| This
lovely island, now distinguished by first-class resort communities, luxury
hotels, villas and other accommodations, outstanding restaurants and
top-rated golf courses, was once the site of vast cotton plantations.
Until 1956, when the first bridge was built, the only way to get to the
island was by boat. There were no paved roads, gasoline stations, shopping
centers, restaurants, golf courses, hotels or villas. There were neither a
telephone system nor an electric power transmission line.
Following the Civil War
occupation, the island was, for all intents and purposes, stuck in a time
warp, covered in pine trees, and inhabited by alligators, birds, deer and
a few families whose ancestors harked back to the days of slavery on the
island's antebellum cotton plantations.
The cotton plantations
have been replaced by resort and retirement communities, but shades of
Hilton Head's past live on. Hilton Head Island has had a thriving
African-American Gullah Community since the 1800s. The Museum of Hilton
Head Island is an entertaining source of information for visitors
interested in learning more about the island's history.
Hilton Head's landscape
speaks eloquently of unspoiled nature and of an older, rural era. Imagine
enjoying all the elegance and convenience of a modern, world-class resort
amidst the wild, awe-inspiring beauty of a maritime forest. The island is
blessed with abundant and varied flora and fauna. More than 250 species of
birds return to the island each year and in some places the trees grow
right up to the beach-line. Indeed, the island is notable for its
beautiful tall pines, magnolias, oaks, and the unmistakable Palmetto,
which is so important in the history of South Carolina that it was made
the state tree, and its image placed on the state flag.
To many, the outline of
Hilton Head Island resembles a shoe cast up on the beach. The island is
approximately 12 miles long and 5 miles wide, encompassing 42 square miles
of territory. The beach is wide and extends almost the entire length of
the island. Unlike most communities, there is no town center on Hilton
Head Island. Due to the course of the island's modern development and
growth, you will be hard pressed to identify a nucleus of public and
private buildings such as town hall, the library, the post office and
shops that are universally identified as a town center.
Approximately 30,000
people now reside permanently on the island and as many as 2 million
guests visit the island annually. The multitude of activities provided
here entices visitors of all ages.
But there is more to
Hilton Head than its many outdoor activities. The island boasts the most
enticing shops and restaurants you are likely to encounter in any vacation
destination. So whether you are a first-time visitor or a guest who
returns year after year, take time to relax and enjoy all the special
qualities this incredible community has to offer.
Finding accommodations to
suit you lifestyle is never a problem, but plan your trip early to ensure
that the widest range of options will be available. Whether you are
planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, you will certainly find
the perfect place. Plan your accommodations around your interests - select
from beachfront properties, those with views of the golf course view, or
maybe a view of the harbor right in the middle of shopping and nighttime
activities. Various size living spaces are available which will enable you
to bring extended family or organize a group trip. Inquire about special
packages available to include your favorite sports or activities. Some
hotels and rental operations offer carefully designed programs for
children and teenagers as well. Anything and everything is possible on
Hilton Head Island.
Search
all available Real Estate
Contact
me about Hilton Head Island |
