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Hilton Head, SC
Travelogue
Restaurant Comments
Welcome to the Hilton Head Island Restaurant Travelogue - a
moderated page where you can get the inside information on the best
eateries in the Hilton Head Island area. Note: This page is not an
advertisement for any particular spot and all opinions contained here
are solely those of the individual contributor. E-mail addresses
are being removed to encourage the posting of answers to the
Travelogue and to reduce the growing spam problem.
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Category: Restaurants
I am a committed wonderful people loving person. I have great
management skills and also have worked in many restaurants. I am
looking to relocate for possibly more than just the summer. I love
Hilton Head and couldn't picuture a more perfect place on earth to
live, work, and relax.
-- Cassandra Clark - Saturday, April 3, 2004 at 17:01:38
My family has traveled to Hilton Head each summer for the past six
years. We stay on South Beach, and regularly visit the Salty Dog for a
fun, casual evening. My son, who is 25 months, and my nephew, 15
months, loved meeting Jake the Salty Dog. Our favorite place to eat is
Just Pasta in the Coligny Plaza. They have a great menu and atmosphere,
and the staff is great! We never miss our annual meal at this great
restaurant.
-- Amy Simindinger (asdinger@bright.net) - Tuesday, November 11, 2003
at 11:19:31
We will be vacatioing on Hilton head Island the week of July 7th. We
have rented a houe in the Sea Pines community. I am very interested in
any Restaurant or family activities coupons and discounts you may have.
Please sned via email. Thank you.
-- Jane Blackwood (janeblackwood@carolina.rr.com) - Monday, June 30,
2003 at 01:30:25
I need directions to Ship Yard Plantation after I get on Hilton Head
Island.
-- Peggy Hinton (p_hinton@bellsouth.net) - Friday, June 20, 2003 at
21:54:21
For AWESOME authentic New York Italian, try DelVecchio's. For good
service, great food, casual atmosphere, and modest prices, you can't
beat it. We drive 1 Hr from Savannah at least twice a month for their
garlic rolls and Greek pizza. Have tried other entree's on the menu and
have never been disappointed.
-- Bill Brewer (wpbrewer@bellsouth.net) - Saturday, March 8, 2003 at
18:20:25
We highly recommend Abe's for some down home Gullah cooking. We have
been coming to Hilton Head for 20 years and always enjoy our dinner at
Abe's. If you are looking for frills, don't come here. If you are
looking for great food, this is your place.
-- Bill Marks (jmbmarks@aol.com) - Saturday, February 8, 2003 at
16:23:42
This past summer we stayed with our friends in the Ship Yard. We
have'nt vacationed here for a while and found some new restuarants. One
we were really impressed with was REDFISH. Does any one out there have
the recipe for their BLACK BEAN SOUP? We would appreciate it. Thanks.
Bonnie
-- Bonnie Shaginaw (dbshag@msn.com) - Sunday, February 2, 2003 at
17:14:10
Dear Sir or Madam, I am a second year student of the New England
Culinary Institute at H.L.Stoutt Community College. Part of my
requirements to is to complete 700 hours in a restaurant any where
around the world. I have done some research and found that it would be
very interesting to work in your establishment. If you feel that this
proposal might be able to work you may send me and e-mail so as i would
know to go ahead and send my cover letter and resume. Christalen
Ambrose
-- Ms. Christalen Ambrose (Chrissy_tumberlina@hotmail.com) - Tuesday,
October 1, 2002 at 10:19:22
Staying with some friends in their condo at Windsor II in Palmetto
Dunes. Can you send info on some nice places to eat at moderate prices.
We are arriving 4-14 thru 4-21. Thanks in advance for you efforts. S.
Cellura
-- Salvatore Cellura (jscellura@aol.com) - 3/29/01
1/21/99 great place great golf 2fav. nice restaurants are 211 park
and charlestons for casual reilleys and hilton head brewing. outdoor
happy hours, scotts fishmarket and san miguel, both in shelter cove, in
harbortown the quarter deck and south beach the salty dog. For you
beaver creek co. skiers, shannon tanner entertains in hilton head at
shelter cove and dave kennerly? at salty dog (saw them in co. last
year) Also greg and robin on the flute enterrain at scotts and
quaterdeck and i think the hilton, nice backround for happy hour. great
place have fun. rb
-- rb (arbee@cybernex.net) submitted 1/28/1999
As a 24 year old looking for fun, my friends and I found it on
Hilton Head. We were there March of 98 during rain and nasty weather
and had THE BEST time! We found great times (hilarious people and
scandal) at "BARmuda" --HHBrew Pub & the Lodge...Monkey Business is too
much fun...lots of cheesiness though-- be prepared to laugh! You will
have to avoid the Gold Chain-disco king types. But- great music ! 80's
night there is NOT to be missed! (we saw Modern English LIVE--they
played "Melt with You 3X) We have been back 4 times for more frolicking
and every time we commit at least one night to Steamers for dinner--
FABULOUS seafood, reasonably priced and GREAT live entertainment!! Do
not waste your time or money at the Old Oyster Factory...the waitress
got mad when we wanted to share dessert!! Pool Bar Jim's ---FANTASTIC
DAQUIRIS!!! Tiki Hut-- great place for sun and beer and pick up
artists! Also-- Wild Wings is fun and right across the street is a
great after hours club that is open when everything e lse closes ( the
name escapes me right now)...anyway-- hope this tid bit helps with the
20-something crowd looking for fun!!
-- Sturdivant Wilson (sturwilson@aol.com) submitted 1/28/1999
Oct 1, 1998 all the "guides" reference paid advertisers; check here
for truth. Staying Disney resorts, did Scott's at Shelter Harbour (ok,
nice outdoor patio with so-so duo on vocal and variety of instruments);
did CQ's at Harbourtown (upscale, attentive, decent choice of wines at
no bargain, excellent food); Sunset Grille at Jenkins road (fantastic
everything, including sunset view, at reasonable prices, super wines
and prices, incredible desserts, awesome appetizers with cajun fried
oysters on gorgonzola cream sauce [yes, great!], friendly folks,
inexpensive, we liked as much as 4X-the-price CQ's); Outback (very
good, as expected); lunch, Cornerstone Grille at Factory Stores II
(better than expected food). Played golf at RT Jones, T Fazio, Island
West and Old South. The first two are friendly; the latter two can eat
you alive. All in top condition. Note: it's so humid, NOBODY walks a
course here. Us northerners really suffer. But we keep coming back.
-- Winston/JoAnn Barrows (73537.1366@compuserve.com) submitted
1/28/1999
My 19 year-old son and I spent a week in Hilton Head this month. as
we have done most summers for the last 15 years. This trip we
experienced two restaurants that you must add to your don't miss list:
OLD FORT PUB was the best food and overall dining experience that we
have ever encountered on the island. The setting is beautiful next to
the water on Skull Creek...with superb service! Everything was
wonderful, but the chocolate bourbon pecan pie was perhaps the most
memorable. (Don't expect "pub" food or atmosphere, as this is first
class dining
STEAMERS in the Coligny Circle area was much more casual, but we had
excellent food sitting on the deck by the duck pond. Service was just
average, but we had a delightful meal of various seafood dishes. J&B
September '98
-- The Sullivan (gtjacket@bellsouth.net) submitted 1/28/1999
I spent a year on Hilton Head and I still miss it dreadfully. As a
Brit Abroad I found it most welcoming and full of things to do (in the
Summer at least). My favourite late night hangout was Hinchey's or
Moneypennies and The Brew Pub on Wednesday 70's night. Good places to
eat are The Old Oyster Factory, CQ's (gorgeous Sous Chef called Josh -
tell him I said hi if you see him!) and Wings for just that! To all my
buddies at the Hilton Resort including Bobby Ryder the star that he is
and Lawson who worked the Buoy Bar like noone else. Okay that's it,
love to you all, see you again and all that!
-- Sara Warth (sara.warth@bmpddb.com) submitted 1/28/1999
I am posting my comments to this site about our first vacation visit
to H= HI. We vacationed the week of 20-25 July 1998, it was sure hot
and very humid that week. We stayed at the Radisson Suite Resort which
I would rate onl= y average at best, however it was more affordable
than many of the accommodations at the various plantation resort areas.
We had some relatives staying at the Carolina Club in Shipyard
Plantation, which gave= us the opportunity to visit there many times
during the week. Shipyard Plantation=92s facilities and grounds were
beautiful. I can sympathize w= ith Joyce Mara who posted a comment to
this travelogue on 5/18/98 and comment= ed about HHI being an island of
"gated" communities. To a certain extent sh= e is correct. Unless you
are staying in one of these "gated" communities, = own a condo or
timeshare there, or are fortunate to be guests of someone vacationing
there (as was our case), you do not get the chance to see maj= or
portions of this beautiful island and I feel that can be most
unfortunate. Here are some of the things we did that we enjoyed: 1)
Went on a dolphin cruise out of Broad Creek Marina on the S.S. Pelican,
which was very enjoyable. The captain related some very interesting
history and information about areas and properties along the shore
line. 2) As suggested many times on this travelogue we had dinner out
one night at Fitzgerald=92s. The meal was excellent with very good
service; 3) Watch= ing the fireworks at Shelter Cove on Tuesday
evening; 4) Enjoyed riding bicycles one morning around the island near
and on Shipyard Plantation; 5= ) For something to do off the island we
did a day trip to Charleston, SC, t= o visit Magnolia Plantation and
Gardens, and then did a visit to Fort Sumte= r (a very interesting
Civil War era National Monument); 6) We also enjoyed = a round of
miniature golf our last evening at Legendary Golf at 900 William Hilton
Parkway. We had a very enjoyable week and would go back again to HHI,
however I fe= el May or June may be better for less heat and humidity.
Next time however,= I think we will try to make arrangements to stay in
one of the "gated" communities. -- Alan Warminski , submitted 8/11/1998
-- Alan Warminski" (alan_warminski@email.msn.com) submitted
1/28/1999
Just came back from an enjoyable vacation at HHI 08/11 as usual. We
stayed at Port O'Call in Ship Yard Plantation. We highly recommend
Hilton Head Brewing Co. especially the Rasberry Wheat Beer. We had a
bad experience at The Salty Dog Cafe and will NEVER go back due to poor
juvenile service. The Quarterdeck in Sea Pines is also a gret place to
eat. Go early then enjoy Gregg Russell under the tree! Have Fun!
-- Bill Weirtz (wweirtz@aol.com) submitted 1/28/1999
My husband, 14 yr-old daughter and I have recently returned to
Northern Ireland from our holiday in Charleston and Hilton Head Island.
We stayed at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Shipyard for two weeks. For
anyone coming from a colder climate, the heat (in the 90's) takes some
time to get used to, but we loved the wide beach, the waves, the
alligators, turtles and birds, and the excellent service we encountered
almost everywhere.
