December is one of Hilton Head Island’s best-kept secrets! While summer may bring the crowds, December delivers a jolly atmosphere for the holidays, fewer crowds, lower rates on vacation rentals, cooler weather, and a peaceful coastal environment. So if you’re looking for festive charm and a seaside getaway, Hilton Head in December is the destination you’ve been looking for.
Looking for a place to stay on Hilton Head? Explore all of Destination Vacation’s properties!
In This Piece:
- Experience the Holidays on Hilton Head
- Lower Rates on Vacation Rentals
- Enjoy the Island’s Natural Beauty
- Play Some Golf
- Explore the Island’s History and Culture
- Go on a Lowcountry Food Adventure
- Book Your Hilton Head December Vacation Today
- Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Hilton Head in December
Experience the Holidays on Hilton Head
December brings the spirit of the holidays to the island! You’ll find that Hilton Head comes to life with festive events and decorations. Harbour Town’s iconic lighthouse is wrapped in sparkling lights, boat parades showcase creatively decorated vessels, and local shops and restaurants offer special holiday menus and treats. Families can enjoy tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday markets, and unique island traditions that give a charming Lowcountry twist on the season. So, no matter which holiday you celebrate, you’ll find that Hilton Head will make yours a memorable one.
Lower Rates on Vacation Rentals
One of the best reasons to visit Hilton Head in December is lower rates on our vacation rentals! Explore our inventory and pick out the perfect home-away-from-home for your December getaway.
Enjoy the Island’s Natural Beauty
One of the biggest perks of visiting Hilton Head in December is how uncrowded it is. The island’s famous beaches become wonderfully quiet, making it the perfect time for long shoreline walks, shell collecting, photography, and enjoying a Zen atmosphere. Temperatures typically range from the low 60s°F during the day to the high 40s°F in the evening, making it cool enough for light layers yet still comfortable for outdoor exploration. Bike paths are clear and golf courses have excellent winter conditions. Take advantage of the calm by renting bikes and riding the island’s extensive trail system or taking a hike through Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
You will also find that December is a great time for wildlife viewing. Migrating birds pass through the island, and dolphins are frequently spotted along the shoreline. Kayaking through Broad Creek or the salt marshes offers an up close look at native flora and fauna, while guided eco-tours provide expert insight into the island’s winter ecosystem.
Play Some Golf
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December is an excellent month for golfers visiting Hilton Head. Cooler temperatures make it easier to spend the day outside, and many of the island’s renowned courses offer winter rates. Without the peak-season crowds, tee times are easier to secure, and the experience feels far more relaxed.
Pro Tip: Many of the golf courses on the island offer discounted rates for our guests! Learn more here.
Explore the Island’s History and Culture
With cooler weather and fewer crowds, December is a great time to explore Hilton Head’s rich history and culture.
Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum to learn about local wildlife, native history, and Lowcountry traditions. The Mitchelville Freedom Park offers powerful insight into the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States.
Love art? You can enjoy the island’s galleries and working studios, many of which offer seasonal exhibitions and artisan shopping, perfect for holiday gifts.
Coastal Discovery Museum
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Location: 70 Honey Horn Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Mitchelville Freedom Park
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Open Daily, 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Location: 40 Harriet Tubman Wy, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Go on a Lowcountry Food Adventure
December is an excellent month for dining on Hilton Head. Without long waits and summer crowds, you can enjoy the island’s celebrated culinary scene at a leisurely pace. Indulge in fresh local seafood and Lowcountry favorites. Many waterfront restaurants remain open year-round, offering spectacular views that only enhance the ambiance of the moment. Seasonal menus often feature oysters, shrimp, she-crab soup, and slow-cooked Southern classics, paired beautifully with fine wines, local brews, and craft cocktails.
Book Your Hilton Head December Vacation Today
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Featured Rental: 22 Snowy Egret
Ready to book your December vacation to Hilton Head? Browse Destination Vacation’s rentals today! We have a plethora of amazing properties for you to choose from. Want an oceanfront rental? We’ve got those. Planning on bringing your dog along with you? Rent a pet-friendly home! We have something for everyone here at Destination Vacation.
If you’re ready, book your December vacation today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Hilton Head in December
Is December a good time to visit Hilton Head?
Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Hilton Head. The island is quieter than peak summer months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without large crowds. Our vacation rentals are also available at a lower rate, too.
What is the weather like in Hilton Head in December?
December weather in Hilton Head is generally mild, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from the high 40s°F in the evening to the low 60s°F during the day. While the ocean may be too cool for swimming, the pleasant climate is ideal for walking the beach, golfing, biking, sightseeing, and eating lunch outdoors.
Are restaurants and attractions open in December?
Most restaurants, golf courses, shops, and attractions on Hilton Head Island remain open throughout December. While hours may be slightly reduced at some locations, visitors will still find plenty of dining options, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions available during the winter season.
Is Hilton Head crowded during December?
December is much less crowded than peak summer months and even quieter than late spring and fall. While the week between Christmas and New Year’s is busier, the island has a peaceful, laid-back feel, making December a favorite time for travelers seeking a calmer vacation experience.