Really though, there’s only two things you need to know about Hilton Head Island: You can get nearly anywhere here by bike, and that we love to eat.

Etched by more than 100 miles of pathways, six miles of bike lanes, and 12 miles of packed beach trails, you can explore Hilton Head Island’s lush landscape easily and endlessly by bike. But don’t just take our word for it: the Island is an American League of Bicyclists Gold Level Bicycle Friendly Community.

Hilton Head Island is a fantastic destination for seasoned cyclists. Join a local biking club for one of their weekly group rides. Learn about Hilton Head Island’s history of Native Americans, The Civil War, and more, on a tour offered by the Heritage Library Foundation. Burn rubber—and feel good doing it—knowing you’re contributing to the Island’s eco-tourism and conservation efforts.

Not so nimble on the bike seat? No worries, Hilton Head Island’s diverse terrain doesn’t discriminate—you don’t even have to own a bike! There are 30 bicycle rental shops with 15,000 bikes for rent, all waiting for adventure. And, procuring your rental is just as convenient as touring around on it. Most rental companies will drop off your wheels at your accommodation and pick them up there, too – it couldn’t be easier to explore the Lowcountry than by bike.

We don’t know about you, but we generally plan our sightseeing around meals, so once you grab your wheels, why not set out on a taste and see tour of Hilton Head Island? With a two-to-one ratio of restaurants to bike paths, you won’t have to pedal far when hunger strikes. Depending on your travel style, you can choose to let the Island’s natural beauty direct your journey, or open up our Bike Path Brochure and plan the parks, beaches, and eateries you want to explore. 

CENTRAL

Most of Hilton Head Island’s restaurants start mid-island at Mathews Drive, and increase in number and variety as you head “on-island.” Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite at a café as you head towards the Island’s south side, settling in for a charming evening of live entertainment, or looking for some Southern cuisine after a sunset ride, a trip down William Hilton Parkway is sure to better acquaint you with the Island’s culinary heart.

SOUTH

At the end of this main cycling artery, Sea Pines Circle offers dozens of restaurants handily clustered along several bike paths. Be transported to Europe with a selection of menus that range from classic French fare to authentic Italian eats.

EAST

A journey east towards Coligny Beach provides both upscale and casual spots serving up fresh seafood and regional delights. Cafés, diners, delis, gastropubs, and eclectic eateries all color the landscape of this seaside park area.

WEST

Moving west towards Palmetto Bay Marina, you have your choice of a nice variety of offerings to keep all members of the family happy. Try breakfast at a café overlooking the marina or soak up the local hospitality with some Lowcountry cuisine.

NORTH

As you head North towards Hilton Head Plantation, keep your appetite up. In this more “local” part of the Island, Coastal pubs and restaurants offer sublime seafood lunch specials and stunning dockside views.

Of course, with a handy basket at the helm of your bike, restaurants aren’t your only option for dining. Park yourself in the sand with a bucket of peel-and-eat shrimp for an authentic al fresco experience. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn at any of the two dozen town parks. Or, plan your day around one of the area’s many culinary events.

The world is your oyster (or shrimp, or crab…) when you’re exploring Hilton Head Island by bike. Dive into more Island inspiration with Lowcountry Life and start planning your Island getaway today.

The post Guide to Biking and Dining on Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

We’re featuring ten of our favorite wildlife Instagrams, taken right here on Hilton Head Island by visitors and locals alike. Be sure to bring along your camera on your next wildlife spotting expedition, hashtag your pic #LowcountryLife, and it may be featured in our next wildlife photo roundup!  

Loggerhead Turtles

 

A post shared by P.R. Frank (@theprfrank) on Jul 5, 2015 at 5:46pm PDT

Somewhere over the rainbow, on Hilton Head Island, you may just find an endangered loggerhead turtle. These giant turtles can weigh over 400 pounds, and are known to nest on the Island, coming onshore to bury their eggs in the sand. If you’re visiting during nesting season (usually early May to the end of October), make sure our outdoor lights are off and your blinds are shut after 10pm if your vacation home is near the beach. Turtles might mistake bright lights for the moon, which can disorient them on their journey home.

