Harbour Town Yacht Basin is “must do” - a great place to spend a whole day.  It is a center of activity within The Sea Pines Resort. 

    Start your day in a rocking chair under the Liberty Oak, an ancient tree that was saved from destruction by Charles Fraser during the construction of Harbour Town.  Watch boats, joggers, and frolicking kids begin their day.  Visit the Charles Fraser Statue, a tribute to the man who conceived and constructed this island’s first resort and residential plantation. Let your kids vent their energy at the Gregg Russell Playground. 

    Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse Museum (843-671-2318), Hilton Head’s signature landmark.  The Lighthouse has recently undergone a transformation and expansion of the Museum with the addition of extensive and historically significant photographs, artifacts, and displays that can be viewed and studied as you climb the 114 steps to the top. When you reach the top, take time to shop in the charming Top Of The Lighthouse Shoppe (843-671-2810), the world’s only store at the top of a lighthouse.  And don’t miss the breathtaking wrap-around view from the outdoor balcony, nor your chance to be on the Lighthouse’s very own webcam.  This is one of the best spots on the Island for sunset viewing with its spectacular Lowcountry vista. It is also a perfect spot for viewing golfers on the famed 18th hole of the Habour Town Golf Links course.  The Lighthouse Museum and shop are open daily from 10:00 a.m. to sundown.

    There are over 20 shops for your browsing and spending pleasure, from boutique clothing stores to art and jewelry galleries.  Don’t miss The Sea Pines Resort Nature Center located next to the bakery, a wonderful place for kids of all ages where you can make reservations for any number of guided nature tours as well as activities for the youngsters.

    That should take you through to lunchtime.  Now decide which of many restaurants to select.  Crazy Crab (843-363-2722) is an long-time favorite, featuring some of the best seafood on the Island.  But make sure you leave room for an ice cream cone for dessert.

    Now it’s on to the waterfront.  After you’ve spent some time on the beach gathering shells and driftwood, you can select from any number of activities out on the water.  Go sailing aboard the original 12-meter America’s Cup boat the “Stars & Stripes” (843-363-9446) or try a cruise on the 38-foot trimaran “Sumo” (843-671-4386).  Then there’s parasailing, waterskiing, jet skiing, and charter fishing trips.  All ages would enjoy a leisurely scenic nature cruise aboard the “Vagabond” (843-363-9023) or sightseeing aboard the “Spirit of Harbour Town” (843-363-9026).  They have covered all the bases - whatever you could possibly want to do is here. 

    Finally, it’s time for dinner at another one of Harbour Town’s great restaurants or perhaps a dinner cruise aboard the “Spirit of Harbour Town”, and then a stroll along the boardwalk.  Go back to your rocking chair that’s now a front row seat for another beautiful island sunset.  During the summer eveings, you can enjoy the sounds of live music by Gregg Russell or Bill Krause, two long-time favorites, or, if you’re lucky, a live concert by one of many nationally known performers.  Relax. You’ve just had a happy, fun-filled day in Harbour Town. 

    If you are not staying within the Sea Pines Resort, there is a daily gate pass fee.  Harbour Town is located at 149 Lighthouse Road. 

    For more information about what’s available in Harbour Town see our Ad Directory under Lighthouses, Marinas, Restaurants, Shopping, and various water activities.

    Also see “Thing To Do” #4, #23, #35, #46, and #82.Photo by Susan McCann, Island Photography,
provided courtesy of Harbour Town Yacht Basin