If you're an employer dedicated to attracting and retaining talent or boosting employee productivity, offering a valuable health benefit is important. After all, accidents happen every day. And then, out of nowhere, you're sideswiped by another motorist. Having great health insurance coverage is essential in such scenarios. That's especially true in South Carolina, where group health insurance stands out as a key consideration for businesses. Not only does a comprehensive insurance plan safeguard the health and wellness of your employees, but it also plays a key role in drawing in and keeping top talent.
While you might be most familiar with traditional group health plans, making that your go-to option may not always be the best fit for your organization in today's ever-evolving healthcare landscape. How can you determine if it's truly the right choice for your business? If you've been asking yourself that question, you're not alone. Many small businesses are in need of a group health insurance agency in Hilton Head, SC, to help them weigh their options. That's where working with Grey Cardinal Insurance Group starts to make a lot of sense.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we understand the importance of providing flexible, personalized, comprehensive, and cost-effective health benefits. Our knowledgeable group health insurance agents are ready to help you assess your needs and figure out the best group health plan options for your employees and your business.
Whether you're looking to implement traditional group health insurance policies or you're curious about ICHRA, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is the name you can trust when it's time to navigate the complexities of employee benefits. Let's work hand-in-hand to create a health-benefits solution that empowers you, your business, and your employees.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, one of the first questions we answer for our clients usually centers around the benefits of having group health insurance. As it turns out, investing in group health insurance for your company provides you with many benefits, including:
Investing in a group health insurance policy for your business can significantly lower your insurance premiums. When the costs are divided between the business and employees, health insurance is also more affordable for your team.
With group health insurance, your employees will enjoy increased access to a wider range of health insurance options due to reduced costs. With employers partially funding group health insurance, employees will find it easier to afford the coverage they require.
Small businesses can take advantage of a valuable health care tax credit when they provide group health insurance to their employees. This tax credit serves as a financial incentive, making it more affordable for small business owners to offer essential health coverage. Employers also have the opportunity to deduct the expenses associated with group health insurance premiums from their taxable income. This deduction can significantly lower their overall tax liability at the end of the year, ultimately contributing to improved financial stability for the business.
A recent study conducted by MetLife reveals that an attractive benefits package significantly influences employees' decisions to remain with their current employer or seek opportunities elsewhere. Among the various benefits, health insurance stands out as one of the most essential offerings that employees actively anticipate from their employers. This expectation underscores the vital role that comprehensive health coverage plays in employee satisfaction and retention in the workforce.
What are group health insurance plans for small businesses? Group health insurance plans provide health coverage benefits to a specific group of individuals, usually employees of a company or organization. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a group health plan (GHP) is associated with current employment. Employers with 20 or more employees are also required by law to offer their current workers and their spouses aged 65 or older the same GHP benefits, regardless of their age.
To better understand group health plans or group health insurance policies, it's useful to consider how they differ from individual health insurance. Individuals can apply to enroll in marketplace insurance providers for individual health plans. In contrast, group health plans are tailored specifically for the members of that group. For businesses, these health plans are often referred to as employer-based or employer-sponsored coverage.
A group health insurance plan is typically coordinated with the help of a group health insurance agent in Hilton Head, SC, and is sponsored and purchased by employers for their businesses. During the enrollment period, employees or group members can sign up for the plan. They also have the option to add eligible spouses and dependents, usually at an additional cost. The specifics of the plans can differ in terms of coverage levels, costs, number of participants, and the overall health of the members. Generally, a group with lower health risks tends to enjoy lower premiums.
Employees' contributions toward their premiums are deducted from their paychecks before taxes, making it a more cost-effective option. When a member of the group health plan visits a healthcare provider, the provider submits a claim to the insurance company, which then reimburses them according to the plan's coverage. Any remaining costs are paid out-of-pocket by the member, contributing towards their deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.
Like the menu at HH Prime in Hilton Head, SC, employers have a litany of options to choose from when it comes to group health insurance plans in The Palmetto State. With these different types of group insurance, employers can usually find a health plan that aligns with both their budget and the specific benefits they want to offer. Among the most popular choices are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs).