Bald Eagles

 

A post shared by John Chardine (@chardinephoto) on Mar 24, 2016 at 6:31am PDT

We love the wet and wild look of this bald eagle. According to the photographer, this one decided to take a quick bath by the side of a road. For your own chance at seeing one, plan a visit to the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, a spot they are known to frequent.   

Bottlenose Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins are a common sight along the shoreline of Hilton Head Island. You can easily spot them frolicking in the ocean from land, but head out on a boat, especially during the summer months, and there’s a good chance a friendly one may swim up to say hello!

White Ibis

 

A post shared by a_closed_book (@a_closed_book) on Jul 2, 2017 at 4:44pm PDT

According to the photographer, this wide-eyed, white ibis was flying right over an alligator, perhaps accounting for his shocked look. The black wing tips captured on this beautiful bird are usually only visible during flight.

Chesapeake Blue Crabs

 

A post shared by Hilleary Photography (@hillearyphotography) on Jul 16, 2017 at 5:04pm PDT

With so much fun to be had on Hilton Head Island, these blue crustaceans should be the only ‘crabby’ visitors you encounter here. While some of the local blue crab are served for dinner in many of Hilton Head Island’s restaurants, this one was the star of the show during a wedding shoot. His bright blue legs really help make that diamond pop!

Horses

 

A post shared by Lizzie Kolibri (@mermaid_dreamer13) on Sep 20, 2017 at 2:35pm PDT

Giddy up! Hilton Head Island’s Lawton’s Stables is home to horses and ponies, as well as a small animal farm with alpacas, pot-bellied pigs, miniature donkeys, and more. Little ones under seven can enjoy a fun pony ride, and the Stable also offers one-hour guided trail rides through the lush Sea Pines Forest Preserve.

Red-Tailed Hawks

 

A post shared by Doug (@tinykitt3ns) on Feb 8, 2016 at 2:01pm PST

This beautiful, expressive bird of prey is one of the many red-tailed hawks that reside on the Island. Fun fact: red-tailed hawks are one of the few animal species where females are larger than males.

American Alligators

 

A post shared by Mellisa ? (@mellisa.goodwin) on Jun 28, 2017 at 4:33pm PDT

American alligators live in the lagoons and creeks around Hilton Head Island. These alligators are the largest reptile in North America, growing up to 12 feet in length, and can weigh up to 1,000 pounds. While they may look, and often act slow, alligators can reach sprinting speeds of up to 11 miles per hour, and swim even faster, at 20 miles per hour. That means these creatures are best viewed from a distance, and captured via a zoom lens.

Great Blue Heron

 

A post shared by Debbie (@ddstaley) on May 15, 2017 at 11:47am PDT

Not quite ready to leave the nest, these three great blue heron chicks are sticking close to their mother. Grown heron are known to wade around the shallow waters of the Island. To see some up close, consider renting a kayak from one of the Hilton Head Island’s kayak rental companies and heading out into the lagoon system. 

Dogs of Hilton Head Island

 

A post shared by Griff Bronson (@griffbronson) on Jun 27, 2017 at 10:15am PDT

Alright, this one may be stretching the term “wildlife” a bit, but we couldn’t end this animal round-up without a pooch pic! The beaches of Hilton Head Island are open to dogs in the morning and evenings during the spring and summer, and any time from October 1 to the Friday before Memorial Day. Have a pup of your own? Learn how to have a dog-friendly vacation on Hilton Head Island.

What a round up! If you’re looking for even more wildlife photos from Lowcountry, make sure you follow us on Instagram: @visithiltonhead. Want to learn even more about our diverse eco-system? Discover five fun facts about Hilton Head Island wildlife. Better still, start planning your trip the greatest outdoors, and see the wildlife of Lowcountry for yourself. 

