Best Attractions Near South Forest Beach, Hilton Head Island
Discover the history, nature, and charm of the Lowcountry.
Explore Beyond the Beach
Hilton Head Island's south end puts you within an easy drive of some of the Lowcountry's best history, museums, and day trips. From Seaside Villas on South Forest Beach, you're 45 minutes from Savannah, under an hour from Beaufort and Parris Island, and about 2 hours from historic Charleston — close enough for a full day out and back before dinner.
Charleston's Historic District
Cobblestone streets, pastel row houses, and centuries of Lowcountry history make Charleston one of the most walkable historic cities in the South. It's about a 2-hour drive from Seaside Villas — plan a full day to explore the Battery, Rainbow Row, and the open-air City Market.
Fort Sumter & Harbor
Where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, Fort Sumter is reachable by a scenic harbor ferry from downtown Charleston. Combine it with a walk along the Charleston waterfront for a half-day history stop on your Historic District trip.
Parris Island Museum
Home to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, the Parris Island Museum traces over 300 years of Lowcountry and military history — free admission, about 45 minutes from Seaside Villas. It's a popular stop for families visiting a graduating recruit, or anyone interested in military history.
Beaufort Historic District
One of the South's most picturesque small towns, Beaufort is known for antebellum mansions, moss-draped oaks, and a walkable waterfront lined with local shops and cafes. It's about 45 minutes from Seaside Villas — easy to pair with a stop at the Parris Island Museum on the same trip.
Harbor Town
Home to the candy-striped Harbour Town Lighthouse and the marina at Sea Pines, Harbor Town is one of Hilton Head's most photographed spots. Climb the lighthouse for island views, then browse the waterfront shops and grab dinner overlooking the marina — about 15 minutes from Seaside Villas.
Coastal Discovery Museum
Set on the grounds of the historic Honey Horn plantation, the Coastal Discovery Museum offers walking trails, live animal exhibits, and exhibits on Hilton Head's natural and cultural history. It's a relaxed, family-friendly stop with free admission, just minutes from South Forest Beach.
Savannah Historic District
Savannah's famous squares, oak-lined streets, and riverfront district make it one of the most charming cities in the Southeast — about 45 minutes from Seaside Villas. Walk River Street, tour a historic home, or just wander the shaded squares with a coffee in hand.
Mighty Eighth Museum
This Savannah museum honors the WWII airmen of the Eighth Air Force with immersive exhibits, a restored B-17 bomber, and personal veteran stories. It's a moving stop for history buffs, easily combined with a Savannah day trip.
Celebration Park
A short walk from Seaside Villas near Coligny Plaza, Celebration Park is Hilton Head's community green space — open lawns, a splash pad for kids, food trucks, and regular live music and events throughout the season. A great, low-key evening stop after the beach.
Side Hustle Beer Co.
A local craft brewery with a laid-back taproom vibe, Side Hustle Beer Co. is a favorite stop for visitors looking to sample South Carolina-brewed beer in a casual, dog-friendly setting. A relaxed way to spend a rainy afternoon or wind down after a beach day.
Your Basecamp Awaits
Stay just minutes away from the best attractions Hilton Head has to offer.