Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory

Hilton Head Island VACATION VACATION

DIRECTORY DIRECTORY

~ Sunset on Broad Creek ~ Home of The Old Oyster Factory, Fishcamp and Carolina Crab Company (members of the CRAB family of restaurants)

Hilton Head Regional Healthcare is Here For You

From the entire staff at Hilton Head Regional Healthcare, welcome to Hilton Head Island! Whatever brought you to beautiful Hilton Head – whether it’s business or a muchneeded vacation to take in all that the Lowcountry has to offer – we’re glad you’re here. We hope you won’t need us, but should something unexpected happen, we are here for you and your family.

With advanced services, which include more than 150 experienced physicians and a team of over 1,000 staff and volunteers at five regional facilities, we are dedicated to providing our community and visitors with compassionate care that is close, safe and convenient.

From specialized emergency and heart care to nationally recognized orthopedics, advanced stroke treatment, obstetrics and more, we’re focused on providing you with expert care combined with a healthy dose of kindness and support. Our medical community is built on a tenet of compassionate care.

Proudly Serving the Lowcountry for over 45 years

Hilton Head Regional Healthcare began as “Hilton Head Hospital,” first opening its doors in 1975 as a 40-bed hospital designed to meet the needs of the Hilton Head Island community. Since then, the hospital has expanded into a 109-bed facility and is now part of a greater healthcare system that serves communities from Hilton Head Island to Hardeeville, South Carolina.

Coastal Carolina Hospital, a 41-bed facility located in Hardeeville, joined the healthcare system in 2004. This hospital is conveniently located near I-95 and home to many unique services including a dedicated Women’s Pavilion and robotic-assisted surgery.

Hilton Head Regional Healthcare has continued to grow and expand services over the years including opening the area’s first stand-alone Emergency Department in 2019.

We are a united community of care with five facilities serving the Lowcountry region. Along with physician offices across the community, we are dedicated to the caring and personalized treatment you would hope to have in an integrated network of resources with the expertise you should expect. Network facilities include:

• Coastal Carolina Hospital

• Hilton Head Hospital

• Bluffton Medical Campus

• Bluffton-Okatie Outpatient Center

• Tidewatch Emergency Department

Our conveniently located comprehensive care service specialties include:

• Emergency

• Cardiovascular

• Orthopedic

• Women’s Health

• Obstetrics

• Stroke

• Spine

• Digestive Disease

• Imaging

• Wound Care

Hilton Head Hospital

Coastal Carolina Hospital

Tidewatch Freestanding Emergency Department

2 Finch St. Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

PRESIDENT KEITH BACH keith@anthemmediagroup.com

PUBLISHERS

SASHA SWEENEY sasha@anthemmediagroup.com

MEREDITH DIMUZIO meredith@anthemmediagroup.com

EDITOR

ANTHONY GARZILLI anthony@anthemmediagroup.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

RENEE HATTON

PRODUCTION

TIM MCKINNEY

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE MARY ANN KENT maryann@anthemmediagroup.com

WRITERS

Keith Bach, Krystle Lauren Bach, Amy Coyne Bredeson, Lawrence Conneff, Anne Brophy Chetwynd, Justin Jarrett, Barry Kaufman, Jennifer Megliore, Dean Rowland

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Anne Brophy Chetwynd, Callawassie Island, Coastal Restaurants & Bars, Colleton River, Plantation Club, Island Winery, National Geographic, Nunzio Restaurant + Bar, Salty Dog Cafe´, SERG Group, Shutterstock.com, Sweet Pea Fishing, The Golden Bear, Golf Club, The Richardson Group, The Town of Hilton, Head Island, Trackman, Windmill Harbour

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For a copy of the Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory send $29.95 to: 2 Finch Street, Suite A Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 843.686.3355 - info@anthemmediagroup.com

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Copyright © 2023 by Anthem Media Group, Inc. All rights are reserved. Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory is a registered trademark of Anthem Media Group, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, in which or in part, without the written permission from the publisher. The publisher is not responsible to any party for unsolicited materials, contents or accuracy of clients in advertisements, errors, omissions or changes in any information. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertisers agree to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement. The opinions of contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory and its publisher.

COVER

The image on our cover taken at the Old Oyster Factory restaurant by Coastal Restaurant & Bars by Jacqueline Wentworth

welcome to our little slice of paradise.

As publisher of The Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory, I’m excited to share with you all that Hilton Head Island offers.

From beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures, to world-class golf courses, award-winning restaurants and fantastic weather, Hilton Head Island has it all.

Our island is immersed in history, flourishes with natural beauty, and is home to people who embrace the community and their neighbors. The island takes great care in taking care of each other.

Hilton Head Island’s reputation as a must-visit destination continues to grow. Condé Nast Traveler readers chose the island as the No. 1 Island in the country for the sixth consecutive year, and Southern Living magazine named Hilton Head Island the best beach town in the South.

Opportunities abound on Hilton Head Island. There’s no shortage of exciting things to do. Inside you’ll read about great places to bike, to shop, fun water adventures and all you need to know about our beautiful beaches.

Golf on the island is unmatched, with courses designed by some of the most renowned architects, including Jack Nicklaus, Robert Trent Jones and Pete Dye. And it’s home to the esteemed RBC Heritage golf tournament, a PGA Tour event held each April at Harbour Town Golf Links.

Don’t fret if the weather doesn’t cooperate because we have a guide to many fun indoor activities, from escape rooms to arcades and movie theaters.

After a long and fun day, the nightlife on the island is waiting to help you unwind. Learn about music and comedy hot spots.

There’s so much more. Festivals. Concerts. Art. Dolphin tours. Hilton Head Island has everything.

I’m thrilled you are here to experience the wonder we call home.

Please be sure to let the advertisers know you saw them in the Vacation Directory and look for the Restaurant & Activities Magazine and our Hilton Head Island and Bluffton and the Lowcountry Magazines each month.

Keith Bach

KEITH BACH, PRESIDENT keith@anthemmediagroup.com

PHOTO: GARRETT ALDRED

explore.

Hilton Head is a large barrier island located less than an hour from Savannah, Ga., and two hours from Charleston, S.C. The Island boasts miles of pristine beach and plenty of things to do for the whole family.

As one of America’s top family-friendly destinations, Hilton Head offers endless activities. In addition to the beach and golf, Hilton Head has jet ski and boat rentals, parasailing, zip lines and fantastic children’s museums with interactive programs guaranteed to keep the kids entertained for hours. And, of course, the fishing is exceptional.

Hilton Head is home to numerous nature preserves and historic landmarks, and a top spot for eco-friendly tours highlighting local wildlife. Whether you choose to go on foot, by bike, a charter boat, kayak or horseback let the knowledgeable guides of Hilton Head show you around the Island’s natural splendor and introduce you to its wild residents. Both guided and self-guided tours of the Island allow visitors to get up close and personal with Hilton Head’s sea turtles and dolphins.

Looking for some time to yourself? Take an afternoon to explore the Island’s day spas and be treated to a facial, nail or body treatment before hitting the shops. Speaking of Hilton Head’s shopping — it offers intimate boutiques specializing in beach attire and other local treasures and souvenirs.

Top off your day with a four-star meal at one of Hilton Head’s many fine restaurants and bars, or kick back and enjoy some local delicacies at a seafood house.

During your visit to our Island, take advantage of the 60 miles of public-use trails connecting you everywhere you want to go, or enjoy one of our 10 family beaches. You will find an infinite variety of activities to do during your visit. Whether you are searching for a world-class golf vacation, relaxing on the miles of sandy beaches or enjoying the gentle sway of palms in unspoiled nature, your stay on Hilton Head is sure to please.

Once you have settled into your vacation ‘home’ for the next week or two, prepare to create unforgettable memories. Our island paradise offers:

• 12 miles of wide, soft sandy beaches

• Savory restaurants and family-friendly dining

• Miniature golf and water parks

• Thrilling water sports

• The best golf courses in the South

• Cultural activities and historic sites

• Outlet shopping, specialty boutiques, flea markets, and specialty stores

• Freshwater, ocean and deep-sea saltwater fishing

• And so much more!

Most of our visitors spend their days basking in sunshine and ocean breezes, strolling on the Island’s wide, peaceful beach and catching waves in the Atlantic. Whether you just want to relax in the sun or try your hand at scuba diving, jet-skiing or dolphin watching, there’s something for everyone on the Island. Fishing charters, kayak tours, windsurfing, island cruises and all types of water activities are available.

Our Island is home to more than 24 championship courses, both public and private. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy exciting golf experiences including oceanfront courses or traditional courses in park-like settings, all played yearround in enjoyable weather — our average temperature is 70 degrees. We are also home to the annual RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing.

Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy the many professional courts available on Hilton Head. With more than 300 courts to choose from, there is no shortage of playing surfaces or playing opportunities. Professional tennis instructors are also available to those wishing to improve their games.

One of our most popular activities is biking. Consider renting a bicycle from one of the many bike rentals and riding on our publicuse paths, many of which take you through nature preserves. It is truly an enjoyable way to experience the natural splendor of our island. Another biking highlight is the hardpacked sand on our beaches which make for an excellent riding surface. Where else can you ride your bike on the beach for miles?

You can kayak the tidal waters of the coast, go fishing in the Atlantic, or sail through our waterways on a boat tour and get up close and personal with the pelicans and dolphin. For more land-based pursuits, go bird watching and discover the beautiful wildlife and foliage of the Lowcountry at our Audubon-Newhall Preserve and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Nearly 200 species of birds flock to the lakes, marshes and shoreline of our Island every year. Hilton Head is a bird watcher’s haven.

With more than 250 restaurants on Hilton Head, plus bakeries, farmers’ markets, and gourmet shops, there’s something for every appetite. We have fresh seafood at casual eateries, al fresco dining, or dinner

“We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch –we are going back from whence we came.”

John F. Kennedy

by candlelight at one of our more elegant restaurants. You can’t go wrong with our local favorites like oysters, shrimp, gumbo, sweet potatoes fries and she-crab soup. We have other restaurants, specializing in international cuisine or southern cooking at its best, presenting alternatives to traditional island fare. Our restaurants and eateries offer everything from fresh flounder to okra … pizza to java.

This is a must: every Tuesday night, barring stormy weather, from June through August, there is a summertime festival called Harbourfest at Shelter Cove Harbour on Broad Creek. The fun includes story-telling and music, face painting, food concessions and more. Stay around till dark for the spectacular fireworks that are launched from a barge out over the harbor.

As for shopping — waterside shopping centers

and numerous gift and souvenir shops cater to vacationers, but you’ll also find art galleries, specialty boutiques and some highly popular shopping areas: Shelter Cove Towne Centre, Coligny Plaza Shopping Center and Main Street Village.

And, if that isn’t enough to keep you busy, be sure to stop at the Coastal Discovery Museum in Honey Horn Plantation that features historical and ecological exhibits of Hilton Head’s colorful history, wildlife and lush natural beauty. Museum staff can tell you about upcoming environmental events and beach walks.

You have chosen a great place to spend your vacation! There is something for everyone on our beautiful Island of Hilton Head. We have no doubts that your vacation on Hilton Head Island will be the most enjoyable.

find your beach

HILTON HEAD ISLAND’S BEACHES OFFER SANDS OF BEAUTY

Written by Barry Kaufman

Everyone’s idea of the perfect beach looks different. To some, it’s a tranquil slice of sand and sea at the edge of the world where you can put your toes in the sand and forget about your cares to a soundtrack of gently crashing waves. To others, the best beach is more of a sun-soaked bacchanalia, one where they can join in on a pickup game of volleyball in the sand, crank up the tunes and celebrate another day in the sun.

The good news? This is Hilton Head Island. Here, we have a beach for everyone, whether you’re looking to unwind in the sand or frolic in the surf. And while oceanfront homes and communities might have their own private stretches of beach, there are a wealth of different beach parks, each with their own amenities, just waiting for you.

Read on, then find your perfect beach. Because if you can’t find it here, it doesn’t exist.

Alder Lane Beach Access: This is the beach for those looking to curl up with a good book (or a terrible book, we won’t judge) and spend the day in the sand. With minimal amenities, this beach is quiet and peaceful, offering a tranquil atmosphere that’s hard to find on the island. It’s a great escape from the crowds at Coligny Beach.

Mitchelville Beach Park: This beach is another great option for solitude and peacefulness, but it adds a touch more cultural interest than Alder Lane due to its wide stretch of sand and historical significance. Great for a day out with a side order of history, since it’s situated close to the historic Mitchelville.

Burkes Beach: The quintessential barebones beach for those looking for a day in the surf without the frills, with only a few parking spots and a sandy trail leading to the beach. Since the currents ensure that swimming isn’t as much of an attraction than other beaches on the island, it’s perfect for letting dogs run free off-season and exploring the winding banks along the folly.

Folly Field Beach Park: Though this beach lacks amenities, it hits the sweet spot in terms of crowds, climate, and great spot to swim. It’s not too crowded, and the winds make it an excellent spot for kite flying. If you want to see a few of the locals take to the skies on their kiteboards, this is your beach.

Islanders Beach Park: Included here just for the sake of completion. Despite its topnotch amenities, including a picnic pavilion, playground, and showers, this beach is offlimits for visitors due to permit parking for locals only. Unless you have the permit, the long walk to the beach isn’t worth it.

Driessen Beach Park: With plenty of amenities, this beach has something for everyone. You can play a pickup game of ultimate frisbee or soccer in the nearby park, while the playground is perfect for kids. A true swimmer’s beach, Driessen Beach Park has the ideal waves.

Coligny Beach Park: Coligny is a highenergy party beach. It’s the most popular beach on the island, and for good reason. Enjoy all its splendor. There’s plenty of ample parking and brand-new bathrooms, benches, swings, and a massive splash pad, it’s the ultimate beach experience.

Fish Haul Beach

Coligny Beach

adventure is out there!

ACTIVITIES ABOUND FOR THE ADVENTUROUS

Written by Barry Kaufman

During a 1663 exploration down the length of the Carolina Coast, Captain William Hilton first spied a large, welcoming headland at the edge of a lush subtropical island. Despite the captain never setting foot here, the island was soon referred to as Hilton’s Headland, and eventually Hilton Head Island.

The name of the ship William captained on his trek across this new frontier was the Adventure. And adventure has been a part of the island’s DNA ever since. Ready to start your own Hilton Head Island adventure? Here are a few more frontiers in fun just waiting to be conquered.

Helicopter Tours

Until you’ve seen it from the air, you can’t really appreciate the care that went into preserving Hilton Head Island’s natural majesty. Hilton Head Helicopter Tours offers a few different itineraries, letting you choose whether you want to soar above the beaches, spy the Harbour Town lighthouse from above, or venture across the north end’s stunning coastal beauty. Visit flyhhi.com.

Cruising in a Moke

It’s one thing to take to the streets of Hilton Head Island. It’s another to do it while turning heads behind the wheel of a trickedout all-electric vehicle built for adventure. Available for rental from Carolina Rides, these beautiful vehicles pack all the open-air excitement of the classic Jeep into a compact frame perfect for cruising to the beach. Visit carolinarides.com.

Hilton Head by Horseback: Set in the heart of The Sea Pines Resort, Lawton Stables has been entertaining visitors for decades with its enjoyable petting zoo and its picturesque pastures populated by majestic horses. Those who wish to experience the island like the first settlers did can mount up and take one of these steeds through the winding trails of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, gaining an appreciation for the timeless beauty of this natural treasure. Visit seapines.com.

Ziplining through the Treetops: Set along the sparkling banks of Broad Creek’s majestic waterways, yet soaring above the treetops, Adventure Hilton Head has added a pulse-pounding element to the island’s diverse portfolio of fun times. Up above, their Zipline Tours let you fly from tree to tree, sending your pulse racing as you zoom through 360-degree views of the island’s beauty. For those who want to feel the adrenaline without the speed, the challenging ropes courses take you into the air for an elevated experience as you make your way across the forest. Visit myadventurehiltonhead.com.

Shredding at Crossings Skate Park: Arrow Road’s Bristol Sports Park offers a little bit of outdoor excitement for everyone, but skateboards of all skill levels head there to grind a few rails and try out a few tricks on the dynamic skate park. Boasting a drop-in half pipe, a thrilling fun box and a host of verts and spines (don’t worry, these terms all make sense to boarders) Crossings Skate Park is the place to shred.

Explore the Waters by Kayak: The island’s ocean side boasts miles of white sandy beaches, but the interior still offers plenty of ways to chase down thrills on the water. Outside Hilton Head leads a series of kayak tours on Broad Creek that take you through the meandering, serpentine waterways and marshes around the island and out into the wide sound to paddle your way through your next adventure. Visit outsidehiltonhead.com.next adventure.

Take to the Skies: There’s nothing like strapping in and telling gravity you have other plans today, sailing high above the water and marsh grasses of Hilton Head’s famous creeks and rivers. A relaxing ride through the clouds? Hardly. Parasailing or paragliding offers all the thrills of taking to the air while remaining safely tethered to a speeding boat. There are a bevy of groups offering parasailing on the island, including Parasail Hilton Head, Sky Pirate Parasail, Island Head, H20 Sports and Island Water Sports.