The post Inspired by Instagram: Ten Incredible Wildlife Photos and Videos from Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

Renting a bike for leisurely rides to shopping, dining and attractions while you’re on vacation is a great way to stay in shape. But, where should you go? What should you bring? To make planning your bike-friendly vacation on Hilton Head Island a breeze—as breezy as your bike ride will be—look no further than our handy guide below.

You may be ready to add a little pedal power to your vacation after reading this, and we don’t blame you. Make sure you call ahead to rent your bike, or reserve through your hotel or home/villa accommodation provider, and download or pick up your trail map before you hit the road. For even more trip ideas, itineraries, and travel deals, don’t forget to download our Island Compass app. Book your stay, and get ready to enjoy Hilton Head Island in one of the best ways possible—on two wheels!

The post The Biker’s Guide to Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

Check out these fun facts about Hilton Head Island wildlife, and use them to impress your friends and family with your knowledge during your next Lowcountry vacation.

1. Lights out for turtles!

Endangered loggerhead turtles nest extensively along our island’s 12 miles of beautiful sandy beaches. Though you should never interact with a turtle, spotting one from afar will take your breath away.

Adult turtles can weigh up to 400 lb and can live to more than 100 years old. It’s our responsibility to do everything possible to ensure loggerhead turtles can safely lay their eggs year after year. The Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Protection Project staff patrol the beach early each morning during nesting season and document the process.

During nesting and hatching season (the beginning of May until the end of October), houses and buildings visible from the beach turn off outdoor lights and close blinds or drapes at 10:00 p.m. The darkness helps turtles navigate, as they use the moonlight reflecting off the ocean’s surface to move towards the water. Inward brighter lights can disorient turtles.

If you’re interested in learning more, pay a visit to the Coastal Discovery Museum. The Museum offers seasonal Evening Turtle Talks and Beach Discovery Tours. Interested in helping the sea turtles from afar? Learn more about the Hilton Head Island Sea Turtle Protection Project’s “Adopt-A-Nest” program here.

2. Birds: Gotta Watch ‘Em All

Birdwatchers love Hilton Head Island! Why? Our protected wetlands are home to beautiful birds like osprey, bald eagles, sandpipers, pelicans, egrets, wood storks, and more. In fact, the Audubon Society says there have been more than 350 species of native birds sighted on Hilton Head Island in the last decade, and nearly 200 species flock here each year.

One of the most iconic birds of the Lowcountry is the Great Blue Heron. Rent a kayak from Hilton Head Outfitters and try to spot some while you kayak the 11-mile lagoon system throughout the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort! The wading birds are often found in shallow waters, so your chances of spotting a heron are good.

Join the Coastal Discovery Museum on their Birding at Pinckney Island tour or visit the Hilton Head Island Audubon Society’s website to learn more about the Hilton Head Island Birding Trail.

3. See you later, alligator!

Hilton Head Island’s lagoons and creeks are also home to alligators. In fact, American Alligators are native to South Carolina and have been here for millions of years! You’re most likely to spot alligators during spring and fall when they can be found sunning themselves on lagoon banks. They can grow up to 12 feet in length! During the hot summer months, most alligators stay cool by staying in the water. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might spot their eyes and nostrils as you bike along the many lagoons lining our island-wide, bike trail system! Alligators become dormant during winter months and build mud dens along the banks of the lagoons.

If you want to snap a photo of an alligator, be sure to use that zoom lens. Alligators on Hilton Head Island are not aggressive but can be dangerous if approached or provoked. Stay back and never feed the alligators!

Follow these guidelines when around alligators:
•           Never feed alligators, it’s both unsafe and illegal
•           Keep your distance when you see an alligator (no selfies!)
•           Keep pets on leashes when near alligators or lagoons

If seeing an alligator is on your Hilton Head Island bucket list, H2O Sports offers an hour-long guided tour of the freshwater lakes at the Sea Pines Resort Forest Preserve. If you want to see and experience what Hilton Head Island was like unpopulated, and untouched, then this excursion is for you!

