4 free things to do in Hilton Head

If you are planning a vacation in Hilton Head, SC, you don't need to break the bank! This charming island is home to a number of activities and you can make the most in with the following things to do in Hilton head.

Hilton Head is a quiet, quaint beach town beloved by lone travelers, families and retirees alike. Named after Captain William Hilton, who founded the island in 1663, it still retains much of its original, small-town charm.

Before exploring Hilton head, you might be interested to know about The Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. It is managed by a federal commission made up of local representatives. The Corridor extends from Wilmington, North Carolina in the north to Jacksonville, Florida, in the south. This Corridor protects, bolsters, and showcases the century old Gullah/Geechee culture which remains in the region, and its relation to the overall history of plantations, slavery, abolition and emancipation in the South. From reconstruction to the depression, the Gullah lived in the Sea Islands of the isolated coastal settlements along the southeastern US, including Hilton Head Island.

There is never a shortage of things to do in Hilton Head. Activities range from water fun like surfing and fishing, to the visit to the museums. Here's a list to follow if you want to explore the Island:

•    Coastal Discovery Museum

The Museum is a great destination for families as well as for those who appreciate history! Dedicated to the culture and art of the Low Country, this unique museum is positioned on a beautiful 68-acre property. Highlights of the museum include the Marsh Tacky horses (which is a rare breed native to South Carolina), carnivorous plants, butterfly house, scavenger hunt, and a children’s room. Admission to the Coastal Discovery Museum is free, although visitors can make donations when required.

•    Fort Howell

Visiting Fort Howell is one of the other interesting things to do in Hilton Head. This historic fort was by the Union Army during the Civil War to defend the newly formed town of Mitchelville, which was home to former slaves. Constructed in 1864 by the 32nd United States Colored Infantry Regiment, this fort was made up of African American troops from Pennsylvania. Today, visitors to the site can explore the remains of Fort Howell and learn about its fascinating history.

•    Coligny Beach

Trip to Hilton Head is not complete without soaking up in the sun! Coligny Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sunny days because it does not have any admission fee and a free parking lot across the street. This beautiful beach offers outdoor showers, restrooms, seasonal lifeguards, volleyball courts, porch swings, and a splash pad for kids.

•    Lawton Stables Petting Zoo (Admission to Sea Pines is Required)

Animal lovers can include this visit in their trip to the wildlife refuge. The Lawton Stables Petting Zoo in Sea Pines Plantation has admission to the stables’ small animal farm with zero cost but Sea Pines charges a daily admission rate of $6 per car. Young children can thoroughly enjoy seeing the horses, pigs, alpacas, donkeys, goats, deer, chickens, and other friendly critters.

When you stay in the various property rentals and resorts, you will be near all of the best free things to do in Hilton Head.