10 Sources Come to Similar Conclusion When Evaluating Hilton Head Island

Sometimes referred to as the second largest barrier island next to Long Island, the shoe-shaped Hilton Head Island is home to several amazing beaches and golf courses as well as a vast array of wildlife. For us insiders, when evaluating Hilton Head Island it’s easy to conclude that it is simply a bit of paradise in the Lowcountry.

But don’t take our word for it. Better yet, check out what others have said:

1. Ranked #1 in Conde Nast Travel’s Top Islands in the United States

It was announced in October 2017 that Hilton Head Island got the top spot in Conde Nast Travel’s Reader’s Choice Awards for Best Islands in the US. A total of 300,000 readers have submitted their ratings and comments about their recent travel experiences of the different cities, islands, hotels, resorts, cruise lines, airlines, and airports in the world and Hilton Head Island emerged as the number one island.

According to Bill Miles, President and CEO of Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, this award has a tremendous brand value considering the competitive nature of the travel industry and the numerous options today’s travelers have to choose from. “This coveted third-party endorsement of our destination, from two of the most upscale media outlets in the marketplace, speaks volumes about the overall cachet and health of the Hilton Head Island brand.”

2. Ranked #1 in Travel + Leisure’s Top 10 Islands in the Continental U.S.

In July 2017, Hilton Head Island took the number one spot in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards in the Top 10 Islands in the Continental U.S. category and number 2 in the world. This is the second time Hilton Head Island bagged the U.S. award.

Travel + Leisure magazine writes about Hilton Head Island:

“Here, there is something for everyone who wants to be outside – and all activities can be reached by bicycle. Golf lovers dream of courses like those offered here, while wildlife fans can observe the loggerhead sea turtles, bottle-nose dolphins, and birds who have the good sense to call Hilton Head Island home.”

3. Ranked #2  in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Top 10 Islands

Hilton Head Island not only is a popular destination in the U.S. It has also gained recognition in the international scene. Aside from being ranked #1 in Travel + Leisure’s Top 10 Islands in the Continental U.S., it also got the #2 spot in the travel magazine’s World’s Top 10 Islands.

4. Ranked #7 in Travel U.S. News’ Best Family Beach Vacations in the USA

Travel U.S. News named Hilton Head Island as one of the best family beach vacations in the USA. According to the website, families should go to Hilton Head Island because it is perfect for those who want to slow down. You’ll find miles of beaches here: From the quiet Fish Haul Creek Beach, the ever-popular Coligny Beach or the numerous locations in the gated communities. For a break from the sands, take a stroll (or bike ride) through Harbour Town and climb to the top of the lighthouse.

5. Listed in Marie Claire’s 8 Best U.S. Cities to Visit this Spring

Not only is Hilton Head Island a go-to destination during summer. In March 2017, it was included in Marie Claire’s list of 8 best U.S. cities to visit during spring.

According to Marie Claire, although Hilton Head Island is known as a summer destination because of its beaches, the spring provides a respite from the crowds and fair temps to enjoy the breeze on the shore. “Seasonal businesses open back up around this time, and you’ll have 12 miles of sandy beach for your enjoyment – think kayaking, sailing, or just lounging around with a good book.”

6. Listed in Reader’s Digest’s 15 Top Trending Summer Travel Destinations in the U.S.

Staying true to its reputation of having lovely beaches, Hilton Head Island was included in Reader’s Digest’s 15 Top Trending Summer Travel Destinations in the U.S. It was also named America’s favorite island.

“There are 12 miles of beach on Hilton Head, and that is just the beginning of what to do while vacationing,” says the Reader’s Digest article. It listed golf, tennis, and horseback riding through a nature preserve as alternatives to the beach. It also says that since there are over 250 restaurants around the island, visitors don’t have to worry about their next meal. Lastly, it mentions one unique activity that visitors can’t find anywhere: “interacting with the local reptiles.” Now, that is going to be a real adventure.

7. Listed in Coastal Living’s 2017 Happiest Seaside Towns in America

Vacations should be happy…and Hilton Head Island is a happy place. In fact, it was listed in Coastal Living’s 2017 Happiest Seaside Towns in America.

Here’s Coastal Living’s description of Hilton Head Island:

“A true slice of South Carolina Lowcountry heaven for people who love to play outside in the year-round mild weather, this barrier island just 12 miles long and five miles wide is home to 24 world-class golf courses (and 350 tennis courts). It’s also home to a strand of spectacular beaches (Hilton Head Island Beach was the state’s most Instagrammed place in 2016) and preserved land throughout the island that serves as habitat for rare and endangered species. That playground vibe complements the town’s sophisticated food and culture scene, making for a perfect cocktail of graceful, southern living.”

8. Listed on Fox News’ Best Mother’s Day Vacation Spots in the South

Now, if you’re looking for a place to spend special occasions like Mother’s Day, Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to be…or so says Fox News.

Around May this year, it was included in its list of the best Mother’s Day vacation spots in the South. According to Fox News, the clean and quiet beaches of Hilton Head are one of the main things that moms will love. “You won’t find huge partygoers on the beach here (alcohol is prohibited on the public beaches), which is great for families looking to safely enjoy the sand and the ocean with their little ones.”

9. Named IAGTO’s International Sustainable Golf Destination of the Year

Aside from beautiful beaches, Hilton Head Island is also well-known for its excellent golf courses. In fact, the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) has recognized Hilton Head Island for the second year in a row. This year, it was named as the first International Sustainable Golf Destination of the Year. Last year, it was awarded the Golf Destination of the Year for North America.

Says Bill Miles, Hilton Head Chamber’s President and CEO, “What sets Hilton Head Island apart is not only our long-standing tradition of golf but the unique environment in which we play the game..and the commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our destination. It’s what makes it a place that visitors and those who love the game of golf return to again and again.”

10. Listed in The Knot’s 10 Luxury Destinations for a Passport-Free Honeymoon

Not only is Hilton Head Island for families, beach lovers, and sports enthusiasts. It is also for lovers. The Knot magazine featured Hilton Head Island as one of the 10 Luxury Destinations for a Passport-Free Honeymoon. The magazine chose Hilton Head Island for its “Lowcountry lifestyle”.

According to The Knot, even though the island is just an hour from the neighboring city of Savannah, “it feels as if you’re miles and miles away from bustling city streets.”

“The landscape is lush and encroaches on the three tropical pools that overlook the ocean. Enjoy a topnotch spa, world-class golf, and Southern charm – or just fade away into your happily ever after.”

So…is Hilton Head Island really that great? We think so. The numerous reviews and awards say it all.