4. Tell Your Own Dolphin Tale

Bottlenose dolphins swim along the shores of Hilton Head Island, especially during the summer. They’re friendly, intelligent animals that often come right up to boats to say hi. Should you be lucky enough to get close to these beautiful creatures, remember that feeding dolphins is illegal and carries a hefty fine. Snap away with those cameras, but remember to let these lovely creatures continue to hunt naturally for their meals so they can continue to amaze us all!

Bottlenose dolphins are very social and usually live in pods of up to 12 members. They use noises like clicks, squeaks, and whistles, as well as body language, to communicate with one another. Every dolphin has a signature whistle that distinguishes him or her from others.

The Coastal Discovery Museum and several marina and tour operators offer dolphin-watching cruises. Don’t forget to pack your camera!

5. Saddle up!

There are plenty of fun ways to take in the great outdoors and spot animals in their natural habitats. Lawton Stables’ offers guided horseback trail rides through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Or, consider a hayride or walking tour.

Since 1970, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve has been a protected area for wildlife habitat and outdoor exploration. Don’t miss the 4,000-year-old Indian Shell Ring, the Warner W. Plahs Wildflower Field, and the boardwalk through Vanishing Swamp.

What other animals can be found on Hilton Head Island? Deer, bobcats (though elusive), otters, and even a few wild boars reside on the island. The Hilton Head White-Tailed Deer is a subspecies of white-tailed deer indigenous to the island. Visitors love visiting Callie the Deer at the Lawton’s Stables petting zoo!

Now you’re all set to experience the wonderful wildlife of Hilton Head Island. See you soon!

The post Five Fun Facts About Hilton Head Island Wildlife appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

Take advantage of these extended low-season beach times and plan a fun Lowcountry vacation for the whole family – including your pooch! Here’s how to plan a perfect dog-friendly vacation.

Choose your vacation destination.

Choosing a vacation destination that pleases everyone (including your pup) can be tough. But there’s a reason families return to Hilton Head Island year after year! Here, you can do everything or nothing at all. That’s the beauty of living on island time.

Hilton Head Island is also a reasonable drive or short flight away from many major U.S. cities, making it a perfect option for those traveling with dogs. There’s no greater luxury than treating yourself to a sweet escape from winter without all the hassle and paperwork involved with international travel!

Research pet-friendly accommodations options.

Hilton Head Island offers a wide range of pet-friendly accommodations, including hotels, vacation homes, and villas. Consider your family’s budget and needs before making your choice.

Take into account how much space you’ll need, how close you’d like to be to the beach and other amenities. If you’d like to be able to cook some of your own meals, a vacation home or villa may be the right fit.

You can see a list of pet-friendly accommodations on Hilton Head Island here.

Pack your dog’s suitcase.

When you and your family are packing for vacation, it could be easy to forget about your dog’s needs. Make a list so you don’t miss anything, and pack a special bag just for your pup. Don’t forget to include:

• Temporary ID Tag (Include your phone number and the address of your accommodations)
• Copies of any necessary certificates, licenses, or health records
• A picture of your dog (just in case he or she runs off)
• Dog carrier/crate
• Leash and harness
• Waste pickup bags
• Dog bed
• Food (don’t forget treats!)
• Prescription medications
• Food and water dishes (consider collapsible travel versions if space is an issue)
• Favorite toys
• Life jacket (if you plan on including your dog in any water activities)
• Vet-approved first aid kit
• Grooming supplies

If your dog is a nervous traveler, an anxiety wrap like the ThunderShirt anxiety vest could help calm nerves. If you think your dog might get overheated during a long flight or drive, consider purchasing a small, handheld fan.

After all, you want your vacation to be relaxing for the whole family!

Determine your route.

If you’re driving to Hilton Head Island, plan your road trip route in advance with your dog’s needs in mind. (And, read our blog Five Tips For A Stress-Free Family Road Trip before you leave.)

Look for rest stops where your dog can get out of the car for some exercise. Experts recommend a 15-30 minute break every four hours. It’s a great chance for you to get some fresh air as well!