High-deductible plans serve as another option. Employers can also consider self-funded plans, where employees pay their premiums directly to the employer. In this arrangement, the employer takes on the financial responsibility for all health care claims once the employee meets their health plan deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
Check out this group health insurance plan comparison in Hilton Head, SC:
One of the most traditional options for group health insurance is the fully insured plan. Under this arrangement, your company pays a fixed premium to your insurance carrier annually, based on the number of employees participating in the coverage. The only instances that will cause your payment to change during the year are if an employee opts out or if there are fluctuations in the number of participants. The insurance carrier collects all premiums and handles any healthcare claims as per the policy you selected, while employees are responsible for any applicable deductibles or co-payments.
Level-funded plans, often referred to as partially self-funded plans, have been gaining traction among employers. Although these plans involve taking on more risk than fully insured options, they typically offer a more cost-effective alternative while still ensuring financial predictability. Level-funded plans can also provide greater flexibility in plan design compared to fully insured plans. You can think of them as a balanced option that bridges the gap between fully insured and self-funded plans. At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, your group health insurance agent will walk you through the pros and cons of level-funded plans to help you decide whether they're right for your business and employees or not.
Self-funded plans have traditionally been favored by large companies, but they're gaining traction among smaller businesses as well. In a self-funded arrangement, employers take on the full responsibility for funding and managing the health insurance plan. While this might seem like a disadvantage, these plans often offer more affordable premium rates and greater control over the specifics of coverage compared to fully insured or level-funded options.
Group health insurance plans can differ significantly, but they generally cover a portion or all of the costs associated with medical care. This includes expenses for physician visits, longer stays at facilities such as Pines at Hilton Head, approved inpatient and outpatient procedures, preventive care, prescriptions, and therapeutic treatments like physical and occupational therapy. They also cover emergency care, such as visits to the emergency room or urgent care centers. It's important for members to reach out to their health insurance providers to understand the specifics of what their plan covers and what their financial responsibilities are for both necessary and elective procedures.
Some group health insurance providers have also broadened their offerings to include mental health services and alternative treatments. Employers can further support their employees by providing extra coverage options, such as health savings accounts (HSAs) or health reimbursement arrangements, which can help alleviate some financial burdens.
When comparing individual and group health insurance, several key differences emerge. Like a group health plan, individual insurance covers either a single person or a family. However, the main distinction lies in how these plans are obtained: individual plans are purchased directly by the individual from an insurance provider or through a government marketplace, making the individual responsible for the total cost of their premiums. In contrast, group health plans are often facilitated by a group health insurance agent and share premium costs between the employee and employer.
Because group health insurance covers multiple people, the employer often has more leverage when negotiating premiums and benefits. However, all participants receive the same plan. On the other hand, individual healthcare plans can be tailored to suit a person's specific needs and budget, allowing for greater personalization.
Another important difference is the underwriting process for each type of plan. In individual plans, premiums may be higher for those with health risk factors and existing conditions if they choose not to purchase through a marketplace. Conversely, group insurance offers coverage at the same price for all employees, even those with pre-existing conditions. Individual health plans can also be portable, meaning they remain with the individual if they change jobs. This isn't the case with employer-sponsored plans; once an employee leaves, they must either find new coverage or continue their existing policy through COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act).
In today's marketplace, many small business owners go with franchise or "big name" agencies to find group health insurance. While not wrong, this course of action can end up costing your company - and not only from a financial point of view. Working with a local group health insurance agency can provide you with many benefits that big-box options can't provide. What are they, you might be asking? Let's dig in and find out why it's always best to search for "local group health insurance agency near me."
A local group health insurance agent or broker - like those from Grey Cardinal Insurance Group - pulls on years of experience and knowledge to give you in-depth guidance centered around your group health insurance needs.
For a business owner, that includes audits on insurance benefits, group insurance plan recommendations for your employees, meeting with those employees to talk about additional benefits they need, and much more. For example, if you need to add benefits like vision, dental, or life insurance to your enrollment options, a group health insurance agent can walk you through your choices and the process as a whole.
But what about if you're just getting started? Navigating the often-complex landscape of health insurance can be particularly challenging for small business owners in such circumstances. A survey conducted by United Healthcare Consumer Sentiment revealed that only 7% of consumers could accurately explain common health insurance terms. That's why, at Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, we're committed to providing education for both you and your employees during enrollment meetings. Like Stoney Baynard Ruins in Hilton Head, SC, we stand tall for you and your business when you need us most.
One of the biggest reasons to choose a local agent is the ability to customize your plan. No two group health insurance plans are exactly the same, and with ongoing changes in healthcare regulations, it can be challenging to understand the options available to you.
