Discover the magic of Christmas lights on Hilton Head Island!
From brilliantly lit shops to festive parks ideal for family photos, nativity scenes, and even Santa himself—you’ll find everything to capture the holiday spirit. While the island may not bring the frosty chill of December, it more than makes up for it with an abundance of holiday cheer. If you’re visiting Hilton Head this season, don’t miss these dazzling destinations.
Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Each year, Shelter Cove Towne Centre transforms into a festive wonderland with over 100,000 dazzling lights and a stunning 28-foot Christmas tree in Shelter Cove Park. Whether you choose to admire the display from your car or take a leisurely stroll to fully enjoy the sights up close, the experience is magical. The center’s shops are beautifully decorated, inviting you to step inside and soak up the holiday spirit. Don’t forget to snap some photos with the life-sized nutcrackers, the charming sleigh, and, of course, the breathtaking tree.
Shelter Cove Marina
Don’t miss the magic of Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina this December! Admire the dazzling “Coastal Christmas” boat lights, explore charming locally-owned boutiques and galleries for holiday shopping, and savor the flavors of seven waterfront restaurants open for the season. Whether you’re soaking up the Lowcountry vibes or snapping a photo at the glittering marina light display, there’s something special for everyone. Don’t forget to share your holiday spirit by tagging your photos with #ShelterCoveChristmas!
Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue Station #3
Since 2007, the firefighters at 534 William Hilton Parkway have been lighting up the holidays with their festive decorations. What started as a small display has grown into a dazzling spectacle that draws as many as 14,000 cars filled with holiday cheer. Featuring bright lights and whimsical displays, the firefighter’s Christmas lights perfectly capture the magic of the season. If you’re looking for lights, make sure to swing by the station and enjoy this annual holiday tradition.
Harbour Town Marina
Harbour Town transforms into a magical wonderland at night, with the lighthouse and shop-lined paths beautifully illuminated and their dazzling reflections shimmering on the water. For kids (or the kid at heart), there’s no shortage of animated fun—think snowmen, trains, and Santas lighting up the area with festive cheer.
South Beach Marina Village
It’s called the “Island’s Greenest Tree on the Island.” The South Beach’s Marina Village’s waterfront tree is solar and wind-powered. The Village showcases light-covered canopies and decks and, at the center of it all, a baby Jesus surrounded by wise men. Stay for holiday treats and drinks by the firepits and soak up the season.
Lowcountry Celebration Park
Lowcountry Celebration Park sparkles with festive lights and holiday cheer with the Town’s official 30-foot-tall Christmas tree. See the 10-acre park’s huge live oaks dressed in white lights and the park’s perimeter of palms. It is truly magical.
The Village at Wexford
Wooden toy soldiers will greet visitors as they enter the center and an assortment of cozy shops and restaurants, tastefully lit up for the season. In November, the Village at Wexford becomes a gingerbread trail with house and all.
Legendary Golf
Want to putt-putt in a winter wonderland? Over the miniature greens of Legendary Golf, there’s a mantle of green, but the grounds are covered in colorful lights. It’s a family fun activity and a light display!
Dove Street
This is the granddaddy of them all. The “OG” if you will. The Dove Street Festival of Lights has been a cherished holiday tradition for 30 years, bringing a joyful and vibrant light display to Dove Street on Hilton Head Island. Just about every inch is covered with color and holiday cheer. Beyond its dazzling decorations, the festival supports the community by raising funds for local charities through online donations. Dove Street is off N. Forest Beach Dr., just down the road from Coligny Circle and Coligny Plaza. (Sorry there’s no photo in the post, but pictures really don’t do it justice. You GOTTA see it in person).