Hit the Waves on a PWC: It’s been said that money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a Jet Ski. It can also rent one, as countless island visitors can attest. The white-knuckle thrills of a personal water craft cannot be denied, and the sounds, creeks and waterways of Hilton Head Island offer some of the best places to get out there and cut a few waves. The number of companies offering these rentals is far too many to list here – start with your favorite body of water and see who’s there to start your aquatic adventure.

Ride the Big Cat: Enjoying massive popularity in recent years, Creek Cats are ideally suited for an adventure on the water that you can share. These two-person catamarans offer the thrills of a personal water craft with creature comforts like a shaded canopy and wide deck for dolphin watching. Bring a friend and pack a cooler to make a whole day of it, then see what adventure lies beyond the next wave.

Reel in the Big One: It goes without saying that a place like Hilton Head Island is heaven for seasons sea salts and amateur anglers alike, with everything from sharks and stingrays to red drum and cobia sharing the water. In-shore or out where the big trophy fish reign, the island offers a slew of options for landing the next big catch (or earning your next “the one that got away” story).

We welcome you to tour our school campus. Visit us soon to personally encounter the Faith, Integrity, and Scholarship offered at St. Francis Catholic School.

Serving families on Hilton Head Island and the surrounding area since 1996.

biking around

A GUIDE TO ENJOYING A RELAXING RIDE ON THE ISLAND

Written by Lawrence Conneff

Bikes are a great way to get around Hilton Head Island and explore its scenery and landmarks. There are 64 miles of public pathways and nature trails for cyclists and pedestrians, according to the town, plus more than 50 miles of shared paths in the island’s many private developments.

Almost 30 shops offer bicycle rentals, and the island has more than 10,000 bike rack slots, the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce says.

Public paths are also open to lower-speed, class 1 and 2 electric bicycles. Some local bike clubs offer rides for people of all experience levels. Hilton Head is recognized as a Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists.

The island has long and short pathway routes, 21 and 15 miles in length, respectively, that circle much of the island. A seven-mile beach area route takes riders from William Hilton Parkway down Pope Avenue and Cordillo Parkway and then along Forest Beach Drive. Public beach access is available nearby at Alder Lane and Coligny Beach. Around low tide, bikes can traverse about 12 miles of coastline right on the beach.

Sense of History

A 10-mile island history path will take you to a series of local landmarks in the historic Mitchelville area. Mitchelville is known as the first established community of formerly enslaved people during the Civil War, and

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park is part of the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network.

Key sites on the history path include Union Cemetery, First African Baptist Church, Fort Howell, St. James Baptist Church, Fish Haul Tabby Ruins, Cherry Hill School, Fish Haul Beach Park and Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park.

Enjoy the Scenery

Hilton Head’s public bike paths run by scenic trails at several parks, including Jarvis Creek Park and Burkes Beach. Nearby Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge has more than 14 miles of nature trails that are open to bike riders, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Pinckney Island is home to wildlife, including “waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, neo-tropical migrants, whitetailed deer and American alligators,” officials say. Several private developments also have nature trails. Town officials say to contact individual developments for their bike access policies.

The town offers bike repair stations at Chaplin, Coligny Beach and Folly Field Beach parks. Riders can use the provided bike racks and tools to fix a chain, tighten a seat or fill up their tires. The stations are free to use, the town says.

Know the Rules

Cyclists are required to follow all local and state traffic laws on the island’s pathways, and obey traffic signals and path markings, the

town says, adding that pedestrians have the right of way. They also are asked to maintain a courteous speed, ride single file with a safe distance between bikes, keep to the right side of the path, announce to others when they plan to pass on the left, and move off the path when they are stopped. Helmets are encouraged, the town says.

If you’re riding a bike at night, make sure it has a headlight and a red rear reflector, wear appropriate clothing and bring along a flashlight. Most of the pathways are not illuminated, the town says.

The chamber says most shops encourage people to schedule bike rentals about 72 hours ahead of time, especially in the busy summer months. Visitors who have a bike at their disposal should enjoy a convenient way around much of the island, whether they’re going to the beach, observing Lowcountry wildlife or visiting historic sites.

Lowcountry Celebration Park

visit the island’s parks

HILTON HEAD OFFERS PLENTY FOR VISITORS TO ENJOY

Written by Dean Rowland | Photos Town of Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island offers 23 beach parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, regional parks, sports parks and mini parks. In other words, something for every tourist and residents to enjoy. Here’s a few of our favorites:

Lowcountry Celebration Park. Located just off Pope Avenue and minutes from Coligny Beach, the latest and most expensive park on the island opened in late 2020. This amazing park provides active and passive recreational activities, amenities, and scenic views for families and individuals, organizations and community groups.

Among the amenities are:

• The Adventure Playground, named after the ship Captain William Hilton was on when he discovered Hilton Head Island. It features a reimagined design of the ship, playground, wading pool and more.

• An open pavilion and lawn for events.

• A lighted perimeter walk for an evening stroll.

• Sculptures and fitness stations.

• An interactive Sandbox Children’s Museum for children.

Jarvis Creek Park. This 54-acre park off U.S. 278 includes a large fishpond, picnic shelters with grills and food tables, a playground, a 1-mile walking trail, natural wildlife like birds and alligators, and lots of trees.

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. Situated near the end of Beach City Road on the north end of the island, the park features self-guided or private tours, historic exhibits, interpretive signage, trails, beach access, and a picnic pavilion. Recognized as part of the Reconstruction Era National Historic Network. The tours take visitors through Mitchelville’s history, from docking slave ships to the roots of the Reconstruction era.

Chaplin Community Park. The island’s largest and most diverse park is located off 278 between Burkes Beach Road and Singleton Beach Road. It features a public tennis complex with six courts, basketball courts, multi-purpose fields, extensive trails, beach access and parking, playground, picnic pavilions, multiple restroom facilities, and the town’s only dog park.

Crossings Park & Bristol Sports Arena. Located at 4 Helmsman Way near the east end of the Cross Island Bridge, the sports park features a skate park and ramps, an outdoor roller hockey/basketball court, a hybrid in-line hockey rink with basketball goals and restroom facilities.

Chaplin Community Park Crossings Park

Shelter Cove Park

Jarvis Creek Park

Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This local treasure of more than 600 acres is the island’s largest tract of undeveloped land. Hiking, fishing, picnicking and wildlife viewing are among the popular activities. A 3.3-mile loop takes visitors on a trail for birding and hiking and through mushy swamps on elevated boardwalks.

Shelter Cove Community Park. This park, which opened in 2015, is a public/private partnership, that features year-round festivals and events, a playground, picnic spots, a performance pavilion, walkways and spectacular water views. The Poseidon restaurant is next door, as is Shelter Cove Towne Centre.

Audubon Newhall Preserve: This well maintained 50-acre forest preserve is tucked off Palmetto Bay Road. Interconnected trails help preserve our native forest ecosystem for the benefit of its diverse ecosystem inhabitants.

The preserve has wide paths and a boardwalk that are manageable for short walks, an observation deck overlooking the pond for wildlife viewing and many benches to sit and rest. Multiple informational signs provide detailed information about the flowers, trees and plants. More than 140 species of birds have been recorded here. Guides are available.

Historic Mitchelville

dolphins

CHARISMATIC, PLAYFUL AND INTELLIGENT

Written by Anne Brophy Chetwynd

No other dolphin species is known, studied and beloved in the world more than the bottlenose dolphin.

The bottlenose is featured in films, literature, television, and other entertainment. Dolphins are mammals and are related to whales and porpoises in a group of mammals fully adapted to aquatic life.

Dolphins frequently leap above the water, which is called porpoising. When travelling, jumping can save the dolphin energy as there is less friction while in the air. Other reasons dolphins leap out of the water include orientation, social displays, non-verbal communication, and pure entertainment.

Dolphins show many types of playful behavior, including with objects, selfmade bubble rings, other dolphins or other animals. They will carry the object or animal using parts of the body, pass it to other members of the group or take it from another member, or throw it into the air. Playful human interaction with dolphins are the most obvious example, but playful interactions have been observed in the wild with a number of other species.

Researchers agree that dolphins are social creatures and seem to depend on this interaction while hunting, mating and defending themselves and their pods. Dolphins sometimes show empathic behavior and establish strong social bonds, such as trying to save weakened fellow dolphins or whales. They have also been seen protecting

human swimmers from sharks by swimming circles around the swimmers or charging the sharks to make them go away.

Dolphins produce a variety of vocalizations, usually in the form of clicks and whistles. They also use nonverbal communication by touch and posturing.

Clicks and whistles help them stay together while they travel.

The sounds that dolphins make travel quickly through water and bounce back so the information can be decoded by other dolphins. They have a vocabulary of danger sounds, food sounds, and seeking sounds.

Dolphins exhibit a tendency to take turns when vocalizing. Their high frequency clicks are from an organ known as a ‘melon’ that allows them to produce sonar for orientation.

Incredibly, bottlenose dolphins have demonstrated a whistle that is unique to a specific individual. These whistles help dolphins communicate with one another by identifying the individual.

It is the dolphin equivalent of a humans’ name. These signature whistles are developed during a dolphin’s first year; it continues to maintain the same sound throughout its lifetime. Dolphins are able to communicate to one another by addressing another dolphin through mimicking their whistle.

The signature whistle of a male bottlenose dolphin tends to be similar to that of his mother, while the signature whistle of a female bottlenose dolphin tends to be more unique. Bottlenose dolphins remember those signature whistles, and they are able to relate to a signature whistle of an individual they have not encountered for many years.

Dolphins have two flippers on the underside toward the head: a dorsal fin and a tail fin. They swim by moving their tail fin and rear body vertically, while their flippers are mainly used for steering.

Male dolphins typically mate with multiple

females each year, but females only mate every two to three years. Calves are typically born in the spring and summer and females bear all the responsibility for raising them. Dolphins give birth to their young and nurse them with mammary glands.

The ‘killer whale’ or Orca is a whale belonging to the dolphin family. Although it is commonly named “killer whale,” environmentalists are trying to change the name because Orca are the largest dolphin in the world.

The eyes of dolphins are small for its size, and are on the sides of their heads, yet they see well.

Dolphins are able to hear frequencies that are least 10 times what the best human hearing can offer. Their hearing is adapted for air and water and is so well developed that some can survive even when blind. Dolphins have no sense of smell and are not thought to have a good sense of taste.

Bottlenose dolphins living in high seas feed on several species of fish and squids, while dolphins near the coasts consume fish and invertebrates found in coastal areas.

The diet of any dolphin depends on the availability of prey. Dolphins can also be seen following fishing boats to consume the discarded fish or take captive fish from the nets.

The bottlenose dolphins that live in South Carolina are unique among dolphins on the East Coast: they engage in what is called ‘strand feeding’. This is a method of feeding that occurs within hours of low tide in the marshes and creeks, and involves several dolphins rushing up onto the mudflats, pushing a wall of water in front of them. Fish are also carried along, and when both hit the mud, the dolphins grab the stranded fish.

This is a risky technique, as the further up the bank the dolphins land, the harder it is to slide or wriggle back into the water.

Enjoy a dolphin cruise while you visit the island. It’s a magical experience you won’t forget.

Sources: www.dolphins-world.com; Town of Hilton Head; American Cetacean Society: http://acsonline.org/fact-sheets/bottlenose-dolphin/

loggerhead

SEA TURTLES

Written by Anne Brophy Chetwynd

A tiny loggerhead turtle hatches on the beach, rushes to the water, and makes her journey far out to sea, where she grows bigger and stronger in preparation for returning to the beach to lay her own eggs.

Loggerhead Sea Turtles, which have existed for the last 100 million years, help maintain the health of coral reefs and sea grass beds.

Loggerhead turtles carry colonies of small plants and animals on their shells and serve as an important habitat themselves. As many as 100 species of animals and plants have been recorded living on one single loggerhead turtle.

Sea turtles need to reach the surface to breathe, and many drown when caught accidentally by trawlers. The loggerhead sea turtle has been on the threatened species list since 1978.

Adult male loggerheads differ from females —they have a much larger and stronger tail. The pair breeds at sea and the female comes ashore to nest. Loggerheads live exclusively in the water, and the females only come on land to lay their eggs (males typically don’t come ashore).

On Hilton Head, loggerheads nest between May and August, and nest at night. The female crawls slowly to a dry part of the beach and begins to excavate a pit with her flippers. Generally, 110-120 eggs are laid per nest. Using her rear flippers, she then covers the egg cavity and throws sand over the nest to disguise it from predators. When the work is done, the female slowly returns to the sea. Some loggerheads nest every year, others nest in alternate years.

Egg incubation ranges from 55 to 60 days. When the small turtles begin to hatch, they use a sharp tooth to break open the shell. All of the hatchlings join together to dig out of the nest, which can take several days. The two-inch long hatchlings emerge from their sandy nest and scramble toward the sea. Hatchlings usually emerge from the nest at night and orient themselves toward the sea. Visible lights from buildings or streets near the beach disorient the hatchlings, and they wander inland. If they don’t make it to the ocean quickly, hatchlings will die of dehydration or be caught by predators.

It’s estimated that only one of a few thousand hatchlings survive to adulthood.

Do not shine any lights on or around a nesting turtle, she may abandon her effort to nest and don’t use flash photography.

Stay behind the turtle so she cannot see you. Don’t touch or prod her to move. Stay out of the way as she crawls back to the water.

The Town of Hilton Head Island requires that lights on structures visible from the beach be shielded or turned off after 10 p.m. from May 1 to October 31. Any windows facing the beach must also be covered with draperies or shade screens.

“The best way to save the turtles is lights out!”

american alligator

THESE REPTILES HAVE BEEN AROUND SINCE THE TIME OF DINOSAURS, EXCEPT THEY HAVE ACTUALLY GOTTEN SMALLER

Written by Anne Brophy Chetwynd

Alligators can grow up to 12 feet in length and live to over 60 years. Alligators are coldblooded: their body temperature is not constant, but changes with the temperature of their environment. During the summer they keep cool by remaining in the water with only their eyes and snout visible. In colder months, alligators will become dormant often digging down into the mud. During the warmer months, alligators alternate between basking in the sun to warm up, and remaining in the water to cool down to maintain the best body temperature. Spring and fall is the best time to see alligators since you’ll find them sunning themselves near a lagoon. It’s quite a sight to see an alligator After a courtship in which the male claims a territory and courts the female, she lays between 20-60 eggs near a lagoon and covers the eggs with vegetation. She remains nearby for two months while the eggs incubate. When they have hatched, she digs up the nest and brings the babies down to the water oneby-one in her jaws. The young remain with the mother alligator for up to a year so she can defend them against predators like

wading birds.

Alligators perform necessary services by digging holes that bring groundwater to the surface. This provides alligators with a cool, wet place to rest while bringing groundwater to the surface for other wildlife to drink during water shortages. They grow to be large predators that help to control the numbers of many of the species that they eat —fish, turtles, snakes, birds, deer and other mammals. If alligators became extinct, the entire ecosystem would change, and many species that have come to depend on them may also face extinction.

Alligators are protected by both state and federal law. You can help protect the alligators by avoiding close interaction with them. They can move very quickly, so never approach an alligator closer than 60 feet.

Don’t harass an alligator or swim in water (or let your pets swim in water) known to be an alligator habitat. And above all, never feed an alligator. Alligators fed by humans come to expect food with each human encounter, and if they don’t get it, may act aggressively.

Sources: Town of Hilton Head: http://www.hiltonheadislandsc.gov Savannah River Ecology Laboratory: http://srelherp.uga.edu/alligators/allmis.htm

a perfect setting

DISCOVER HAMPTON HALL CLUB

While many considerations come into play when choosing the ideal place to live, location is still the driving factor. You won’t find a more perfect setting than Hampton Hall Club. Located in the heart of Bluffton, a quintessential Southern town halfway between Hilton Head Island, S.C., and Savannah, Ga., the club offers the best of Lowcountry living. Beaches, rivers, small-town charm, and big-city culture are all within easy reach of its gates. That enviable setting, along with the club’s resort-style environment, plays perfectly into the lifestyle of this family-friendly, active community that welcomes members from all over the country and embraces a wide variety of interests and backgrounds. You’ll find every generation living comfortably here, from working professionals and their families to retirees. Hampton Hall Club is one of those rare places where you’ll feel welcome immediately, where lasting connections grow as naturally as the Lowcountry landscape.

The social side of the club makes it easy to fit right in, as newcomers are quickly welcomed and encouraged to join in the fun. Two clubhouses—one golf, the other community—are places to relax and share experiences, to dine, and to enjoy as an extension of your home. The lakeside pool with zero-entry and a splash deck, playground, an indoor lap pool, fitness center, tennis, and the increasingly popular pickleball and bocce courts all provide more ways to spend time with family and friends.

For golfers, the Pete Dye-designed private course is a thrill to enjoy over and over. Combining an unspoiled natural setting with challenges appropriate to every skill level, the links-style course features beautiful, panoramic vistas. A comprehensive practice facility, including short game and instructional areas, an extensive driving range, and putting green help keep your game sharp. And the full menu and bar at Pete’s Grill is a great place to celebrate after a round.