Our favourite restaurant was Steamers at Coligny Plaza - great
waterside atmosphere, and simple but delicious seafood. Funnily enough,
we found that the more we spent on a meal, the less we enjoyed it - too
much overworking of ingredients, for instance at Charleston's Fine
Dining and the Old Fort Pub. La Pola's was excellent for pasta,
although the atmosphere was not particularly exciting.
We found the island rather too manicured and cultivated for our tastes,
but did find southerners very polite, friendly and charming. Early
morning bike rides were good, and my husband enjoyed golf at Shipyard
Golf Club.
Alison Patrick
-- Alison Patrick (amp@apc.onyxnet.co.uk) submitted 1/28/1999
We just returned from HHI(8/1-8/8) and loved it. The weather was
perfect, beach was beautiful, and the area was wonderful. If you read
this travelogue often, then you know that the Gazman has rated pretty
much all of the restaurants in the area. But here are a few he has
missed HHI BREWING CO. is a pretty good microbrewerey, with 4 local
brews always on tap. The sandwiches are big and are very good. If
traveling with kids, try going on Sunday, where Kidfest is held just
outside the restaurant(jugglers, magicians, balloon artists, etc.) ABES
SHRIMP HOUSE is also very good for down home cooking and soul food. But
it is very popular and crowded. A couple of locals took us to 211 PARK
BISTRO. Although the atmosphere was nice, the food left a lot to be
desired. The pork chop was overcooked, the sea bass pasta was just ok,
and while the waiter raved about having one of the best filets on the
island, I found it to be tasteless. A good filet does not need to be
smothered in mushrooms and onions! All in all a huge disappointment!!.
The second place they told us about was JUST PASTA CAFE. A quaint
little place located in Coligny plaza. Small and intimate(only 8
tables), you pick you type of pasta, then pick the type of sauce (6
different types), and then pick the add ins such as chicken, veggies,
shrimp, etc. All pastas come with ceaser sald and a fresh baked italian
loaf of bread from the bakery next door. Very good, and very
reasonable. Can't wait until next year.
-- Bruce Grossmann (bgrossmann@benham.com) submitted 1/28/1999
My family (age 20-73)just returned from HHI. We enjoyed golf,
fishing, swimming in ocean, trip to Penn Center on St Helena. We stayed
in my timeshare in N. Forest Beach. Coligny Plaza was a real
convenience. Enjoyed Steamers at Coligny; short walk to beach. We found
everyone to be friendly. We "discovered" African American (as well as
many other) families well represented at Abe's Native Shrimp House. Are
there other restaurants, clubs on the island that African American
families enjoy?
-- Marsha Brightwell (lynettehb@aol.com) submitted 1/28/1999
My wife and I, and friends of ours returned from HHI 4/25/98, and
had a pretty good time. We stayed at the PLanters Quarters at Port
Royal Plantation, which was very very nice....& quiet! These timeshares
are gold crown rated with RCI and are huge! Three bedrooms, three
baths(jacuzzi's in two), living, dining, & sunrooms. This timeshare
gives you access to the Westin Resort health club, and outdoor
areas...very nice. Since were mainly golfers, we tried various golf
course on or near the island.
We played at Port Royal (course condition not so good), Ocean course at
Sea Pines (Tough, but fun..windy, alligators,water, and see the owner
of "Home Depot" house on #16), Shipyard Plantation (older, fairways
dry, greens ok), Old South Golf And C.C. (Good condition, very good for
the $$, good greens) Our favorite was the Arthur Hills course at
palmetto dunes. It was in unbelievable condition & the most fun to play
with about twenty alligator sitings! But, very expensive ($110)
Overall, if you've been to Myrtle Beach, Northern Michigan, or Southern
Pines (Pinehurst) the golf here is quite expensive. The average round
is about $85-95. We've played nicer courses in Pinehurst in the fall
(Aug.-Sept.)less than half the price.
Other things to try :HH Brewing Co., Dolphin cruise at Broadcreek, rent
bicycles (great fun on the beach), trip to savannah...(oysters at
Shuckers..ummmm!a must!) Had a nice week.....will probably go back some
day.
-- Paul Gomez (paul.gomez@usa.net) submitted 1/28/1999
To: Hilton Head Travelogue BEGIN USER INPUT Once again, on April
15th, my wife and I left High Country of Vail, Colorado after another
great ski year to escape what is know as "Mud Season" in Vail and go to
Hilton Head where we stayed until our return at the end of May. I can't
think of a better place to get a head start on sunshine and summer than
at this very special and wonderful island just N. of Savannah, GA. It's
got it all....great golf...beaches...restaurants.. tennis...bike trails
and close proximity to both Savannah and Beaufort, SC which are oozing
with Southern charm.
The new Cross Island Expressway was being built last year and is now
open. For a buck, if you are going to Sea Pines, Shipyard or the Forest
Beach area, you can save a little time during crowded times.
Unfortunately, the speed limit is only 45 and the local cops are hiding
and waiting to pounce if you go faster, so if you are staying at
Palmetto Dunes or any other place from there back to the bridge, you
would be probably be better off just staying on William Hilton Parkway.
By the way...be careful driving on the Island. Route 278 (William
Hilton Highway) is the "main drag" and although divided, you have folks
going well over the 45 MPH speed limit and some older folks creeping
along in their Lincoln Town Cars at 25MPH and hardly a day went by that
I didn't see an accident. Drive defensively and don't let a fender
bender ruin your vacation.
Here is an update of my previous comments for those who choose to
read them. I must say that I have been amazed at the amount of E-Mail I
have received from folks all over the USA and in one case...as far away
as Great Britain from a lovely couple who live in London where he is a
Dentist and she is a Industrial Psychologist. They ended up coming to
HHI during the 1st two weeks we were there and, following my advice,
they rented a house in Shipyard Plantation just down the street from
our place there and we not only met, we played some tennis and had
dinner together a couple of times. It's a small World. Meanwhile....on
to the '98 update.....
Again....I would heartily suggest that anyone arriving on the
island, pick up a copy of a free booklet called " Hilton Head Island
RESTAURANTS." You can find it anywhere from shopping malls to super
markets to condo rental offices. It will give you a listing of most of
the restaurants on the island complete with their menus and prices not
only alphabetically by name, but by category...i.e. Seafood,
Continental, American, etc. There are probably at least 200 places to
eat and they range from excellent to just plain awful. I'll try to help
you find the right place for your tastes. At this point, I must comment
that, in looking at some of the submissions to the Hilton Head Island
Travelogue, there are obviously a wide variance in opinions of what is
good and what is bad. While I can certainly enjoy casual dining in a
simple place, my wife, who is a gourmet cook and I, who am a member of
the famous international gourmet and wine society...the Chaine des
Rotisseurs, appreciate fine dining and service on certain occasions. To
start with...I suggest you read my comments on the best....and the
worst places (obviously in my opinion) that I submitted last year. I
went back to a number of the best places this year and even gave some
of the other ones a second chance after reading some positive comments
by other folks after my departure last year. Let's start with the GOOD
places.
The OLD FORT PUB on Hilton Head Plantation still has great
food....views at sunset... but the service has declined in my opinion.
I took a party of 8 there for dinner there and was amazed that the
white wine was served "room temperature" and it had to be placed in a
bucket of ice before it was drinkable. The waitress, while very nice,
was rarely to be seen during the evening. This was kind of sad since
the place does have a lot going for it and maybe they need to increase
their wait staff.
If you want the best in food and service and a great view isn't as
important as the overall ambiance and the dining experience
itself....then...NENO iL TOSCANO is the place. Located in the Festival
Center next to the Publix super market (by the way, this Publix has the
BEST Key Lime pies with a graham cracker crust I've ever eaten...if you
are eating in.....Get Some!)....Neno's features...fabulous N. Italian
cuisine.with entrees priced from $14 to about $20. Food this good in
most major cities would be at least double in price and Neno's wine
list is extensive and fairly priced. This elegant place is definitely
not for the Shoneys, Fudruckers, Wild Wings, Big Bamboo crowd. If you
go....tell Neno...you heard about it from Gerry from Vail. This Italian
gentleman will make sure you have a great dining experience.
CQ's at Harbour Town is still very nice as is Cafe Europa. This year
we had a waiter at Cafe Europa who, despite our mentioning that we
would pass on an appetizer since we had come directly from having some
drinks and appetizers on a yacht there at Harbour Town owned by some
friends...he keep trying to push us into buying some of their
appetizers. Maybe this was only an aberration and his aggressive manner
was a product of his New York City upbringing (he made a point to tell
us was where he was from). The good news is that the food arrived
piping hot and was delicious.
While I'm talking about Harbour Town, I mentioned the entertainment
at the Harbourside Cafe last year. Great place for Happy Hour. This
year they featured an African-American trio that played some laid back
steel drum reggae and on 3 other nights a week a talented female singer
and flute player was accompanied by her keyboard playing male partner
as they played a mixture of easy to listen to music. It's a great place
to check out the fabulous yachts and watch the sun go down....but the
food there is awful so go elsewhere. Speaking of Happy Hour
places....several people mentioned the Salty Dog Cafe located in Sea
Pines at the S. Seaport Marina....I'm sorry...I think their best
product is selling tee shirts. Kind of like HHI's version of the world
famous hamburger and tee shirt emporiums know as the Hard Rock Cafes.
TRUFFLES is still one of my favorites. Located at the Sea Pines
Center...just about a mile down the road from Harbour Town...it offers
great food in an eclectic setting at very reasonable prices and their
desserts...like the "Mud Pie" are sinfully sensational.
The OLD OYSTER FACTORY continues to amaze me at the crowds it draws.
It is a very attractive BIG place on Marshland Rd overlooking Broad
Creek that offers a wide variety of moderately priced food. This
year...one of my guests had to send his fish back...it was extremely
overcooked...but the good news is that they graciously took it back and
returned with one that was just right in no time at all. A funny thing
happened there that I'll share with you. Upon arrival, we were told we
would have about a 20 minute wait and that there was some entertainment
and a bar on the dock out back. We went out there and soon discovered
that there was something else out there that was not
advertised....namely...the pesky little bugs that come out in the late
afternoon and early evening called "No-See-ums." While they are so tiny
you can hardly see them...they must be all mouths and they can bite
real good. Everyone was scratching their heads and slapping their
exposed body parts including the entertainers whom I felt sorry for.
Once we were seated, we had a table at a window overlooking the dock
and were entertained by watching the unsuspecting customers arrive on
the dock and immediately start scratching and wondering what was
attacking them. The Old Oyster Factory is an OK place....but not
sensational.
