Beach House Hilton Head Island brings laid-back vibes for all ages
My uncle, a Lowcountry native, remembers a time when Hilton Head had one gas station and one restaurant. It’s a past that seems impossible as my family drives down US-278 towards the beach. Every intersection has something to offer, from golf courses to grocery stores—everything a vacationer could want or need.
This is our first beach vacation as a family of four, and we’re headed to Beach House Hilton Head Island, a newly renovated resort right off Coligny Beach. In the past, our beach trips have been house rentals in more secluded areas, and I’m curious and perhaps a little apprehensive—for parents, vacations with kids can be more work than rest.
As we drive up, the exterior is unassuming yet welcoming, surrounded by pockets of palm trees and thoughtful island landscaping. Notes akin to Jimmy Buffet waft in from behind the building, and a peek around the corner reveals the expanded Tiki Hut. With live music from morning until night, plenty of drink options, and oceanfront access, it has the perfect beach vibe.
Our two young kids have been itching for the water since we left the Upstate, so we drop off our bags and hit the sand. It’s here I begin to realize the beauty of a beachfront resort. Whatever has been forgotten (which is many things) is just an easy trip back to the room. And within 30 minutes, the kids are ready for the pool. We simply rinse off at the shower heads by the Tiki Hut and slip into the gated pool area next door, which also houses The Porch restaurant. Access wins the day.
Family trip to Beach House Hilton Head Island
The trip becomes a two-day cycle of eat, swim, rest, repeat. Coligny Plaza is a short walk away with plenty of good bites, but The Porch’s offering of Southern staples is so delicious (and convenient) we stick around for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The staff have embraced the easy-going beach vibe. It feels like the whole place is an invitation to slow down and relax, which is an almost impossible feat with boisterous kids eager to spend every second in the water, but the pool area is ready for it. We have one of the eight poolside cabanas for an afternoon. Little havens of shade, the cabanas include lounge chairs, towels, a TV, refrigerator, and curtains for privacy—ideal for resting adults and for kids to take a break (there may have been ice cream involved).
On our last evening, we make the very short walk to Lowcountry Celebration Park. A pirate playground with water-misting canons has to be every kid’s dream, but the park’s boardwalks meander through wetlands where we spot a host of Lowcountry creatures, an alligator the most popular, of course. As we head back to our room beneath a kaleidoscope sunset, Tiki Hut tunes in the background, it feels almost surreal. Poolside splashes, chasing waves, sandcastles, and seashells—our kids have enjoyed every minute, and I realize, I have too.
Suite Life
Beach House rooms are simple, modern, and clean. For families, book the Family Jr. option with a patio. The bunk-bed partition gives some privacy, and the patio is a great space to dry wet swimsuits.
Beach Break
For a short, easy hike, try Audobon Newhall Reserve. The trails are an easy walk and mostly shaded. And if you’re stuck inside on a rainy day, The Sandbox Children’s Museum is the perfect distraction for kids.
For rates and availability, visit beachhousehhi.com.