Plan ahead.

Before you leave, contact your vet to make sure your dog is up to date with vaccinations. In the case of emergency, Hilton Head Island has several veterinary clinics. Enter the contact information for the clinic closest to your accommodations into your phone before your vacation.

If you and your pup are flying, contact your air carrier to confirm policies and requirements.

Research activities you’d like to try while on vacation, and decide which ones your pet will be included in. There’s so much to do and see on Hilton Head Island, including kayaking, biking, sailing, golf, and tennis. Hilton Head Island also has an off-leash dog area at Chaplin Community Park.

If you think you might need to be away from your pet for an extended period of time, consider sending your pup to doggy daycare or for a “spa day” at the groomer. You can find a list of Hilton Head Island dog services here.

With these handy tips, you’re all set to have the best vacation ever on Hilton Head Island, along with your furry best friend. Need proof? Just check out our Pinterest board of dogs living their best lives on Hilton Head Island!

The post How To Have A Dog-Friendly Vacation On Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

1. Last Light Over Carolina by Mary Alice Monroe
We’ll start with the beach reads. Any book by Mary Alice Monroe is a good bet. The author frequently mines Lowcountry South Carolina for story ideas. “The Last Light Over Carolina” follows Carolina Morrison and her husband, Bud, a shrimp boat captain that gets lost at sea. Also check out her Lowcountry Summer Trilogy, about three sisters that spend the summer at their grandmother’s beach house on Sullivan’s Island. The final book in the trilogy, “The Summer’s End” just came out.

2. Full of Grace by Dorothea Benton Frank
Frank also frequently sets her novels in South Carolina, especially in Charleston. Her book “Full of Grace” unfolds on Hilton Head Island. Al and Connie Russo move to the island from New Jersey with their 32-year-old Grace. It’s in this southern setting that Grace must work out the issues with her family and her commitment-phobic boyfriend, Michael.

3. Bay Tanner series by Kathryn Wall
Lowcountry author Kathryn Wall was an accountant for 25 years before becoming an author.
In her mysteries, title character Bay Tanner is a young widow living on Hilton Head Island. Start with “In for Penny” and read on for intriguing characters and surprising revelations.

4. The Water is Wide by Pat Conroy

What Southern reading list would be complete without Pat Conroy? The king of Lowcountry literature has written plenty of gems, but often overlooked is his early novel “The Water is Wide,” based on his time teaching on Daufuskie Island. Most of the students he teaches can’t read or write, but Conroy (or “Conrack” as the students call him) is eager to show them how fun learning can be.

5. Legendary Locals of Hilton Head by Barbara Muller

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the island, pick up a copy of “Legendary Locals of Hilton Head.” Local writer and amateur historian Barbara Muller profiled dozens of individuals who contributed to the growth of Hilton Head. Included are Captain William Hilton, the island’s namesake, Civil War generals and Spanish settlers.

6. Profits and Politics in Paradise by Michael Danielson
In the 1950s, Charles Fraser had the idea to transform Hilton Head into the resort and retirement community we see today. “Profits and Politics” details Fraser and his fellow developer’s moves as they set out to develop the island, and explores the economic expansion that resulted.

7. Hilton Head Island: Unpacked & Staying by the Island Writers’ Network
This anthology is a collection of more than 40 selections from local authors. Their stories vary humorous to insightful, but each shows why the writers love Hilton Head so much. “Unpacked and Staying” was the first anthology by the Island Writers’ network, followed by “Hilton Headings” and “Hilton Head Island: Living the Dream.”
On “Hilton Headings” Pat Conroy said, “The English language is alive and well on Hilton Head Island. This book proves it.”

8. Harriet Tubman: The Road To Freedom by Catherine Clinton
You might think you know the history of Harriet Tubman, but do you really? Did you know that Tubman was on Hilton Head working as a spy for the Union during the Civil War?
“The Road to Freedom” tells the life story of this remarkable woman and her efforts to lead slaves to freedom.