Having read some comments from some folks praising some places I had
panned a year ago....I foolishly decided to give two of them another
look in '98. WILD WINGS was mentioned as a great place by some folks
who vacationed there and I must admit that their chicken wings are
excellent....however....the LOUD rock and roll music make them pretty
hard to digest. I would suggest ordering carry-out if you must have
them and pass on the smoke infested bar atmosphere and eat them at the
place you are staying.
Another place that numerous folks have written in about was "The BIG
BAMBOO" at Coligny Circle. I thought it was dark and dismal last year
and it's WW II theme was a little "cutesy" and strange for a beach
place...but I thought I'd give it another shot in '98. Sorry folks, its
still DARK & DISMAL with really MEDIOCRE food from a confusing menu
that offers a strange variety of things from their "War-Dog" to
meatloaf and California veggie wraps. All the cutesy bamboo in the
world couldn't make this place a good place to eat. This S. Forest
beach hangout is the place to go if you think putting on a sleeve-less
Tee shirt or a tank top is fine casual attire and the nachos at the
ball park are gourmet food. You'll feel right at home with the other
folks who love this place. Aaaaargh !
Another spot mentioned by a number of folks was AUNT CHILADAS on
Pope Ave. Again...it is close to Coligny Circle and a lot of people who
come to Hilton Head and find a reasonable place to stay in the S.
Forest Beach area frequent it. The menu is a dead give away...in that
it features both Mexican and Italian food. Huh!!!! The result is very
average food at higher prices than the quality should suggest. The
decor was a little strange and looked like it had been picked up at a
garage sale somewhere. It featured a fake bird perched on a large ring
but the bird was not at the bottom, but rather sitting cock-eyed at an
angle part way up. We decided to try it the night we arrived and were
soon joined by a bus tour group of senior citizens that had a "package
deal dinner" there. Our young waitress, tried her best, but had the
annoying habit of referring to everyone as "Guys"....as in..."Have you
guys decided on what you want?.....How's the food Guys?.....Can I get
you Guys anything else? " etc. It was kind of amusing to see here
continue that line of banter with a long table full of blue haired 70
to 80 year old ladies next to us. I would bet the same crowd that loves
Wild Wings and the absolutely horrible Big Bamboo thinks this is the
greatest. That's the beauty of HHI....there's something there for
everyone.
No....I didn't even think about giving HENRY's another try this
year....it has taken about a year for my stomach to get over it last
time so that was enough for me.
The CAFE @ WEXFORD is a cute little place that features reasonably
priced french food and we enjoyed it last year. This year, we took a
couple from Colorado that had come to visit us there on the Sunday that
was Mother's Day and we surprised to see that they had not only reduced
their menu that evening, but had cranked up the prices about 50% as
well. Gouging the public is not the way to win friends and influence
people.
We alternated eating out about 2/3's of the time with eating in at
our place and once again found the wonderful seafood at great prices
offered up by BARNACLE BILL's to be fabulous. Every day he gets in
extremely fresh seafood at his stand on William Hilton Parkway between
Palmetto Dunes and Port Royal on the W. side of the road (Shelter Cove
side). We enjoyed Wahoo, fresh Salmon, jumbo Shrimp, Oysters, Blue
Crabs, Tuna, and Sea Bass which was cooked and smoked on our grill and
it was sensational. He can even get you live Maine Lobsters if you give
him a day's notice. So...if you want to pick up a bottle of wine and
enjoy some great seafood at your place there....go see Bill and be sure
to tell him that Gerry from Vail told you to come see him. I guarantee
he will treat you right.
ABE's Native Shrimp House is located not far from Barnacle Bill's as
you head toward Shelter Cove and features a $10.95 "Early Bird" buffet.
I had read about it in a golf magazine so we decided to try it. This
African-American family has been there since 1968 and features down
home cooking including fried fish, BBQ ribs, okra and chicken
but..while the food is plentiful and filling...it is pretty heavy and
not for someone who is trying to watch their weight. It was also pretty
hot in there in May and their A/C is barely working so be forewarned.
Interesting !
As for GOLF.....really no changes from last year in that I played a
number of the courses both on and off island including the famous
Harbour Town Golf Links and found all of them to be a lot of fun. Pick
up the local paper....the "Island Packet" which is 25 cents and you can
find advertised deals on golf in it. If you are staying at a condo or
hotel resort, they often have deals on golf or packages available which
will reduce your cost of playing. One new course I played this year was
the Golden Bear Golf Course at Indigo Run Plantation a couple of times
and enjoyed it. It features on board computerized screens on each golf
cart that tell you how far you've hit your drive...how far it is to the
green from anywhere on the course and the clubhouse has a monitor
showing where every cart is on the course at all times. Very unique.
If you are into TENNIS....and are staying at a Plantation, you
should check with the club there regarding their programs. At Shipyard
Plantation, they had a round-robin doubles mixer every afternoon from 4
- 5:30 PM on the clay courts for only $10 per person with wine and beer
afterwards. A great way to meet some other folks and have a lot of fun.
Again...if you need additional advice or suggestions send me an
E-Mail and I'll do my best to get back to you. Hilton Head is a great
place to spend your vacation and if you decide to go, I hope you love
it as much as we do. All the Best...GERRY from VAIL. (gazman@colorado.net)
-- Gerry "A." Zimmerman (gazman@colorado.net) submitted 6/05/98
My wife and I and friends just returned from HHI (june 3, 1998). We
had a wonderfull time. The island is a great place for families, very
relaxing, and a huge beach. We stayed at the Disney Resort, a great
place to stay. Disney also has it's own Beach House on the ocean in
Palmetto Dunes. We really like the Hilton Head Diner, just below
Shelter Cove Harbor. The food was great, breakfast, lunch or dinner. It
has a huge menu and the service was fast. We also liked Guiseppi's,
located in Shelter Cove Plaza. Great pizza and you must try a "weggie".
There are several very good mini-golf places for children and adults.
Had lots of fun there. We did some shopping at the factory outlets in
Buffton on the mainland, just over the bridge. We took a dolphin cruise
on a 20 foot patoon boat( holds 6 people) down the broad creek. We saw
about 20 dolphins, some came right up to the boat. Our guide was great.
We plan to make HHI our only place to go to the beach. Richard M.
Smith, Lincolnton N.C. rsmith@tntie.com
-- Richard M. Smith (rsmith@tntie.com) submitted 6/4/1998
april 19, 1998 we have just returned from another wonderful spring
break on HHI. As always we frequented our favorite restaurants: Wild
Wings, our tradtional first night meal, can't beat cold beer and hot
wings to get a vacation started. Our very favorite spot is Steamers
located in Coligny Plaza, defintely the best seafood on the island. We
ended up eating there three nights out of six this trip the food and
service was so good. For great pizza you have to try Pizza Chef. We
have tried several others on the island but this is by far the best.
Already looking forward to going back this summer to try some of the
recommendations I've read here.
-- vicki theiss (vtheiss@aol.com) submitted 4/19/1998
My wife and I just got back from our HH vacation (4/3/98 - 4/7/98).
We had a GREAT time. We used many of the recommendations from
submissions to this site, so we wanted to contribute our opinions as
well. For accommodations, we stayed at the Hilton Head Beach and Tennis
Resort, in an Ocean Front Villa. It was nice, clean, and inexpensive.
Folly Beach is clean and quiet. Our only complaint is that we felt we
were away from the real "action". Most of the cool places to go were
about 5 miles down 278 towards Sea Pines and Coligny plaza. When we go
again, we'll probably stay in Palmetto Dunes, or somewhere near Forest
Beach. Those seem to be the best places for the 20-somethings. The food
selections were great. Our favorites, in order, were Steamers, Makotos
and Shuckers. Excellent service at them all and the ambiance (sp?) was
very nice at Steamers and Makotos. Shuckers was a little out of the way
and desolate. The Salty Dog was ok, but we were expecting something
more. The location of SD is great and it seems to be a good hangout
spot. The Wild Wing Cafe also probably is a happening place, but we
went for lunch on a weekday, and it was just alright. I did like the
different flavors of wings, though. We went to Coconuts Comedy Club and
ordered gourmet pizza that they bring in from a pizza shop across the
street (don't remember the name). It had to be the best gourmet pizza
we've ever had. Try the Vegetarian. There is plenty of other things to
do there; enough to be able to go back consistently and never have the
exact same experience. We had a chance to go to the finals of the
Family Circle Cup and had an awesome time. We'll be doing that again.
Island Water Sports was very good for waverunners and parasailing. The
employees were very friendly, yet professional. For a beach experience,
we recommend Forest Beach. It had the most people on it. Make sure to
go bike riding, its almost impossible to avoid it. We don't golf, but
we enjoyed playing at several of the mini-golf places. We really like
the The Pirates Island Adventure golf course. Oh yeah, and we enjoyed
the Dolphin Cruise at Broadcreek Marina. We spent almost a whole day
shopping at the outlets in Bluffton. Bluffton is across the bridge from
HHI, but it is probably only a 15-20 minute car drive away from most
places on the Island. We'll definitely be coming back to HH for years
to come.
-- Derek Walker (dxwalker@mindspring.com) submitted 4/13/1998
My family just (4/4/98) returned from HHI - we stayed for a week at
HHI Beach and Tennis Resort and enjoyed it greatly. The villa was
convenient to the pool and the beach and was extremely clean and
reasonably priced. Boat House II was my favorite place to eat on the
Island. Can't wait to go back later this summer. Alan Cheatham Seymour,
TN
-- Alan Cheatham (cheatham@icx.net) submitted 4/6/1998
March 20, 1998 Hi, My name is Bill and Hilton Head is awesome!!! I
have been going there ever since I was 10 years old. I am now 23.
Hilton Head has wonderful bike trails. They are very uncrowded and
allow you to become part of nature. Some of my favorite restruants are
Alexanders, the Oyster Factory, and Reilly's. My favorite hotel is the
Westin Resort. Although the rooms are expensive, you can't beat the
ocean view. The pool-side facilities are excellant. The Westin also has
an outstanding seafood buffet 7 days a week. Fishing is great...My dad
discovered that the best place to fish was in a lagoon on the golf
course. Within minutes the bass started biting. As my mother would say,
watch out for the Alligators. One day when she was taking out the
trash, a dog rubbed its nose against my mother's leg and she screamed
thinking it was an alligator. Thank goodness it wasn't an alligator!!
If you are ever chased by an alligator, remember to run in a zigzag. If
you like birds, Hilton Head has a ton of them. Well, I just wanted to
tell you about some of the highlights. Hi...Mom and Dad! Take me back
to Hilton Head!
