Hilton Head in the Fall: 5 Fun Things to Do

Looking for fun things to do on Hilton Head in the fall? We’ve compiled our favorite fall activities in this post to help you enjoy the season to its fullest.

Summer is over. There are fewer tourists around, and the weather is slowly cooling off. While many people consider this to be Hilton Head’s off-season, it’s actually a magical time of year here on the island. Between the more relaxed pace of life and the mix of fun local events, it’s a great time to explore the Lowcountry.

Are you lucky enough to be here over the post-summer months? If so, here are five fun things to do in Hilton Head in the fall.

 

1) Hilton Head Pumpkin Patch

If you’re looking to get your family into the autumn spirit, check out Pumpkin Patch. This annual event, put on by the Island Rec Centre, is the perfect place for you and the kids to celebrate the fall harvest—and get a jump on Halloween. The celebration features pumpkin decorating, carnival games, a costume contest, and even a petting zoo.

This year’s festivities will take place on October 27th at Shelter Cove Community Park. Admission is free; all you have to do is show up between 4 and 8 p.m. to join in the fun!

 

2) Hilton Head Oyster Festival

The Lowcountry is known for its seafood, and our annual Oyster Festival is one of the best places to sample it. November 9th and 10th, you can enjoy the freshness of local oysters along with an abundance of fantastic entertainment and fun activities.

On Friday evening, attendees will gather at Shelter Cove Pavilion for steamed oysters—along with heartier fare, such as pulled pork, chili, and clam chowder. On Saturday, a steady lineup of live music will accompany the oyster feast. You’ll also find a sports lounge, kids’ zone, and a variety of pop-up shops. This is one event you won’t want to miss, so put the Oyster Festival high on your list of things to do in Hilton Head in the fall.

 

3) The Turkey Trot

Nothing says fall like Thanksgiving, and Hilton Head is a great place to kick off the festivities. Every year, island residents and visitors attend the local Turkey Trot event, which features a “Fun Walk” (5k and 10k races). Come out and get some exercise before your evening turkey coma—and support a good cause in the process (proceeds go to the Island Recreation Association’s scholarship fund).

The races start at the Dockside Restaurant parking lot at 8 a.m. on Thanksgiving day (November 22nd). Attendees are also invited to join the afterparty, which will feature free beer and snacks.

 

4) Try top Hilton Head restaurants

If you’re looking for things to do in Hilton Head in the fall, don’t forget to check out the local restaurant scene. While it’s far from cold here in the Lowcountry, slightly cooler temperatures make this a great time to enjoy some warm and savory fare.

Brunch lovers will appreciate the comforting breakfast staples at Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe. For BBQ, check out the Smokehouse or One Hot Mama’s American Grille. The Skull Creek Boathouse offers some incredible seafood options (including sushi and fish sandwiches), as does a recently-revamped Bonboras. Other standout options include Truffles Cafe (try the crab cakes or blackened fish), Vine (a Greenwich Village-inspired restaurant near Coligny Beach), and Santa Fe Cafe (for Southwestern fare).

 

5) Enjoy the outdoors

Most of the summer activities that residents and visitors enjoy on Hilton Head are just as much fun in the fall. In fact, the temperate weather may actually increase the appeal of spending the day outdoors.

Take a bike ride, hit the links (fall is a fantastic time for golfing), or explore the island’s scenic hiking trails. Check out a local fishing spot (there are a lot of redfish inshore right now) or take a dolphin cruise. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Hilton Head in the fall, so get out of the house and enjoy yourself!

 

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