Hilton Head Island is located on the Atlantic Coast at the southeastern end of Beaufort County, South Carolina and is part of an area referred to as the Lowcountry. Hilton Head Island is also part of the Sea Islands area, which consists of 64 larger islands and more than 2,000 smaller ones. At 12 miles long and five miles wide, Hilton Head is the second largest (after Long Island, NY) of the Atlantic Barrier Islands. Development of the island has kept nature in the forefront with great attention paid to minimizing its impact on the ecology. The pristine natural environment boasts a web of lagoons, marshes, and miles of public beach, all enhanced by sea pines and oaks draped with Spanish moss. The best way to enjoy nature on the island is by walking or bicycling, and the pleasant climate makes these activities attractive year round. Hilton Head Island's rich geographic, social, and intellectual environment attracts two million visitors annually who enjoy its 300 tennis courts and around two dozen golf courses, outstanding culinary and shopping venues, and spectacular gated plantation communities. The island enjoys a semi-tropical warmth with year-round average temperatures running 75 degrees by day and 55 by night. The area's waters are warmed by the Gulf Stream, heating the sea to a year-round average of 69 degrees and creating a welcoming environment for outdoor water enthusiasts year round. In spite of its natural beauty and area amenities, Hilton Head Island remains one of the most affordable places in the country to live, work and raise a family. Click HERE to view a list of 2009 Hilton Head Island Events. | 