-- Bill Diehl (Charles.Diehl@Murraystate.edu) submitted
3/22/1998
Hello! I lived in Hilton Head for the entire 1997 summer, on an
internship program for Resort Recreation & Tourism Management. All the
restaurants I have read about on here are awesome. Some of my faves
were Hinchey's, especially for Wed. night $1 bottles, Brew Pub pizza is
awesome, Wild Wing cafe luch buffet is the best ever, Big Apple Bagel
has great sandwiches. Anywhere you can eat Alaskan Snow Crab
Legs...take advantage of it! Seafood in Iowa just isn't the same. So,
words of advice for vacationers...RR&TM activities at the resorts are
good, worth the few bucks you pay for it, and your kids will have
fun...ask the staffers to babysit if mom and dad want a night out, cuz
the interns make squat. DO NOT take your children to RR&TM's Kid's
Club. I headed that day camp all summer. The kids run wild, basically
just swimming all day, they get a gross lunch, and it is so hot, with
no access to air conditioning, that your kids will probably get sun
poisoning. There have been a few GREAT kids there, though. Usually the
vacationers... If you hit the WaterFun Park at Comfort Inn, Navid
(operations manager there) is awesome, tell him HELLO for me! Krista
Klockentager klockentager@wartburg.edu
-- eric allen (allene@ns.wartburg.edu) submitted 1/28/1998
We spent a week on Hilton Head and loved every minute of it. From
the people, the wildlife and the activities it was a wonderful time. We
certainly enjoyed the entertainment at the "Salty Dog", Dave Kemmerly
is the best entertainer we have ever heard.
-- Whatdoin1 (Whatdoin1@aol.com) submitted 1/11/1998
Just came back from Christmas on Hilton Head, first time there.
Stayed at the Hyatt which has nice ocean front rooms @holiday rates
($69). Golf: The golf courses (except in Seapines) are closed on
Christmas but it seems to be an annual tradition for everyone to go out
and walk them on xmas. It's lots of fun.
We liked the Arthur Hills and Fazio courses at Palmetto Dunes. Greens
fees are very reasonable this time of year.... we paid $35 each
including cart. We got discounts through the Hyatt and you can check
the newspaper for other deals. We also played Robert Trent Jones @
Palmetto, Country Club at SHipyard and The Golden Bear.... these didn't
compare in quality to the Fazio and Arthur Hills @ Palmetto.
Tennis: I went to the adult weekend Clinic at Van Der Meer. It was fun
with nice people, but I think my money would have been better spent on
private lessons and the adult drills in the afternoon. Van De Meer has
covered courts which came in handy on rainy days. I played at Sea Pines
also which is a nicer facility, but no covered courts and it's a pain
paying to get into Sea Pines.
Restaurants: We truly enjoyed 211 PARK (great wine selection) and
TRUFFLES (Sea Pines). Aunt Chilada's was ok as was Hilton Head
Diner.... nothing great. STEAMERS looked good but too long a wait. Have
fun.
-- Holly (hollys@maine.rr.com) submitted 1/4/1998
Our family, which includes three preteenage girls has been going to
HHI for the past four years and are returning for a fifth that I left
under the couch. But seriously we have stayed at the Beach and Tennis
Resort and have had a great time each visit. Our favorite things to do
have included building sandcastles and hitting the waves. Our daughters
have mastered bodysurfing and are looking forward to dolphin riding.
Our favorite places to eat are Fuddruckers and Hilton Head Diner. We
often eat in to economize, making the "BILO" our favorite grocery stop.
See you there next August.
-- Phil and Sue Fuerst (poohbear@bright.net) submitted 1/2/1998
11/8/97-11/14/97 My Wife and I had our 10th Anniversary vacation at
the Hilton Resort. The two places which really stand out are the Big
Bamboo where we had an outstanding evening, and W.G. Shuckers where
they have a great two for Tuesday dinner package.
-- Steve Mangerson (Stephen.e.mangerson@AWO.com) submitted
11/29/1997
Our family visited HH in July, 1996. In general our experience was a
good one. One restaurant that I feel that I need to mention is the
Quarterdeck Restaurant. The view at sunset was magnificant but the
restaurant was a totally different story. We were their for dinner. The
food was mediocre at best. The service was poor. Upon leaving we asked
to speak to the manager but were told the manager was too busy. Upon
returning home, I wrote two letters to the restaurant outlining our
experiences. The restaurant did not respond. For you non-smokers there
was an additional problem. The dining area is on two levels. The
non-smoking section is raised about two feet above the smoking level so
all of the smoke from the smoking section rises to the non-smoking
section. Also, the smoking level has the better view of the sound at
sunset. I can recommend the Crazy Crab and Aunt Chiladas. They provided
good food and service at reasonable prices.
-- Allan Norman (colreb@midwest.net) submitted 11/7/1997
best sunset dinners are bound to be the Sunset Grille at the end of
jenkins drive. small, quiet,out of the way(as in hard to find) upstairs
with 270 degree veiws of a small marina and truly inspiring veiws of
sunset over the intra coastal waterway. food was interesting and
excellent. very personable ,casual atmosphere. i guarantee you wont be
disappointed.
-- (lockmans@prodigy.net) submitted 10/25/1997
A belated travelogue from our annual June trip to HHI. As always, it
was wonderful and as always, the home we rented in Palmetto Dunes was
perfect! Our large extended family(20!) has their favorite eateries but
you have to "experience" The Big Bamboo at Coligny Plaza....., just
remember to check your pulse after downing a War Dog!!!! Please enjoy
the visit and say "hey" when you see us cruising by- we'll be the ones
smiling from ear to ear!
-- Chris (BROWNWARS) submitted 10/10/1997
My husband and I just returned from Hilton Head after spending a
long weekend (Oct 3-6 1997) on the island. We got in late, and opted to
order pizza since many of the restaurants stop serving at 10 pm. We
chose Pizza Chef Gourmet Pizza. It was really very good. The
garlic-cheese bread was wonderful, and the tomato-basil pizza was very
good also. I had forgotten my print out of Gerry from Vail's scoop on
the restaurants, but I remembered that he had absolutely raved about
Truffles. We went there for lunch on Sunday. Oooooh! It is sooooo good!
I got the meatloaf sandwich (trust me, leftovers never had it so good)
which had a honey-mustard glaze, and was topped with a roasted red
pepper chutney. Excellent! Without Gerry's list, I made a mistake. I
remembered that he mentioned Henry's specifically, but I couldn't
remember if he said it was good or bad. I guessed wrong. He was right.
It was very mediocre, and the waitress was extremely annoying. We also
had dinner one night at The Old Oyster Factory. The food was good (best
key lime pie I had the entire trip) and so was the service. Also, if
you're into barbecue, as we are, and you go to the mainland, try Duke's
Barbecue in Beaufort. It's only open on Saturday and Sunday. Good BBQ.
-- Stacey Muncie (MizMunce@aol.com) submitted 10/8/1997
Most romantic restaurant/best food: LaMaisonette
Best bar: Reilley's
Best deli: Gruby's
Best golf: Long Cove
-- Anonymous submitted 9/21/1997
My wife and I just returned from an eight day vacation at Hilton
Head. This was our third visit to the Island. Although we're not
golfers we enjoy three activities, dining, jogging and relaxing on the
beach; the variety of restaurants and jogging trails are unsurpassed.
Since we enjoyed reading what your contributors had say about the
island (while we were driving) so I thought that I would reciprocate
with a few comments about the restaurants that we visited for dinner.
We dined at the Big Bamboo, La Paolo's, The Cafe at Wexford, Hoffbraus,
Big Rocco's, Cafe Europa, Rick's Place, The Cafe at Wexford (a second
time). Our three standouts are La Paolo's, Rick's Place and The Cafe at
Wexford. La Paolo's for its generous servings, great veranda dining and
excellent Tira Misu; Rick's Place for its delicious and different
appetizers and entrees (the most expensive of our dinners); The Cafe at
Wexford for its atmosphere, service, wine list and a peanut butter
dessert that is incredible - the Cafe has been our favorite since we
first visited the island and I feel that it is still is, although
Rick's tied it this year. Bob K.
-- gilberts" (gilberts@ccia.com) submitted 9/7/1997
Just got home last night. We (2adults 3 kids under 12) had a ball.
we went on boat trip called The Holiday and loved the dolphins so much
we rented our own 16 ft. Skiff from the broad creek marina and really
got up close. we had great food we cant even pick out a favorite we
went to Crazy Crab, Crazy Nicks, Gieusippis, The Hofbrauhaus, and Abes
Native Shrimp House. Bike rentals are a must. We are going to try to
come back next summer!
-- maria (marfu1@peakaccess.net) submitted 8/31/1997
Just returned from our 12th annual pilgrimage to HHI. As usual a
great time. I haven't seen anyone plug Hilton Head Ice Cream as a great
place to eat. After dinner EVERY night, we would pack the kids in the
car and head off to Orleans Road and some of the best ice cream in the
east. Written 8/27/1997
-- James Conahan (bhp220@juno.com) submitted 8/27/1997
Just returned from HHI, (8/17- 8/24); stayed at Shipyards Carolina
Club in 3-br condo. Super facilities. Boat trip to Savannah fun,
especially trolley ride, but grab a drink and use facilities before
boarding trolley! Gastronomic low point of trip: Big Rocco's Italian
(?) Restaurant. Didn't think anyone could screw up spaghetti. They did.
Very forgettable place, hot, noisy, mediocre service and mostly
inferior food. However, the HOFBRAUHAUS on Pope Avenue - WUNDERBAR!
Excellent food (try the Schweinebraten), delightful German music by
Bob, neat atmosphere and really nice people. Another superior meal at
Nantucket Seafood House on New Orleans Road. Owner Jim Laferriere and
waitress Kerry were most accommodating. Hilton Head Diner quite good,
but so busy. Our first time at HHI, but we want to go back. Pat and
Ellen Wright of Detroit area.
-- Pat Wright (wrightpe@oeonline.com) submitted 8/26/1997
Just came back from Hilton Head Island (8/2/97 - 8/8/97). My first
time there. We stayed in Palmetto Dunes Resort in a great condo right
on the beach. The facilities were beautiful. The tennis and golf were
abundant. For people who like to shop, the outlet stores were
everywhere. We took a day trip to Charleston and to Savannah. Both
cities had alot of history with the civil war and the old restored
homes and the large historic districts. Would definitely recommend
Savannah. Should read the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and
Evil" because it is a non-fiction book about old Savannah. It refers to
actual houses and gardens etc that you can see on a tour. Restaurants
that we went to were as follows : Old Oyster Factory - Great and saw
Mark Messier- hockey player Wild Wings Cafe - a little loud but
wonderful wings Brick Oven Pizza - Excellent for a light meal Little
Venice - not good South Seaport (at Sea Pines) - great view and good
food Will probably go back again --- Can't wait. Be sure to walk around
Harbor Town and Sea Pines Plantation. We also took a dolphin cruise and
the dolphins came right up to the boat. They did something really
crazy, they so "strand feeding" in the marshes, they force little
fishes to the edge of the marsh and "corral" them to land and eat them.
