Here’s how to find fun and adventure off the beaten course
Golf widows take heart — if you’re visiting the lowcountry april 13-19 with a fairway fanatic but couldn’t care less about the Verizon Heritage yourself, there’s plenty to see and do that doesn’t require a club or a tee time.
Here are some suggestions:
Take the Red Trolley Tour
This 2 1/2-hour tour departing from the Hilton Head Island Welcome Center gives you an overview of the island. You’ll pass by a variety of landmarks and historic areas and get a glimpse of residential developments along with a 20-minute stop for shopping in Harbour Town. Reservations can be made by calling the Hilton Head Island Welcome Center at (843) 689-6302. the cost is $30 for adults; $15 for children ages 4-12; children younger than 4 are admitted free.
Kayaking on Jarvis Creek
Join a certifed guide for a closer look at the salt marsh. Venture into creeks and inlets to view local wildlife, such as wading birds and dolphins. The excursion requires a minimum of three participants; no children younger than 5 are permitted. Prepaid reservations are required through the Coastal Discovery Museum, $27 for adults, $25 for children ages 5 to 12 with an adult. For more information, call (843) 689-6767, ext. 224. Palmetto Bay Water Sports at 86 Helmsman Way also ofers boating excursions. Call (843) 785-2345.
Pinckney Island by bicycle
Learn the history of the island from the prehistoric inhabitants to Constitution signer Charles Cotesworth Pinckney. helmets, bikes and guides are included. Cost is $30 per person; riders must be 13 or older. Reservations are required through the Coastal Discovery Museum at (843) 689-6767, ext. 223 or www.coastaldiscovery.org
Get Crafty
Visit the Craft Cove at The Sea Pines Resort Beach Club to join in on a variety of craft activities for adults and children alike. Call (843) 842-1979 for schedule and pricing.
Freshwater fishing
Fish for large mouth bass, catfsh, and bream in The Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve. Supplies are provided for catch and release with fshing tackle provided by shakespeare. The cost is $13 per adult/$10 per child (12 and younger) for guests of the Sea Pines Resort, and Sea Pines property owners, otherwise the cost is $14 per adult/$11 per child (12 and younger). Reservations are required. Contact Carlisle Baker, cbaker@seapines.com
Horseback riding at Lawton Stables
Enjoy one-hour escorted western-style rides on trail-trained horses through the 606 lush acres of the Sea Pines Forest Preserve just across from lawton stables. These rides are available to adults and children 8 years and older. Call (843) 671-2586 or visit www.lawtonstableshhi.com.
Have a Spa Day
There are many spas on Hilton Head Island. Two to consider are FACES DaySpa and The Sanctuary. FACES promises a vacation within a vacation, ofering massages and make overs. Call (843) 785-3075 or visit facesdayspa.com. The Sanctuary also ofers artistry in relaxation; call (843) 842-5999 or visit sanctuaryeurospa.com.
Be amazed by the azaleas
Visit Six Oaks Cemetery, the site of the old Lawton Plantation home in the Sea Pines Resort. Over 12,000 azaleas were originally planted, and many more since, giving Six Oaks the highest concentration of azaleas in the Lowcountry outside of commercial tourist gardens. Call (843) 671-1343 to arrange a gate pass.
