There’s no better place to celebrate the 4th of July than Hilton Head Island. With sunny skies, warm ocean breezes, and a calendar full of family-friendly festivities, this coastal destination brings out its best red, white, and blue spirit. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a romantic getaway, or simply looking to enjoy the freedom of summer on your own terms, Hilton Head delivers.
From early-morning races to jaw-dropping fireworks over the marina, here's how to spend Independence Day in style.
Start Your Day with the Firecracker 5K
Kick off the morning at Honey Horn Park with the 41st Annual Hilton Head Firecracker 5K, the island’s signature Fourth of July fun-run. As the largest and oldest race in Beaufort County—and one of the top ten in all of South Carolina—this event draws families, runners, and walkers from all over.
Start time is 8:00 a.m., and the post-race celebration includes food trucks, kids’ activities, refreshments, music, and door prizes. It’s a high-energy way to get your heart rate up before a day of coastal relaxation.
Race Details:
- Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
- Time: 8:00 a.m. race start (arrive by 7:00 a.m.)
- Location: Honey Horn Park, 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Packet Pickup: July 3, 2:00–6:00 p.m. at Palmetto Running Company (28 Shelter Cove Lane, Unit 117)
- Awards Ceremony: 8:45 a.m. at the park pavilion
- Note: There is no race-day registration
Register in advance at RunSignUp to lock in your spot!
Don’t Miss the Harbour Town 4th of July Parade
Next, head over to Harbour Town to join in one of Hilton Head’s most beloved traditions: the Fourth of July Parade. Get creative and decorate your bike, wagon, stroller—even your pup—with patriotic flair. Registration opens at 8:30 a.m. in the Quarterdeck parking lot, and the parade begins promptly at 9:30 a.m.
Only the first 100 entries receive decorating supplies, so arrive early! After the parade, stick around for games, snacks, and family fun on the lawn during the Fourth of July Carnival.
Midday Magic: The Salute from the Shore
At exactly 1:00 p.m., look to the sky for a different kind of celebration. The Salute from the Shore is a moving aerial tribute featuring a lineup of F-16s from Shaw Air Force Base, C-17s, and vintage military aircraft. These planes make their way along the coast, ending their flyover above Hilton Head’s beaches.
Bring your beach chairs, wave your flags, and take in this patriotic moment with your toes in the sand and your eyes on the sky.
Family Fun at Shelter Cove HarbourFest
Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is the place to be on the evening of July 4. Their annual HarbourFest celebration includes live music from Shannon Tanner, performances at 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., and appearances from Cappy the Clown between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. Kids can enjoy face painting and balloon animals while parents grab dinner by the water.
The fireworks show starts just after dark, and it's nothing short of spectacular. You’ll want to bring lawn chairs or a blanket and claim your spot early—this is one of the most popular events of the year.
Sea Pines Fireworks Over the Harbour Town Lighthouse
Prefer a waterfront view with Southern charm? Head back to Sea Pines and watch the fireworks light up the sky behind the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse and Calibogue Sound.
Enjoy live music, food vendors, and the glow of sparklers as the sun sets. This event has a more laid-back feel than Shelter Cove but delivers the same wow factor.
Tips for Leveling Up Your 4th of July Weekend in Hilton Head
- Parking fills up early, especially near Harbour Town and Shelter Cove. If your vacation rental is nearby, consider biking; many of our homes and villas are within easy access to bike trails.
- Book dinner reservations well in advance if you plan to dine out before fireworks.
- Use your Beach Properties perks! Guests in our Travelers and Explorers Programs can enjoy bike rentals, golf, and dolphin tours—all included with select rentals.
Why Stay with Beach Properties of Hilton Head?
When you stay with us over the 4th of July, you’re not just close to the festivities, you’re set up to fully enjoy them. Our vacation homes, villas, and condos place you in prime locations like Sea Pines, Forest Beach, and Palmetto Dunes. From private pools to screened porches, beach gear credits to exclusive access perks, we make it easy to unwind between events.
And with fully stocked kitchens, designer furnishings, and extra touches like beach towels and starter supplies, you’ll feel right at home after a full day of celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spending the 4th of July in Hilton Head
Does Hilton Head do fireworks on the 4th of July?
Yes! The biggest displays happen at Shelter Cove HarbourFest and Sea Pines Harbour Town, both of which offer incredible views and family activities.
Where can I watch fireworks in Hilton Head Island?
Great spots include Shelter Cove Marina, the lawn at Harbour Town, and select beachfront areas. Be sure to arrive early for the best views.
Is July a good time to visit Hilton Head?
Absolutely. July is peak summer season, and while it’s warm, it’s also when the island hosts some of its most exciting events, especially over the 4th of July weekend.
Is the Firecracker 5K kid-friendly?
Yes! Many families run or walk the course together. There’s also a post-race celebration with kid-focused activities.
What time is the Salute from the Shore flyover in Hilton Head?
The flyover is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on July 4, 2025. Head to the beach for the best view of the military aircraft and vintage planes.
Are pets allowed at 4th of July events?
Some outdoor events like the Harbour Town Parade welcome pets, especially if they’re dressed in festive gear! Fireworks shows, however, may be stressful for pets—use your judgment, and check local event listings to see if pets are allowed.
Plan Your Hilton Head 4th of July with Us
Featured Property: 6 Lookout
From beachfront parades to sky-high fireworks, the 4th of July on Hilton Head Island is the kind of summer holiday people remember for years. But the best memories start with the right place to stay.
At Beach Properties of Hilton Head, we go beyond the basics. Our luxury homes, villas, and condos come with elevated amenities and exclusive perks like complimentary rounds of golf, beach gear credits, and local discounts from trusted partners.
And when you book directly through us—not a third-party site like Airbnb or VRBO—you avoid the hidden service fees that can add hundreds (or even thousands) to your total cost. The same property might be listed on other sites, but only we offer the best pricing, local expertise, and full access to everything that makes your stay seamless.
Need help planning your trip? Our team lives and works right here on the island. That means real answers from real people.
Book direct today with Beach Properties of Hilton Head and make this 4th of July your most effortless and unforgettable yet.