9.Gullah Culture in America by Wilbur Cross
Here’s another one for you history buffs. And the history of the Gullah people and culture as it relates to Lowcountry South Carolina is important. Gullah are descendants from slaves brought to the Sea Islands from West Africa. The book begins with the journeys of 15 Gullah speakers who went to Sierra Leone and other parts of West Africa in 1989, 1998, and 2005 to trace their origins and history.

10. The Bluffton Expedition – the Burning of Bluffton, SC During the Civil War by Jeff Fulgham

Last but not least, let’s not forget about our neighbors in Bluffton. “The Bluffton Expedition” details the Confederate use of the town as a staging area for raids against the Union occupation and blockade forces. Pick this book up to find out what role Bluffton played in our nation’s history.

The post What to read this summer on Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

A couple of years ago I started participating in long distance running events and triathlons. I enjoyed them so much that I started to search for races to do when I traveled out of town for work or on vacation.   Finding local races when I was away from home proved to be an excellent way to learn my way around a town like Hilton Head Island and meet local racers who would inevitably give me recommendations on post-race activities or a great place to try local fare.

It seemed natural then to check out the Go Tri Sports, Beach Bum Triathlon when I was headed to Hilton Head Island with my family as part of a summer vacation.  This Colorado girl was intrigued by a race with an ocean swim, a beach cruiser bike ride, and a run on the beach! Certainly nothing I encountered in the other races I had completed.  This race does a great job of accommodating out of town athletes like me.  Race directors partner with a local bike shop to make rentals easy and volunteers are happy to help.  The race is in a great place on the beach off of Coligny Circle, really easy to find.  I wasn’t alone in thinking of this as a destination race, or “racecation,” it seemed like most of the people I talked to at the race had come from out of town to participate.

The race was a blast, a great size and a lot of friendly volunteers. The most surprising moment for me was being warned about jellyfish, a race first for me!  After the Beach Bum Triathlon, I had sand everywhere imaginable so it was a relief to be done so I could grab a snack, sit in the shade and see the unique awards handed out. This race has a lot of local support with people who participate year over year, the clear mark of a great event!

After the bike shop picked up my rented cruiser at Coligny, I made the short drive to meet up with my friends and family at my favorite place for breakfast, Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe.  Admittedly, a big reason I like to do endurance races when I travel is so I can indulge in great food.  Hilton Head never fails in that regard, and I enjoyed southern food at its finest.  And while I have done triathlons and half marathons in Georgia, Washington DC, Wisconsin, and Wyoming…the Beach Bum Triathlon remains one of the most memorable by far! Enjoy your time on Hilton Head Island, whether on a bike path, feasting at a fabulous restaurant or participating in a “racecation!”

Enjoy Hilton Head Island’s bike paths and fabulous restaurants during Chamber Bike and Dine Week, Presented by Coligny, May 2nd – 9th.

Visit ChamberBikeandDine.com for details and schedule of events. Click here to learn more about cycling on Hilton Head Island. 

Photos: me at the race, beach before race, me in my On On Tri shirt…which always sparks conversation when I wear it at races.

The post Guest Post: Why a Colorado Girl Just Loves Triathlons on Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

Spring break in 2014 ended in the rain, early. We left Hilton Head Island for the long drive to Fairfax County, Va., a little deflated, but already thinking about the possibilities for next year.

Then before you know it, we are looking at rental properties again and then making the booking and then starting to wait for the long range weather forecast to cover our week on the island. The anticipation grows. Golf reservations are made, a spa treatment for 16yr old Jacqueline and her friend Alyx is confirmed, suitcases are packed and the drive south begins. We can’t wait to get back to Hilton Head for the many delights that await. There are all kinds of new shops and destinations and the dining options seemingly get better every year.

So imagine my surprise when the first thing Jacqueline and Alyx want to do it jump on their bikes and head to the General Store for lunch. All that anticipation, all the options in front of us and their first destination is the Palmetto Dunes convenience store? I mean, no disrespect but there are some fine dining establishments in Hilton Head; the General Store, really? What about the beach as the first stop, at least?

