2025 Hilton Head Island Nature Spots Guide

The completely wild and uniquely pre-historic Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is a fascinating natural adventure for cyclists, hikers, nature photographers, and anyone who wants to discover the untamed aspects of this otherwise well-developed region of coastal South Carolina.

The gorgeous Mitchelville Freedom Park, also known as the Fish Haul Creek Park, is a unique little property that is undergoing a transformation designed to properly honor the site's significant, historic roots. As the original location of one of the first freed slave communities in the country, and currently serving as a haven for migrating and permanent shorebirds, the site will appeal to a wide range of interests. Take a stroll along the long wooded boardwalk through the woods, or head to the rocky beach that changes its entire landscape every few hours, and see why this stunning up-and-coming attraction is one of Hilton Head Island's current best kept secrets.

The unique waterfront community of Hilton Head's Harbour Town features a world of activities that are sure to wow and engage visitors of all interests, all while providing a spectacular view of the neighborhood's "harbor," and the adjoining Calibogue Sound.

Mitchelville Freedom Park is a deeply meaningful and historically rich destination that offers both a scenic natural setting and a powerful connection to America’s past. Located on the northern end of the island near Port Royal Sound, this park sits on the site of what was once Mitchelville—the first self-governed town for formerly enslaved people in the United States. Today, the park honors that legacy while providing a tranquil space for education, reflection, and recreation.

Veterans Memorial Park is a quiet and reverent green space dedicated to honoring the service and sacrifice of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Located near Shelter Cove, the park provides a peaceful setting where visitors can reflect, remember, and pay tribute to veterans past and present within a thoughtfully designed landscape.