Hilton Head Neighborhoods, Locations and Districts

(Hilton Head, South Carolina - SC, USA)

The largest of South Carolina's barrier islands, Hilton Head Island is a playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Hilton Head Island is loosely broken into four districts, the North End, South End, Mid-Island and mainland Bluffton districts.

Each location and district of Hilton Head Island has its own unique character and attractions, and there are also a few small offshore islands that complete the Hilton Head region's geography.

Bluffton

While not actually located on the island, Bluffton acts as Hilton Head's de facto downtown district, as the island itself has no single central district for business, government and entertainment. Bluffton is also the only point on the South Carolina mainland that is connected to Hilton Head Island by bridge. This town has undergone extensive redevelopment in recent years and is a pleasant blend of old and new. The quaint old Southern buildings and churches now rub shoulders with chic shopping, dining and entertainment areas, while the picturesque shoreline has charming marinas and sandy beaches.

South End District

Hilton Head Island's South End district is the bustling resort section of the island, with plenty of trendy shops, quality accommodation and great restaurants. The beaches here are among the best on the island and many of Hilton Head's water sports facilities are based here. Prices tend to be steeper in the South End district of Hilton Head Island, as the bulk of the temporary accommodation is based here.

North End District

North End is the area of Hilton Head Island that is connected directly to Bluffton by bridge and as such is where the majority of the city's private housing communities are located. This mainly residential area has some great facilities, including the magnificent South Carolina Yacht Club at Windmill Harbor, which has direct access to the Intracoastal Waterway.

Mid-Island District

Hilton Head's arts scene is centered on Broad Creek, an inlet that almost splits the island in two at its middle. Here you will find plenty of upscale marinas, businesses and Hilton Head Island's vibrant fine and performing arts venues. The mid-Island district is the closest Hilton Head Island has to a downtown area, but it lacks the range of facilities available in Bluffton. On the east coast of Mid-Island are some of Hilton Head's best golf courses.

Daufuskie Island

Step back in time on this island gem, which is accessible only by water and lies between Hilton Head Island's southern tip and the South Carolina mainland. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Daufuskie Island by ferry from Hilton Head. The island's charming villages and untouched wetlands remind you of what Hilton Head must have been like before the developers arrived, although there are some gated communities on the island.