Impressive Estate homes, charming Carolina homes, spacious, easy-living Carriage homes, and maintenance free Golf Cottages provide plenty of attractive housing options. Or choose a beautiful homesite and build the home that suits you. Contact the club’s membership office to schedule your discovery tour and experience a community where’ll you feel right at home right away.

dataw island

BEAUFORT, SOUTH CAROLINA

How is your daily drive? Cut the commute and wake up daily to 36 holes of championship golf with 11 holes per course featuring gorgeous water views. You’ll also find tennis, pickleball, croquet, bocce, and social clubs too numerous to mention. Just outside historic Beaufort, SC, is the hidden gem of the South Carolina Lowcountry - Dataw Island.

Dataw Island caters to the active lifestyle and embodies a true sense of community. With flexible membership plans and dozens of member-based clubs and sports associations, you are sure to find the perfect opportunity for fellowship, fitness, and camaraderie.

Dataw Island is graced with two “Top 50” SC golf courses (be designers Tom Fazio and Arthur Hills), a USTA “Outstanding Tennis Facility,” a brand-new pickleball complex, and two of the most beautiful and well-maintained croquet lawns in the area. Just beyond, you’ll find a pair of bocce courts beckoning, as well as community gardens, kayak launches, and a 33-acre maritime nature preserve

with walking paths and a dog park.

The on-site Community Center features a staff of certified personal trainers, athletic trainers, massage therapists and more. The facility includes an aerobic/yoga studio, indoor pool, gym, and an art studio.

Those called to the water may enjoy Dataw’s indoor & outdoor pools, the full-service Dataw Island Marina, convenient on-site kayak launches, and nearby Hunting Island State Park beach.

Add social events too numerous to mention and a host of volunteer opportunities both on-island and off, and you’ll find that your schedule will quickly fill, the Dataw way -friendly, philanthropic, and fun!

Developed to honor nature and history, the island exudes historic charm, natural beauty, and extraordinary living.

Visit this private club this spring through their Real Estate program, and see for yourself why locals have voted Dataw Island the “Best Neighborhood In Beaufort, SC.”

America’s

100 2021

Best Places TO LIVE

Six miles from historic Beaufort, South Carolina

Dataw Island is a gated golf, tennis & boating community located six miles east of the historic Lowcountry town of Beaufort, SC. Between Hilton Head, Savannah, and Charleston and close to the beach, shopping, history, and fine & performing arts. Steeped in natural beauty, Dataw Island is a neighborhood full of activity in tranquil surrounds. Enjoy scenic golf courses by Tom Fazio and Arthur Hills - challenging enough for the avid golfer, yet accessible for those just learning. Also featuring world-class Tennis and Croquet, a full-service Marina, and our newest club sports - Bocce and Pickleball!

Homes available from the $400s to $3 million. Dataw Island: created by nature, and reserved for you!

“Club of the Year” (South Carolina Golf Association)

“Top Community to Follow Your Passion: Charitable Giving” (Golf Home Network)

“Outstanding Tennis Facility” (USTA)

“Best Kayaking”; “Best Island Community”;

“Best Health & Wellness” (ideal-LIVING)

“Best Community”

“Best Golf Course”

“Best Tennis Pro” (Beaufort Gazette)

let’s shop!

NO MATTER WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR, WE HAVE IT

Written by Amy Coyne Bredeson

Hilton Head Island has more to offer than its pristine beaches, gorgeous weather, delicious Lowcountry fare, outdoor activities and world-renowned golf courses. The island also has plenty of great places to go shopping.

Whether you’re staying in Sea Pines or in Bluffton, you won’t have to go far to find what you need. Looking for a new outfit for a night out on the town? Or a special trinket to take home to a friend? Hilton Head has got you covered.

On the south end, you have Coligny Hilton Head Island, a hotspot for shopping mere steps from the ocean.

Coligny evolved from the island’s first grocery store, Forest Beach Market, which opened in 1955, before there was even a bridge to the island. Now it consists of a variety of shops selling everything from sunglasses and swimsuits to designer dresses and children’s apparel. If you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home, check out Camp Hilton Head, The Tee Hut and The Shell Shop at Coligny.

For the quintessential Hilton Head experience, make sure to visit Harbour Town Shops in Sea Pines. Enjoy the breeze coming from the Calibogue Sound as you stroll around the harbour and browse the charming shops. Some stores, such as S.M. Bradford and Knickers, have been there for decades, serving the people and visitors of Hilton Head Island. Climb to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse, then pick up a souvenir or two at the gift shop. If you have time for a meal, the area has some of the best seafood on the island, and you can often listen to live outdoor entertainment in the evenings.

While you’re in Sea Pines, drive just around the corner to The Shops at Sea Pines Center, where you will find two art galleries, and shops specializing in just about everything – books, apparel, furniture, wine and liquor. Shop for gourmet foods at the nationally recognized Lowcountry Produce, and if you’re in the market for some new jewelry, go see the people at Forsythe Jewelers, a family-owned island business for the past four decades.

Treat yourself to luxury at The Village at Wexford. Get a facial at Faces Dayspa and a new “do” at The Hair Designers. Take a pilates class at Pilates Hilton Head and get an adjustment at Kelley Chiropractic and Wellness. Walk through Branches to find unique gifts and custom floral designs. Be sure to grab some French macarons on your way out.

Browse the latest in women’s fashion at Currents and children’s clothing at Island Child. If you’re a crafty type, stop by Needlepoint Junction for fibers, canvases and yarns for your next project.

Mid-island also has plenty of potential for shopping ’til you drop. Between Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina and Shelter Cove Town Centre, there are dozens of shops to peruse – with fun activities and delicious food along the way.

At Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina, you can go water skiing, kayaking and paddleboarding, or hop on a boat for a tour of the island. Wander around the various boutiques for coastal-themed home decor, apparel and accessories. Visit Christmas on the Harbour for holiday novelties and ornaments.

For souvenirs, head over to Neptune’s Niche, Tradewinds Trinkets and Treasures, and Treasure

Hilton Head Island’s Premier Destination

Island. As you make your way around the harbour, take in the sights and sounds that define Hilton Head. Enjoy dinner outside with year-round live music and fireworks during the summer.

Just down the street from the marina is Shelter Cove Town Centre, which is home to Belk, Talbots, Francesca’s and several other shops. If you’re an athletic person, you’ll want to pop by Palmetto Running Company and Player’s World of Sports. If you’re looking for fun accessories and gifts made by local artists, check out ArtWare. Take a break from shopping to grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants at Shelter Cove Town Centre. If you have children with you, take a short walk to Shelter Cove Community Park, which overlooks Broad Creek. The park hosts many festivals and performances, and there’s a Hilton Head-themed playground for the kids.

Located on the north end of the island just outside of the main gate to Hilton Head Plantation, Main Street Village offers an array of family-owned shops and services in a casual, charming atmosphere. Popular among islanders for its convenience, Main Street Village houses Burke’s Main Street Pharmacy, Harris Teeter and Reilley’s Wine and Spirits. The shopping center is also frequented by visitors for its high-end boutiques, including Luna & Lillie, Lettrs, and Marsh & Light.

For a wide selection of stores with great prices, head over to Tanger Outlets in Bluffton. As you drive off island, Tanger II is the first of the two outlets, and includes major brands such as Gap Outlet, American Eagle Outfitters, Carter’s Babies and Kids, Coach, Nike Factory Store and Rack Room Shoes. Take a lunch break at Salty Dog Restaurant, and then grab some souvenir T-shirts at Salty Dog T-Shirt Factory. If you have kids with you and plan ahead, you can book a time to play at The Sandbox’s Tanger II location. Visit www.thesandbox.org for details.

Just a little over a mile down the road is Tanger I, where you will find well-known brands such as Bath & Body Works, Brooks Brothers Factory Store and Saks Off 5th. You’ll also find some fun local stores, including Carolina Me Crazy and Spartina 449.

No visit to Hilton Head is complete without taking a little time to explore the wonder that is nearby Old Town Bluffton. Picture Spanish moss-draped oak trees, historic homes, breathtaking views of the May River and an eclectic mix of art, culture, cuisine and shopping.

The Store, located on Calhoun Street, has been in business since 1978 and continues to offer a funky collection of local art, home decor and jewelry. Eggs ‘n’ tricities on Lawton Street carries lots of fun and fashionable women’s clothing, jewelry, handbags, home accents and hilarious greeting cards.

Stop by Moonlit Lullaby for the babies in your life and The Storybook Shoppe for the young readers. Old Town Bluffton also hosts farmers markets, festivals and live performances throughout the year.

Wherever you decide to do your shopping in the Hilton Head area, be sure to have fun and enjoy the scenery.

free tote bag with any $100 in-store or online purchase (while supplies last)

free Euro sticker with $15 purchase (while supplies last)

Harbour Town Lighthouse

Reflections on a Landmark

Rewarding you at the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse is not only the Island’s most distinctive store, “the Shoppe at the Top,” but also an unforgettable view – and for many a life-changing inspiration.

The extraordinary vista from this one-of-a-kind vantage point has been the beginning of businesses and careers, families and works of art. Over the years the lighthouse has become the site of countless first kisses, engagements. and weddings. Brides who seek a landmark occasion, a celebration no one will forget, often find their way to the lighthouse. The experience and connections of the Lighthouse staff make the arrangements not only memorable, but also remarkably easy. The Lighthouse is available for private parties and events, too.

The Spirit of Beginning

The Harbour Town Lighthouse has stood for more than 50 years as a beacon and a symbol of the creative spirit of Charles Fraser. The Sea Pines founder and visionary is laid to rest under the Liberty Oak facing the Lighthouse he built as a welcome to all who come to visit or stay a lifetime. It has become a part of the story people take home with them, an essential symbol of the dreams that have come

true here. No matter how often you come to Hilton Head Island, the Harbour Town Lighthouse is a must-do experience.

A visit to Hilton Head Island without a visit to the Harbour Town Lighthouse has been described as, “like going to Paris and not seeing the Eifel Tower. It’s not just a landmark – although it is all of that – the Lighthouse is the single strongest symbol of Hilton Head

This key photo and the inset photo on adjacent page by Jeff Keefer, Vivid Gallery

Island. It is the image that says it all. Everyone from visitors to publishers to movie-makers pictures the Lighthouse, when Hilton Head Island is the topic. There are a host of good reasons for that.

Authentic and Genuine

Imagining his innovative, nature-friendly approach to a resort community, Sea Pines founder Charles Fraser thought it was critical that there be a central gathering place, where people could go and socialize in pleasant surroundings. This idea stemmed from his own research, where he found example after example of towns, beginning with the Greeks and the Romans, designed around open plazas.

As Fraser fashioned Harbour Town, after the best ideas he gleaned from an extensive trip through the Mediterranean, he saw that it needed an exclamation point – a significant structure that would symbolize the idea, magnetize the location, and add some drama to the site.

He imagined there should be a lighthouse located at the entrance to the harbor, shining out over Calibogue Sound.

The Birth of an Icon

Fraser commissioned his architects at Sasaki and Associates of Cambridge Massachusetts to design the lighthouse. Some of the early residents in Sea Pines, and old-time Hilton Head Islanders, considered it to be a rather silly idea, “Fraser’s Folly.” Now, more than a half century after its completion, the 93-foot tall, hexagonal, candy-striped lighthouse has become an internationally recognized symbol of the Sea Pines resort community, an icon of excellence and quality.

The lighthouse was completed in 1970. The frame was up just in time to overlook the final putt of the first Heritage Classic on the 18th green of Harbour Town Golf Links in 1969. That final putt was sunk by America’s favorite golfer, Arnold Palmer, making Palmer the first Heritage Classic PGA champion. Today, TV coverage broadcasts nation-wide and across the globe the commanding presence of the Harbour Town Lighthouse each spring during the tournament.

Bringing the Lighthouse to Life

At first the Lighthouse was simply an imposing tower with 114 steps leading up to an observation deck, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Calibogue Sound, the Harbour and the famous 18th hole of the Harbour Town Golf Links. Realizing that the lighthouse should be staffed for security and safety reasons, a talented area entrepreneur, Mark King, conceived the idea that the top floor of the lighthouse would make an excellent spot for an aerial gift shop.

The Shoppe at the Top became reality because of an extraordinary

woman who is known as the lighthouse keeper, Nadia Wagner. Nadia is hard to miss. She has a smile that could serve as the lighthouse beacon itself, an infectious laugh and a delightful, welcoming manner. As if that weren’t enough, consider that for several years Nadia was solely responsible for stocking and restocking the gift shop . . . 114 steps each way . . . with armloads of boxes and supplies.

Nadia and Club Group founder Mark King have since opened The Maritime Gift Galley on the ground floor, to offer books, nautical artifacts and memorabilia to visitors. The Maritime Gift Galley is a place where captains of industry and technology mingle with visitors and guests. Where children and grandparents mix with yachtsmen and connoisseurs. It is quintessential Hilton Head Island.

How the Story is Told

Mark King thought it would be fun for people to learn something as they made the climb to the top. He commissioned Porter Thompson, a local historian, to create interesting and informative displays on each of the nine landings of the lighthouse. The exhibits are constantly being changed.

The Lighthouse has been so effective at telling the story of Hilton Head Island, that it was designated an Official Coast Guard Museum. The Coast Guard display features a 1:5 scale model of the “Eagle,” the historic 295-foot cutter that serves as a seagoing classroom for Coast Guard cadets. The ship’s original plans were used in the construction of the 16-foot, hand-built model, a truly amazing work of art.

Viewing the Paradise Beyond

The Lighthouse Museum features a Daufuskie Island display consisting of artifacts and a taste of the curious, mystical story of Daufuskie. From the pottery of prehistoric civilizations to the refined, sea island sensibility of Haig Point. From Native Americans through Spanish explorers through the tenacious families who stayed on through thick and thin to enjoy the beauty of life on this “paradise beyond,” the Daufuskie Island display in the Lighthouse is a trip worth taking.

From pre-history and native peoples to the life and times at Sea Pines over the years, a visit through the lighthouse has become a fascinating climb through the history of Hilton Head Island. There’s something fun to learn on every landing. And there is a state-ofthe-art webcam on the top so you can call your friends and family wherever they are, have them link up to the Lighthouse web site to see you in action on the observation deck.

We look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones to the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Come and see what the experience can inspire for you.

Shining Brighter Than Ever

Dreams really do come true at the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Ask any bride who chose the Lighthouse and made her destination wedding into a landmark. Ask the business leaders and innovators who breathed boldness here, to forge fortunes and propel prosperity, beyond even the incomparable view that inspired them.

We brought a dream of our own to life at the top of the Lighthouse just last year, when we installed an authentic Fresnel lens, multiplying the power of light that shines from here by 40 times. This lens fulfills the vision of the Lighthouse, and makes it real in every way.

Perhaps it is poetry that last year also saw the Lighthouse welcome the greatest number of guests in our half-century history. It seems the reach of this light is greater than ever, in more ways than one.

Come and take part. Ask how easy it is to hold your wedding or event here, and draw your own inspiration from the Harbour Town Lighthouse. We look forward to welcoming you, and your vision.

Harbour Town Yacht Club

Key photo by Jeff Keefer, Vivid Gallery

Lighthouse Fresnel Lens

Handcrafted by Dan Spinella

A view worth climbing for –

Like Nowhere Else on Earth

And treasures on the ground floor.

People from all over the world –

Offering the best views of the Island, keepsakes from the ground-floor Maritime Gift Galley, a history tour of exhibits on the stairway landings including an Official Coast Guard Museum, and Hilton Head Island’s most unusual Shoppe at the Top, the Lighthouse provides an experience unlike any other you’ll find.

The Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum is a must-see during your stay on Hilton Head Island Travel through time as you view real artifacts and learn about the different eras of the Island’s history Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir at the “Shoppe At The Top” or browse the ground-floor Maritime Gift Galley for historic books and authentic artifacts you can treasure and pass down, for memories that endure.

And for those who’d like something to show for it, here you’ll find everything from art photography to books, memorabilia, children’s toys, and Lighthouse apparel. It’s a collection as unique as the setting.

Join us for the Lowcountry’s most spectacular sunsets Don’t forget to wave to friends and family on our live webcam And visit our sister store, the Legacy of Golf Shop & Museum, in the Shops at Sea

open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to sundown. Modest admission, and children 5

Center

Lighthouse

The Lighthouse is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to sundown. Modest admission charge and children 5 and under are free.

* Photographer Jeff Keefer and the Harbour Town Lighthouse have partnered to create, produce, and sell this and other distinctive art photos. All of the proceeds are donated to the Michael J. Fox Foundation. The Foundation is a leading force in providing funding of research for a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. The photos can be purchased at the Harbour Town Lighthouse, or at Vivid Gallery in the Shops at Sea Pines Center.

149 Lighthouse Road Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 harbourtownlighthouse.com 843-671-2810

Key photo and inset photos below by Jeff Keefer, Vivid Gallery

Pines

The

is

and under are free.

Key photo by Rob Tipton, courtesy of Harbour Town Yacht Club

and people who have been everywhere – tell us they’ve never seen anything like it.

KEEP YOUR EYES OUT FOR THESE ON YOUR NEXT BEACH WALK

Written by Dean Rowland

Shell collecting is universally popular among beachcombers around the world.