So, what can businesses do to tackle this challenge? The answer lies in partnering with a local health insurance agent in Hilton Head, SC.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group locations, we prioritize listening to your needs and crafting a tailored plan that benefits both your business and your employees. During open enrollment, we take the time to meet with you and engage with your team to better understand the benefits they're looking for. This hands-on approach ensures that employees have direct access to our staff for any questions or concerns they may have. This level of support is something you simply won't find with large corporate insurance firms.
Engaging a local health insurance agent offers numerous advantages, particularly in terms of access to information and support. Local group health insurance agents are readily available to answer any inquiries that may arise. For instance, when a small business owner wishes to modify their benefits packages, they can easily reach out to a local agent to discuss potential adjustments. The agent can provide guidance in developing a well-structured and appropriate employee benefits package that reflects employee feedback. This collaborative approach can enhance employee satisfaction and improve the overall management of benefits options.
This point builds off the last point about local agents being on-call when you need them. Would you rather talk to a real person who you've spoken to before or an automated service when you have questions about your group health insurance? Pressing # to get help with one issue and then being transferred for help and starting the process over is very tedious.
With a local group insurance agent by your side, you'll have peace of mind knowing you'll have quick, quality customer service when you need it, and from a real person, too. If you need to submit a claim, your agent will be able to explain your coverage and options and walk you through the steps to complete your claim.
At Grey Cardinal Insurance Group, our health insurance agents live in the same communities you do, so they know what you are going through or dealing with and are likely already on top of it for you. With that added peace of mind, you can focus more clearly on the core aspects of your business.
No matter which group health insurance policy you decide on, Grey Cardinal Insurance Group is here to support you. Our experienced agents will collaborate closely with you to understand your needs and find the best health plan options for your business and employees. Reach out to us today to explore your small business group insurance options and get a quote.
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Let’s be honest: finding a restaurant that pleases both picky eaters and discerning adults is a challenge.But dining on Hilton Head just got a bit easier for those both big and small.From pizza to seafood and even waterside dining, Hilton Head offers a handful of spots that will offer more than chicken fingers to your little ones.Here are the top 10 kid-friendly restaurants that even grown-ups will rave about according to ...
Let’s be honest: finding a restaurant that pleases both picky eaters and discerning adults is a challenge.
But dining on Hilton Head just got a bit easier for those both big and small.
From pizza to seafood and even waterside dining, Hilton Head offers a handful of spots that will offer more than chicken fingers to your little ones.
Here are the top 10 kid-friendly restaurants that even grown-ups will rave about according to Google Reviews, This Week on Hilton Head and Yelp reviews. This list was based on affordability, kid-friendly atmospheres or activities and kid meal discounts.
Get ready for delicious food, awesome atmospheres and maybe even a little peace and quiet.
397 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head (Boathouse); 2 Hudson Road, Hilton Head (Dockside)
This restaurant duo features a great outdoor space where kids can play on a large wooden boat, foosball tables and even air hockey. With a playground and waterfront views, it’s an ideal spot for families.
The menus have seafood, sushi and barbeque options for adults and a kids’ menu with a variety of choices for your little ones.
Click here for the Skull Creek Boathouse menu and the Skull Creek Dockside menu.
1411 Main Street, Hilton Head
Perfect for the entire family, Main Street Island Pub hosts menu specials every day of the week. From burgers to seafood and tacos, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This pub also offers affordable drinks and appetizers.
Click here for the Main Street Island Pub menu.
13 Harbourside Lane Building #2, Unit BCD, Hilton Head
This family-friendly venue has a dedicated playroom with a chalkboard wall and interactive games. The kid meals are a steal, with sides, a drink and even ice cream for just $6. For adults, you can have your pick from burgers, sandwiches, salads and a drink menu.
Click here for the Top Dawg Tavern menu.
75 Shrimpers Row, Hilton Head
One of the newer dining locations on the island is Benny’s Coastal Kitchen, which opened its doors in early 2024. Their kids’ menu starts at $10 and has a variety of healthy options and kid-favorite classics. Located right along the water at Skull Creek, no matter where you sit, you’ll have a great view, too.
Click here for Benny’s Coastal Kitchen menu.
11 Simmons Road, Hilton Head
Known for its live music, oyster roasts and diverse kids menu, Fishcamp is both fun and affordable. Kid menu items start at $8 and adults can enjoy sandwiches, Lowcountry seafood and more.
Click here for the Fishcamp on Broad Creek menu.
