Your Guide for a Romantic Getaway to Hilton Head Island

By Hilton Head Insider

If your idea of romance includes salty air, unhurried mornings, and a little Lowcountry magic, Hilton Head Island delivers. Whether you're sharing quiet moments on the beach, breezy bike rides under live oaks, or a delicious meal on the waterfront, our Island offers the ideal destination for couples looking to make lasting memories together. Here's how to plan a romantic escape to America's Favorite Island®—whether you're visiting for Valentine's Day or just need time together.

Sunrise Beach Walks for Two

Hilton Head Island's 12 miles of pristine beaches make it easy to find a quiet stretch for two. If you want the beach almost to yourselves, go early—sunrise is when Hilton Head Island feels the most peaceful. Or, head out at golden hour and let the sky do the work. No matter the time, be sure to bring a warm layer, leave your phones in your pocket, and let the sound of the waves do the rest.

Insider Tip: For easy access and amenities, Coligny Beach Park is a popular starting point.

Bike Hilton Head Island's Trails (and the Beach at Low Tide)

Hilton Head is made for exploring on two wheels. Rent bicycles (or even a tandem bike!), pick a scenic route, and stop whenever something catches your eye—marsh views, bustling side streets, a shaded stretch of trail. With over 60 miles of scenic paths winding through lush landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, and waterfront vistas, there's no shortage of routes to explore. For a unique experience, ride to the beach during low tide, where hard-packed sand provides the ideal surface for oceanfront cycling.

Insider Tip: For your safety and comfort, we always recommend wearing a helmet while biking. You can rent one along with your bike at many Island outfitters.

Romantic Restaurants and Sunset Picnics

Nothing says romance quite like a memorable meal, and Hilton Head Island's dining scene is full of standout spots. With over 250 restaurants, the Island offers an abundance of options to satisfy all your cravings.

For fresh seafood and breathtaking views: Hudson's Seafood House on the Docks is where you can enjoy oysters, shrimp, and local fish while overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
For a taste of Italy: Nunzio Restaurant + Bar delivers authentic Italian flavors with locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list—an excellent choice for an upscale evening out.
For romance with zero fuss: Build a sunset picnic. Pick up easy favorites, bring a blanket, and time it so the sky turns pastel right as you unpack. Pair fresh Lowcountry fare with the sound of the waves, and you've got an intimate dining experience that's quietly unforgettable.

Build in a post-dinner stroll around Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina for waterfront views and a slower pace.

Insider Tip: If you're making a reservation, aim for 30–60 minutes before sunset so you can enjoy golden hour while you dine.

Golf Together on Hilton Head Island

If golf is part of your love language, Hilton Head Island's 26 world-class golf courses give you plenty of ways to play together. Spend time teeing off against a backdrop of lush fairways, sparkling lagoons, and towering maritime forests. Some popular courses include:

Harbour Town Golf Links: The iconic choice—book ahead, then take your time and soak in the scenery (yes, the lighthouse moment is worth it).
Golden Bear Golf Club: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole course rewards finesse and strategy, set against a beautiful landscape.
Robert Trent Jones Course: Wide fairways, expansive greens, and one of the only two oceanfront holes on all of Hilton Head Island make this a must-play course.

Explore all of Hilton Head Island’s golf courses.

Couples Spa Day Ideas

Balance your active plans with actual downtime and treat yourselves to a day of pure bliss by booking an indulgent couples' spa experience. The Island's numerous luxurious spas offer a range of treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.

At the Heavenly Spa at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, unwind with a side-by-side couples massage that soothes both body and mind. The serene ambiance and skilled therapists ensure you'll leave feeling refreshed and more connected than ever.

Want to try something unique? Pure Salt Studios offers halotherapy, infrared saunas, and wellness classes in a tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to recharge together.

Sunset Cruises and Evening Views

Save one evening for the horizon. A sunset cruise gives you that "we should do this every year" feeling—champagne optional, awe guaranteed. Board a private sailboat or join a boat tour to watch the sun dip below the horizon. For an unforgettable dining experience with stunning water views, opt for a private dinner cruise. Savor a delicious meal as you drift across the water, then dance the night away under the stars. It's the perfect way to conclude your enchanting Lowcountry getaway.

Romantic, Responsibly

Hilton Head Island is at its most romantic when its natural beauty shines. A few small choices help protect the beaches, dunes, and wildlife you came here to enjoy:

Stay on the paths: Always use boardwalks and marked routes to protect sensitive habitat.
Leave no trace: Clean up any refuse, including bottle caps and food scraps.
Give wildlife space: Keep a respectful distance from shorebirds and never feed animals.
Go easy on nighttime lighting (especially May–October): Turn off balcony lights, close blinds, and use minimal lighting so sea turtle hatchlings aren't disoriented.
Bike with care: Stick to hard-packed sand at low tide and avoid salt water when riding on the beach.
Choose local when you can: Dining locally and shopping small keeps the Hilton Head Island community thriving.

Learn more about sustainability and conservation on Hilton Head Island and take the Hilton Head Island Pledge to do your part in keeping America's Favorite Island® beautiful for generations to come.

FAQ: Romantic Getaways to Hilton Head Island

Q: What are the best romantic things to do on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina?
A: Some of the most popular romantic activities on Hilton Head Island include a sunrise beach walk, biking scenic paths under live oaks, a waterfront dinner (or sunset picnic), a couples spa day, and a sunset cruise.

Q: How many days do you need for a romantic getaway to Hilton Head Island?
A: A 2–3 night stay is the sweet spot for most couples—enough time for beach mornings, biking, a date-night dinner, and a cruise or spa day without feeling rushed. If you only have a weekend, pick one "splurge" (a spa or a cruise) and keep the rest simple.

Q: Do we need a car on Hilton Head Island?
A: It depends on your plans. With over 60-miles of leisurely pathways for romantic strolls and bike rides, it’s easy to get around by foot—especially if you're staying near beaches, dining hubs, or shopping areas. If you want to explore multiple parts of the Island (or arrive with lots of beach gear), taking the Palmetto Breeze (when in season), a short rideshare, or renting a car can make things easier.

Q: Do we need reservations for restaurants, spa appointments, and sunset cruises on Hilton Head Island?
A: Reservations are strongly recommended for date-night restaurants, spa treatments, and sunset cruises (especially weekends and holiday weeks).

Plan Your Romantic Escape

From beach walks to bike rides, spa time to sunset sails, Hilton Head Island makes it easy to reconnect. Ready to plan? Request your copy of the Hilton Head Island Vacation Planner and start mapping out your perfect romantic itinerary.