We’re particularly fortunate here on Hilton Head Island to have 12 miles of oceanfront beaches for tourists and locals. And even though the offshore sandbar limits our waves and the number of shells that reach our shore, here’s a look at some shells you will likely find.

Types of shells

The two most common shells on Palmetto state beaches, according to the South Carolina Department of Parks and Recreation, are the bivalve, which have two sections connected by a hinge and are found in oysters and clams. Gastropods, which include whelks and moon snails, are single shells that typically grow in a spiral.

Common shells of both types are:

Angelwing: The angelwing bivalve shell has beaded ribs and is about 4-7 inches long. They are butterfly shaped and delicate.

Atlantic Jackknife: This shell can be up to 10 inches long with sharp edges. It’s covered with a thin brownish green coating and is typically found in sand flats.

Banded Tulip: A sturdy and smooth shell, the banded tulip has 7 to 11 spiral purple-brown lines and fivesix spiral maroon lines. These shells are usually 2½-3 inches long.

Channeled Whelk: This species has a wide channel with a few small beads and is about 5-7½ inches long.

Look for it in shallow sandy spots.

Knobbed Whelk: This is the most common whelk found in South Carolina, even though they are found from Cape Cod, Mass., to Cape Canaveral, Fla., S.C. Department of Natural Resources notes. Adult knobbed whelks are usually 5-9 inches and feature low knobs on the shoulder of the whorl with the aperture on the right side.

Lettered Olive: This South Carolina state shell is due to its commonness on state beaches. It’s about 2-1/2 inches long and is smooth, shiny and cylindrical shaped.

Where to find them

The beaches on Sea Pines are loaded with starfish, sand dollars, arrowheads and sharks’ teeth, and the Coastal Discovery Museum conducts beach tours for informative hands-on workshops.

Fish Haul Creek Park and Mitchelville Beach Park are loaded with island history and face Port Royal Sound. One resident reported seeing ark shells, oysters, moon snails, shark teeth, sea pork, crabs, sea stars (formerly star fish), smaller whelk and whole live whelks.

Knobbed whelks, large predatory gastropods, are impressive conical shaped shells we hold to our ears to hear the ocean. These large sea snails vary in size and color and are a joy to behold. Preferring to live on muddy or sandy bottoms, they congregate on oyster and clam beds. The less adventurous can stroll through the Shell Shop in Coligny Plaza on the south end and find hundreds of shells.

picture perfect

TIPS TO TAKING VACATION PHOTOS

Written by Justin Jarrett

We’ve all been there. It’s the last day of family vacation, and as the fun is winding down and we’re thinking about returning to reality, it occurs to us that we don’t have a tangible way to document the memories. Photo time!

In the age of high-resolution cell phone cameras, all hope is not lost, but if you’re going to wow your friends with the ultimate Instagram post from your island vacation, it’s not quite as simple as snapping a selfie.

If it’s stressing you out just thinking about trying to herd all the cousins into position and pray they all have their eyes open for at least one shot, go ahead and book a session with a pro — the area has plenty of talented photographers who can help you commemorate the moment.

“Hire a professional,” says portrait photographer Brooke Simons. “Technology has evolved so much to give everyone the ability to take high-quality photos

on their phones, but nothing can match the talent, skill and expertise of a professional photographer. We invest in high-quality equipment and extensive training that you won’t get from an iPhone. Plus, it takes away the stress of organizing your group and hoping to capture ‘just one good photo.’”

A seasoned photographer will come to your session with prompts, cues and experience that cannot be conjured by an amateur, no matter how many megapixels their mobile phone’s camera boasts. The pros also have years of experience working to find the perfect lighting — and might have a well-kept secret setting you could never find on your own.

If you decide to take the do-it-yourself route, Simons has a few tips to help:

• Any beach spot on the island will provide a beautiful and timeless backdrop. Look for a backdrop without bright or distracting colors to keep the attention on your subject.

• The best time to shoot is about 45 minutes before sunset to allow for beautiful golden lighting without forcing your subjects to squint into the sun. During the summer months, the “golden hour” comes a little before 8 p.m., but in the winter months it can be as early as 5 p.m.

• If getting to the beach is an issue, Oyster Factory Park, the Shelter Cove Veteran’s Memorial, Old Town Bluffton, and Pinckney Island also make great locations for a stunning shoot.

• Scout your location ahead of time, and if you plan to shoot in multiple locations, start with the site farthest from where you are parked and work your way back. If anyone in your party needs an accessible entrance, plan accordingly.

• Having your camera at a low angle will make your subjects appear large and imposing and will often highlight features that many people want to hide. If your camera is at a high angle looking down on the subjects, they will often look as though they are miniature. It’s all about finding the right angle for your image and enhancing the story you’re trying to tell through composition.

• Don’t shoot for one perfect photo. Look for a few solid family photos and then try to capture some candid, genuine images where it’s OK that everyone isn’t looking at the camera. Don’t expect perfection. The best photos come when you let the personality of your subjects shine through.

• Patience can wane quickly. Start with the largest group photo and knock out any group shots including kids first in case smaller children have bedtimes or get fussy. Making silly noises or offering candy or treats as a reward can instill patience and inspire a smile from subjects of all ages!

• Don’t be afraid to take hundreds of photos. You can always cull your images down, but you’ll have a hard time trying to make just a few images feel “perfect.”

• Editing and color correcting are very helpful tools, but they can’t do much without the presence of well-composed and well-lit images. It’s better to choose your clothing and setting wisely and frame your shots vs. trying to perform magic after the fact.

Designer-Craftsman Jewelry Judith Neugebauer

Hand-blown Glass Vitrix

Toys for Kids kidswhokic.com

Construction Toys kidswhokic.com

Earthenware Pottery Donna Toohey

Bird House Larry & Jerry Glass Sea Glass Jewelry Greg Geier

Metal Sculpture Rich Kolb

Purse by Renee

Stoneware Wall Sculpture Rhonda Cearlock

Photography - Wally Smith

Designer-Craftsman Jewelry Ashka Dymel

“Silent Watch” Beki Killorin

Jewelry Chest Jack Curran

Copper-Enamel Sculpture Jim Flood

Perpetual Calendar

Glass Karins Melanie Leppla

relax.

IF YOU DON’T REMEMBER HOW, ALLOW US TO REMIND YOU.

Namaste Spa is a small, locally owned and operated, luxury spa located on Hilton Head Island. You can find our two locations at Marriott’s Barony Beach Club and Marriott’s Grande Ocean with an ocean front view! We look at self-care in a holistic way, as a unique balance between mind, body and spirit while incorporating the five senses in every service. In a tranquil and elegant environment, we give you a space to slow down, be

Lowcountry Celebration Park

pampered, and develop a healthy well-being. We pride ourselves on offering our clients the very best treatments provided by top-of-the-line licensed body work practitioners. Our diverse service menu offers an array of unique Body and Facial treatments- from Massage, Hydrotherapy in our Vichy Shower, Ayurvedic Treatments to Customized Facials - it’s safe to say we have something for everyone.

AYURVEDIC TREATMENTS

The holistic healing system, Ayurveda, translates to the “knowledge of life” and the principle of this ancient wisdom reminds us that the entire web of life is intricately interwoven. With a unique emphasis on total wellness, the art and science of Ayurveda work to harmonize our internal and external worlds. An Ayurvedic treatment at Namaste is different for everyone – it can be stimulating, detoxifying, it can be uplifting or grounding – it’s all customized on our clients’ combination of elements; but all Ayurvedic treatments are deeply nourishing.

FACIAL AND BODY TREATMENTS

Whether you’re experiencing a rainfall of warm water from our Vichy Shower or seeing the reflection of your glowing skin after a Signature Facial, there’s no doubt you will leave Namaste Spa feeling relaxed, refreshed, and renewed. We offer a diverse selection of massage therapy techniques including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Warm Stone, Prenatal and Reflexology as well as healing Hydrotherapy Body Treatments such as Hima-

layan Salt CBD Body Scrub, Detoxifying Seaweed Wrap, Anti-Cellulite Body Slimming Treatment and more. Our Facial Treatments are tailored to each, and every client based on their skin type, wants, and needs. Each of our Facial and Body Treatments include the use of carefully chosen organic vegan products to ensure that whatever you’re absorbing into your skin is safe, natural, and nourishing.

But the relaxation doesn’t end there! Before or after your treatment, lounge in our relaxation rooms with a glass of champagne, decompress in the sauna or loosen up in the indoor, heated pool and hot tub. Make sure to stop in our spa boutique to shop for exclusive gifts and local goods!

What happens in our external environment affects us internally and at Namaste, we want to help nourish the body, calm the mind, and heal the soul. While you sit back, relax, let go of the outside world, cocooned in a warm robe with flickering candlelight, you are taking care of your physical health, skin health, mental health and more. Make self-care a priority, Namaste is waiting to welcome you.

“Hilton Head Island’s only outdoor massage experience by the ocean ”

Pamper yourself….One hour, or one day, any visit to our spa is time spent in paradise. Fountain Spa’s warm decor, serene relaxation lounge, soft music and pleasant aromas create a soothing atmosphere to receive the best personalized spa treatments by caring, professional and knowledgeable therapists. We have six treatment rooms, including a couples room to accommodate all your spa needs. Call us today to schedule your next spa treatment. Outcall services available in your home or villa.

Relaxation/Deep Tissue/Sports Massage

Ultimate Foot and Hand Massage

Hot Aromatherapy Oil Massage

Special Occasion Make-Up/Hair

ilike Organic Skincare Facials

Eyebrow/Eyelash Tinting

Table Thai Massage

Hot Stone Massage

Couples Massage

Pepper My Feet

CBD Massage

Organic Peels

Spa Packages

Body Wraps

Eyelash Lift

Ear Coning

Cupping

Waxing

it’s a dog’s life

ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND

by Jennifer Megliore

VACATIONS ARE FOR EVERYONE

Hilton Head Island is one of the most Dog-Friendly Vacation Spots In The World. Here’s just some of the fun reasons why:

• Walk the Beach, wet your paws, enjoy the waves Updated ordinances now allow off-leash play!

• Dine outside at our many Dog-Friendly Restaurants

• Meet new friends at the Dog Park

• Cruise Our Waterways ~ Dolphin cruise & kayaking

• Pet-friendly vacation rentals or hotels. Many of our finest are dog-friendly.

BEACH VISITING HOURS

October Thru March ~Anytime, on leash or Voice Control

April Thru The Thursday Before Memorial Day

10am-5 pm, On Leash, 5 pm-10 am, On Leash or Voice Control

Friday before Memorial Day Thru Labor Day

10 am-5 pm, Not Allowed on Beach

5 pm-10 am, On Leash or Under Voice Control

Tuesday After Labor Day Thru September 10 am-5 pm, On Leash 5 pm-10 am, On Leash or Under Voice Control Scoop Your Poop and properly dispose of, in approved containers. It’s illegal to allow pets to chase or harass wildlife.

KEEP THE OFF-LEASH FUN GOING

Hilton Head Island has its own dog park. It is in the Chaplin Community Park, located just off William Hilton Parkway between Singleton Beach Road and Burke’s Beach Road. The park is completely fenced and “double gated” so you will be able to let your dog off-leash as long as it’s not aggressive towards people or other dogs. Dog friendly water fountain, and lots of good shade.

The Rules are displayed at the Entrance.

Scoop Your Poop and properly dispose of, in approved containers

It’s illegal to allow pets to chase or harass wildlife.

delight in dining

HILTON HEAD ISLAND IS A HAVEN FOR FANTASTIC FOOD

Written by Hilton Head Island Vacation Directory

Beautiful beaches. Gorgeous weather. Fabulous food.

Hilton Head Island is home to many fantastic attractions, from golfing to boating, to shopping and festivals.

In-between all the fun, there’s a necessity to refuel. And our island has plenty of savory options.

There are nearly 300 restaurants on the island, with such a variety that everybody will be happy. Enjoy seafood, steakhouses, breakfast places, pizzerias, Greek cuisine, Italian and French food.

The options are endless.

Hilton Head Island hosts food-and-beverage festivals during the year that attract hundreds of visitors and some of the top talent in the area and nationally.

The island has plenty of restaurants where you can eat by the water and enjoy a wonderful view.

Skull Creek Boathouse, with its Dive Bar inside and Buoy Bar outside, offers fantastic views of Skull Creek. Or visit Poseidon, which has a rooftop bar that overlooks the cove, an oyster bar and dining outside.

Enjoy crab legs? Head over to The Crazy Crab at Jarvis Creek. They have awardwinning crab legs — and boast the largest saltwater fish tank on Hilton Head.

If oysters whet your appetite, then the Old Oyster Factory is the place for you. It was built on the site of an early 1900s oyster cannery and offers fresh-caught seafood.

One of the best views of Skull Creek is at Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks. Hudson’s uses one of only two remaining local fishing fleets on Hilton Head and has indoor and outdoor dining.

The island’s food options are also children and family friendly. The Salty Dog offers live music and has face painting and even some hula-hooping.

Fishcamp on Broad Creek has a full kids’ menu and has outdoor activities and fun games for the little ones.

And if you are visiting but absolutely need to see who’s winning the game, well, Hilton Head can feed your sports fix. From Hinchey’s Chicago Bar & Grill (check out all the memorabilia), Callahan’s Sports Bar and Grill (more than 25 TVs) and Club Seats Grille (pizza, wings, pool), the island will ensure you won’t miss a second of the action.

Hilton Head Island is home to a rich history, exciting activities and offers fun for everyone.

Enjoy!

At SERG, we are dedicated to providing our guests with quality cuisine, exceptional service and genuine hospitality at each of our award-winning restaurants.

At SERG, we are dedicated to providing our guests with quality cuisine, exceptional service and genuine hospitality at each of our award-winning restaurants.

SERG Restaurant Group believes in creating a totally satisfying and memorable dining experience for every guest, every time by maintaining a SERG commitment to excellence.

SERG Restaurant Group believes in creating a totally satisfying and memorable dining experience for every guest, every time by maintaining a SERG commitment to excellence.

We invite you to visit us at any one of our unique 17 locations across Hilton Head Island & Bluffton for the Lowcountry’s Best Dining, Shopping & Entertainment.

We invite you to visit us at any one of our unique 17 locations across Hilton Head Island & Bluffton for the Lowcountry’s Best Dining, Shopping & Entertainment.

LOWCOUNTRY DINING

AT ITS FINEST!

AT ITS FINEST!

PICTURED: SKULL CREEK DOCKSIDE

italy

MEETS THE LOWCOUNTRY

The elegant simplicity of southern Italian cuisine meets Lowcountry hospitality at Nunzio Restaurant and Bar. Chef and owner Nunzio Patruno hails from Puglia, on Italy’s Adriatic coast; his creative flair and embrace of quality and the regional bounty shines throughout the menu.

“The simplicity of Italian food comes from letting ingredients and flavors stand out,” says Chef Nunzio. “In the Lowcountry, there’s lots of pride in local ingredients and how they’re prepared.”

Traditional Italian dishes and desserts make use of what’s in season. The antipasti stand out, from the delicate grilled Spanish oc-

topus with Sardinian farro to Polpette di Nonna Angelina – grandma’s Pugliese style meatballs floating in tomato sauce. One constant is wine, for what is Italian food without it? Nunzio’s impressive wine cellar represents Italy and other winemaking regions around the world.

A warm, casual atmosphere prevails, from the bar and daily happy hour to early dining offerings. Nunzio Restaurant and Bar can host any special occasion, from a formal wine dinner to a wedding rehearsal or shower luncheon. Gift cards make it easy to treat family or friends to this gem on the Hilton Head Island dining scene.

“In the Lowcountry, there’s lots of pride in local ingredients and how they’re prepared.”

OWNER/CHEF NUNZIO PATRUNO, NUNZIO RESTAURANT AND BAR

New to Hilton Head Island’s dining scene is Nunzio Restaurant and Bar, which opened summer of 2019. The restaurant is run by the Patruno family, including owner and Chef Nunzio, his wife and business manager, Maribel and his brother and chef de cuisine, Angelo.

Nunzio Patruno says the restaurant’s modern vibe has been a great fit for the island’s visitors and locals wanting authentic Italian comfort food with a fresh twist.

“In Italy, it’s all very local – our food is based on the weather, the land and the seas,” says Patruno. “When things are mass produced, you lose some of the flavor.”

Patruno brings that Italian philosophy to Hilton Head Island, where he and his brother incorporate local and regional seafood and produce into both old and new recipes. The Patrunos grind their own meat, make many of their own pastas, and bake their own breads and desserts so that everyone gets a taste of

island winery

TOAST A LOCAL FAVORITE

From Dreams to Fruition: The Story of Island Winery

There is a secret garden on Hilton Head, with ancient live oaks, classic palmettos and other lush, Low Country vegetation serving as both walls and adornment. The picnic tables on this lovely half acre are spread out enough for privacy, but sit close enough to enjoy the drifting voices and laughter not swallowed by the trees. It’s an intimate spot, perfect for listening to live music, enjoying a picnic, gathering with friends and tasting exquisite local wines. A quaint red building overlooking the path to the garden appears to be a traditional barn. It isn’t. The inside is brand new, boasting a state-of-the-art ventilation system, high ceilings and large windows. This is Island Winery. The dream of this place began years ago, when Georgene and Loren Mortimer first met at Ithaca College, in

the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes Wine Region. Loren has a deep passion for world-class wines and Georgene grew up in a big, Italian family where winemaking is a way of life. “We should have known that winemaking was in our future when so many of our dates were in the region’s wineries and vineyards!” Georgene says with a laugh. In the spring of 2000, Loren and Georgene decided to turn their family pastime into a family business. They established the Westfall Winery at the Mortimer family’s historic Westfall Farm in Montague, NJ. Georgene made use of her background in biology and geology and her PhD in Environmental Science to refine their winemaking skills, and before too long, Westfall was producing award-winning wines.