It sounds bad but it was very interesting and it is rare for us to see
but we did see it happen (during low tide).
-- Cindy (csieden@sbi.com) submitted 8/12/1997
My mother and I just returned from Hilton Head and we loved it. It's
really a beautiful island! We stayed at the Hilton Resort in Palmetto
Dunes. I would highly recommend anyone to stay there. Palmetto Dunes,
Harbourtown, and Sea Pines are all great sections of the island to
visit. Definitely walk up to the top of the Harbourtown lighthouse. The
view is spectacular! I heard that the restaurant Crazy Crab in
Harbourtown is great, but we never had a chance to go. South Beach is a
beautiful section of the island that resembles a New England Village.
It looks just like Nantucket, MA! We went to a great restaurant in
Coligny Circle called Only Pasta. It was scrumptious! Definitely try
this place! The prices are very reasonable.Coligny Cirle is also a
great place to go shopping and ride bikes. We also heard that the
restaurant Fitzgerald's was fabulous. It's right on the ocean and was
recommended by an owner of one of the condos on the island. My mom and
I adored Hilton Head Island and we're planning on returning as soon as
we can! -JT
-- Jason Means (laugh2@ix.netcom.com) submitted 8/11/1997
Just returned on August 4 from our first-ever (definitely not last!)
HHI trip. A few thoughts and musings...we stayed at the Adventure Inn
in an updated unit at the Ocean Dunes Villas (always, always ask for
UPDATED). This is an older complex on S Forest Beach and really isn't
very service-oriented and grounds aren't too well kept. The garbage is
placed in an area near the parking lot and entrance to villas that
leaves a lot to be desired. The price is reasonable and it is right on
the ocean, so since we're not in our rooms that much, it was fine. But
we have already reserved the Disney Resort for next year. They will
rent out only for about the next year or so till all the time-shares
are sold. Restaurants: We ate out every night (family of 4 with two
teenagers). CRAZY CRAB: A good first night intro to Sea Pines and
Harbour Town, but expensive. Probably wouldn't rush back, tho the fish
was good. BIG BAMBOO CAFE: A real find. Great WW II Pacific atmosphere,
excellent fish, the best ribs ever. Nice staff, friendly. HILTON HEAD
BREWING CO.: Fun, good food, great place for our large group of
friends. Great brews. SALTY DOG: Great fun, good food, you have to buy
a T-shirt! J J PEPPERONIO'S: At the Hyatt in Palmetto Dunes. On the
ocean. Great view, even during a thunderous lightening storm. Pizza
good and some interesting choices. AUNT CHILADA'S: Good Mexican and and
fun atmosphere. A do-again. BIG ROCCO'S: Another real find. Excellent
Italian, great fish in a big%
-- Anonymous submitted 8/5/97
For the past 9 years, we have made the annual trek from Chicago to
HHI. We first came based on a friend's recommendation and fell in love
with the island since. We have stayed at the Beach and Tennis Resort on
Foley Rd. in a 2-BR condo. Very reasonably priced. Over that time, we
have been to numerous restaurants and attractions. The Old Oyster
Factory is a favorite and well as visiting the dolphins with Commandor
Zodiac out of South Beach. Great Fun. Looking to return again and
again. You can reach me at boblo@interaccess.com. 08/03/97.
-- Bob Loies (boblo@interaccess.com) submitted 8/3/1997
We just returned from Hilton Head Island after spending four days
there with my teenage son & husband. The island is very beautiful, but
if you're a Northerner like us, you will find it too humid. If you can
adapt, you should have a great time.
I recommend renting bikes because the bike paths are great and you can
see some lovely homes, beautiful landscaping and many of the sites. We
went on the dolphin cruise from Shelter Cove, and that was a fun
experience enjoyed by all. Some great restaurants there: Go to Crabby
Nick's and have Joey, the magician entertain you while eat.
Cracker Barrel has great pancakes and nice country
atmosphere--recommend for breakfast. You have to get pizza one night at
Gisueppe's. The owner is from Pittsburgh and has Pittsburgh memorabilia
all around the restaurant...made us feel like home.
We drove to Savanah. Take a Grey Line excursion to get to know the
city. They do a general tour for about 70 minutes around the town & you
are free to access the trolley all day after that when you tour the
city. If you like to shop, there's plenty to shop for on River Street.
For the women who are bored while their husbands are golfing (unless
you golf too), there are great outlet malls all along the main highway.
Bring that charge card!
Shelter Cove is a great place to bring the kids in the evening. Shannon
Tanner entertains every evening & accompanies them on the kids' dolphin
cruise too.
One place I don't think people know about but that has great sea food
is the Captain's Seahouse off of Matthew's Drive. It looks like a dive
but they have wonderful seafood & the tourists don't know about it. We
found out about it from the locals. Try alligator tail there!
All in all, it was a fun time. Just don't like that humidity!
-- KathY Nega (knega@nb.net) submitted 7/27/97
We visited HHI last year for a week from the last week in December.
We rented a condo in Palmetto Dunes and had the most enjoyable, and
restful stay. Saw several deer too! Oh yes, and the President and First
Lady. We discovered the HH Diner. Interesting place and wide menu
selection. Waiter had our drinks ready on our second visit. What great
service! Restaurant near the lighthouse was great too for seafood. Some
restaurants closed during the holidays. Making reservations for the
same time this year. Can't wait
-- Barbara Woodland (dickens@onramp.net) submitted 7/21/1997
My family and I have been visiting Hilton Head for several years
now. We usually stay in Shipyard Plantation.... it is nice and quiet,
but close to everything. Some restuarants we enjoy are: Scott's Fish
Market, The Old Oyster Factory, Kingfisher, Truffles and Salty Dog.
There is a lot to do on the island, but if you are in search of the
ultimate relaxing vacation this is the place.... it is beautiful.
-- Kim M. submitted 7/20/1997
June 7-14/97. Once again had a grand time on the Island. Took the
advice of some of your Travelogue readers & tried out a few
restaurants. The sandwiches at Philly's are indeed a great find. Tried
both locations. Preferred New Orleans Rd atmosphere-but excellent food
at either. Also tried OLD FORT PUB. Saved it till our last nite, and
wish we had gone earlier in the week, so we could have spent many more
outings there. Beautiful sunset,absolutely superb service, and terrific
food. It didn't seem to matter whether customers were ordering from the
pub menu, (munchies & lighter fare) or the full dinner menu, the staff
were attentive, super friendly and very accomodating to every request.
Frequented by many locals,(a good sign) with many many Chicago Bulls
fans peeking in at the TV in the bar. (may have something to do with
the fact that Michael & family have a home in Wexford!) We had the best
time there, and after a dozen or more visits to HH in the last 6
summers , it is now our fav for that type of dining. However, we still
will frequent the Wild Wing a tradition we have created since our very
first visit!! Does anyone have any info on the Players Club
Resort/Inn?? Can't seem to find much. Friends have a stay/play golf
pkg. they are interested in using, but would like to know something
about the place first. We just couldn't offer much in that regard.
Appreciate any response, positive or otherwise. Hoping to get back in
late August, for another week, until then looking forward to checking
out Travelogue updates. Thanks. Dawna, Rick, Rose & Dick St.Catharines,
Ontario Canada.
-- Dawna & Rick,St.Catharines Ont. Canada (shadowla@ican.net)
submitted 7/3/1997
We have been going to HHI for the past ten years and love to stay on
South Forest Beach on an oceanfront villa. This spring we stayed at
SeaSide Villas directly on the Ocean. If you go, request the one on the
first floor with the great wooden rocking chairs!! Our most enjoyable
moments were sipping coffee in the morning while rocking on the chairs
and watching the sun come up!! We love the beach for bike riding - it's
great for small kids since the sand is hard-packed and you can always
stop to explore the starfish or jellyfish that wash up on shore. Even
better is biking along side the dolphins as they feed offshore. We love
to eat at Aunt Chiladas - just a short walk from the SeaSide Villas
(#123). They have a great happy hour and we love to play the trivia
game!! Looking forward to our visit next year.
-- kappmeyers (compuf@erols.com) submitted 7/1/97
We have been going to Hilton Head with friends off and on since
1982. We absolutely love it. We have stayed in many different houses
and villas on Sea Pines and Shipyard. Our friends have stayed
oceanfront on south Forest Beach, but that is a little too busy for our
tastes. My sister-in-law now owns a house at Inland Harbour on Sea
Pines, and that is a convenient location. We just returned today from a
week there, but were also there at Christmas for the first time this
year. It was great at Christmas, with great weather. We don't eat out
all the time, but went to Nantucket Seafood House for the first time
this year. Probably the best food we've ever had on the island. I don't
know exactly what others consider reasonably priced, but we felt it was
a bit high. We had 2 buy one get one free coupons and it was $62 for 4
people. You probably pay a little more for oceanfront there than places
like Myrtle Beach, but if you don't mind walking a little ways or
driving to the beach there are some good prices. We liked staying at
Colonnade Club and Waterford, but would recommend Villa Rentals over
some of the agencies we have rented through. We have also rented
through owners with good luck.
-- Judith Huddleston" (heyjude@citynet.net) submitted 6/29/1997
My family and I just returned from our HH vacation. Let me just say
that the island is absolutely incredible! I am already planning my
return trip, although I have a feeling that I won't be able to go back
for awhile.
Anyway, here are my suggestions. We stayed at a lovely condo/villa in
Palmetto Dunes. The name of the place was the Huntington, and it was at
the very end of the road that leads into Palmetto Dunes. This was a
great location, just steps away from a beautiful pool, and a short (3
minute or so) walk through the forest preserve to the beach.
While this sounds not good, this walk was one of the highlights of the
trip--we saw several deer, lizards, and all kinds of wild life along
the path.
We rented through a company called "Properties in Paradise", I believe.
As far as activities, rent bikes! Riding on the beach is an incredible
experience, although the crowded sections of beach can be hard to
navigate!
As far as the beach goes, absolutely incredible doesn't begin to
describe it! Although parts were crowded, all you have to do is walk a
few steps in either direction, and you have the beach to yourself.
I was amazed at the differences in the tides--extremely broad beach at
low tide (and most of the day), but at high tide, no beach at all!
We could even see dolphins from the beach, just incredible!
As far as dining goes--We ate at several good places.
While I Asked Gerry from Vail for his advice, I'm afraid that I'm going
to recommend several places that he warned against (thanks though,
Gerry, you were most helpful!)
Hilton Head Brewing Co. was good, and Jumpin' Phils was great,
especially eating out on the patio.
