The Mysterious Sea Pines Shell Ring
THE FIRST VISITORS arrived on Hilton Head Island 4,000 years ago. This is no typo: 40 centuries in the distant past, Archaic (means “early”) Indians migrated across North America and arrived on its coastal islands. Evidence—from fossils to tools and ceramics found here—shows that the Ancient Ones came to the coast to hunt small game and harvest seafood on barrier islands. Hilton Head Island is the largest island on the Southeast Coast, and it was a popular destination for yes, our first tourists. And like loyal visitors, they returned again and again. The evidence lies deep in the heart of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. See for yourself: all you have to do is find the ancient ring.
Spanish Moss: The True Story
Spanish moss hangs in silvery-gray strands from weathered live oaks. Newcomers are quick to ask: “Doesn’t that ‘fungus’ kill the tree? The short answer: no and no. Spanish moss is not a fungus (or a moss, for that matter!) and it doesn’t harm the tree. In fact, lacy plant just may be the key to the survival of coastal forests.
A well-traveled member of the pineapple family, Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides) ranges from coastal Virginia to Argentina. It is an “epiphyte,” or air plant that only hangs from branches to take in sunlight, rainwater, and nutrients in dust.
The Birdwatcher’s Guide to Hilton Head Island
On Hilton Head Island, you’re never far from the sweet chirping sounds of our feathery neighbors. Between sandy shorelines, salt marshes, maritime forests, and protected wetlands, America’s Favorite Island® is a year-round haven for birdlife, whether you’re scanning for shorebirds at the tide line or catching an osprey flying over a quiet trail.
If you’ve been meaning to slow down and look a little closer, this is your sign. Grab your binoculars and bring some water. Here’s everything you need to know about birdwatching on Hilton Head Island.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- What kinds of birds you can spot on Hilton Head Island (shorebirds, waders, raptors, and more)
- Where to go birding, including beaches, marsh trails, preserves, and refuge paths
- How to time your outing (especially if you want the best chance at shorebird sightings)
- What to pack for comfort and better viewing
- Simple birding etiquette to help protect local habitats and wildlife
Five Fun Facts about Hilton Head Island Wildlife
There’s the great outdoors. And then there’s the greatest outdoors, Hilton Head Island. A world of natural wonders awaits you in Lowcountry! Hilton Head Island’s devotion to environmental preservation has become a model for other developments around the country. Locals and visitors alike love the stunning scenery and wonderful wildlife of Hilton Head Island. Whether you’re out on the water, zip-lining over the marsh, or biking along the beach, you’re bound to spot some incredible local wildlife while here.
Check out these fun facts about Hilton Head Island wildlife, and use them to impress your friends and family with your knowledge during your next Lowcountry vacation.
For the Seafoodies: Your Guide to Hilton Head Island Seafood
You can’t say “Hilton Head Island” and not think fresh, delicious, local seafood. Our coastal waters, sweeping marshes, secluded inlets and lazy tidal creeks are home to a plethora of fish and shellfish, and whether you catch it yourself or order an authentic dish from one of our restaurants, you’ll be in seafoodie heaven.
If seafood isn’t so much a staple where you live, or you’re planning your dining itinerary for your next visit, you can learn all about our Island’s best seafood in this handy blog. Discover what’s local, when it’s in season, where to try it, and how to make it for yourself at home.
If this makes you extra hungry for some local Hilton Head Island seafood, you're in luck! The Annual Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival is a family-friendly, week-long culinary and cultural celebration showcasing the very best in savory eats, crafted cocktails, gourmet wines and more. Over the course of seven days, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy dishes prepared by celebrity guest chefs, barbecue from some of the best of Southern pitmasters, hands-on cooking demos, eclectic tastings, live music and much more!
Ready? Let’s dive in!
Your Guide to Shopping on Hilton Head Island
No matter what type of shopper you are, you’ll find something to take home while vacationing on Hilton Head Island.