Island Winery’s popular wine tastings begin with the opportunity to taste and learn about a wide variety of wines served by a knowledgeable and friendly staff. Its small-batch wines are handcrafted using freshly imported grapes from world-renowned vineyards, and their Low Country Specialty Wines are made from local grapes, fruit and honey. Once you’ve tasted their wines, you are invited to enjoy your favorites in the tasting room, on the patio or in the picnic area, which is pet and family friendly. You can even use a delivery app to bring Hilton Head’s finest offerings right to your table at the winery!

Whether you’re a connoisseur, curious to learn more, or you simply enjoy the occasional glass of wine with your favorite foods, Island Winery is not to be missed. You are all invited to its stunning new location at 15 Cardinal Road. There really is no better way to spend the day!

Sushi

AND SAKE FEST

Written by Anne Brophy Chetwynd

Should I sit at the sushi bar or at a table?

If you are interested in seeing sushi prepared or in talking with the chef, ask to be seated at the sushi bar. You can also enjoy fresh sushi at a table.

Are there any rules to follow when I order sushi?

The only “rule” is to relax and enjoy your sushi, but here are a few points that will help you feel comfortable at a sushi bar:

You may be offered oshibori (hot, wet hand towel) at the beginning of your meal to clean your hands.

• A serving plate with gari (pickled ginger) is placed in front of you.

• You order sushi directly from the chef. Drinks, soup, and other non-sushi items (including sashimi) are handled only by your server.

• Order your choice of sushi. You can also ask the chef what he recommends. You might want to start with light white fish, such as tai (snapper) or hirame (sole), and then progress to fattier types, such as toro (fatty tuna), or grilled selections, such as anago (sea eel).

• Gari (pickled ginger) serves as a palate cleanser. You may want to eat a few pieces between different types of sushi. Sipping green tea also cleanses your palate.

Should I eat sushi with my fingers?

It is fine to eat nigiri-zushi (hand-pressed sushi) with your fingers, especially if you are seated at the sushi bar. You will probably want to use chopsticks if you are sitting at a table in a formal setting. Sashimi is only to be eaten with chopsticks. Here are the steps to eating sushi:

• Pour a small amount of soy sauce in the dipping sauce dish.

• You may mix a little wasabi in the soy sauce if you like to spice it up.

• Pick up a piece of sushi, holding it between your thumb and middle finger with the index finger on top if you are not using chopsticks.

• Turn the sushi upside down and dip the tip of the fish side into the soy sauce.

• Pop the sushi in your mouth and enjoy!

Sushi dont’s

• Don’t put too much soy sauce in the dipping sauce dish. It’s better to add as you need it.

• Don’t dip a whole sushi piece into the soy sauce. The rice part tends to fall apart.

• Don’t pass food from one person to another with chopsticks. This is too close to the passing of a deceased relative’s bones at a Japanese funeral. Pass a plate instead for others to take food themselves.

• Don’t stick your chopsticks in your rice (or any other food) and leave them standing up. This brings to mind the symbolism of the Japanese funeral and prayers to ancestors.

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you want to say thank you to the chef in Japanese, “domo arigato” is a Japanese expression for gratitude. You could also say “gochiso sama deshita” as you leave, loosely translated as “thank you for your work for the great meal.”

HINOKI

is a beautiful and serene Japanese restaurant, serving fabulous world-class sushi, sashimi, and creative sushi rolls. The extensive menu includes a great selection of appetizers, such as tempura and teriyaki dishes to share, dumplings, Japanese soups and noodles. They also offer a variety of Combination Dinners with your choice of fresh seafood, steaks, chicken, rice and vegetables. HINOKI is a unique and delicious dining experience!

Benny Hudson’s lowcountry broil

There are three unwritten rules of Southern cooking. First, no selfrespecting Southerner uses instant grits. Second, Grandma’s recipe is law, no questions asked. And third, always make enough to share. Perhaps the third rule is the reason why the Lowcountry boil has been at the heart of local gatherings for generations; this dish has a way of bringing people together.

The big one-pot meal was allegedly invented by Richard Gay, the owner of a seafood company from a small town called Frogmore, who needed to make dinner for 100 of his fellow National Guard soldiers. That’s why the dish is sometimes called “Frogmore Stew,” though it’s not a stew at all: Lowcountry boil is made by simmering a combination of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes together, then seasoning the mixture and serving alongside cornbread and iced tea. While the ingredients are simple, the process of boiling such a large meal can be time-consuming, which is why we’re partial to making this dish a Lowcountry broil. While broiling is an unconventional cooking method, it’s more efficient and every bit as delicious.

INGREDIENTS: SERVES 4

1 ½ lbs. Small red potatoes, halved

1 ½ lbs. Andouille sausage, sliced ½” and Pre-cooked

4 ears of corn, cut in half

2 lbs. fresh shrimp, shell on or off

4 tablespoons of Benny Hudson’s shrimp and crab boil

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons melted butter

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a large bowl combine potatoes with 2 tablespoons of shrimp and crab boil and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Spread evenly on a lined cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes-turning the potatoes halfway thru.

Pour 2 tablespoons of butter and a tablespoon of shrimp and crab boil onto the corn haves and arrange around potatoes. Place back in oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Use remaining butter and shrimp and crab boil to baste onto shrimp and sausage. Add shrimp and sausage to corm and potatoes and stir all together. Return to oven and cook an additional 6-8 minutes or until shrimp are done and potatoes are crispy. Add some of Benny Hudson’s homemade cocktail sauce for dipping!

Tonya Hudson is owner of Hudson’s Seafood Market, known far and wide for selling the freshest and best seafood for over 5 generations. Find them at 175 Squire Pope Road, Hilton Head Island, 29926

a shining star

ON

Featured in Bon Appetit magazine and the winner of numerous Open Table awards (including Best Water Views on the Island), ELA’S On the Water is a shining star on the Hilton Head culinary scene.

Fresh catch seafood and prime cut steaks of the highest quality are artfully prepared by the ELA’S culinary team of experts, who are nurtured to embrace the restaurant’s “fresh catch” philosophy, yet free to bring their own ideas, ingredients, and creations to the menu. This results in innovative daily specials that are not only unique, but also carefully crafted.

High above Shelter Cove Harbour, overlooking the marina and Broad Creek, there’s history and some tradition about the location of ELA’S, site of the locally famous Harbourmaster Restaurant that ruled for nearly 20 years, followed by the Ocean Grille, a Lowrey Group restaurant, which was open from 2002 until 2010.

THE HILTON HEAD ISLAND CULINARY SCENE

Local owner, Earl Nightingale, respectfully passes a nod to the institutions of the past whose concept has allowed ELA’S to become what it is: a family operated destination restaurant in a great waterfront location, with architectural integrity, and a continuing reputation for quality and value.

The family part of ELA’S is very literal. In fact, the name itself is an acronym comprised of the first initials of the owners’ children, Erin, Lauren, and Alex. The “S” is for Sam, the son of a best friend of the family. Each member has played a role in the development and success of the restaurant as well as each of it’s sister restaurants including the newest addition, Celeste Coastal Cuisine (lowcountry favorites with a New Orleans flair) located mid-island, The Pearl Kitchen and Bar (contemporary southern inspired cuisine) located in Bluffton and Roadhouse Ribs located in Beaufort offering slow smoked barbecue celebrating regional southern styles.

ELA’S On the Water accepts reservations year round via website at www.elasgrille.com, telephone at 843.785.3030, or on opentable.com and is located at One Shelter Cove Lane. Simply follow HWY 278 to Mile Maker # 8.2 at Palmetto Dunes & Shelter Cove. Enter Main Shelter Cove Entrance and turn left on Shelter Cove Lane. ELA’S is located 1/2 mile down at the end of Shelter Cove Lane.

Open daily for dinner from 5pm to 10pm, and brunch every Sunday from 11am to 2pm, the chic yet casual intimate interior, wrap around dining patio exterior, and live entertainment provided by local recording artists (John Wasem, Reid Richmond, and Bill Peterson, among others) sets the perfect scene for a memorable dining experience on Hilton Head Island. Join us at ELA’S On the Water and let our family take care of yours.

weddings

ALL OCCASIONS AND

CELEBRATIONS

WEDDINGS | WEDDING RECEPTIONS | BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

RETIREMENT PARTIES | ANNUAL CELEBRATIONS | PRIVATE DINNERS

FAMILY REUNIONS | CORPORATE EVENTS | COOKING DEMOS

HERITAGE EVENTS | RECEPTIONS | ART SHOWS

ELA’S On The Water offers a unique waterview atmosphere for any occasion. With over 100 years of industry experience and knowledge, our chef and catering professionals are available to plan and guide you as you build your next special event. Private function space is available for dinners or receptions of 8 to 165 people. To inquire about private parties or off-premise catering, please call our Sales & Special Events Department at 843.785.3030.

Seated above Shelter Cove Harbour, exper ience Hilton Head Island s best kept culinar y secret

ELA’S On The Water features intuitive ser vice , locally sourced award winning cuisine , and stunning water views of Broadcreek Sound seven days a week.

Serving Dinner Daily @ 5 | Sunday visit elasgr ille .com | call 843.785.3030 | one shelter c

-- HOW TO ORDER

**When you TEXT your Order, please INCLUDE the following:

6. PLEASE LIST ORDER ITEMS WITH SIDES AND ANY SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

**You will receive a Text back with the price of your order and delivery ETA. Please have payment ready for the mobile wait staff in the form of VISA, MASTERCARD, DISCOVER, AMERICAN EXPRESS, OR CASH. NO PERSONAL CHECKS. Thank You!

We have 2 locations on Hilton Head, 3 in Blu ton and 1 in Charleston

We use only 100% all natural ingredients in every housemade favorite Whether you re a local or just coming for a visit, NYCP is a must eat!

NEW YORK CITY PIZZA has been a Lowcountry favorite since 1996. We have 2 locations on Hilton Head, 3 in Bluffton and 1 in Charleston. We use only 100% all natural ingredients in every housemade favorite. Whether you’re a local or just coming for a visit, NYCP is a must eat!

Make sure to visit our website, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram! Don t forget to use #Ilovenycp!

Make sure to visit our website, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram! Don’t forget to use #Ilovenycp!

NEW YORK CITY PIZZA has been a Lowcountry favorite since 1996. We have 2 locations on Hilton Head, 1 in Bluffton and 1 in Charleston. With the most all natural ingredients we are a family favorite everytime. Whether you’re a local or just coming for a visit, NYCP is a must eat!

Make sure to visit our website, “like” us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram! Don’t forget to use #Ilovenycp!

We are more than just Pizza! Everything is made from scratch everyday! From our outstanding pasta to our all natural sauce and hand pulled mozzarella! Let us make dinner tonight!

When CRAB collaborated with Southern Barrell brewmasters to make a New England Style IPA, there was little that could be done to keep the popularity bottled up. We are proud to see the partnership produce a beer that has a permanent lease on our menus. Find Southern Hayze at each CRAB location, on retail shelves, and on tap at the Southern tap at Southern Barrel Brewery.

Coastal Vodka & Coastal Coconut Rum

In the spirit of keeping it local, we’ve made some local spirits. Coastal Vodka and Coastal Coconut Rum are the key ingredients to our most popular featured cocktails, giving our drink menu a unique Lowcountry taste.

CRAB Pilsner

CRAB Pilsner is the fruit of friendship that dates back to childhood. All grown up and of legal drinking age, the partners in CRAB and Hilton Head Brewery made a decision to draft and a commitment to can, a pilsner so smooth it is the most widely distributed of our partnership products. Look for the blue can, the red crab, or the person holding a cold beer wearing a satisfied smile.

after dark

WHEN THE LIGHTS GO DOWN THE FUN HEATS UP

Written by Barry Kaufman

Hilton Head Island’s relationship with nightlife has always been somewhat odd by vacation destination standards. After all, this was a place geared toward daytime delights — golf, tennis, boating and sunbathing are noticeably less fun under the stars. And yes, the island more or less goes dark when the sun goes down, partially to preserve a sense of rusticism and partially to avoid endangering sea turtles.

But that devotion to the daytime doesn’t mean the fun has to end when the moon comes out. Far from it. In fact, even in its earliest days the island was known for its thriving nightlife. At tiny clubs like The Old Post Office, for example, visitors could rub elbows with celebrities while hearing some of the world’s biggest musical acts before they hit it big.

Today, that spirit of nocturnal adventure remains with clubs and nightlife dedicated to keeping the party going long after the lights go down.

Of course, one of the best ways to spend a night out is with a soundtrack of live, local music. And for a town as small as Hilton Head Island, it enjoys an outsized musical scene with a variety of sounds that could make any big city jealous. At The Jazz Corner, you can swing to the sultry sounds of jazz, blues, soul and R&B from some of the biggest names in the world. Consistently ranked as one of the best places in the country to catch a jazz show, The Jazz Corner is Hilton Head’s capital for cool.

For a night out that’s a little on the rowdier side, the Rooftop Bar at Poseidon has made its mark as a musical Mecca, with a rotating lineup of local and regional touring acts that run the

gamut from rock and hip-hop to techno and salsa.

A more soulful night of live music awaits at Kind of Blue, one of the island’s newest stages. Here you can experience the live shows that have made musicians like Reggie Deas, Sterlin Colvin and Bobby Ryder legends of the island’s music scene.

A little closer to the beach, The Big Bamboo made its name as an incubator for the island’s up-and-coming artists and a home stage for the long-time local mainstays. On any given night you can tap your toes to rock, reggae and more from a kaleidoscope of area acts.

And right on the water, the stage at The Tiki Hut plays host to a slew of the island’s most celebrated local acts like La Bodega, Shakey Bones, Groove Town Assault and JoJo Squirrell and the Home Pickles. If there’s anything that makes live music better, it’s a drink in your hand and your toes in the sand.

And if live music isn’t your thing, we can recommend a great spot for jaw-dropping magic and side-splitting laughter at Hilton Head Comedy Magic Cabaret. Owner and entertainer Kerry Pollock prides himself on the cabaret’s “funny not filthy” vibe, one that creates a night out for couples and families alike. Joining him on stage is a rotating lineup of nationally touring comedians ready to tickle your funny bone.

If your idea of a night out is showing your friends how smart you are, then you need to head to Cool Cats Lounge where “Man of the People” Matt Stock puts your brain to the test with his signature blend of challenging trivia and belly laughs.

One Hot Spot!

Ruby Lee’s offers more of what patrons of the north end location have come to love and expect in the past few years: delicious Southern cooking and a comfortable yet stimulating atmosphere that offers the perfect way to enjoy sports or outstanding blues, jazz and soul from local and regional artists.

pickleball phenomenon

FAST-GROWING SPORT HAS A HOME ON THE ISLAND

Written by Justin Jarrett

Considering that Hilton Head Island has a rich history with the game of tennis and a robust tennis scene that includes multiple world-class training facilities, it’s no surprise that the island has gotten caught up in the pickleball craze sweeping the nation.

Sometimes described as putting “tennis, badminton, and ping pong in a cocktail shaker,” pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, and Hilton Head was ahead of the curve. For years, public and private tennis facilities alike around the Lowcountry have been converting courts for dedicated pickleball play as the game’s popularity quickly grew with active seniors, young adults, and even kids.

Pickleball is played with oversized paddles and a softball-sized plastic ball that travels substantially slower than a tennis ball, making it easy for just about anyone to take the court regardless of experience with racket sports, but it can take a lifetime to master, so if you aren’t one of the nearly 5 million Americans already playing, you better grab a paddle now.

Spurred in part by people looking for safe social activities during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of players hooked on the addictive sport with the funny name grew nearly 40 percent nationwide from 2019 to 2021, according to a report from the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, making it the fastest-growing sport in America, and that spike has been evident on and around Hilton Head Island.

The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center is the epicenter for pickleball on the island with 24 dedicated courts — three times as many as it boasted in 2018 — all lighted until 10 p.m. for night play, and one of the most comprehensive instructional programs on the East Coast.

Just a few years ago, Palmetto Dunes was one of the few spots in the Lowcountry providing public access to pickleball courts, but that has quickly changed thanks to the efforts of the Hilton Head Pickleball Club, which governs open play six days a week at the Island Rec Center

for just $5 daily or $50 for a calendar year, as well as club member play at Hilton Head Park on Adrianna Lane.