I have to recommend The Big Bamboo simply because of its unique
atmosphere, although it is dark and vaguely depressing inside! At least
have a drink there to see for yourself.
Guiseppe's in the Plaza by Shelter Cove was fantastic--dont miss it if
you like Italian! I also have word that Giovannis ( more upscale
Italian) is also good--this according to other family members who ate
there.
A word or two on Harbourtown and South Beach--be prepared for parking
frustration if you go there! I literally searched fro 20 minutes for a
parking space and never found one! There are shuttles that run fron
just ibside the Sea Pines entrance--not sure if they cost, but it may
be worth it! We ate at Quarterdeck in Harbourtown--the menu and food
were just O.K., but the view from the back deck was fantastic!
For the kids, try the nightly entertainment at Shelter Cove--they were
having a great time the night we were there. For adult nightlife, ours
ran pretty much to drinking wine coolers on our screened in porch,
thanks to almost nightly rain, but even that was just great.
Do pick up the several tourist publications available, they have
several coupons and such for all kinds of things. And do go to
Savannah! Even for a few hours, there is much to do and see--just take
a Fodors guide and start walking! Especially if you are a Midnight fan,
don't miss this city!
Have a great time, and dont hesitate to email me if you want more
information, from an average tourist who had a fantastic time on the
island!!
-- Tracey D. (tracey@lexpublib.org) submitted 6/23/1997
My husband, 7 year old and I just returned from HH on June 20, 1997.
It was 841 miles from Bowling Green, Ohio and took us 14.5 hours to
drive straight through.
We toured and got a low key sales presentation from the Marriott
International for an $18,900 timeshare. We did not buy.
The best place to eat was Steamers at Coligny Plaza. Ask for Tim. He
was the best waiter and would love to go back.
We also ate at Cafe Europia. Not good at all; in fact horrible. We also
ate at the Quarterdeck at Harbourtown. It was ok; the view was the best
part.
HHI is too busy for us. We prefer NC, the OuterBanks, especially
Emerald Isle and Ocean Isle. If anyone has any info, please let me know
at lcrawfo@bgnet.bgsu.edu
If you have any other HHI questions, just let me know.
-- Linda L. Crawford" (lcrawfo@bgnet.bgsu.edu) submitted
6/23/1997
We visited HHI again this year (6/07/97 to 6/14/97) and had a
bodacious time. The beaches are so very wide at low tide and bicycling
is a must here. We especially enjoyed the restaurants Great Plains
Cattle Company and Crabby Nick's (used to be Shoney's). We rented our
great beach cruisers from Sand Cats (785-3210). I included the phone
number because they dont seem to be to well advertized. We have a time
share at HHI but dont even want to exchange. Just wish HHI would halt
new construction of condos though it is becoming to to metopolized or
perhaps has been for a while. Beyond that though HHI is a terrific
place to vacate to. I enjoy the tennis here immensely. Golf is very
prominent too but not my game. Check out Harbour Fest at Shelter Cove
Harbour for music, eats, and fireworks on Tuesday night or perhaps
Thursdays, better check first for exact days. You gotta come here and
just have fun!
-- Chuck Small (chucksm@yadtel.net) submitted 6/20/1997
Gerry from Vail's reccomended RESTAURANTS:
TRUFFLES - Located at Sea Pines Center. Like all Sea Pines Plantation
restaurants, if you bring in your $3.00 entrance pass, they will give
you a refund. Truffles offers a very eclectic and sophisitcated
atmosphere and excellent food and very reasonable prices. Great deserts
too ! The Cajun Chicken sandwich is only about $7.00 and comes with
potatoes and is HUGE as well as very tasty.
NENO Il TOSCANO - Located near Wal-Mart and Publix super market up
toward HH Plantation. Classic N. Italian food, great service and style.
OLD FORT PUB - A favorite ! Located in Hilton Head Plantation. Worth
the drive if you are near Sea Pines. Great views over the water at
sunset....excellent service...outstanding food and amazingly very
reasonable prices. Make reservations. It is popular and seating is
limited.
OLD OYSTER FACTORY - A big theme restaurant on the water. Despite the
big volume of people it feeds, the service and food are very good. Pick
up a free "Salad Coupon" in one of the free booklets before going.
NANTUCKET - Features N. England style seafood. Nice reasonable place
with good food. Near Sea Pines and Shipyard on N. Orleans Rd.
FITZGERALDS - This has been there a long time and has done so by
offering good food...nice surroundings and good prices.
IMPERIAL DRAGON - The place to go if you crave Chinese.
SANTA FE CAFE - An upscale SW place. A lot better food than at SAN
MIGUELS.
TAPAS - A unique small place in the NorthRidge Shopping Center.
Features gormet appetizers...Mix and share...The food is great. The
service is excellent and it is quite reasonable.
CQ's - Located at Harbourtown across from the parking lot and the
harbour. Charming place with excellent food.
GREAT PLAINS CATTLE CO. - The place to go if you're looking for big
hunks of beef at a fair price. On Palmetto Bay Rd.
CAFE EUROPA - At Harbourtown right on the water. Great
views...excellent food. The place next door (The Quarterdeck) has an
outside bar with live music. Have a drink there and take in the scene.
CAFE @ WEXFORD - Gourmet food at reasonable prices.
BIG ROCCOS - OK place with BIG servings. Free gourmet pizza during
Happy Hour. Has Jazz.
BRIANS - A nice "All American kind of place" @ MAIN STREET VILLAGE.
STRIPES- A nice place with excellent food. A little more
expensive...but good.
Hope this helps....All the Best, Gerry from Vail
-- Gerry from Vail (gazman@colorado.net) submitted 6/13/97
Gerry from Vail's scoop on HHI RESTAURANTS: Not surprisingly for a
tourist place, there are a ton of them. They range from fast food
places like Wendy's and McDonalds to semi fast food places like Shoneys
and "move 'em in ...feed 'em up...move 'em out places like the Cracker
Barrel......to a number of privately owned places . There some really
bad places with lousy food, too high prices considering,, poor
atmosphere etc. to some really good ones that offer good food, fair
prices considering and lovely atmosphere. You don't always pay for what
you get....Some of the lousy ones charge higher prices and some of the
best are reasonable. In my GENERAL ADVICE....I suggested picking up a
copy of HHI RESTAURANTS....do it!!! It will give you a sampling of most
of the restaurants on the island with their menus and prices. Not to be
Negative, but there are some places you might want to be warned about
in advance. If you decide to disregard this advice....NO WHINING !
HENRY's is near a group of places near the entrace to Sea Pines
Planatation which includes....Reilly's....Jump & Phils...and The Hilton
Head Brewing CO. Unilike these otheres which are basically bar places
which serve food (I'm a non smoker so they don't do much for me and
since I'm not in my 20's anymore...that's another reason. Getting back
to Henry's....the big draw is reasonably prices seafood....sounds good?
Then consider that it is probably frozen and not fresh...the service is
lousy...the food is tasteless...and they have loud FM music blaring
along with comercials while you eat. Aaaargh !
The BIG BAMBOO - has been mentioned by others previously as being a
good spot. The must be teen agers or folks who think Dennys is a gormet
upscale place. It is dark and dismal.
WILD WINGS - Looks like a TGIF Fridays....caters to the 20's crowd. so
so food, but their wings are HOT !!! Not enought to turn me on. Sorry.
SAN MIGUELS - A popular tourist spot at Shelter Cove. SO so mexican
food.
CRAZY CRAB - At Harbourtown...this is the prototype tourist trap rip
off place. Prices too high considering the poorly prepared food,
noisy...pack 'em in kind of place. People seem to keep on coming. As PT
BARNUM said "A sucker is born every day."
FUDDRUCKERS - Need I say more....A 1.5 on a scale of 1 to 10.
SCHUCKERS - Grubby place that features crab races on Wed nites. It's
basically a bar masquerading as a restaurant. Very average seafood.
HUDSONS - Tourist Seafood place...Overly fried food.
KINGFISHER - A tourist oriented place- over priced considering.
HARBOURMASTERS - Antother tourist place with so so food.
The places that you really ought to consider will be listed in my next
message. All the Best, GERRY from VAIL
-- Gerry from Vail (gazman@colorado.net) submitted 6/13/97
Recently, I sent in a note to the Hilton Head Island Travelogue
following our return from an extended stay in April and May of 1997.
(You can read it in the travelogue) Foolishly, I suppose I offered to
give advice on the best RESTAURANTS...GOLF deals...and other items of
interest on the island...but I wan't prepared for the onslaught of
requests from all over the USA from a lot of nice folks. While I have
tried to answer each request, it has become an awesome task so I will
try to sumarize my opinions, advise and counsel at this time. While I
realize it maty not be for everyone, I hope you will accept it as the
"Straight Scoop" from a guy with on financial interests in answering
your questions. If this doesn't work...then you can reach me at my
E-mail address and I will try to help you. Thanks for your
understanding... GERRY from VAIL.
By the way, I am a "young at heart 50ish guy...my long suffering wife
is a gourmet cook...and I have eaten in csome of the best and worst
restaurants all over the USA. I like to have fun...am an avid skier,
golfer, tennis player and enjoy likfe to the fullest. Hilton Head is a
GREAT place ! My coments which will be sent in seperately will deal
with...GENERAL ADVICE....RESTAURANTS....GOLF....TENNIS... SIGHTSEEING
and other misc. items. Hope you have a great vacation. All the
Best.....GERRY
-- Gerry from Vail (gazman@colorado.net) submitted 6/13/97
My "new" husband and I just returned to Denver, CO from HHI. We were
married last week, May 29, outside at the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort,
and everything was simply perfect. We would highly recommend eating at
the Great Plains Cattle Company - which is where we held our reception
dinner. Very reasonably prices, extra large portions, excellent
service, and the food was delicious. Everyone who attended the
reception dinner was eager to go back again. Anyone visiting HHI
whether for the 1st time or repeat visitors - you can't go wrong with a
vacation here - it is wonderful!
-- Nancy Nicoll (nnicoll@co.affinitygroup.com) submitted
6/3/1997
My wife and I spent our twentieth anniversary (May 16-18, 1997)at
Palmetto Dunes Hilton Resort. We usually vacation in Jamaica but
decided to give Hilton Head a try because we've heard wonderful remarks
about the beach. We were not dissapointed. We have been to some world
class beaches but Hilton Head's beach takes the cake for cleanliness
and accomodations. Most impressive was the hard packed sand, not to
mention the incredible width of the beach, especially at low tide, Wow!