“The fried chicken is sooo good, Dad. And the mashed potato is the best ever,” says Jacqueline with the exasperated tone perfected exclusively by teenagers for use on their clueless parents. “And we just want to ride our bikes there, OK?.”

Of course you do, bikes mean freedom and independence. They have for generations of kids and on Hilton Head the increasingly impressive bike path network and quiet streets means granting that independence is pretty easy and worry-free. Not like the mean streets of Fairfax County, that’s for sure. But on Hilton Head Island, bikes mean freedom and fun for the grown-ups as well. In my day job, I travel to dozens of communities a year and see what they are doing to encourage bicycling. On Hilton Head Island I see people riding bikes who wouldn’t dream of doing the same thing back home…and they are loving it.

Whole families head out to eat on their bikes as if it’s the most natural thing in the world to do. And on Hilton Head Island it truly is. Biking is  easy and convenient, and even fun. We ride to rent canoes, to Shelter Cove, to the beach (yes, we do get there in the end) and I ride around the Island just for fun. And I curse when we make the mistake of driving to Harbor Town and struggle to find parking.

And as the week draws to a close and we ask what final things the girls want to do…”we want to go get breakfast at the General Store in the morning. It’s the best breakfast and I’ll eat it all, I promise.”

Just what are they putting in the cooking oil down at the General Store? And can we bottle some that and bring it back to Virginia, please?

Enjoy Hilton Head Island’s bike paths and fabulous restaurants during Chamber Bike and Dine Week, Presented by Coligny, May 2nd – 9th.

Visit ChamberBikeandDine.com  for details and schedule of events. Click here to learn more about cycling on Hilton Head Island. 

Andy Clarke and his wife Kristin visited HHI in April with their daughter Jacqueline and friend Alyx. Andy is President of the Washington, DC-based League of American Bicyclists and is now a regular visitor to Hilton Head Island.

The post Guest Post: Andy Clarke takes on Hilton Head Island Food + Biking appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

By Marcy Benson –

Been on a bicycle lately?  If you are like me, “lately”, means 20 years ago, give or take a year.  Sure I had a bicycle when I was kid, it was a vibrant yellow color with a banana seat, remember those?  With the color coordinated plastic tassels that hung from the handlebars and blew in the wind as I pedaled down the street.  But as life went on riding a bicycle became less important in my daily routine.

Now living in the Hilton Head Island area bicycle riding has slowly crept back into my life.   I’m a beginner bicycle rider, I won’t use the term “cyclist” because when I think of that word a vision of a lycra-clad, sinewy rider pumping their legs at full-tilt appears before my eyes, and I am the farthest from that description as one could get.  I ride for fun and exercise and to explore the nooks and crannies of this beautiful area called the South Carolina Lowcountry.

I was re-introduced to bicycle riding by a friend who suggested I buy a bike.  I went to a local bike shop and bought a used Schwinn.  Some people might call it a “clunker”, but 3 years in and I’m still riding the same red used bike, it’s taken me on rides in Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Port Royal and Savannah.  I’ve explored places while the sun has been shining and been caught in rain (sunshine is better!).  I’ve pedaled in summertime warmth and wintertime chill.  I’ve  biked with a local bicycle club , which is a great way to meet interesting people, and I’ve biked on my own, but no matter how or where or when I ride my bicycle I’m cheerier after the experience, and maybe shed a few pounds along the way too.

If you are thinking of getting back on a bicycle Hilton Head Island is a great place to “dip your wheel” into bicycling. The hard-packed sand beaches are great for riding fat tire bikes and the pathway network on the Island is user friendly and can take you from one end of the island to the other safely and in beautiful scenery.

Enjoy Hilton Head Island’s bike paths and fabulous restaurants during Chamber Bike and Dine Week, Presented by Coligny, May 2nd – 9th.

Visit ChamberBikeandDine.com  for details and schedule of events. Click here to learn more about cycling on Hilton Head Island. 