Chaplin Park and Cordillo Court each have four lined courts available for free play on a first-come, first-served basis, though players must provide their own net at Chaplin Park. You can pick up a full pickleball set including a portable net, paddles, and balls for about $100 if you want to start honing your game and have equipment in tow to play during your vacation.

If you’re good enough, maybe you’ll try to go pro. It’s not a lucrative field yet, but professional pickleball is picking up steam and doesn’t show any signs of letting up. After merging with the Professional Pickleball Association’s VIBE league in November, Major League Pickleball expanded to 24 teams and kicked off its 2023 season in January,

and it appears poised to make a splash with bigname star athletes and celebrities investing in the ownership groups of several of the league’s teams, including former NFL quarterbacks Tom Brady and Drew Brees, former NFL receiver Larry Fitzgerald, Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps, supermodel Heidi Klum, and NBA superstars LeBron James and Kevin Durant, as well as a few retired pro tennis players.

And if tennis isn’t your game, don’t give up your pickleball dreams just yet. It’s a different game.

To wit, former ATP pro Sam Querrey, once the 11th-ranked player in the world, had played recreationally for five years before entering his first pro tournament. He lost his first-round matches in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.

Perhaps your own journey to pickleball stardom will begin with a vacation in South Carolina.

designed by golf’s greats

LOWCOUNTRY COURSES DEVELOPED BY MANY RENOWNED ARCHITECTS

Written by Edward Thomas

The emergence of golf resorts and recreation communities has transformed Hilton Head Island and its mainland neighbors Bluffton and Okatie into one of the most desirable destinations in America to vacation or reside.

That emergence has been spearheaded by golf courses designed by many of the world’s most renowned architects. More than one million rounds of golf are played here annually.

Jim Chaffin, one of the visionaries with the original Sea Pines Resort on Hilton Head, and more recently co-founder of the Spring Island nature-focused golf community in Okatie, credits the early recruitment of premier golf course architects to this area as the impetus that set this Lowcountry region apart from other destinations across the nation.

Chaffin was a top lieutenant to Sea Pines founder Charles Fraser. And, it is Fraser, more than any other single individual, who made Hilton Head Island what it is today.

Although Fraser wasn’t a golfer himself, Chaffin emphasizes he had the foresight that the best way for his new resort community to maximize the value of its heavily wooded interior acreage to its full economic potential was to start building golf courses.

Three years ago National Recreation and Park Association published a treatise about golf courses and their value to real estate development in the United States over the past half century. In their report the NRPA specifically points to “the highly publicized Sea Pines Plantation development of the 1970s” as the catalyst for the symbiotic relationship between golf and real estate that sparked the boom in courses during the latter decades of the 20th

century.

“Charles Fraser demonstrated that course construction could be designed to create extensive amounts of green space around which building lots could be wrapped; and they could be threaded through less attractive land to enhance its overall value,” it wrote.

Although Sea Pines had two George Cobbdesigned courses underway between 1962 and 1967

it was the resort’s dramatic launch of the Harbour Town Golf Links designed together by Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus in 1969 that was the tipping point that sparked the rush for securing top name architects.

The magnificence of the Harbour Town Golf Links has been universally recognized in the world of golf. It launched Dye’s brilliant career as one of the world’s top-five modern golf architects. Sports Illustrated called Harbour Town “nothing short of a

work of art.” The World Atlas of Golf named it the ninth best course in America and its 13th hole “the greatest 13th hole in the world.”

Today Sea Pines has four 18-hole courses — three public courses and one for members, while Hilton Head Island as a whole has 24 onisland championship courses crafted by top shelf designers – and if we include the courses in Bluffton and Okatie, the total exceeds 40.

South Carolina’s Tourism publication has gone so far as to pronounce the entire area “Hilton Head Golf Island” — taking note of not only the number of courses, but the quality of design as well with the credibility that accompanies names like Nicklaus, Dye, Robert Trent Jones, Tom Fazio, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer and the like.

Nicklaus, who has dozens of highly acclaimed residential designs to his credit, including two courses at Indigo Run on Hilton Head Island and one at Colleton River in Bluffton, has said: “a major element of my thinking when building for a developer is what the homeowner will view from his windows. The more value you create for the owner, the better job you are doing for the project overall.”

Among the Top 50 rated golf course architects with layouts here in the Lowcountry are:

Nicklaus and Dye: Nicklaus has four courses in this area since Harbour Town. Three are in private communities: Colleton River; and private (The Golf Club) and public courses (Golden Bear) at Indigo Run. The fourth is May River Club at the Montage Resort in Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton. Likewise, Pete Dye has additional courses here: the private Long Cove Club, built in 1980 and ranked No. 4 in South Carolina; Heron Point in Sea Pines Resort, ranked No. 9 in South Carolina; Port Royal’s Robbers Row (a re-design); the private Hampton Hall Club; and the private Colleton River course in Bluffton, which offers views of Port Royal Sound out to the Atlantic.

Robert Trent Jones and son Rees Jones: Robert Trent Jones, the father, built his one course in this area in 1966 at Palmetto Dunes. Rees, his younger son, has four exceptional courses including the ingenious 20-hole course at Haig Point on Daufuskie Island plus three in Hilton Head Plantation: The Country Club of Hilton Head, Oyster Reef and Bear Creek.

Tom Fazio: Named “Best Modern Day Architect” by Golf Digest three times, Fazio has five courses that run along the water’s edge on the north side of Highway 278 in Bluffton. One is in Moss Creek (Devil’s Elbow) and two each are in Belfair and Berkeley Hall.

Gary Player: Hall of Fame golfer and golf architect designed the first golf course in Hilton Head Plantation at Dolphin Head (semiprivate) and he also designed the original Hilton Head National public course, which is routinely ranked among the Top 10 public courses in South Carolina.

Arnold Palmer: The winner of the first Heritage Golf Classic tournament has designed more than 300 golf courses, and his best in the Carolinas is Old Tabby Links on Spring Island in Okatie. He has a public designed course at the Crescent Pointe residential community in Bluffton.

Davis Love III: He has earned his spurs as an excellent golf course architect with his Atlantic Dunes Course in Sea Pines, a remake of the Sea Pines Ocean Course. It earned 2018’s “National Course of the Year Award” by the National Golf Course Owners Association.

the beargolden golf club

JACK NICKLAUS

Some golf courses are known for a sensational signature hole. Some for challenge. Others for the sheer beauty of the locale. If strategy and finesse are what attract you, if you’re given to a competitive streak, or if you simply enjoy an easygoing round in a beautiful landscape of woodlands, water, and sand, try your hand at Golden Bear at Indigo Run.

The ideal combination of all of the above, on an island noted for exceptional golf, Golden Bear is a “must play” course among Islanders and visitors.

You’ll find no boneshattering holes on Golden Bear, but you’ll earn every par you make. Each hole of this Nicklaus Design 7014-yard course – as it winds masterfully throughout the pristinely elegant Indigo Run community – has a character all its own, but the common denominator is that each requires more thought than muscle. No.2, for instance – 551-yard par-5, and the longest on the course – begs temptation to cut the first corner, likely sending the ball into water hiding on the left. Then, there’s the approach shot – a very well-protected green which should give pause to the seasoned golfer before going for that birdie.

Golden Bear doesn’t set out to be “tricky”, but on every par-4 and par-5, look for the second shot to require a twist in strategy. From the tee on No. 5, a 373-yard par-4, the green extends well into the lagoon on the left. And although the fairway is generous, one could easily end up with the lagoon looming ahead of the green on the approach shot. Upon reaching No. 6, those generous fairways have suddenly become decidedly

more diminutive, yet the green is large. Now the task is straight and narrow – especially with a lagoon running down the entire right side – to cover the 444 yards to the flag. By the turn, the realization will have hit home that Golden Bear is an honest, traditional test of golf. No. 13, a 423- yard par-4, brings that realization to bear even more so. An abrupt dogleg left with a tight fairway requires the best tee shot of the day. And the well-guarded green – a fortress of bunkers and trees –demands an accurate approach shot. A birdie, even par, is a challenge, but not an impossibility… testament to the character of Golden Bear.

No. 18, a par-5, may be the best finishing hole on the island, where every desirable quality of the course – natural beauty, tradition, and challenge – comes together. It’s 527 yards to a double dogleg, left and right, then square off with a lagoon and a well-bunkered green framed by large pines and sprawling, moss-veiled oaks. However, upon reaching the green, at least one decision has already been made – you’ll be back to play Golden Bear again.

Golden Bear staff knows that the game of golf is so much more than a compilation of great golf holes, and begins your experience with a warm welcome, closes it with a fond farewell, and intersperses many magical moments of hospitality in between. It’s a philosophy mirrored on the course, in the plush comfort of the clubhouse, over food and drinks at Just Jack’s Grille, and is completely unlike any other golf experience you’ll have.

Golden Bear Golf Club is among Hilton Head’s best golf. The 7,014-yard, par-72 Nicklaus-designed golf course offers:

• Outstanding driving range & practice facility

• Ladies-friendly tees

• Corporate outings, tournaments & golf packages

• Full-service clubhouse and grille

• Four-star rating by Golf Digest

Located on Hilton Head Island, Highway 278, inside Indigo Run For a tee time, call 843.689.2200

Hilton Head national

The words: “The course was a joy to play” is heard most often as golfers finish their round at Hilton Head National Golf Club. This golfing gem has been heralded for more than 30 years as the best conditioned layout in the Lowcountry. It’s routinely listed among the Top 15 courses in South Carolina.

Distinctive Design

Hall of Fame Gary Player and course architecture award winner Bobby Weed each contributed their distinctive design philosophies here in ways that make every club in your bag important. Golfers will tell you: “it’s a course that’s challenging, but not punishing.” The opening holes offer several strategic risk-reward challenges: – in particular, the Signature 6th. The back nine is tighter, and rewards players with a good short game. Located adjacent to the brand new and exciting Hilton Head National Luxury RV Resort.

Gary Player Bobby Weed

JPGA journey

FROM INDONESIA TO HILTON HEAD ISLAND, JOSH SETIADI RELISHES GOLF ACADEMY EXPERIENCE

Written by Anthony Garzilli | Photos supplied

Josh Setiadi is not one to overthink things.

Whether it’s taking the SATs or fine-tuning his golf swing, Setiadi clears his mind and concentrates on going step by step.

It’s a focus that has helped him improve as a golfer and envision a career on the golf course and in business.

Setiadi, an 18-year-old at the Junior Players Golf Academy, credits the sport with helping him develop his calm approach.

“It’s changed me,” said Setiadi, just hours after completing the standardized college admission exam. “I’ve just become more patient.”

Setiadi is one of 32 full-time students at Hilton Head Islandbased JPGA, which aims to prepare golfers to compete in national-level tournaments and earn college scholarships. He attends JPGA-partner school Heritage Academy in the mornings until noon, then during the afternoon refines his game.

Since arriving from Indonesia in January 2022, Setiadi said he’s enjoyed his experience on and off the golf course.

From the strong curriculum and caring approach of Heritage Academy (“They prioritize the well-being of students”) to the individual instruction that forges personal connections at JPGA (“That helps you learn”), Setiadi has thrived.

He will graduate this spring and earned a scholarship to play collegiately at Erskine College. Golf wasn’t always his passion. In fact, after feeling pressured to play when he was young by his parents, Setiadi quit the sport.

Instead, he tried baseball. Setiadi played the outfield

and infield, but the sport just wasn’t right for him. On the weekends, during the height of COVID when the fields were closed, the coaches wanted the players to do workouts via Zoom calls

“I did not think that was fun,” he said.

A few months later, around October of 2020, he went to the driving range with his father. He started hitting golf balls. Sure, he had a baseball grip, but things felt right.

The swing wasn’t quite where it needed to be but by January, he competed in his first tournament and played relatively well, shooting in the high 80s, low 90s. He gradually improved to shoot in the mid-70s.

At the end of 2021 he heard about the JPGA through his father and became intrigued. Setiadi, who had been an exchange student in France and Brazil, figured coming to the island and the JPGA was going to be good for his golf game and education. His goal was to be an excellent student and play golf well enough to compete in college.

He said his grades were usually a B- or a C in Indonesia, but since arriving in America he said he’s not had a grade lower than 90.

And his golf game has certainly improved. Buoyed by a trusting relationship with head coach Adam Rushin, Setiadi said his swing is much better.

“When I first came here my swing was not good,” said Setiadi, who noted his swing was too big and his posture was poor. “Adam said, ‘You need to make big changes with your swing.’ ”

His swing has improved to the point where Setiadi now has a clear mind on the course.

“I don’t think about my swing on the golf course,” he said. “When I do that (think), I don’t do well. When I just do it step by step, it’s better and that’s because I’ve become more patient.”

He appreciates Rushin’s tutelage, especially since Rushin played on the PGA Tour and has won more than 20 professional events.

“I’m big in having a teacher that has experience,” Setiadi said. “He was on the Tour, he’s played tournaments. He’s had prior experience.”

The relationship with Rushin is not just about golf. Setiadi said they have a shared passion for cars, which is at the forefront of many conversations. He also appreciates the individual instruction.

“The coaches at JPGA think about you, it’s more of a personal thing,” Setiadi said. “Personalized coaching is one of the good things JPGA has.”

Beyond the golf instruction Setiadi said his JPGA experience is augmented by being around so many golfers from different countries and with different nationalities. The academy has fellow golfers from the United States and throughout the world: Asia. Europe. Canada. South America and Mexico.

It’s a cornucopia of different cultures.

“We understand the customs and what different people from different countries are like,” Setiadi said. “You learn a lot about different cultures. It’s great. If you have friends from those areas, you have friends from around the world.”

Setiadi hopes to eventually compete on the PGA Tour, but he plans to major in business management with an eye on learning more about the business of the sport. He understands the importance of building good relationships and making connections.The experience at JPGA has helped him learn a little about the golf business world from JPGA president and owner Keith Bach, something Setiadi values.

“I can learn from him,” he said. “He’s in a position where he knows what he’s doing, so I like to learn from people who have experience.”

After the grind of the SATs in early March, he figured he’d relax. For Setiadi, that meant getting some rest and playing golf. Practice, practice, practice.

Taking it step by step.

on the water

THERE’S A WATERSPORT FOR EVERYONE

Written by Barry Kaufman

Hilton Head Island has a multitude of ways for visitors to get out on the water. Local businesses offer rentals for the equipment you need, and many of them can provide instruction and guided tours to help make the most of your excursions.

The Lowcountry’s coastal waters are a year-round home for bottlenose dolphins and lots of other wildlife. Companies provide dolphin tours, sunset cruises and other opportunities to see these creatures in their natural habitats.

Visitors also can chart their own course by renting a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board to explore the island’s creeks, rivers and lagoons.

Kayak tours can be great family fun, with a chance to spot wildlife and capture the beautiful scenery.

Some stand-up paddle board tours can last two hours and explore the area’s wildlife and offer a nice opportunity to see birds or dolphins. It’s also a great way to get a little work out.

There are local fishing charters that cater to all experience levels, inshore and offshore, and some offer crabbing and shrimping excursions. More charters and rental companies provide sailing and yachting experiences, while pirate boat can provide

fun cruises for the kids. They often include costumes for kids and a search for treasure. Other businesses rent out fishing gear you can take over to the island’s many docks, piers and lagoons.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources reminds visitors that people should not feed or interact with dolphins in state waters. “This teaches animals to approach boats and docks, putting them at greater risk of a boat strike, and it is illegal,” DNR says.

If you’re looking for more speed, rent a jet ski, or try out water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing with a water sports company. Banana boat rides allow as many as six people to board a two-sided craft that trails a boat or jet ski.

To see the Lowcountry from a different angle, book a parasailing experience that can take you hundreds of feet above the water. Sailing high over the island, riders can take in bird’s-eye views of landmarks like Calibogue Sound, the Harbour Town lighthouse and Daufuskie Island.

At the beach, you can sign up for lessons and learn how to surf. Hilton Head’s smaller waves make it a good spot for beginners, experts say. Public beach access is provided at Alder Lane, Burkes Beach, Coligny Beach

Park, Driessen Beach Park, Fish Haul Beach Park, Folly Field Beach Park, and Islanders Beach Park.

Those who simply want to swim in the ocean can access public swimming areas at the Alder Lane, Coligny, Driessen, Folly Field and Islanders beach parks. The town of Hilton Head says its official beach season is April 1 to Sept. 30.

Only swim in designated areas and be aware of rip currents. “If you swim into a rip current (you’ll feel it pulling you out to sea),

don’t panic,” the town says. “Swim parallel to shore until you feel the pull stop. You can then swim back to shore.”

When you’re on the water, DNR says, be sure to keep a proper lookout, maintain safe speeds on water crafts, and heed no-wake zones.

Water and marshland make up more than half of Beaufort County’s acreage, so it’s no surprise there are so many things to do in and around all that water. It’s an essential part of the Hilton Head experience.