As much as we enjoyed the island, we were very dissapointed with the
Hilton Resort. Our reservations, made three months in advance, were not
available upon check in. The "ocean view" that we paid extra for was a
thin strip of water visible across the parking lot. The staff was
indifferent to our concerns. The pool was closed on Saturday to
accomodate a private party, and the pool cleaners fired up thier
engines early in the morning making it impossible to sleep in. The room
was large and in very close proximity to the beach. Our dining
experiences were good with the exception of The Old Oyster Factory.
I've never had a pushier waitress!I was not permitted even one refill
on my tea, in fact the waitress poured water into my emptied glass.
yuck! The food was good but not exceptional. All in all, I felt like
"just another tourist." I do recommend Miguel's on the harbor-it was
excellent! We look forward to returning to Hilton Head, for jogging,
walking and biking on the beach, it can't be beat!
-- Wilbur Ray (wilburr@usitnet.com) submitted 6/3/97
Just returned on May 23rd to Vail, CO where I live after being at
HHI for half of April and most of May, 1997. We rented a lovely 3 BR -
3 1/2 B house right on the golfcourse in one of the plantations there
and really enjoyed the area. We ate out about 4 nights a week and a
variety of restaurants and discovered some really good ones...some
tourist rip off ones...and some that were just plain medicore. We
cooked in about 3 nights a week since our place had a super outdoor
grill and got some great FRESH seafood while we were there. We
discovered a place called BARNACLE BILL's...which sells FRESH seafood
and Bill's fish...shrimp..crabs...etc. was clearly the best on the
island. There are some other places that sell seafood...but
beware...some of it is frozen and not fresh and Bills prices are great
and the fish is fabulous. He is located right on the main road (Hwy 278
- Hilton Pkwy) right next door to the Speedway gas station whicvh has
the lowest price's on gas on the island. It is towards the bridge from
Palmetto Dunes and Shelter Cove and on the Shelter Cove side of the
road before you get to Folly field road. Tell Bill that GERRY from
Colorado sent you and I'll bet he treats you right. If anyone is
interested in the best restaurants and the ones to avoid...send me an
E-Mail message and I'll get back to you. Looking at some of the
comments posted here....some must be posted by people who are either
kids or else they don't have a clue about what is good dining.
Ex....Fuddruckers... come on...no my idea of gourmet food. If you send
a message...let me know how old you are and the kind of food and
atmosphere/prices you like.. so I'll have an idea what to suggest. All
in all...HHI has something for everyone and is a great place to visit.
P.S. I call give you some tips on how to get the best prices on greens
fees and where to play if you are a golfer. All the Best... Gerry Z.
gazman@colorado.net
-- Gerry Zimmerman (gazman@colorado.net) submitted 5/28/1997
We just returned from a fabulous week in Hilton Head Island. We have
gone there over the past five years and had always stayed in a hotel
(Crystal Sands) but this year because we were traveling with five of
us, we decided to rent instead. A perfect choice. The weather the Week
of May 2-11, was in the low 80's, the sun and the blue skies over the
lagoons and ocean was incredible. We tried new restaurants, Quarterdeck
in Sea Pines (great for sandwiches and light dining, overlooking the
yatchs and water); Hudson's, (okay if you like seafood); the HH Diner
for breakfast is great; Guiseppes for pizza, fab; we went mini golfing;
my husband and son golfed; drive to Savannah for the day (only 45
minutes) - history and culture of the south - walk River Street; visit
Shelter Cove at night, for live entertainment from 7.30p.m.Tues.-Sat.
If you like steak and ribs we would recommend Damons, (Wexford), a
magician comes to the table to entertain you. Great place to go every
year, can't wait to return.
-- Marsha Fine (yu173439@yorku.ca) submitted 5/19/1997
after visiting hh for my first time in the summer of 1996, i was in
love!! hilton head truly has it all!! sun, surf, friendly people and
awesome sights! in my opinion: a must see: gregg russel (excellent
family time) good food: crabby nick's (casual dining) must do:
definitely watch the sunrise and sunset!! it is gorgeous!! i will be
returning to hh upon my graduation in 1998!! i love it!! hilton head is
#1 with me!!
-- JENNIFER/ COLUMBUS, OHIO submitted 5/19/97
Lots of great restaurants on Hilton Head Island. Finally retired
here and are now full time residents. For a lunch-time treat, try
Phillys Cafe & Deli - 2 locations, one in Fountain Center on New
Orleans Road, and the other in the Pineland Mill Mall. They say they
serve "The Best Sandwiches on the Island... Period! ----- they are
right. Great price for a really over-sized sandwich. Try one of many
Philly Cheese Steak sandwiches offerings. Discovered this place in
mid-June of 1996 and have returned many times and ordered something
different each time. Fast and courteous service. Say "hi" to owner Mike
for me.
-- Karla Weaver (KWeaver589@aol.com) submitted 4/30/1997
Had an interesting experience at the Old Fort Pub in Hilton Head
Plantation. We had 9:00 PM reservations and were seated on time. The
food was excellent and unique. We enjoyed the dinner but soon had a
series of problems with the waitress. Throughout the dinner she was
nowhere to be found and table service sufferred. Following dinner she
presented us with the check prior to serving coffee ( it was getting
late and it appears the staff was anxious to depart). During coffee, we
paid the bill and gave her a 10% tip because of the lack of quality
service. She soon returned and asked for additional money claiming that
the house tip is 17% minimum.
-- James A. Young" (103145.1074@CompuServe.COM) submitted //
Editor's Note: Hmmm.... I thought a TIP was optional and intended to
reflect the quality of service. Pretty gutsy to ask for a bigger tip
especially after poor service :-(.
We have gone to HHI for the past three years exclusivelt for
vacation at least three times each year. We love the beach , the
laidback atmosphere and the great selection of fine dining. You must
try La Massionette and Juleps the food is excellent and the service
superb.
-- Tim & Lori Thacker (Tim & Lori Thacker @prodigy.com)
submitted 4/27/1997
We visited Hilton Head in March 1997. Too bad we were there when the
tennis tournement was there. It was way too crowded for our tastes. I
have looked forward to visiting there for sooo long. I was
dissappointed in the development of that tiny island. Back to back
condo's is sure a bummer. We would never return. I can see where it
used to be nice. We had a great dinner at Fitzgerald's. Swordfish was
out of this world! We are originally from San Francisco, so know good
food! Also enjoyed the fun ambiance of the Bamboo Cafe! My father in
law had a ball looking at all the WW2 stuff! Menu had something for us
all! Tough to find the place tho. Played golf mostly.
-- Jeff and Lynna Smith (lynna@erols.com) submitted 4/24/97
Always look forward to eating at the Imperial Dragon Chinese
restaurant in Park Plaza. Plan to try everything on the menu but it may
take a while since it's 12 pages long. Great atmosphere and superb
authentic food. Helen the owner is a gorgeous Chinese lady and for a
while I imagine I am back in Asia. I understand she has a new Imperial
Dragon in Bluffton and I can hardly wait. Now I can get my Chinese food
fix before I have to fight I-95 on the way home. 4/23 97
-- George Decock submitted 4/24/1997
Editor's Note: I'd been meaning to dine at the Imperial Dragon for
some time. I finally had a chance to over the Easter holidays. What a
wonderful experience! The food was excellent as well as the service. I
can't wait to get back there myself :-)
I spent last summer in Hilton Head. I worked at MOSS CREEK It's a
great place that any one would want to retire to. I also worked at the
Timberland factory store. If you need a new par of shoes thats the
place to go. Jane Hays is the manager. Very nice women if you go by
tell her Tom said Hi. The EDDIE BOWER outlet is another can't miss
Debbie Martin the manager is very friendly and will always make you
smile. If you see her tell her i said hi also. If your looking for
something to do during the day. The TIKI HUT is your best bet. The Pina
coladas are great, and the live music keeps you in a good mood. Shelter
Cove is a great place to visit also.
-- Tom Hillis (Th21297@appstate.com) submitted 4/17/97
My family has been going to Hilton Head Island for the past 7 years.
We have always stayed at Sea Pines Plantation at the Marriott's Monarch
Resort. It is a beautiful place to vacation. This year (March 97) we
bought a time share at Marriott's Grande Ocean Resort and it was
beautiful. My twin sister,Megan, and my friend Kristin and I went with
our parents and had the best time. We rode bikes all over the island
swam in the ocean and just relaxed. The best place to eat we think is
Jump and Phils, best place to meet guys is the grocery store by the
Holiday Inn or on the beach by the Holiday Inn. Oh,we met this really
cute guy at the Grande Ocean Resort when we stayed there he had a
goat-t and a University of Miami hat,and his name is Andy,and we never
really got to talk to him so we just want to say hey if you are reading
this, we were the three girls in the Royal Tern building on the third
floor who wore hats all the time.
-- Katie J submitted 4/4/97
4/1/97 We were in Hilton Head over February break staying at a place
we do not own and had the best weather you could ask for. (sunny and
70's and 80's) We enjoyed Hilton Head Brewing Co. and Wild Wings Cafe.
We are owners at Harbour Club in Harbour Town and were concerned when
we read that the pool was not maintained and the whirlpool was broken.
We immediately contacted the Marriott who maintains this property. They
called us back this morning and have informed us that everything is up
and running. Thank you Kim for making us aware of this problem as we
are going to stay at Harbour Club April 20th. Joanne (campbell@auburn.cnyric.org)
-- Joanne F. Campbell (Joanne_F._Campbell@auburn.cnyric.org)
submitted 4/01/1997
We have gone to Hilton Head for three years during the summer. We
have a timeshare at The Island Club. It is located directly on the
beach. It is a very nice and relaxing place. Last year,unfortunately,we
were chased out of Hilton Head by Hurricane Bertha(on my birthday). My
parents were taking me out to dinner at The Old Fort Pub,but we never
got there. We usually go to the Cracker Barrel, order Giuseppi's
Pizza,Fudruckers(when we arrive for lunch),and Antonio's Italian
Restaurant. We have been to Fitzgeralds,Carmen's, and Crabby Nick's
also. We go minature golfing and I have always wanted to go on the
Dolphin cruises. Hopefully this year, if we go,we will get to try out
some new places. If you have any suggestions,just e-mail me.(if you are
between the ages of 15-18 and male definately e-mail me)!! Bye!! From
Jenn-15/f.
-- Jenn (sunbeams@hotmail.com) submitted 3/30/1997
I visited Hilton Head Island for the first time just this past week
in March. My parents have been going for the past couple years and have
finally purchased a house in Indigo Run right on the Golden Bear golf
course. The crazy crab is a great place to eat, while I found Crabby
Nicks not as good, even though they were loaded with bussiness. I loved
playing golf at the golden bear in Indigo Run, and The Golf Club at
Indigo Run is very nice, but it is private and only accepts 385
members. I also like Rose Hill which is off the Island. If you want to
take golf lessons, definetly go to the Island Golf school, right on
folly road, where the driving range is. They are great there. I was
there from 3/15/97 - 3/22/97
-- Jun de la Rosa (mngoph1133@aol.com) submitted 3/27/1997
Notes for HHI -
~ Italian - try Bella Italia in Port Royal Plaza. Great food / pizza
and nice atmosphere.
