Hilton Head Island offers a vibrant and patriotic atmosphere for the Fourth of July. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you enjoy a perfect holiday weekend, packed with exciting events and activities.
- Beach Time: The 4th of July weekend should always include a trip to the beach! Relax at one of Hilton Head's beautiful beaches and you'll see why they are voted best beaches in America by Travel and Leisure. Enjoy the sun, surf, and various amenities available.
- Palmetto Dunes Resort: Pick your adventure! Rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle through the lagoon in Palmetto Dunes, where you can spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. If you're looking to break a sweat, play tennis or pickleball at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis Center which has 17 clay courts. Cool down with an ice cream just across the street at the Palmetto Dunes General Store.
- Harbour Town Golf Links: Play a round of gold at one of the most celebrated courses on the PGA TOUR, Harbour Town®. The crowning achievement of famed designer Pete Dye and design consultant Jack Nicklaus places a premium on finesse, imagination, and shot-making, rather than strength.
Independence Day Celebrations
Morning:
- Sea Pines Fourth of July Parade: Show off your red, white, and blue spirit by decorating your bicycle, wagon, dog, or kids for this fun-filled parade around Harbour Town. Meet in the parking lot adjacent to the Quarterdeck at 8:30 am to register and pick up decorating supplies. The parade lineup begins promptly at 9:30 am and entries will be judged on patriotism.
- Firecracker 5K: Start your day with the Firecracker 5K at Jarvis Creek Park, beginning at 8 AM. This annual event is a family-friendly run with a patriotic theme. More details.
- USA 5K Benefiting the Sea Turtle Patrol Hilton Head Island: Hit the beach this July 4th for the USA 5K at Coligny Beach, Hilton Head Island. We have a July 4th celebration that all runners and walkers will love! This is a fun, simple, family-oriented running experience for all ages and skill levels (runners and walkers). More details
Midday:
- Salute from the Shore: At 1 PM, head to the beach to witness the Salute from the Shore. This flyover features vintage and modern military aircraft flying along the South Carolina coast in tribute to America’s armed forces. More details.
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Shannon Tanner’s Family Show: Experience the fun and engaging performance by Shannon Tanner at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina at 6:30 PM. His shows are a beloved tradition on the island. More details.
- Party on the Pier Skull Creek Boathouse: The Skull Creek Boathouse hosts their annual Party on the Pier from 4 pm to midnight on July 4th with live music from Cranford & Sons. There will be the traditional crab races, a kids' activity area with bouncy tents, cotton candy, and snow cones, and of course, the fireworks display over Skull Creek. You may reserve dinner seating on the pier and partake of peel-n-eat shrimp, green tomatoes with shrimp and goat cheese, and “salt & vinegar” crab cakes. You can even create your own surf & turf from the extensive butcher-cut steak and fresh seafood selection board.
Evening:
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HarbourFest Fireworks: Arrive early at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina for the fireworks display starting at 9 PM. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. More details.
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Sea Pines Fireworks: Alternatively, head to Harbour Town for another spectacular fireworks display starting at 9 PM, with live music and entertainment. More details.