Dolphin & Nature Tour

Narrated 1-1/2 hour trip down beautiful Broad Creek past stately waterfront homes. See Dolphins and a variety of marine wildlife. Fun for all ages. Don’t forget your camera!

island head

RENTALS & TOURS

HIGH-FLYING PARASAIL OVER HILTON HEAD

Take flight on Island Head’s custom built parasail boat. This is a view like nothing else, soaring hundreds of feet over the water while taking in breathtaking views of the Harbour Town Lighthouse, Daufuskie Island, and all the way to Savannah, GA. This is one of the most unique tours Hilton Head has to offer. Tandem and triple flights are available based on weather conditions. Flyers also have the option to stay dry or get wet – will you make a splash? Time on board is approximately one hour and 30 minutes with a full boat of 12 passengers. Each flight lasts between 8-10 minutes. This tour is offered at Hilton Head Harbor.

EXPLORE THE LOWCOUNTRY ON YOUR OWN! BOAT RENTALS

Take in all the gorgeous sights as we offer one of the largest riding areas on the island. Enjoy a short idle time through the beautiful waters of Skull Creek when leaving from our north end location at Hilton Head Harbor or cruise through Broadcreek when leaving from our south end location at Broad Creek Marina. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for our famous Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. From there on, it is smooth sailing, as we allow you to travel to the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean, behind Daufuskie Island, through the Cooper River, or up the May River. Swimming at the the May River Sandbar is always a great option. Another remarkable experience is boating to lunch! Fantastic options are Daufuskie Crab Co. on Daufuskie Island or Buffalos at Palmetto Bluff. You will receive a professional orientation on navigating Hilton Head Island’s waterways. Pontoon boats have a capacity of 10 people, and the captain must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license. You will receive a professional orientation on navigating Hilton Head Island’s waterways, and don’t be afraid to ask for some superb lunch recommendations on the water. Pontoon boats have a capacity of 10 people, and the captain must be 18 years or older with a valid driver’s license. Offered at both Hilton Head Harbor and Broad Creek Marina.

PARASAILING. PONTOON BOAT RENTALS. KAYAK TOURS & RENTALS. DAUFUSKIE TOURS & GOLF CART RENTALS. PRIVATE SUNSET CRUISES. PADDLE BOARD TOURS. DOLPHIN TOURS. WATER SKI & TUBING CHARTERS. SUNSET CELEBRATION CRUISES. BEACH HOUSE RENTALS.

KAYAKING THE LOWCOUNTRY

Come experience a nature walk on the water with our guided kayak tours! Let your tour guide enrich your mind with historical and wildlife knowledge of Hilton Head Island. Paddle the ecosystem of our saltwater marshlands, observing bird wildlife, such as the brown pelican, egrets, herons, osprey, bald eagles, and many more. Get up close and personal with our beloved Atlantic bottlenose dolphins! Hilton Head is home to over 100 local dolphins, living here year-round, and is also located on the migratory path for these spectacular mammals. We have double and single kayaks available. This tour is great for all ages! No experience necessary! Located at Hilton Head Harbor.

DAUFUSKIE ISLAND FERRY AND GOLF CART RENTALS

Discover the beauty of Daufuskie Island at your pace with a golf cart rental. This tour includes a round trip boat ferry from Broad Creek Marina to Freeport Marina on Daufuskie Island. You will be dropped off at Freeport Marina where their staff with get you setup with your golf cart rental to explore Daufuskie Island. There is so much to see on Daufuskie Island from the secluded beaches, Daufuskie Island Rum Company, Bloody Point Lighthouse, Historic Gullah Homes, Maryfield School, The Iron Fish Studio, historic churches, Silver Dew Winery, and so much more. Once you finish exploring Daufuskie Island by golf cart, grab a seat at Old Daufuskie Crab Company to enjoy some food and drinks before boarding the return boat ferry back to Hilton Head. Don’t forget to ask for the famous Scrap Iron.

SUNSET CELEBRATION CRUISE

Enjoy all of the beauty the low country has to offer! Nothing beats catching a Hilton Head Island sunset from the water. Come aboard our brand new state of the art boat as we cruise the low country waterways as the sun fades away. Enjoy all of the beauty the low country has to offer

including the famous bottlenose dolphins. We have a bar on board that serves beer, wine, drinks, and snacks. This is a family friendly cruise.

PRIVATE SUNSET CRUISE ON HILTON HEAD ISLAND

The private sunset cruise is the perfect way to end a day on Hilton Head Island. There is nothing quite like a low country sunset, especially seeing one from the water were you can see the broad spectrum of colors such as vibrant oranges, reds, and multiple shades of pink. This sunset cruise is perfect for a romantic evening, family time, friends gathering, bachelor or bachelorette parties, team bonding, the possibilities are end- less. The boat holds up to 14 passengers. The captain will show you what the low country has to offer on this 2 hours private cruise. Offered at both Hilton Head Harbor and Broad Creek Marina.

DOLPHIN TOUR

Hilton Head’s most sought after tour! With a heavy population of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, this tour never gets old. Come aboard to go exploring throughout the low country to take in all the breathtaking views, find the wildlife, and learn fun facts about the low country. Offered at Broad Creek Marina.

PADDLE BOARDING THE WATERWAYS

Stand up paddle boarding focuses on creating core strength and stability as you float on top of the pristine water. Come walk on water with our experienced and knowledgeable stand-up paddle board guides. Learn the basic paddle techniques as we explore the beautiful calm waterways of Skull Creek. Navigate through the serene Lowcountry marsh ways as you encounter endless species of indigenous wildlife, including our Atlantic bottle-nose dolphin and many types of birds! Whether you are a beginner or an advanced paddler, this tour is for you! Bring the whole family for a gorgeous day!

Offered at Hilton Head Harbor.

WATER SKI AND TUBING CHARTERS

Come enjoy a day on the water with Island Head! This private experience includes a USCG captain to drive the boat and assist in the water sport of your choice. A tube, water skis, wakeboard, and knee board will be on board for your group to enjoy. This tour is private and custom to your group! The activities can be split up however you choose. Feel free to pack a lunch and drinks or we can pull off at a low country favorite, Old Daufuskie Crab Co. to grab lunch on the water. Our C-Hawk ski boat maxes at 10 passengers. All skill levels welcome!

HILTON HEAD AND DAUFUSKIE BEACH HOUSE RENTAL S

Check out of unique short term vacation rentals throughout the Low Country at Islandheadrentals.com

Call For Reservations: 843.686.4386 or Book Rentals & Tours Online at islandheadhhi.com

Book Beach House Rentals at Islandheadrentals.com

Two

REEL THEM IN

The fish that have anglers hooked

Anglers in and around the coasts of South Carolina’s Lowcountry are in a prime spot for top fishing. The seasons change but the catch remains topnotch.

Here’s a primer on which fish to look for when heading out on the water.

SPRING

Springtime is a good time for redfish, trout, sheepshead, black drum, cobia and flounder. Redfish in early spring will be prevelant as the waters warm and they look to feed. Speckled sea trout and flounder will come out more in the warmer waters. Generally speckled trout and flounder are found in the same areas as redfish.

Cobia, often 12 to 40 pounds, start to turn out later in the spring as the water nears 70 degrees.

This is also when we start to see Jacks, ladyfish and blues.

SUMMER

The warm waters bring out tarpon, sharks, redfish, flounder, cobia and mackerel.

This time of year is an excellen time to fish on Hilton Head Island.

Tarpon, generally 75 to 125 pounds, can be fast — and watch out for their jumping ability. Redfish and flounder are usually found around oyster bars, grass edges, and creek mouths.

Small bluefish, ladyfish and smaller jacks are often found together.

Keep a watch for amberjack, both inshore and offshore. They tend to flourish in warm water. Use baitfish to attrack amberjack.

Sharks are inshore in the sounds and Hilton Head Island boasts a variety of species (close to 20). They enjoy our warmer tempartures.

Bonnetheads, blacktip, Atlantic sharp nose, and lemon sharks are often found in our waters.

FALL

The waters begin to cool but remain warm enough to fish for redfish, trout, sheepshead and cobia.

The time of year offers plenty of food for redfish, speckled sea trout and flounder. Redfish tend to move deeper into inshore waters during the fall. Speckled trout are the most abundant during this season.

WINTER

Look for Bull redfish, sheepshead, black drum, sea bass, and trout.

The winter months are the months for redfish because they generally head south and are in abudance.

Redfish are often schooled together on the flats and creeks.

Offshore is a good time for Bull redfish, often found close to 15 miles off the island in large schools.

Some of the best fish each winter is the sheepshead.

Keep note that sheepshead have hard teeth and inside their mouths and throats they have hard crushers to crush crabs.

Sea Tip: Late morning and afternoon are the best times to fish during the winter,

FISHING LICENSE

South Carolina law requires all anglers over the age of 16 have a state fishing license to fish from shore, boat, private dock, free public dock or while wading.

A 14-day salwater license is $5 for residents and $11 for non-residents. Saltwater recreational fishing licenses can be purchased online or by visiting SCDNR license sales agents. Commercial fishing boats provide all their passengers with licenses.

For more, go to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources homepage, dnr.sc.gov.

SHEEPSHEAD

Body gray and nearly oval with five to six dark vertical bars and one on nape. No dark spot near origin of lateral line. Four broad incisorlike teeth on both sides of anterior jaw, several molar-like teeth also present. Dorsal fin has 12 spines and 11 soft rays. Second spine of anal fin very strong.

AMBERJACK

A brownish or bluish-grey back, a silvery-white belly and an amber horizontal strip along the middle of their body. Juveniles have a yellow color and five or six dark vertical bars along the sides.

BLACK DRUM

Deep-bodied, silvery-gray to dark gray with blackish fins. Young fish have four or five vertical black bars that disappear with age. Mouth inferior and horizontal, lower jaw with 10 to 13 pairs of barbels in multiple rows.

SEA TROUT

Dark gray above with bluish reflections. Numerous round black spots irregularly scattered on back and sides extend to soft parts of dorsal and caudal fins. Two large canine-like teeth at tip of upper jaw, all remaining teeth small, gradually increasing in size posteriorly on lower jaw. First dorsal fin with nine to 10 spines, second dorsal fin with one spine and 25 to 28 rays. Soft portion of dorsal fin without scales.

REDFISH

Iridescent silver-gray with a copper cast, darker above; one or more oscillated spots on upper sides from below soft portion of dorsal fin to base of caudal fin. Mouth inferior and horizontal, teeth set in bands on both jaws. Chin without barbels, smooth pre-opercular margin.

COBIA

Elongated body with dark brown sides and back, two sharply defined silver bands on sides. Broad, depressed head, with large, terminal mouth. First dorsal fin consists of seven to nine short, isolated spines not connected by a membrane. Long second dorsal fin with 27 to 33 rays. Upper lobe of caudal fin longer than lower lobe.

SOURCE: DNR.SC.GOV

the fun doesn’t stop when it rains

HEAD INDOORS FOR PLENTY OF ACTIVITIES

Written by Justin Jarrett

The folks on Hilton Head Island do everything they can to make your visit a delight, but we haven’t yet figured out how to control the weather. If you spend enough time here, you’ll learn coastal weather patterns — if you want to call this chaos “patterns” — can really throw you for a loop.

But don’t worry, we have found plenty of ways to pass the time on Hilton Head and in the surrounding area, even when a storm blows in off the Atlantic.

Rain can put a real damper on some of our favorite island pastimes, leaving your favorite golf shoes soggy or spoiling plans for a day at the beach or a peaceful bike ride, but we have plentiful options to spend the day indoors, regardless of whether you’re looking for action or relaxation.

FOR ACTION

If you came to hit the links but the weather isn’t cooperating, don’t despair, we have the next-best thing. The area boasts several options to take your golf game indoors — and virtual — and all of them serve food and drinks so you can make a day of it if the rain doesn’t let up.

• Chronic Golf + Games

59 New Orleans Road Building A, HHI

Come for the golf simulator that features more than 125 virtual golf courses, but stay to play 13 other virtual sports simulators including baseball, soccer, hockey, basketball, and zombie dodgeball, among others. (mychronicgolf.com)

• X Golf Hilton Head

1414 Fording Island Road Suite C-100, Bluffton

If you wanted to play Harbour Town Golf Links

on your trip but couldn’t get a tee time, just head a few miles off-island to Tanger Outlets and play the home of the RBC Heritage or one of 50 other worldrenowned courses including the Old Course at St. Andrew’s, Pebble Beach, and Bethpage Black on one of the high-tech simulators that break down all the metrics on every swing to help you hone your game. (xgolfhiltonhead.com)

• Palmetto Dunes Toptracer Range

Robert Trent Jones Course

If hitting into a virtual screen just doesn’t do it for you, there is a happy medium. The Toptracer Range at Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort’s Robert Trent Jones practice range and learning center includes 14 hitting bays under a sun- and rain-blocking awning, allowing avid golfers to analyze their swing using the same technology that tracks shot data on the PGA and LPGA tours. (palmettodunes.com/golf/toptracer-range)

If miniature golf is more your game, you can do that indoors, too. The Zone in Bluffton features an indoor mini golf course with a unique stock market theme, and the massive play place includes batting cages with HitTrax technology, a four-lane competitive ninja course, laser tag, an escape room, and more. (thezonebluffton.com)

Speaking of escape rooms, there are always several challenging puzzles on tap at Escape Room Hilton Head, where they offer a 10-percent discount to guests staying at local resorts. (hiltonheadescaperoom.com).

Or find more escape room options at Lockstar Escape in Bluffton, including a fan favorite, “The Rat Trap.” (lockstarescape.com)

If you have a need for speed that the 55 mph limit U.S. 278 isn’t enough to satisfy, head to Bluffton for indoor kart racing at K1 Speed. The European-style electric karts max out at 45 mph, but it will feel much faster on a closed track with the cup on the line.

While you’re in Bluffton, you can visit Station 300 for bowling and arcade games (station300bluffton. com) or swing over to Palmetto Axes and try your hand at axe throwing.

Anyone age 12 and over can try their hand, and coaches will help new throwers with their technique. You can even have a beer while you throw, if you’re that brave (palmettoaxes.com).

FOR RELAXING

If you have little ones (or grandparents) visiting with you, golf simulators, axe throwing, and kart racing might not be the best idea. Don’t worry, we have something for you to do on a rainy day, too.

For the younger set (and the forever kids), the Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum is a must. The “museum” feels like an indoor playground with each room containing new wonders that disguise learning as play and offer hands-on interactive experiences designed to allow kids to play freely while discovering their surroundings.

The centerpiece is a two-story sandcastle that includes a reading corner, shadow room, puppet theater, and dress-up area, plus a spiral slide to make a quick exit and check out the other interactive exhibits, including kinetic sand tables, an interactive Lego wall, and much more. (thesandbox.org)

For more of a traditional museum experience, but with a Lowcountry flair, spend some time at the Coastal Discovery Museum for a fun-filled learning experience that will reveal the wonders of this beautiful area in an engaging way for all ages. If you want to get up close and personal with the local culture or some of our native wildlife, Coastal Discovery’s Hands-On Programs include a sweetgrass basketmaking class, and opportunities to meet some of our reptile neighbors, including alligators! (coastaldiscovery.org).

If you’re feeling artistic, visit one of our many fantastic galleries on Hilton Head Island and in Old Town Bluffton — one of the local favorites is the Art League of Hilton Head Gallery located inside the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina in Shelter Cove — or try to light your own creative spark at one of our many create-your-own-art cafes where you can paint pottery or add your vision to a blank canvas.

MOVIE GOERS

And, of course, a rainy day is always a great time to catch a movie, and the area has four movie theaters.

• Cinemark Bluffton

106 Buckwalter Pkwy, Bluffton

The area’s largest theater is in the bustling Berkeley Place Shopping Center alongside The Zone and features Luxury Loungers and a beer and wine bar, plus an arcade room. (cinemark. com)

• Coligny Theatre

1 N. Forest Beach, Building I-5, HHI

Hilton Head Island’s first movie theater specializes in art house films by independent producers and also hosts concerts and other productions. (colignytheatre.com)

• Northridge Cinema 10

435 William Hilton Pkwy #15, HHI

Electric reclining lounge chairs with footrests, reserved seating, and an expansive food and beverage menu, including wine and beer, make this a perfect place to spend a rainy day on the island catching one of the hottest new flicks. (southeastcinemas.com)

• Park Plaza Cinema

33 Office Park Road #A232, HHI |

This quaint and quirky theater is a local favorite for its ultra-comfortable seats, full-service dining with an expansive menu and great selection of wine and beer. (mannsparkplazacinema.com)

That should keep you busy until the sun shines again and you can get back to the beach or the links.

pinckney island

NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Written by Anne Brophy Chetwynd

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge has been a nature and forest preserve for aesthetic and conservation purposes since 1975. A wide variety of land types are found on Pinckney Island including salt marsh, forestland, brushland, fallow field and freshwater ponds. In combination, these habitats support a diversity of bird, animal and plant life. Wildlife commonly observed on Pinckney Island include waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds, raptors, neo-tropical migrants, white-tailed deer and alligators, with large concentrations of white ibis, herons, and egrets.

History

The land was once part of the Major General Charles Cotesworth Pinckney Plantation. General Pinckney was a commander during the Revolutionary War, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, and a two-time presidential candidate for the Federalist Party in 1804 and 1808. The Pinckney family developed the island into a plantation, removing much of the maritime forest and draining and tilling the fertile soil. By 1818, the land produced fine quality cotton. From the 1930s to 1970s, Pinckney Island was a privately-owned game preserve.

