Explore the Area of Hampton Lake

Lowcountry

In this rich region, there are miles of white sand beaches to walk, countless antique shops to browse, hundreds of shops and restaurants to enjoy, a multitude of historic towns and sights to satisfy the most inquisitive travelers, and theaters, museums, and art galleries to fulfill your cultural itch. Best of all, with a climate that's pleasing year round, there's always time for deep-sea fishing, testing a new golf course, kayaking the tidal rivers, or catching an eco-tour along the coast. Whatever your desire, you'll find it within reach...and wrapped in the warmth and hospitality of the Lowcountry.

Hilton Head Island   Click the links below.

HARBOUR TOWN  AT THE BEACH  S. BEACH MARINA  SHELTER COVE  BIKE  ARTS  FISHING  EAT

HARBOUR TOWN
No visit to Hilton Head is complete without a trip to Harbour Town. Stroll along the circular marina, walk to the top of the iconic red-and-white striped lighthouse for views of Hilton Head, the famous finishing hole of Harbour Town Golf Links and Daufuskie Island, or browse the shops and grab a bite to eat indoors or out.

A DAY AT THE BEACH
Twelve miles of beautiful white sand beaches make Hilton Head one of the world's premier oceanfront destinations. The Island's done a good job of making public access easy. Your best bets are at Coligny Circle on the south end and Folly Field Beach and Driessen Beach at mid-island. All have public parking. Boardwalks and sand mats make these three public beaches easily accessible for wheelchairs, strollers and bicycles.

S.BEACH MARINA
Located in Sea Pines, this quaint marina is home to the Salty Dog T-Shirt Factory. No one leaves Hilton Head without one of their t-shirts! You can dine al fresco on the deck, listen to music at the outdoor bar, rent an ocean kayak or jump aboard a zodiac for porpoise and nature tours.

SHELTER COVE HARBOUR
The whole family will enjoy the shop-lined boardwalk along the harbour. During the summer, Tuesday night is fireworks night and popular kid's entertainer, Shannon Tanner, performs free nightly. There's plenty of places to eat and don't miss the fabulous sunsets or Shelter Cove's famous landmark, the statue of King Neptune.

BIKE THE BEACHES AND PATHS
With 20 miles of leisure and endless flat stretches of beach, the island is a biker's delight. The whole family can cycle with ease...there's not a hill to be found anywhere! Bring your own bike or rent as many as you like at one of the many bicycle rental shops.

ENJOY THE ARTS
No need to leave culture behind on the Island. Hilton Head boasts the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina with Broadway-caliber performances and a lineup of well-known performing artists. If music is your thing, take in the Hilton Head Orchestra. You will also find a multitude of art galleries scattered around the Island.

FISHING
What's your pleasure? Saltwater fishing, fly-fishing, deep-sea fishing? You'll find it all on Hilton Head. Fishing charters are available at Harbour Town and Shelter Cove Harbour, for inshore fishing, try Palmetto Dunes Outfitters. And if it's surfcasting you whant, there are miles of beaches waiting.

LET'S EAT OUT!
If you ate at a different restaurant every night, it would take nearly a year to sample all of the Island's eateries. From local seafood to international cuisine, it's served up here. For classic water views, try the Old Oyster Factory or Old Fort Pub. To get a local taste, head over to the Palmetto Bay Sun Rise Cafe for breakfast or grab a football sized burrito at Amigos.

Charleston   Click the links below.

CULTURAL CAPITAL  KING STREET  TOURS  AQUARIUM  THE BATTERY  BEACH  NIGHTLIFE  EAT

THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF THE SOUTH
A city not to be missed. Charleston may be a two-hour drive to the north, but it is well worth the trip. Beginning with its wonderfully preserved historic downtown district, this is a city that is full of architectural wonders, historic settings, and cultural opportunities. Whether shopping, sightseeing, or in search of a gourmet meal, Charleston offers it all.

WALK KING STREET
You could spend an entire day or longer just strolling the length of King Street. Restaurants, bars, antique shops, high-end antiques, and everything in between can be found. Parking is tight, but it’s an easy walk from the parking garage at the Visitor Center on Meeting Street where you can pick up a city map and information on all of Charleston’s attractions.

HISTORIC TOURS
There are many ways to discover Charleston’s rich history, but beginning with a walking tour or horse-drawn carriage tour will get you off to a fast start. The Old Exchange Building, Market, and Rainbow Row are “must-sees” when visiting. Many of the historic houses also offer individual tours. For more recent history, visit the National Medal of Honor Museum at the Yorktown Battleship.

SPEND TIME AT THE AQUARIUM
Located right on Charleston Harbor, the South Carolina Aquarium is a great place to take the kids or grandkids. The city’s most visited attraction, it features thousands of aquatic animals and is filled with interactive exhibits and programs the kids will love. Visit www.scaquarium.org to plan your visit.