The post Guest Post: Start Biking on Hilton Head Island appeared first on Island Vibe Blog.

Do you like beer? Do you like bacon? How do you feel about beer and bacon combined? How do you feel about beer and bacon in an outdoor setting, underneath the oaks and Spanish moss of our local waterfront park? If you know my husband Joe, you know what his reaction was to hearing that The Island Rec Center will be hosting a Beer and Bacon Festival on May 2^nd. This event, in its inaugural year is certain to draw men (and women) into a frenzy of B2 wonderfulness. Bacon cuisine, bacon confectunary, bacon samplings, bacon cooking contests and full beer samplings and bars. Oh, and music. And beer. And  more bacon. Need I say more?

Saturday, May 2^nd – 11am – 5pm – Shelter Cove Community Park

Discount tickets are available via groupon – click here to pre-purchase and get a deal on entry. http://www.groupon.com/deals/hilton-head-island-recreation-association

Take a dramatic turn from the Beer, Bacon and Music Festival and participate in the Go Tri Sports May 2^nd Triathlon. Drawing triathletes from all over the country, this tri will take place on Coligny Beach on Saturday morning. Come out and see athletes compete in an open water swim, bike ride and run – all in the Coligny/Forest Beach area of the Island. Take it from my best friend Emelie, who comes to Hilton Head Island from Colorado just for this triathlon….”it’s a great course and highlights your little slice of paradise on Hilton Head Island.”

Emelie sporting her Go Tri Sports shirt in Colorado! Register here: http://gotrievents.com/triathlons/race-information/

May 2^nd – 9^th is Chamber Bike and Dine Presented by Coligny – read all about it by clicking here! Designed to highlight the connection of Hilton Head’s miles of bike paths to the Island’s restaurants, this annual event during National Bike Month gets you outdoors and moving! Journey on a History and Lunch tour, join the chamber in a networking ride, join the gang with a bikes, bites and brews tour or join the community for a beach ride! This is a one-of –a-kind event that you can only find on Hilton Head Island! Check the website for updated specials! chamberbikeanddine.com

The Hilton Head Island Boat Show at Windmill Harbour is Friday, Saturday and Sunday, May 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd in the private community of Windmill Harbour. This is the 11^th year for this in-water boat show. Stroll along the harbor, next to the exclusive South Carolina Yacht Club while being entertained by harbor side music and VIP events.

Check out boats from Chris Craft, paddleboarding demos, artisanal crafts and more. View waterfront real estate with the team from The Richardson Group / Windmill Harbour Real Estate. New this year, an opportunity to wine and dine with the Mondavi family vintners! Click here for the most current information and tickets for each event.  http://www.hiltonheadislandboatshow.com/index.html

The Bluffton Village Festival, Mother’s Day Weekend in May takes place in Downtown Bluffton on Saturday, May 9^th. A regional draw, featuring amazing crafts, paintings, food and music in a Lowcountry, laid back atmosphere. Stroll along the oaks in downtown Bluffton and sample food from local restaurants. Click here for more info.

Bluffton Village Festival

Interested in exploring the history of Hilton Head Island – outside? Two of my favorite tours are the Ft. Mitchel tour led by The Heritage Library in Hilton Head Plantation and the Honey Horn Historic Walk with Coastal Discovery Museum. Call The Heritage Library at 843.686.6560 for tour information.

Click here for Ft. Mitchel and here for the Historic Walk to learn more.

Tour at Ft. Walker with The Heritage Library – on the water.

Another great “outdoor” event is the Hilton Head Island Bar Crawl at Coligny! Grab your most adventurous friends and walk the Coligny District with The Hottest Spots guiding you though the outdoor plaza, next to the Beach!

Every Tuesday at 8pm. Bar Games and walking trivia make this a super-fun experience. $20 per person.

Click here for tour locations and information. 

Enjoy the rest of spring outdoors! As always, tweet me @heatherrath if you need any suggestions for your trip to Hilton Head Island!

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