The Pinckney Island Refuge includes Pinckney Island, Corn Island, Big and Little Harry Islands, Buzzard Island and numerous small hammocks totaling over 4,000 acres. But, Pinckney is the largest of the islands and the only one open to the public.

Wildlife viewing

The diverse habitats at Pinckney Island Refuge attract an abundance of wildlife throughout the year, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Over 14 miles of hiking and biking trails are maintained to provide access to all parts of the refuge. It is an important link in the chain of wildlife refuges along the Atlantic flyway, attracting thousands of migratory birds annually. The refuge also provides nesting habitat, called a rookery, for colonial wading birds such as ibis, egrets, and herons. There are over 250 species of birds nesting or migrating to the refuge. The most popular and colorful to see is the painted bunting, a common summer resident in the island’s brushy habitats. During spring and fall migrations, warblers and other migratory song birds are common among the live oaks and in the shrub/scrub habitat. variety of raptors, shorebirds, and wading birds call the refuge home year-round. The refuge is one of the best places to see breeding yellowcrowned night herons.

Mammals include white-tailed deer, red fox, and bobcat. American alligators are also abundant on the refuge, particularly in and around the freshwater ponds. Fishing is prohibited in the freshwater ponds.

Photography

Perhaps the fastest growing activity on Pinckney Island Refuge in the past 10 years has been wildlife photography. You don’t need to purchase expensive equipment or have any experience to get started. A small camera or basic cell phone will do just fine for most visitors.

The two-mile round-trip walk or bike ride back to Ibis Pond is sure to provide a wealth of photo opportunities; from shorebirds feeding in the salt flats to wading birds roosting in the Ibis Pond rookery.

Visitors willing to make the longer treks to spots like Dick Point and White Point will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the majestic Lowcountry.

Educational tours

Make a connection to the natural world and learn about the history and current management of the refuge through self-guided interpretive exhibits located in the parking area and along the main trail.

Guided interpretive programs are offered by local, trained, naturalist guides that can offer visitors a more enhanced experience by providing information on the natural resources and rich history of the refuge. Walking tours can be arranged through the Coastal Discovery Museum at 843-6896767 or coastaldiscovery.org.

Location

The entrance to the refuge is located between the mainland and Hilton Head Island off of Hwy. 278 on land bordered by Skull Creek (the Intracoastal Waterway) on the east, Mackay Creek on the west, and Port Royal Sound at its northern tip.

Source: .fws.gov/refuge/pinckney-island.

go off the grid

TAKE A FERRY TRIP TO HISTORIC DAUFUSKIE ISLAND

Written by Justin Jarrett

Daufuskie Island lies just a short boat ride from Hilton Head Island, yet it offers experiences not often found on Hilton Head Island or Bluffton.

Measuring five miles by two miles, or roughly onesixth the size of Hilton Head, Daufuskie is a small island — accessible by a 45-minute ferry ride — but it packs in plenty of sites and activities you’ll want to take in before it’s time to catch the boat back to reality.

Lucky for you, time seems to move slower on Daufuskie, which is full of history. The island includes the private Haig Point community (members only) — and the rest of the island, where Native American artifacts are often found on the island’s beaches.

The fun can be found on Freeport Marina. Eat and drink at the Old Daufuskie Crab Company — where you can unwind with a glass of their famous “Scrap Iron” sweet tea vodka and lemonade drink while you listen to live music and explore Freeport. There is a public beach that looks across Calibogue Sound toward Hilton Head.

There’s also a general store and some shops, including Wine & Woodworks, a quirky combination that captures the essence of the island.

If you enjoy adult beverages, Daufuskie has plenty to offer. The island boasts the Silver Dew Winery and the Daufuskie Island Rum Company, where they’ve served spirits to visitors from every U.S. state and more than 65 countries.

Another island-wide theme is artistry. Several unique galleries fill the island, including Iron Fish Gallery. It’s a great spot to visit, especially if longtime Daufuskie resident Chase Allen is holding court. He produces metalworks. If he’s not there, that’s OK, he accepts payment on the honor system.

You might also meet his wife, Rachel, either at the gallery or at the equestrian center, where she is the director.

You can rent a golf cart and explore the island’s dirt roads yourself or book one of a number of tours options, including one led by Daufuskie native Sallie Ann Robinson, founder of the Daufuskie Island Gullah Heritage Society. She is a sixth-generation Daufuskian.

Author Pat Conroy taught at the famed two-room Mary Fields School in the 1960s.

The school now houses two businesses — School Grounds Coffee and Daufuskie Blues, where organic indigo harvested on the island is used to create stunning and unique fashions.

Two restaurants — the Old Daufuskie Crab Company and Lucy Bell’s — serve up heaping helpings of fresh seafood, and the latter offers one of the finest iterations of shrimp and grits you’ll find anywhere in the Lowcountry. Even on a sweltering day, it’s served piping hot and hits the spot.

Visitors have two options to slip behind the gates of Haig Point, other than renting a room in the historic Strachan Mansion or the Haig Point Lighthouse.

Haig Point offers horseback riding via Daufuskie Island Trail Rides — one of the only places in the country where you can ride a horse on the beach — and has begun offering the public limited tee times on its renowned Rees Jones signature golf course.

If you want to get off the grid for a day — or a lifetime — Daufuskie is the place to do it.

GET ON THE BOAT

Ferry services from Hilton Head Island to Daufuskie Island.

• Haig Point Ferry – Private service runs 16 times per day for residents and guests of the private Haig Point community (haigpoint.com)

• Daufuskie Island Ferry Service – Public ferry departs from Buckingham Landing and Melrose Landing for four roundtrips per day (five on Friday). Daytime Visitors $49.50; Overnight Visitors $60.50 plus $12 per night per car parking; Children under 7 free (daufuskieislandferry.com)

• Daufuskie Difference – Departs from Broad Creek Marina and Freeport Marina for two round-trips per day. $49.99 for adults, $39.99 for children ages 3-12, age 2 and under free (daufuskiedifference.com)

EXPERIENCE THE daufuskie difference

It’s like time travel when you and your family spend a few hours on Daufuskie Island. You’ll observe nature in its most pristine, natural form as you journey to this magnificent, Daufuskie Island, where you’ll see dolphins swimming alongside your ferry boat. Once you and your family arrive on Daufuskie Island, you’ll experience the essence of a bygone era. A time when things were done simply and in an expeditious manner. When you visit Daufuskie Island, there is no need to stress about being lost or fighting traffic

when you embark on our island excursions by golf cart. You’ve got nothing but an open road ahead of you, friends. When you get hungry, the Old Daufuskie Crab Co Restaurant on Daufuskie Island provides the best seafood in the Lowcountry. Daufuskie Island has something for everyone to do, from visiting the Bloody Point Lighthouse and Silver Dew Winery to spending time on one of the most magnificent beaches you’ll see.

For more information on about the Daufuskie Difference here on Daufuskie Island, including how to book family vacation packages here on our magnificent island paradise that is unlike anything else you’ve ever experienced, please visit us online at www.DaufuskieDifference.com

DAUFUSKIE ISLAND IS A PLACE UNLIKE ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD

make a day of it

VISIT A FEW OF THE ISLAND’S NEIGHBORS

Written by Barry Kaufman

Bluffton

The State of Mind

Blessed with abundant natural beauty, centuries of intriguing history and a playfully artistic sense of fun, Bluffton has emerged as far more than just the island’s bedroom community. The lively streets of Old Town play host to a number of exciting events, and its grand waterfront park captures the sense with its stunning sunsets.

Take A Stroll Through Old Town

At the heart of Bluffton’s Old Town, you’ll find Calhoun Street, a wide thoroughfare that leads right to the river. Along its side streets you’ll see historic antebellum homes, plus a wealth of shops, restaurants and art galleries. There’s always something new to discover and explore, so plan your next trip while you walk.

Hit the River

The May River is the lifeblood of Bluffton, a pristine brackish stretch of sparkling water that hides a treasure trove of adventure and surprises. Book a fishing charter, kayak out to encounter friendly dolphins, or join the weekly part on the famous (or infamous) May River Sandbar along with a few hundred Bluffton locals.

Sample Local Produce

The Bluffton Farmers Market, held every Thursday, is a weekly celebration of the sights, sounds and flavors that make the Lowcountry unique. Martin Family Park hosts the market,

where you can browse everything from locally grown fruits and vegetables to hand-crafted artisan goods and fresh-baked bread while enjoying local music.

Immerse Yourself in History

One of a handful of buildings to survive the “Burning of Bluffton” by Union forces in 1863, The Heyward House now plays home to the Bluffton Historical Preservation Society. On its grounds you can experience what life was like in antebellum Bluffton, including fully restored slave quarters and a home that still bears the scars of war.

Sample the May River’s Famous Oysters

Once the single most thriving industry in the state, oystering carried South Carolina’s fortunes. Today, Bluffton Oyster Company at Bluffton Oyster Factory Park serves as the last oyster house on our shores. Sample a few of these famously delicious bivalves while watching fishermen and boaters come and go on the public dock.

Celebrity Sightings

Just down the forested road that leads to Savannah, Palmetto Bluff serves as enclave for celebrities and Southern gentry alike. Take in the mesmerizing beauty of the ruins of an early 20th century mansion on the waterfront or explore the immaculately maintained wilderness.

Beaufort

Jewel of the Sea Islands

A perfect balance of moss-draped old Southern elegance and vibrant coastal playground, Beaufort offers a wealth of options for an unforgettable day trip. Explore the timeless mystique of its stunning antebellum architecture or discover what has made this small town one of the hottest destinations on the southeast. Your only limit is your imagination.

Visit Historic Downtown

With its main street lined with stores and grid of streets winding away through centuries old homes, Beaufort’s Historic Downtown offers a little bit of everything that makes this town so special. Be sure your visit includes a stroll along Henry C. Chambers waterfront park, popping into the waterfront shops and restaurants along the way.

Take a Carriage Tour

Like any historic Southern town, Beaufort offers a bevy of options for exploration on carriage. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours not only let you soak in the scenery, they’ll introduce you to Beaufort’s fascinating history. Come for the drama of the city’s years during the Civil War, stay for the chilling ghost stories.

Sample the Cuisine

Beaufort’s culinary scene represents a crosssection of the epicurean traditions that have

made this coastal jewel sparkle. Taste the hickory smoke of authentic South Carolina BBQ, dig into a heaping bowl of Frogmore Stew or indulge in something a little more refined at one of the many fine-dining restaurants that dot the town. There isn’t a bad bite to be found.

Visit the Museums

With that rich history comes a wealth of museums, each highlighting a different fascinating aspect of the town’s lore. Inside the old Arsenal building downtown, the Beaufort History Museum examines the city’s early colonial history, its role in the Civil War and its emergence as a coastal destination. Over on St. Helena Island, the Penn Center offers visitors an unparalleled look into the vital history of African Americans in Beaufort. From its time as one of the first schools for the formerly enslaved to its indelible impact on the Civil Rights movement, Penn Center has played a massive role in history while offering a unique way to explore it.

Explore Hunting Island State Park

Just on the other side of the massive swing bridge over the Beaufort River, Hunting Island enchants with its beautiful beaches, pathways winding through serene woods and its historic lighthouse. Spend a few hours exploring or book a campsite and make a night of it.

The Hostess City

Just on the other side of the South CarolinaGeorgia border lies one of the most remarkable cities in the South, and possibly the world. From the cobblestone streets of the historic district to the lively arts, entertainment and culinary scenes, the Hostess City offers all the excitement of a big city with a small-town charm that’s undeniable.

Explore the Waterfront

Along the grand thoroughfare where the historic district meets the river, River Street is a multi-faceted destination for entertainment. Explore the back alleys and historic storefronts (with a drink in hand if you really want to do it right) or head up the river to the stunning Plant Riverside District, a world-class entertainment complex right on the water.

Visit the Spirits

In addition to being one of the world’s most charming cities, Savannah is one of its most haunted. Book a ride on the Ghosts and Gravestones trolley tour, the Creepy Crawl haunted pub tour or the Savannah Ghost Walks, or grab a table at the famously haunted Moon River Brewing Co., for a close encounter with one of the city’s more ghostly residents.

Take a Riverboat Cruise

The sight of a luxurious paddle steamer has been a hallmark of Southern sophistication for centuries, and Savannah still boasts a fleet that ply the Savannah River for regular tours. Enjoy a

dinner cruise, sunset tour or a casino night as you glide past river street, soaking in pure Southern elegance.

Explore Your Artistic Side

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has emerged as one of the leading art schools in the country, and a thriving arts community has spawned around it. Explore student works at some of the school-run galleries or take in the inspiration that abounds in the historic district’s Telfair Museums. Then, enjoy some Broadwaycaliber productions at one of the city’s many historic theaters.

Discover the Flavors of the South

While Charleston has long been viewed as the standard bearer for the South’s culinary renaissance, Savannah is quickly gnawing away at their lead. Whether your tastes run toward the elevated sophistication of The Grey, the celebrated hospitality of Lady & Sons or the award-winning fare at Wiley’s Championship BBQ, your next inspiring meal is just a few blocks away. Crave a burger? Green Truck Pub is a must.

Witness Sports, Savannah Style

One of the newest attractions to grace The Hostess City, a Savannah Ghost Pirates game at EnMarket Arena always makes for a fun night out, even if you’ve never been to a hockey game before. And the famous shenanigans of the always-outrageous Savannah Bananas have made them one of baseball’s must-see teams.

Savannah

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ACTIVITIES

Coligny Hilton Head – p.57-59

Dolphin & Nature Tour – p. 131

Golf Simulator – p. 122-123

Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum – p. 52-55

Island Head Rentals & Tours – p. 134-137, Back Cover

Island Winery – p. 82-85

Loggerhead Landing – p. 105

Mermaid of Hilton Head – p. 132-133

Papa Bear Charters – p. 141

Rain Maker Fishing Charter – p. 141

Salty Dog – p. 64-65

Sea Pines – p. 49, 52-55

Stray Cat Charters – p. 141

Sweet Pea – Sport Fishing – p. 141

Tanger Outlets – p. 2-3

The Daufuskie Difference – p. 150-151

The Island Golf School – p. 112, 117

DINING

Aunt Chilada’s Easy Street Cafe – p. 80-81

Benny Hudson’s Seafood Market - p. 98

Black Marlin Bayside Grill – p. 74-75

British Open Pub– p. 85, 120

Carolina Crab Company – p. 80-81

Celeste – p. 93

Charbar Co – p. 74-76

Chop House – p. 101

Coastal Restaurants and Bars – p. 80-81, 92

Coligny Hilton Head Island – p. 57-59

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse – p. 100

Ela’s On The Water – p. 94-97

Express Delivery - p. 104

Fish Camp – p. 80-81

Hinoki – p. 90-91

Holy Tequila Mexican Kitchen – p. 74-75, 77

Hurricane Bar – p. 74-75

Island Winery – p. 82-84

Loggerhead Landing – p. 105

Lucky Rooster – p. 86

Marleys Shrimp & Burger Shack – p. 74-75

Nectar Farm Kitchen – p. 74-75

New York City Pizza – p. 102-103

Nunzio – p. 1, 78-79

OKKO – p. 89

One Hot Mama’s – p. 74-75

Reilly’s Grill & Bar – p. 80-81

Ruby Lee’s – p. 108-109

Salty Dog – p. 64-65

Santa Fe Café – p. 99

Sea Pines – p. 49, 52-55

SERG Restaurant Group – p. 74-77

Slapfish – p. 86

Tanger Outlets – p. 2-3

The Crazy Crab – p. Inside Front Cover, 80-81

The French Bakery – p. 92

The Old Oyster Factory – p. 80-81

GALLERIES

Smith Galleries – p. 63

GENERAL

Benny Hudson’s Seafood Market - p. 99

Charter One Real Estate – p. 34-35

Coligny Hilton Head Island – p. 57-59

Dataw Island - p. 46-47

Hampton Hall - p. 44-45

Hilton Head Hospital – p. 160

Hilton Head Regional Healthcare – p. 4-5

Saint Francis Catholic School – p. 24-25

GOLF

British Open Pub – p. 85, 120

Golden Bear Golf Club – p. 118-119

Golf Simulator – p. 122-123

Hilton Head National – p. 121

Junior Players Golf Academy – p. 126-127

The Island Golf School – p. 112, 117

REAL ESTATE

Coast - p. 29

Cort Lifestyle Pros - p. 35

Dataw Island - p. 46-47

ERA Evergreen - p. 6

Hampton Hall - p. 44-45

SHOPPING

ArtWare – p. 71

B-Jack’s Deep South - p. 6

Camp Hilton Head Island – p. 51

Coligny Hilton Head Island – p. 57-59

Harbour Town Lighthouse Shop & Museum – p. 52-55

Heritage Fine Jewelry – p. Inside Back Cover

Island Child – p. 61

Island Winery – p. 82-85

Salty Dog – p. 64-65

Sea Pines – p. 49, 52-55

SM Bradford - p. 19

Smith Galleries – p. 63

Tanger Outlets – p. 2-3

SPAS

Fountain Spa – p. 69

Lux Medical Spa - p. 15

Namaste Spa – p. 66-68