STROLL ALONG THE BATTERY
The perfect pause in any trip to Charleston is Battery Park. There’s plenty of shade on hot days, views of the harbor, Fort Sumter, seemingly endless Antebellum mansions, and a display of Civil War cannons. It’s a beautiful spot to take pictures and take in the views of Charleston Harbor and the historic homes of the city.

A DAY AT THE BEACH
The islands around Charleston offer beautiful stretches of beach for walking, swimming or just basking in the sunshine. It’s worth the trip out to Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms or Folly Beach on James Island. Each of these beaches has a different feel, so you’ll need to explore each to discover your favorite.

NIGHTLIFE
The city is filled with places to listen to live music, go to a play, or just hang out at the local watering holes. During the annual Spoleto festival in June, there are more cultural events than you can find time to take in. For high-end bars, try High Cotton or McCrady’s. And if you’re staying the night, one of the city’s boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts is the way to go.

LET'S EAT OUT!
There seems no end to the number of wonderful restaurants in this city. From Southern favorites to seafood to elegant dinners, you have them all within walking distance downtown. A stroll down King Street alone will offer you a full range of options. Try innovative Southern cuisine at Poogan’s Porch, locals’ favorite Slighly North of Broad, or Magnolias for fine Southern favorites.

Savannah   Click the links below.

RIVERFRONT  STROLL  BROUGHTON ST.  RIVER ST.  BASEBALL  TYBEE ISLAND  NIGHTLIFE  EAT

A VIBRANT RIVERFRONT AND HISTORIC SQUARES
One trip to Savannah and you’ll be smitten by its charms, its walkable historic squares, and it’s lively riverfront. One of the few Southern cities spared during the Civil War, Savannah today offers a rare look back in time at an age when cotton was king and the mansions were glorious.

STROLL HISTORIC SQUARES
There are 21 squares in the Historic District. The best way to explore them is on foot, but many people like to start with a guided trolley tour for a quick history and orientation. You’ll find the most interesting squares along Abercorn and Bull Streets. One of Savannah’s colorful street maps will guide you. Don’t miss Forsyth Park and the fabulous Mansion on Forsyth Park, the region’s only 5-star boutique hotel.

EXPLORE BROUGHTON STREET
This is the city’s main downtown shopping place. Walk from one end to the other end and you’ll find everything from antique stores to jewelers to clothing to fine art. A stop in the Paris Market will yield vintage items from Europe. Along the way, go over a block to City Market and have lunch in one of the many outdoor cafes.

SEE THE SITES ALONG RIVER STREET
Whether simply watching the large ships move slowly by, stopping to listen to a sidewalk musician, or strolling the shops and café’s, River Street is always a fun excursion. Here, you’ll find some of the city’s favorite restaurants and pubs. Stop in the Candy Kitchen for a handmade pecan praline.

MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Grayson Stadium is home to the Savannah Sand Gnats, the Single-A affiliate of the New York Mets. The historic stadium was built in 1926 and baseball greats Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson all played there. It’s always fun at the old ballpark. Ticket prices are $7 for adults and $5 for kids. Check the schedule at www.sandgnats.com.

TYBEE ISLAND
Twenty minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee has a charm all of its own. With 5 miles of beaches, the island offers eclectic restaurants, entertainment, and all the elements for a memorable day at the beach. This is a great place to sample local fresh seafood. Stop by the lighthouse at the north end, as well as the pier and Tybee Marine Science Center on the south end.

NIGHTLIFE
Savannah comes alive at night with music, theatre, dining and lots of happening nightspots. After dinner, take in a classic movie at the Lucas Theatre, catch dueling pianos at Savannah Smiles or a show at one of the city’s performance theaters. If you’re feeling adventurous, a ghost tour of America’s most haunted city will raise goosebumps.

LET'S EAT OUT!
Almost as famous for its food as its colorful history, Savannah offers a smorgasbord of places and types of food to eat. From she-crab soup to fried chicken to five-star meals. There’s always a long wait (but worthwhile) at Paula Deen’s Lady & Sons. Local favorites, Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and Elizabeth on 37th are worth the trip. For something different, make your own meal at the 700 Kitchen Cooking School at Forsyth Mansion.

Beaufort   Click the links below.

SEA ISLANDS  KAYAK TOURS  SHOP  HUNTING ISLAND  FISHING  HISTORIC  ORCHESTRA  EAT

SEA ISLAND AND SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
In the best tradition of the Lowcountry, Beaufort is know for its casual charm and welcoming Southern hospitality. This seaside town, located on Port Royal Island, is a fabulous place to tour one of the area’s largest concentrations of historic homes.

KAYAK TOURS
There’s no better way to explore Beaufort and its islands than by kayak. If you have your own, you’ll find plenty of spots to get in the water. Or try one of the local outfitters for kayak rentals or guided trips. The Kayak Farm, ACE Basin Adventures and Beaufort Kayak Tours are all ready to help.

