On Earth,” for which the South Carolina Wildlife Federation presented him a Harry Hampton Award.

 

According to longtime Lowcountry resident and Outside Hilton Head owner Mike Overton, “Todd Ballantine provides what I believe is truly the best nature-based outdoor excursion available in the Hilton Head Island area. His knowledge of the rich nature, history and culture combined with a remarkable ability to convey things in an entertaining and meaningful way is extremely special. Whether you have lived in the Lowcountry for a lifetime or are just visiting, this is an opportunity not to miss.”

 

The Todd Ballantine Kayak Tour, which will run from about 9-11 a.m. and depart from the Outside Hilton Head kiosk in Shelter Cove Marina, will begin with a brief paddling clinic by a certified kayak guide.

 

Then, after an introduction to sea kayaking, Ballantine will lead his informative and educational interpretive nature tour through various creeks and inlets that embrace the area’s coastal marshlands.

 

Following the tour, Ballantine will be available to sign copies of “Tideland Treasures” and proceeds from the program will benefit the “Friends of the Rivers” organization (recently renamed “The Port Royal Sound Foundation”).

 

Space for the Todd Ballantine Kayak Tour is limited. For reservations and additional information, regarding this program or others, please call 1.800.686.6996 or 843.686.6996.

 

You can also find great information, such as FAQ, regarding Outside Hilton Head online, outsidehiltonhead.com, or follow OHH on Facebook: Outside Hilton Head.

 

 

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Jogging on the beach…

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Hilton Head Island beach

The beaches on Hilton Head Island are perfect for jogging, walking, etc.

One of the joys of living near, or visiting, the ocean is being able to easily, and daily, enjoy its assets…the beach, the water, the seafood, and the tranquility of the gently rolling surf.  One of the ways that I like to get out and enjoy our great seashore is by jogging in the evenings after work along the beach.

On Hilton Head Island, we have 12 miles of beaches that stretch north and south along the ocean, so you can spend an hour or more, jogging in any direction, and really get in a good workout.  The surface quality of the sand is perfect for running – it is hard-packed, fine- to medium grain sand, which is firm enough that you can develop a good stride and not turn your ankles. The sand is also very forgiving on the body – more so than pavement.

My favorite part about running on Hilton Head Island’s beaches is the scenery.  I love all the colors provided by the natural setting and the pristine quality of our shores.  Jogging along you can smell the fresh sea foam and gaze at the clean surf washes onto the light-brown colored sand. Along the dunes, I love watching the sea oats waves in the wind, set against a green tree canopy of live oaks, pines, and palmettos.  Then, there are the playful seagulls and sandpipers darting along the waters’ edge – I cherish these little guys – and almost like clockwork, I usually catch a glimpse of dolphin swimming close-by in the ocean.  To top off this scenic experience is the beautiful Carolina blue sky, signature of South Carolina, which combined with the other natural beauty, can soothe any mind from its daily concerns and pressures.

To get in a good jog on the Island’s beach, one has to plan a little and think about the tides – Hilton Head Island’s tides rise and fall approximately seven to eight feet every six hours.  At high tide, the surf can rush all the way into the dune line, thus leaving little to no dry, hard-packed sand for a run – unless of course you are willing to either plow through soft sand or drench your shoes and socks in the surf! Also, if you are going to run consistently during your stay, keep in mind that the tide advances one hour ahead each day. Thus, checking a tide chart, like the one provided on the Salty Dog’s website, is a good way to be prepared.

Jogging on Hilton Head Island can be a year-round activity, but the temperature and time of day for a run is worth consideration.  The average year round temperature on Hilton Head Island is 71 degrees, but that varies seasonally, ranging from lows in the 20s during mid-winter, to highs in the mid- to upper 90s in the peak of summer (July, August). Humidity also can cause the air temperatures to seem chillier, or hotter, than expected.

My personal advice for preparing for the weather is to wear the right clothing (breathable fabrics, visor, sunglasses, sunscreen, light jacket or tights when chilly), and during the summer months, to avoid running on the beach from noon to 2 P.M. At this time of day, the sun is at its peak, and a jog on the beach can be very, very hot, which may cause a potential heat stroke if you aren’t careful.  Make sure to have water handy, either in a jogging belt, or have a supply ready when finished, such as back at your hotel room, villa, or in your car.  Alternatively, I would recommend early morning or later evening runs during the summer when you can catch a beautiful sunrise/sunset, adding to the enjoyment and helping you feel refreshed and revived.  Happy jogging everyone!