232 South Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head
A local favorite, The Salty Dog Cafe offers kid activities such as tie-dyeing and face painting, along with seasonal events. The Little Explorers kid menu offers a variety of tasty options that even the pickiest of eaters will enjoy. Adults, you can kick back and relax by the water while enjoying some seafood, pasta, sandwiches and more.
Click here for The Salty Dog Cafe’s menu.
71 Lighthouse Road, Unit 210 (near Harbour Town) & 50 Shelter Cove Lane (Shelter Cove Plaza)
With two convenient locations, Giuseppi’s is the perfect spot for pizza lovers. The relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the playground make it a hit with families and affordable.
Click here for Giuseppi’s Pizza and Pasta menu.
104 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head
Overlooking the creek right as you get onto the island, this seafood restaurant has an onsite playground and the largest saltwater aquarium on the island, providing entertainment for kids while they eat.
Click here for the Jarvis Creek menu.
149 Lighthouse Road, Hilton Head
In the heart of Sea Pines, this location offers waterfront dining with a view of the sunset, an onsite playground and live music, making it perfect for a family meal.
Click here for the Harbour Town menu.
1 North Forest Beach Drive, Hilton Head
Kids eat free here if they bring back a sand bucket full of litter from the beach and there are happy hour specials and live music for adults to enjoy as well. From seafood to burgers and Lowcountry classics, there is something for everyone.
Click here for the Fish Casual Coastal Seafood menu.
The Island Packet
Anna Claire Miller is the Service Journalism Reporter for The Island Packet. Originally from Georgia, she has experience in magazine writing, non-profit communications and city government. Anna Claire has a bachelor’s degree in journalism, legal studies and English from High Point University.
Discover Charleston-area favorites and lesser-known oceanfront communities.The South Carolina coast is full of laid-back beach towns with wide stretches of sand, palm-lined bike paths, quaint boardwalks, and restaurants cooking up fresh-caught Lowcountry fare. I’ve spent much of my life frequenting the Palmetto State’s beach towns—visiting Kiawah Island every year and even living in Charleston for a period. Using my own experience and the expertise of a few locals, we narrowed down the list to the 10 best beach towns...
Discover Charleston-area favorites and lesser-known oceanfront communities.
The South Carolina coast is full of laid-back beach towns with wide stretches of sand, palm-lined bike paths, quaint boardwalks, and restaurants cooking up fresh-caught Lowcountry fare. I’ve spent much of my life frequenting the Palmetto State’s beach towns—visiting Kiawah Island every year and even living in Charleston for a period. Using my own experience and the expertise of a few locals, we narrowed down the list to the 10 best beach towns in South Carolina. See if your favorite made the cut below.
I’ve spent countless days on Isle of Palms, a small barrier island about 15 miles from downtown Charleston. It's one of the more family-friendly beach destinations in the area, and many visitors opt to stay at Wild Dunes Resort or rent a roomy oceanfront home. No matter where you are on the island, though, its leisurely pace, wide beach, and classic small-town vibes will entice visitors of all ages. One of my favorite things to do on “IOP,” as the locals call it, is to grab dinner at Islander 71 and watch the boats come in and out of the marina. I’d also recommend checking out the live music schedule at The Windjammer—or picking up a frosé (frozen rosé) to-go from The Co-Op.
In South Carolina, a beach town should evoke a nostalgic mix of humidity, salt water, and the distinctly earthy smell of pluff mud emanating from the salt marshes. Kiawah Island meets all of these criteria—and then some. A majority of the island functions as a gated private community, accessible only to residents, their guests, and those with reservations. However, there are a couple of areas open to the public if you want to do a day trip, namely Kiawah Beachwalker Park and the shopping center Freshfields Village. At the latter, you can load up on all your vacation essentials: groceries, beach reads, bathing suits, and more.
Myrtle Beach may technically be a city, but it has all of the trappings of your classic beach town. There’s a bustling boardwalk, golf courses, go-karts, souvenir shopping, and, of course, a number of public beaches. “I’ve always been drawn to the nostalgia that you can find on Myrtle Beach,” says Betsy Fuller, owner of A Maker’s Post, a gift shop on Sullivan's Island. “One of my favorite movies, 'Shag,' is set there, and whenever I watch it, I daydream about going back to visit the beach town in the 1950s.”
While it might be synonymous with spring break crowds and families on summer vacation, this is a destination that always delivers beach fun—whether you’re hoping to spend the day by the water or keeping your schedule full from sunup to sundown.
