Hilton Head Sunsets: Top 8 Must-see Island Locations

Hilton Head sunsets spots rank among the best along the East Coast. With a location on the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway, it doesn’t take visitors long to discover why. After all, the words ‘ocean’ and ‘sunset’ seem synonymous with paradise. To help find where to go, we rounded up the best places for Hilton Head sunsets. Whether looking for a place to socialize before the day’s end or a quiet retreat, this list has travelers covered.

Hilton Head Sunsets: Popular Locations

Harbour Town and Lighthouse

Perhaps the most famous spot in Hilton Head, Harbour Town houses the island’s lighthouse and museum, which attracts thousands of people annually. The red-and-white structure guides ships into the Yacht Basin, providing a place to see both sunsets and boats. Climb to the top to see the sunset, then head to the gift shop to buy a unique piece to take home. Guests also find a variety of restaurants, shopping and events in the area.

Shelter Cove

Located off the Intracoastal Waterway, Shelter Cove features a marina that has more than 15 acres of slips and boats. This spot offers guests opportunities to rent boats and get on the water to see uninterrupted Hilton Head sunsets. Those who would rather sit awhile can watch sunsets from one of many viewing areas. Also, make sure to visit one the on-site restaurants for a fresh meal.

Palmetto Dunes

Across the street from Shelter Cove visitors can stay in Palmetto Dunes. This popular resort area offers vacation rental homes, professional landscaping, golf, swimming and more. Instead of venturing out, guests can watch a sunset from the comfort of their vacation home. For some people, there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting on the balcony enjoying the view.

Skull Creek Marina

Known for Southern hospitality and friendly vibes, Skull Creek Marina offers additional boat options and sunset viewing. Whether arriving via boat or car, the marina welcomes visitors to walk on the docks, sit awhile and meet locals. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, complementary bicycles, and showers and restrooms.

Hilton Head Sunsets: Remote Locations

Dolphin Head Park

This best place to see Hilton Head sunsets is located in Hilton Head Plantation, a gated residential community. Dolphin Head Park offers beach access, picnic areas and playgrounds, so guests enjoy a beach-side dinner while waiting for the sunset. Benches are also scattered throughout the area for those who want to watch with someone special.

Folly Field Beach Park

Another more remote spot is the Folly Field Beach Park. Along with beach access, guests have access to a boardwalk, outdoor showers, restrooms and beach matting. This beach park welcomes families to play all day, then unwind as the sun sets, or simply stroll the shore. Folly Field Beach Park is seldom overcrowded and known as a “locals beach.” Additionally, those staying in Folly Beach can walk to the park.

Sea Pines Forest Preserve

The 605-acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve features four different habitats where visitors admire sunsets as well as natural areas. The four include: forest, freshwater wetland, wildflower meadow and lake/pond. Visitors can explore the preserve via foot or horseback before settling into a sunset viewing spot. While visiting, stop at the Indian Shell Ring, a 4,000-year-old native American village.

Pinckney Island Refuge

Home to wildlife and multiple islands, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Reserve offers a scenic and quiet place to enjoy Hilton Head sunsets. Measuring more than 4,000 acres, visitors can tour Pinckney Island, which is the largest island and the only one open to the public. In addition to sunsets, guests see birds, deer and alligators. Expert advice: Bring the camera because the refuge also serves as a top spot for nature photography.

Learn more about Hilton Head Island, and start planning your escape. Need more things to do? Discover the top Hilton Head activities.