Harbour Town

Insider Tip

Take a drive to South Beach Marina at the southern tip of the island, just south of Harbour Town. The marina is home to water sports, the famed Salty Dog Café, and a beach as expansive as a desert at low tide. – Carmen DeCecco

Introduction to Harbour Town

Hilton Head's Harbour Town district, nestled within the gated Sea Pines Resort community, is renowned for its iconic candy-cane-striped lighthouse. This lighthouse, often featured in television ads and local postcards, is not the only attraction; you’ll find elegant yachts anchored in the marina, luxurious rental properties, and the Harbour Town Golf Links, which hosts the esteemed RBC Heritage golf tournament.

Harbour Town Restaurants

Harbour Town boasts several popular dining spots, including Harbour Town Bakery & Café, Harbourside, and the newly renovated Quarterdeck. The Quarterdeck, situated next to the lighthouse, offers a first-floor bar and dining area, in addition to a rooftop oyster bar providing splendid views of the water.

Things to Do in Harbour Town

Enjoy the Sunset and Live Music

After dining, take a leisurely walk toward the water, especially during sunset, which is particularly enchanting. In the summer, enjoy live music under The Liberty Oak at the Harbour Town Yacht Basin.

Shopping

Harbour Town offers a variety of shops where you can purchase anything from souvenirs like postcards and T-shirts to home decor, fine apparel, and local artwork.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors often highlight the charming community and relaxed atmosphere of Harbour Town. A simple walk by the water and a meal can provide a full experience of the ambiance. Climb the 114 steps to the top of the lighthouse for splendid views of the marina, the 18th lawn of the Harbour Town Golf Links, the Calibogue Sound, and Daufuskie Island. Several cruises, boat tours, and dolphin-watching excursions also depart from Harbour Town.

Exploring Sea Pines Community

If interested in exploring more of the Sea Pines community, which encompasses 5,000 acres, consider renting a bike to traverse its 15 miles of bike-friendly trails. Besides the iconic lighthouse, Sea Pines features horse stables, tennis courts, three golf courses, a 605-acre forest preserve, and water sports rentals.

How to Get to Harbour Town

Harbour Town is located in the "toe" of the island. As it lies within Sea Pines – a private, residential community – a cash entrance fee ($9 for standard vehicles) is required. However, guests of the Sea Pines Resort receive complimentary access passes for the duration of their stay, and many businesses reimburse the gate fee for purchases above a certain amount. The Harbour Town Lighthouse opens daily from 10 a.m. to sundown, and climbing to the top costs $6.25 (free for children 5 and younger). For more details on visiting and activities, visit Harbour Town's page on the Sea Pines Resort website.