25 Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Relaxation is paramount when you’re visiting Pawleys Island, a barrier island beach town located between Myrtle Beach and Charleston. This is the type of place where time slows down, you’re encouraged to log off and enjoy the natural splendor of South Carolina’s coast. Spend your days crabbing, surfing (if the waves permit), fishing, golfing, or dining on classic Lowcountry staples like okra soup or shrimp and grits; just don’t forget to save time for the art of doing absolutely nothing. For a particularly romantic getaway, book a room at The Pelican Inn, an eight-bedroom bed-and-breakfast with a charming wraparound porch.
"As someone who lives 10 minutes from Folly Beach, I certainly feel like I'm on vacation where I live,” says Katie Hirsch, the former director and chief curator of the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. One of the closest beach towns to Charleston, it’s a great option for a day trip if you’re visiting the Holy City; just be sure to arrive on the earlier side if you want to beat the crowds and have an easier time parking. Plus, “if you're an early riser,” says Hirsch, you might want to “try finding shark teeth during a morning beach walk.” She also recommends grabbing some food at local favorite Jack of Cups Saloon for “unexpected bites inspired by Asian cuisine.”
"Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to escape to if you want to be near a beach town but want a different environment from Charleston,” explains Hirsch. “It has modern touches but still keeps its Southern charm, appealing to both tourists and locals alike.”
The historic island is known for its golf courses and bike trails, but offers a wide variety of things to do. Gullah heritage tours, boat rides, paddleboarding, and birding are all itinerary contenders, and Hirsch also says the destination has “some of the best thrift stores.” If that’s up your alley, save an afternoon for exploring the goods at The Bargain Box, My Sister’s Closet, and The Church Mouse.
Sullivan’s Island continues to be a favorite South Carolina beach town—especially for Charlestonians. “The beach is very relaxed, and the marsh views are second to none,” says Fuller. “If you’re visiting, I’d recommend taking a long beach walk [and exiting] at Station 22.5, so you can head into ‘town,’ aka Middle Street, to do a little shopping.” This part of Sullivan’s Island is popular for its various eateries; there’s everything from Mexican and barbecue to burgers and seafood. Fuller recommends getting a table at High Thyme or The Obstinate Daughter, then grabbing a nightcap at Dunleavy’s Pub.
12 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast, According to Locals
The second-oldest city in South Carolina, Beaufort is often compared to Charleston; it’s historic, beautiful, and filled with oak trees and amazing architecture. Its proximity to the water is also a perk. Like Charleston, you’ll have to drive a bit out of the main hub to get to the beach. If you don’t mind parking your beach chair by Battery Creek, rather than the Atlantic Ocean, make your way to the Sands Beach on the southern end of Port Royal. The beach is free to the public, and there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained, including a boardwalk, an observation tower, and shark-teeth-hunting opportunities. For a true oceanfront spot, you’ll need to drive half an hour to Hunting Island State Park, where five miles of beautiful beaches live alongside marshes, a saltwater lagoon, and maritime forests.
Murrells Inlet, or the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” makes this list for a few reasons. For starters, the historic fishing village has a feature known as MarshWalk. Spanning a half-mile along a natural saltwater estuary, the wooden boardwalk is home to several restaurants, including Bovine’s, Wahoo’s Fish House, and The Claw House. Head five minutes down the road and you'll arrive at the far-from-crowded Huntington Beach State Park, where you can find three miles of pristine sands to lie on. If you have some time, stop by Brookgreen Gardens, a 9,127 site that also includes a zoo and sculpture garden.
Located on Edisto Island, Edisto Beach isn’t your typical, buzzy beach town—and that’s the beauty of it. There are no stoplights, high rises, or chain restaurants on the island, and the town wholeheartedly embraces the magic of slow living. Visitors can explore the 4.5 miles of coastline, take a dip in the ocean, and search for shells, shark teeth, and other fossils that may wash up on shore. Biking, kayaking, and dolphin tours are also popular vacation activities. But if there’s absolutely one thing you can’t miss while visiting Edisto Beach, it's the glorious sunsets. Bring a blanket to Edisto Beach State Park, sit back, and enjoy the show.
Aldi grocery store has taken a big step toward opening its newest location in Hilton Head.The construction representatives for Aldi presented their designs to The Town of Hilton Head’s Design Review Committee On March 25 and were approved the space, so long as some tweaks are made.The new grocery will occupy the empty lot space at 80 Matthew...
