Want an authentic Hilton Head ecological experience? Don’t miss out on these 5 must-see spots.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
Pinckney Island, located between Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, SC, attracts over a quarter of a million visitors each year. This easily accessible island offers a range of wildlife-dependent activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. If you’re a fan of fishing, you’ll be happy to know that saltwater fishing is permitted in the surrounding waters. And for those interested in hunting, there is an annual one-day deer hunt held in the fall.
The Refuge offers a variety of opportunities to explore and enjoy the great outdoors from sunrise to sunset. You can hike, bicycle, observe wildlife, take pictures or go saltwater fishing.
Pinckney Island is a crucial stop along the Atlantic Flyway for thousands of migratory birds each year. This sanctuary is not only a haven for these feathered travelers, but also serves as a rookery for colonial wading birds like ibis, egrets, and herons. In addition to protecting birds and other wildlife from disturbance, a “no dogs” policy is in place. www.fws.gov/refuge/pinckney-island.
Jarvis Creek Park
Located off William Hilton Parkway on Jarvis Creek Road, this 53-acre park includes a large pond and one-mile walking trail around the lake and workout stations. The lakeside paths extend out into wooded areas. The paved trail offers wooden bridges over marshy areas.
There is abundant wildlife along this short and paved adventure. Be mindful of alligators lounging on the banks of the lake and watch these amazing creatures from a safe distance. This is a great trail for birding and offers solitude during quieter times of day. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Dogs are welcome. www.hiltonheadislandsc.gov/parks/JarvisCreek.
Audubon Newhall Preserve
Come explore the beautiful Audubon Newhall Preserve, a 50-acre nature sanctuary located on Hilton Head Island. The Audubon Newhall Preserve is a 50-acre nature preserve located on the south end of the Island. Managed by the Hilton Head Island Audubon Society, a non-profit organization, this preserve protects the native forest ecosystem and provides a space for recreational and educational activities.
With a network of interconnected trails totaling about a mile, visitors can easily navigate and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, the Preserve offers something for everyone. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, the Preserve welcomes visitors of all abilities. The wide paths and boardwalk are accessible for those with mobility challenges, and there are benches along the way for rest or observation. Be sure to check out the observation deck, where you can view the diverse wildlife that lives here.
Even furry friends are welcome at the preserve, as long as they’re leashed. Please clean up after your pets to help maintain the pristine environment. www.hiltonheadaudubon.org/audubon-newhall-preserve.
Majestic Honey Horn
The sprawling, majestic Grounds and Gardens are a beckoningly beautiful location adorned with 68 acres of exploratory trails and floral designs throughout the property.
Starting at the Discovery House, a mile-long nature trail winds past some of the oldest structures on Hilton Head Island. Three wooden boardwalks extend into the Jarvis Creek salt marsh, while fact-filled interpretive panels guide you. They offer information about our salt marshes and how Gullah Native Islanders relied on this rich ecosystem for food and commerce.
In the summer, you will be enchanted by the region’s only native butterfly enclosure and experience the life cycle of local butterflies. In the winter, you will fall in love with the Camellia Garden, which has over 130 different varieties in bloom from November to April. www.coastaldiscovery.org.
Sea Pines Forest Preserve
For five decades, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve has remained a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. With 605 acres of untouched beauty, this sanctuary boasts bridle paths, wetland boardwalks, bridges, and fishing docks. This expansive preserve, nestled within the Sea Pines Resort, offers countless opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in its breathtaking landscapes.
Embark on a guided boat tour, go on a thrilling horseback ride, set out on a fishing expedition, or take a relaxing wagon tour. If you prefer to go at your own pace, simply grab a map and meander through the trails.
If you are not a resident or guest of the Sea Pines Resort, you will need to pay a gate fee to enter. www.seapines.com/experiences/amenities/forest-preserve.