SHOP ART & ANTIQUES
Keep to the area in and around Bay Street in the historic downtown and you’ll find great shops, art and antiques. Art & Soul features local artists, Bay Street Trading Company is a must for book lovers, and Michael Rainey Antiques features 18th century antiques and collectibles. You’ll discover your own favorites poking around town.

HUNTING ISLAND STATE PARK
One of South Carolina’s most popular destinations, this 5,000-acre state park boasts miles of magnificent Atlantic beach, an 1,120-foot, free-standing fishing pier, a 1873 lighthouse and nature trails. For hours and admission fees, visit www.southcarolinaparks.com.

CATCH A FISH
Redfish, spotted sea trout, cobia, Spanish mackerel, bluefish or tarpon? You won’t find these saltwater species in Hampton Lake. To help you navigate the plentiful ocean waters around Beaufort, a fishing guide is helpful. Try Lowcountry Guide Service for chartered fishing trips. For more information visit www.beaufortscfishing.com.

HISTORIC TOURS
Beaufort is the second-oldest town in South Carolina and there’s rich history to be found in its tabby ruins, historic forts, mansions and plantations. The easiest place to start is the 10 homes of the Beaufort Historic Site in the heart of downtown. Or just walk the length of Bay Street and take in home after historic home at your own pace.

ENJOY THE ORCHESTRA
Each season the orchestra performs a classical concert in October, a Christmas concert in December, another classical concert in March, a Pops concert in May, and a free concert at the Waterfront in early June. Performances (except the free June Waterfront) are held at the USCB Performing Arts Center on Carteret Street. For the schedule and ticket info, visit www.beaufortorchestra.org.

LET'S EAT OUT!
Start the day at Magnolia Bakery Café across from the Visitor’s Center on Congress Street. You’ll find plenty of places serving fresh seafood and local cuisine without ever leaving downtown. Plums, Dockside and the Saltus River Grill are all worthy destinations. Don’t head home without sampling the boiled shrimp at the Shrimp Shack or Frogmore Stew at Steamer Oyster & Steakhouse.

Bluffton   Click the links below.

CHARM  TOUR  OYSTERS  MOVIE NIGHT  KAYAK  SHOP  EAT

ANTEBELLUM CHARM AND WORLD-FAMOUS OYSTERS
There’s plenty to see and experience here in your hometown. The heart of this eclectic community is a gathering of artist’s galleries, antique shops, restaurants, antebellum homes, and noteworthy churches. The walking is easy on streets shaded by the Spanish moss that drapes from the live oaks that line them.

TOUR THE HISTORIC DISTRICT
Make your first stop the Heyward House on Boundary Street in the Historic District. The house is Bluffton’s official Welcome Center. From there begin with a tour of this antebellum home and pick up a walking tour map. Follow the map at your leisure to the town’s oldest homes, businesses and churches. 3rd Friday celebrations throughout the year bring the Historic District alive with evening music, food and shopping.

VISIT A WORKING OYSTER FACTORY
Fresh oysters from the May River are one of the Lowcountry’s delicacies. The Bluffton Oyster Factory on Wharf Street is the last remaining working oyster factory on the East Coast. They still shuck and can oysters and sell a variety of fresh seafood. There’s a park adjacent to the Factory where you can enjoy the river.

MOVIE NIGHT
Catch first-run movies just down the road at Sea Turtle Cinemas in Berkeley Place on Buckwalter Parkway. The area’s newest theater features 12 stadium-style auditoriums outfitted with DTS and Dolby Digital sound. Tuesday nights are live music nights at the cinema. Check out what’s playing or buy tickets online at www.seaturtlecinemas.com.

KAYAK THE MAY RIVER
One of the most beautiful stretches of water anywhere, the May River flows peacefully past the high banks of Bluffton. Dolphins, eagles and osprey are a few of the native wildlife you can spot. If you have your own kayak, you can put in at All Joy Landing or the Old Oyster Factory. Check local outfitters to rent or join a guided tour.

SHOP ART,ANTIQUES & OUTLETS
Art galleries, cafes and antique shops can all be found in Bluffton’s Historic District and make for a pleasurable day of browsing and buying. Looking for the best deals in name brands? Head out to Route 278 and Tanger Outlets I & II for over 85 stores and endless shopping.

LET'S EAT OUT!
From authentic Mexican (Amigos) to BBQ (Jim n Nicks) to pizza (Pizzeria Venti) to fine cuisine (Truffles), there are plenty of options. Try local traditions like Pepper’s Porch, Squat n Gobble, or Sippin Cow Café. The closest pizza is Paulie’s Coal Fired Pizza in Berkeley Place on Buckwalter Plaza. You’ll find most of Bluffton’s 100 or so restaurants along Route 278.

Sneak - A - Peek

You are invited to the lake! Our exclusive 3 Day/2 Night Gateway Package puts you on the lake, in our resort-style pools, and at dinner at Backwater Bill's. Click here to learn more.