Aldi grocery store has taken a big step toward opening its newest location in Hilton Head.
The construction representatives for Aldi presented their designs to The Town of Hilton Head’s Design Review Committee On March 25 and were approved the space, so long as some tweaks are made.
The new grocery will occupy the empty lot space at 80 Matthews Drive, off William Hilton Parkway, within Sea Turtle Marketplace.
The Aldi will be located near the Homegoods and Northridge Cinema 10 within the marketplace, right next to the Hilton Head Island Airport.
Spokesperson for the Town of Hilton Head, Heather Woolwine, confirmed that the new Aldi location on the island was set for final approval once those design adjustments were made. The changes needed for final approval include pedestrian access, lighting and grocery cart storage.
The new Aldi grocery store will be a freestanding 20,000 square-foot building with its own parking lot.
The proposal for Aldi’s grocery store began last year, when the construction and civil engineering companies representing the store first presented the idea to the Town of Hilton Head.
Following this, The Providence Group, which manages leasing for Sea Turtle Marketplace, announced on Facebook last February that it had signed two new tenants for the marketplace, Aldi Grocery and Fidelity Investments.
While there is still no construction date in sight, once those design changes are made, Aldi will officially be set to break ground at the new location.
In January 2023, an Aldi opened along U.S. 278 in Bluffton.
In February 2024, another location was approved by Beaufort’s planning commission to start construction in Beaufort Station. This shopping center is located at the heavily trafficked intersection of Robert Smalls Parkway and Parris Island Gateway.
Aldi is a grocery store based in Germany that is headquartered in Batavia, Illinois, just west of Chicago.
However, Aldi is two companies. The chain was founded by brothers Karl and Theo Albrecht in 1946. The business later split into two separate grocery store groups in 1961.
Aldi is known for being a discount grocer that holds a “no-frills” approach to keeping prices low.
Spring break is right around the corner, but in the midst of planning a quick beach getaway, it can be tricky to find things to do that won’t break your budget.From outdoor adventures to local treasures, Hilton Head offers a handful of budget-friendly options that’ll keep your family entertained for days.So grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure, because fun doesn’t have to be expensive.Here are some of the budget-friendly ideas that are perfect for the whole family.If you want to hit the g...
Spring break is right around the corner, but in the midst of planning a quick beach getaway, it can be tricky to find things to do that won’t break your budget.
From outdoor adventures to local treasures, Hilton Head offers a handful of budget-friendly options that’ll keep your family entertained for days.
So grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure, because fun doesn’t have to be expensive.
Here are some of the budget-friendly ideas that are perfect for the whole family.
If you want to hit the golf course but make sure the little ones have a tee time too, check out one of the three mini golf locations across Hilton Head. You can enjoy a pirate-themed course, a course with unique obstacles like caves and waterfalls or opt for a classic arcade-style match.
Mini golf is a great way to keep the whole family active and spark some friendly competition. Here is where you can visit on the island:
What’s a beach trip without the beach? Hilton Head has almost 12 miles of beach to explore and enjoy during your stay.
Here are a couple of top spots to try when you need a beach day:
This park offers a low-cost beach with picnic areas, boardwalks and easy access to pristine beaches. There is a small fee for parking, which starts at $3 an hour on weekdays.
Coligny is arguably one of the most popular beach areas in Hilton Head. With its free parking, easy beach access and proximity to shopping centers, dining spots and restrooms, it’s an easy pick to have a great beach day.
If you want to get up close and personal with all the different kinds of nature the Lowcountry has to offer, then Pickney Island is a great place to start.
With a peaceful natural escape, hiking trails, wildlife viewing and a chance to spot local animals and birds, this is a great free activity option that can soak up a whole day.
Shop, dine and stroll around the charming and iconic outdoor center of Shelter Cove, offering free outdoor events and entertainment during the peak spring and summer seasons.
Shelter Cove is free to enter and explore.
You can also explore, shop and dine around the Sea Pines area. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is another great spot to check out if you are hoping to venture into the more serene, nature-filled locations of Hilton Head.
Sea Pines also offers low-cost guided walks, boardwalks and views throughout the center. There is a $9 cash gate fee for entry.
Want a play day that’s perfect for kids and adults? Then visit The Sandbox, an interactive children’s museum. They offer hands-on exhibits, play areas and strive to combine education with creativity.
