🚴‍♀️ Hilton Head Bike Itinerary: The Best Places to Explore on Two Wheels

Looking to explore Hilton Head Island like a local? Grab a bike and hit the trails! With over 64 miles of scenic bike paths and even more hard-packed beach to ride on, Hilton Head is one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the Southeast. Whether you're here for family fun, a romantic weekend, or solo outdoor adventure, this guide highlights the best places to bike to—including parks, waterfront views, restaurants, and hidden gems—all from the comfort of your vacation rental or resort stay.

🌿 Morning Ride: Sea Pines Forest Preserve & Harbour Town

Route Start: Sea Pines Entrance (Pass required)
Distance: ~5–6 miles round-trip

Start your day with a peaceful ride through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, a 605-acre nature sanctuary. Ride beneath ancient live oaks, stop at the 4,000-year-old Shell Ring, and keep an eye out for turtles, deer, and birds along the wetlands.

From there, head toward Harbour Town to visit the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse. Lock up your bike and climb to the top for panoramic views of the marina and Calibogue Sound. While you’re there, enjoy a coffee or snack from one of the local cafés.

📍 Tip: You’ll need a day pass or lodging reservation to access Sea Pines by bike.

🏞 Midday Cruise: Shelter Cove to Palmetto Dunes

Distance: ~1.4 miles (easy ride)
Best for: Families, casual riders, and nature lovers

Pedal along the peaceful Broad Creek Pathway as you make your way to Shelter Cove Community Park. This scenic green space offers picnic tables, shaded rest spots, and a playground—perfect for a mid-ride break.

Continue your ride into Palmetto Dunes, where palm-lined trails weave through golf courses and lowcountry landscapes. Don’t forget to snap a photo from one of the scenic wooden bridges that cross the lagoon system.

🌊 Afternoon Adventure: Coligny Beach & Forest Beach Trails

Distance: Flexible (1–4 miles)
Best for: Ocean views, boardwalk fun, and beach riding

End your day on Hilton Head’s most popular beach path! Ride to Coligny Beach Park, where you’ll find public beach access, clean restrooms, a splash pad, and plenty of bike racks.

If the tide is low, you can even ride along the firm sand shoreline—a unique Hilton Head experience. For a more secluded coastal ride, head south on the Forest Beach Bike Trail.

🍽️ Where to Eat Along the Way

Hilton Head is full of bike-accessible restaurants. Here are a few local favorites:

• Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks – Fresh seafood with views of Skull Creek.
  hudsonsonthedocks.com
• The Sea Shack – Casual counter-service seafood spot, famous with locals.
  theseashack.com
• Poseidon – Upscale dining and rooftop views at Shelter Cove Towne Centre.
  poseidonhhi.com
• Pool Bar Jim’s – Steps from the sand; perfect for a tropical drink and sandwich.
  facebook.com/PoolBarJims

🌳 Must-Visit Parks to Bike Through

Don’t miss these scenic parks and natural areas:

• Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge – A 4,000-acre wildlife haven with biking trails through marshland and forest.
• Jarvis Creek Park – A quiet, shady loop trail perfect for birdwatching and a picnic stop.
• Audubon Newhall Preserve – Short trails with native plants and a small pond, tucked away in the southern part of the island.

🚲 Local Tips for Biking Hilton Head

• Rent or Bring Your Own Bike: Local rental shops like Hilton Head Outfitters and Island Life Bike Rentals offer delivery to most hotels and resorts.
• Ride the Beach at Low Tide: For the smoothest sand ride, check the tide schedule in advance.
• Stay Safe: Use bike paths and crosswalks, wear a helmet, and bring water—especially in summer.
• Bring a Lock: Most restaurants and beach parks offer bike racks.

🏨 Explore Hilton Head from Your Home Base

No matter where you stay, Hilton Head’s bike trails connect you to the best the island has to offer. With easy access to scenic paths, local dining, and beautiful beaches, there’s no better way to discover the Lowcountry than on two wheels.