~ Don't miss San Migeuls for mexican at the Shelter Cove harbor.
Excellent food.
~ STAY AWAY from 211 Park!!! Mediocer food and snobby, impolite,
horrible staff.
~ Good seafood at Harbortown - try The Crazy Crab (casual); Cafe Europa
(nice)
~ Old Fort Pub on Hilton Head plantation is great. Nice view for lunch
or dinner.
~ For TENNIS, Port Royal Racquet Club is the best. Play on GRASS, clay,
or hard courts and meet a wpnderful and friendly staff. If you want a
good tennis lesson, try Dana Landin at Port Royal racquet Club.
Have a great trip!
-- K.C. Schaefer (schaefer@wesnet.com) submitted 3/26/97
I spent only 2 hours on Hilton Head (busy work schedule). I liked
the Hilton Head Brewing Co., which provided great buffalo wings, great
beer, and pleasant surroundings. I'll go back as soon as I get the
chance.
-- MR STEVEN C LEEVAN (LWAV44B@prodigy.com) submitted //
We have enjoyed vacationing at Hilton Head's Shipyard Plantation for
several years now. We stay, and I would strongly reccommend, Beachwalk.
It is just behind the Crystal Sands Resort about 150 yards to the
beach. Prices are very ($795 for a three bdrm, 3.5 bath) cheap in the
sport season (middle of August) and the weather and surf are still
comparable to the heart of summer. Clean pool, free tennis, and golf
discounts available. Villas are very secluded in a beautiful setting
typical of Hilton Head. Don't miss the excellent seafood buffet at the
crystal Sands Resort for under $20. Other eateries I would suggest are
Shuckers for lunch, of course the Salty Dog for a casual night on the
Calibogie Sound for margaritas and peel-and-eat shrimp, and a place
called Steamers (beside the Holiday Inn). It seems like nobody knows
about this place, but it is excellent-huge portions and very
affordable.For golf either Shipyard Golf Club or go off the island to
Rose Hill for about $23 for 18 and a cart. I would also suggest
spending a day or at least part of a day in Savannah. Take in its old
world charm, plenty of antique shops, and have lunch on the water at
the Shrimp House. Oh, don't forget to pick up a caramel apple the size
of a softball, maybe bigger, at the candy store on the water. I can't
give away all of my secret spots, but hopefully these few tips will
make your stay more enjoyable. Bye for now.
-- ANDY AND SHANNON ADOLPH (tadolph@uakron.edu) submitted
3/22/1997
3-17-97 Just got back from our 1st trip to HH Island....awesome!!!
The beaches are breathtaking...so broad and great for walking riding
and even pushing the stroller. Stayed at Harbour Club in Harbour town.
Beatiful Villas but pool not maintained and whirlpool broken. CQs was
surprisingly great...food, atmosphere and service. For a night out
without the kids (we have a 3 and 1 yr old) you must go to
Harbourmaster's for dinner. Another must is to visit the Seach Beach
Marina Village. We cut through the villas and walked for miles along
the beach. The deli has .15 shrimp for happy hour. The deli and cafe
are great spots and so is the Salty Dog. We loved blading with the kids
in their strollers! Enjoy...we'll be back!
-- Kim (kiml@lpa.com) submitted 3/17/97
My just returned from a week in the Charleston area attending our
sons wedding. We enjoyed Boones Plantation, uss Yorktown, the carriage
ride downtown. We did not enjoy our accomidations at the sea cabins at
Isle of Palms. They neglected to tell us that there was daily maid
service for an extra charge, clean towels were an extra charge and I
have slept on a better matteress in a $29.95 motel room. We did enjoy
the wedding, rehearsel dinner at Magnolia's and all the other tourist
things that we did.We were there 2-18 to 2-25-97
-- Terry Barnhart (chieftb@vcn.com) submitted 3/11/1997
ALL I HAVE TO SAY ABOUT HILTON HEAD ISLAND IS, HINCHEYS CHICAGO BAR
& GRILL ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS, IS THE PLACE TO BE. I WILL BE THERE ON
3/26/97 FOR SPRING BREAK SO COME AND JOIN ME AND MY BOYS AT HINCHEYS.
IT WAS ALWAYS A BLAST LAST SUMMER (3/96). ASK JOHN FOR ME WHO SCOTT
IS.)
-- scott stampflmeier (sstampfl@eng.utoledo.edu) submitted
3/6/97
Hilton Head is a spectacular island to visit. I had the best
experience at a fine dining reataurant on Hilton Head Plantation called
THE OLD FORT PUB. The restaurant sits right in the water and there is a
beautiful sunset every evening at 7:30p.m. The management really takes
care of the customers. The food is excellent and the atmosphere is
peaceful. The southern hospitality really shows at this wonderful
restaurant!! I highly recommend it!!
-- jill (blimline@bellatlantic.net) submitted 3/3/97
WE JUST RETURNED FROM HHI, 2/23/97, AS USUAL HAD A GREAT TIME, WE GO
ABOUT 3 TIMES A YEAR. EACH TIME THERE WE NEVER MISS EATING AT SAN
MIGUEL'S, ALL YOU CAN EAT FAJITA NIGHT-EXCELL. 211 PARK-EXCELLENT FOOD
BUT OUR WAITER WAS TERRIBLE, A LETTER WILL BE SENT TO MGMT. CAFE
BELFAIR (OFF HHI) TWENTY STAR!!!!!DON'T MISS IT.JUST PASTA IS
FANTASTIC, EXCELL.FOOD! MR.BENSONS CHINESE ALL YOU CAN EAT AT THE MALL
IS REALLY A GOOD DEAL HENRY'S NOT TOO GOOD, MISS IT!COMING FROM SANIBEL
ISLAND TO HILTON HEAD WE CAN APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY AND PROTECTIVE
ENVIRONMENT, HOPEFULLY IT WON'T BE OVERBUILT, I HAVE MIXED FEELINGS
ABOUT THE NEW HIGHWAY CUTTUNG THROUGH, BUT THEN AGAIN I DON'T HAVE TO
PUT UP WITH THE TRAFFIC. GOOD PIZZA ON MAIN STREET. BAKED GOODS AT
COLIGNY BAKERY. SIGNE'S IS ALSO A GOOD CAFE WITH EXCELL.FRESH FOOD.
SKILLETS IS GOOD, BEST GROCERY SHOPPING IS AT AT HARRIS TEETER.THIS
TIME WE HAD GREAT SHELLING, FOUND TONS OF MINI SHARKEYES IN PERFECT
CONDITION...REMEMBER DON'T TAKE LIVE SHELLS! DIDN'T QUITE MAKE IT INTO
ABE'S, PERHAPS NEXT TRIP. ENJOY YOUR STAY AT HHI, WE ALWAYS DO AND WE
CAN'T WAIT TO RETURN. AG 2/24/97
-- a.galante submitted 2/24/1997
2-22-1997 have been coming to hhi for 15 years. own a home in sea
pines (on the rental market if interested). we love the island anytime.
october is gorgeous, december is extraordinary (golf and beach walking
every day). love to eat at Neno Il Toscano--about a year old and by far
the best italian food on the island. during the summer, salty dog at
south beach is fun--great hot dogs and daiquiris.
-- Nancy (njjstlhhi) submitted 2/23/97
Current date: 2/21/97 IN June, 1996, our family visited Hilton Head
Island. The beaches were excellent and in general we had a good time. I
would recommend Fitzgerald's Restuarant. I would not recommend the
Quarterdeck Restaurant at Harbour Town. While the sunset was fantastic,
the food was poor and overpriced. The service was even worse than the
food. Were not able to complain to the manager at the time of our visit
but sent two letters subsequently to which I received no response. Go
to Harbour Town to see the sunset, but do not go to the Quarterdeck
Restaurant.
-- Allan (colreb@midwest.net) submitted 2/21/97
My husband and I have been going to Hilton Head with our best
friends for five springs. We've had a blast every vacation. People
always ask us why we don't choose another vacation destination and our
repy is "Why?" When it comes to where to eat or go, there are so many
options it's hard to choose. Big Rocco's a great place for italian food
and for live music, especially on the jam session night. The jam
sessions is where the host band invites other entertainers from the
island to perform. We love the frozen drinks from Crazy Crab while
sitting on the rocking chairs by the lighthouse at Sea Pines
Plantation. For happy hour cocktails on an outside deck, listening to
great old tunes, eating 10 cent shrimp go to La Polas/Kingfisher. The
tunes are sung by Pete Carroll, he usually starts performing the
weekend of the Heritage Classic...once again we enjoy cocktails there
sitting on rocking chairs. If there's a night and you want to cook in,
go see Barnacle Bill for fresh shrimp and have a shrimp boil. He has a
stand right on 278 about a mile between Folly Field Road and Shelter
Cove. For good, inexpensive italian food (great pizza, calzones, pasta)
go to Giuseppi's Pizza in the Shelter Cove Plaza. For a littlle night
life, you've got to go to Wingo's..live bands...dancing...darts...good
times! So many restaurants, so little space...Margaritas, The Salty Dog
Cafe, Wild Wing Cafe for great wings, and so much more! Althouugh, we
go for the golf and tennis it does seem like we spend a majority of our
time eating and enjoying cocktails. Hope everyone enjoys Hilton Head as
much as us!
-- (SandaLH@aol.com) submitted 2/18/1997
In the past four years we have vacationed at HHI and stayed at the
Crowne Plaza Resort (formerly Crystal Sands), but this year we thought
we would rent a villa in Evian, if possible. Could you send rental info
or possible agencies to contact. We need to sleep 5. We have come down
the last to March breaks, and the two summers prior. In March we found
other than golf and tennis, you could not veg in the pool or the ocean.
Weather was great (60s and low 70s) but not as nice as being in the hot
summer time. More action and people and activities to do in the warm
months. Also at the Crowne Plaze (which is a fabulous hotel) we found
in March a lot of business conventions there and they took over the
hotel more or less. Otherwise, a great holiday spot for young and old.
My son roller blades and bikes all day long and my self and my daughter
find plenty of shopping. The Southern hospitality is great. My husband
got a hole-in-one in Shipyard's course and that was a bonus on last
year's holiday. Golfing is expensive especially if you want to take a
teenager with you. Las Vegas Golf & Tennis is a great place for golf
and tennis bargains, and so is Players World. Guiseppe's great for
salad and pizza. Up here in Toronto we look forward to a fri |