Lay on the beach, get a tan or surf the waves are just a few things that might immediately come to mind. Hilton Head Island is also a golf paradise for athletic vacationers and is popular among tennis enthusiasts. Take in some history, or have a wonderful nature hike.

• Beaches: The beaches in Hilton Head are world famous. In fact, they have been named Top 10 of most ...

Lay on the beach, get a tan or surf the waves are just a few things that might immediately come to mind. Hilton Head Island is also a golf paradise for athletic vacationers and is popular among tennis enthusiasts. Take in some history, or have a wonderful nature hike.

• Beaches: The beaches in Hilton Head are world famous. In fact, they have been named Top 10 of most family-friendly beaches in the United States. Visitors here will find more than 14 miles of beachfront just waiting for exploration. Since all of Hilton Head's beach is considered public, visitors will find themselves with plenty of coastlines to swim along or stroll. Some of the most common points for visitors to take in the beaches include Coligny Beach Park, Islanders beach Park and Folly Field Beach Park.
• Golfing: As famous as Hilton Head is for its beaches, its golf courses might be even more. This area has been named as one of the best places to golf in America by Golf Digest. There are more than 20 Hilton Head golf courses, which include courses played on for professional tours.
• Tennis: The island has more than 350 tennis courts that cover the gamut on surfaces. It is here that many people come to learn and train in this sport. Tennis resorts here, in fact, are considered among the best in the world.
• Nature viewing: Hilton Head is noted for its animal-watching opportunities. Visitors can see bottlenose dolphins, spot loggerhead sea turtles and even catch glimpses of hundreds of other species of aquatic life, mammals and bird species. Nature tours are available on the island at places like the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, the Newhall Audubon Preserve and Fish Haul Park.
• Water sports: Along the waters of Hilton Head, visitors will find plenty of opportunities to take part in water sports. The area is noted for its water skiing, diving, kayaking and parasailing opportunities. Fishing is also a favorite activity for those who travel to Hilton Head.
• Historic sites: Hilton Head is rooted deep with history. The area has been touched by the English, the French, the Spanish and Native Americans. It was the home of some major plantations and served as the backdrop for the second largest naval battle ever fought in American waters. Considering its long history of habitation, the number of historic sites to tour is quite extensive.
• Arts: The area in and around Hilton Head is noted for its many cultural ties. Home to an orchestra, an arts center, galleries and more, the island definitely doesn't fall short in the arts. It has also served as the inspiration for many writers, artists and musicians.