Registration is encouraged to make sure you can enter the museum. Tickets are also required and start at $12. You can visit their website for more information.
Hilton Head is home to over 64 miles of bike trails and paths that are free to use for cyclists and pedestrians. Perfect for an afternoon stroll or a quick bike ride, these trails introduce you to the network of scenic trails available on the island.
If you don’t have your own bike, Hilton Head has an abundance of rental locations where you can rent a bike for a fee, usually around $40.
Dive into the history and natural environment of Hilton Head Island at the Coastal Discovery Museum. This museum offers 200 square feet of exhibits, an outdoor exploration area and more.
Perfect for kids and adults, the Coastal Discovery Museum has free admission.
Enjoy a pony ride or explore the animal farm at Lawton Stables on your next visit. Located inside the Sea Pines Resort, Lawton Stables allows you to take a ride through beautiful forested landscapes.
Reservations are required. Pony rides are $16 and the animal farm costs $5 per group. To enter Sea Pines, there is a $9 cash gate fee.
Want to feel like a real-life pirate? Then Lowcountry Celebration Park is the spot for you.
Located near Coligny Beach, this fun, family-friendly and free park has interactive playgrounds, a giant tree house, pirate ship and hosts seasonal events so visitors can enjoy the park year-round.
April 17, 2025 6:00 AM
April 15, 2025 6:00 AM
Dreaming of a beach wedding? Or maybe a traditional church ceremony, a picturesque Lowcountry celebration, a sophisticated golf course event or even a scenic harbor-side affair?Hilton Head Island is an idyllic destination that offers all of this and more if you’re planning a wedding.With its stunning natural beauty, romantic beaches and Spanish moss-draped landscapes (coupled with an abundance of wedding facilities and expert vendors), you can craft the perfect “I do” moment and a truly memorable celebration....
Dreaming of a beach wedding? Or maybe a traditional church ceremony, a picturesque Lowcountry celebration, a sophisticated golf course event or even a scenic harbor-side affair?
Hilton Head Island is an idyllic destination that offers all of this and more if you’re planning a wedding.
With its stunning natural beauty, romantic beaches and Spanish moss-draped landscapes (coupled with an abundance of wedding facilities and expert vendors), you can craft the perfect “I do” moment and a truly memorable celebration.
But with the joy of marriage, comes the never-ending hassle of wedding planning.
Luckily, the Lowcountry offers an abundance of venues for all wedding sizes, budgets and ideas. Here are just a few of the top spots you can consider when planning your special day:
If you are looking for your perfect beachfront wedding destination that’s great for large groups, the Hilton Resort & Spa is the spot for you. An added plus, your guests can stay in the hotel to enjoy the beach during your wedding.
Open for ceremonies and receptions.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
For a wedding oasis surrounded by nature and riverside beauty, Montage Palmetto Bluff is a great spot. Justin Bieber even got married in the chapel on the property back in 2019.
This location is also good for larger groups and is open for ceremonies and receptions.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
If you’re looking for something with more of a classy and upscale vibe, check out Venue 1123.
Located right in the heart of downtown Bluffton, this sophisticated space can hold your ceremony and reception.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
Historic, charming and secluded — all things you look for in a Lowcountry wedding can be found at Agapae Oaks.
Located on St. Helena Island, this space is open for ceremonies and receptions.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
For another classy and charming spot, look at Coosaw Point River Club on Lady’s Island.
This location is right by downtown Beaufort and is open for ceremonies and receptions.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
For a secluded and golf-oriented wedding, Fripp Island’s Golf and Beach Resort is an ideal spot.
Right on the beach, you can have a ceremony and reception at this enchanting venue.
Click here to visit the venue’s website.
For a wedding you’ll never forget, you can get married on one of Hilton Head’s wedding cruises and say your vows among the dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles.
With options for all wedding sizes and budgets, this venue option is the best way to cruise into married life in style.
Local churches like Church of Cross in Old Town Bluffton and First Union African Baptist Church on Daufuskie Island are also great spots to pick from when planning your wedding.
Church of Cross does require a membership for at least a year to have a wedding there.
For additional resources and wedding venues, you can visit The Knot webpage, the Wedding Spot webpage or Hilton Head’s wedding planning page.
The Island Packet
Anna Claire Miller is the Service Journalism Reporter for The Island Packet. Originally from Georgia, she has experience in magazine writing, non-profit communications and city government. Anna Claire has a bachelor’s degree in journalism, legal studies and English from High Point University.