Hilton Head SC Natural Attractions ~ Dolphin and Nature Tours

Some of the activities on Hilton Head Island that you’ll want to be sure to experience can be found within the tranquility and beauty of the local Nature Preserves. The temperate climate and lush forestation make our region a veritable haven of natural wonders and delights. Thankfully, historic visionaries took steps to ensure that you will always be able to immerse yourself in Nature’s embrace without the noise, lights, and crowded conditions of modern society. For you bird watchers out there, the Preserves present the ideal opportunity to enjoy the best in South Carolina bird watching.

The Audubon-Newhall Preserve is comprised of a labyrinth of interconnected trails through 50 acres of pristine wilderness. Visitors are provided with an information and trail guide that will guide you through the incredible variety of trees, plants, animals, birds, and butterflies. Be sure and note one of its most treasured features, the rare pocosin or “raised bog” – at one time a characteristic feature of regional barrier islands.  Located off Palmetto Bay Road (South end of Hilton Head)

Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge provides hikers with over 40 miles of trails to explore on this 4,053 acre island. Visitors will enjoy the scenery and the fact that the refuge harbors several threatened and endangered species, including the Bald Eagle, the Wood Stork, the Flatwoods Salamander, and of course the popular American Alligator. You’ll also have the chance to see a variety of waterfowl, shorebird, and wading bird species as well as large concentrations of herons, egrets, and white ibis.  Entrance located between the Hilton Head bridges, William Hilton Parkway- HWY 278.  For additional info call Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex at 912-652-4415.

The Sea Pines Forest Preserve encompasses 605 acres that can be accessed via their 8 mile trail system. The trails are built upon the remnants of ante-bellum rice dikes from the 1840’s, as well as a myriad of 1950’s logging paths. The preserve’s staff has added boardwalks, bridges, observation decks, and fishing platforms for your added pleasure. Within the preserve there are also four small lakes to enjoy as well.  Guided nature walks are offered on a limited basis and self-guided tour brochures are always available.  Located in Sea Pines Plantation on Greenwood Drive, Call 843-363-4530 for more details.

All of these natural wonders are easily accessible from our vacation rentals, so you’ll be able to enjoy every minute when you stay with us.