The Perfect 24 Hours in Bluffton or Hilton Head Island for Families

Family Fun in 24 Hours: Bluffton & Hilton Head Island

Welcome to the ultimate family-friendly adventure in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island! We’re talking about shrimp boats, pirate cruises, splash pads, ice cream, and maybe (just maybe) a moment where your kids look at you and say, “Best. Day. Ever.”

Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, tweens, or teens—or you're lucky enough to be a local exploring your own backyard—this itinerary packs big fun into one unforgettable day. It’s a little quirky, a little sandy, and a whole lot of memory-making.

7:30 AM: Sunrise & a Breakfast Bribe

Kick things off at Skillets Café in Coligny Plaza (Hilton Head) for a casual breakfast where even picky eaters will find something to love.
Bluffton alternative: Squat & Gobble—yes, that’s the name. Yes, kids love saying it. Great pancakes. Enough said.

9:00 AM: Sandcastles, Waves & Lowcountry Calm

Hilton Head’s Coligny Beach Park is the MVP: restrooms, splash pad, shaded swings, and soft white sand.
Bonus points for letting the kids chase seagulls while you enjoy coffee #2.

11:00 AM: Market Strolling (and Bribery Round Two)

If it’s a Thursday, wander the Bluffton Farmers Market—live music, fresh kettle corn, and face painting on occasion.
Otherwise, visit The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head, perfect for younger explorers with energy to spare.

12:30 PM: Lunch with a Side of Wiggles

Fishcamp on Broad Creek (Hilton Head): Kids menu, waterfront views, and space to roam. Also: hush puppies.
Local Pie (Bluffton): Located in The Promenade with outdoor seating and a big grassy square where kids can play while you dig into wood-fired pizza. If you end up here for dinner instead, you might even catch a family-friendly movie playing in the square. Either way, promise the kids a visit to the “shrimp boat” at DuBois Park after lunch—an epic climbing structure and splash pad that’s pure kid joy. Bonus: there’s an ice cream shop conveniently located right across the street.

2:00 PM: Adventure Hour (Aye Aye!)

Book the Pirates of Hilton Head cruise. Your kids will dress like pirates, shoot water cannons, and hunt treasure. You’ll take 47 pictures. Not into pirates? Opt for the Mermaid Encounter Tour, where kids (especially mermaid-loving girls) can spot mermaids, hear ocean legends, and take magical photos—minus the cannons.
For landlubbers: Check out New River Linear Trail in Bluffton for a family bike ride or a shaded nature walk. After your ride, continue straight into New Riverside Park, where kids can cool off at the splash pad and burn some energy at the brand-new playground.

4:00 PM: Ice Cream Break (Non-Negotiable)

Frosty’s Ice Cream at Shelter Cove: Big scoops, big smiles.
Bluffton treat: The Ice Cream Stop—quaint, retro, and full of sprinkles.

5:00 PM: Wait… Could We Live Here?

It happens more than you think. Take a short detour to peek at family-friendly homes with Allison Cobb & The Cobb Group. Bluffton and Hilton Head are full of neighborhoods where scooters, sidewalk chalk, and sunset cookouts are just… normal.

6:00 PM: Sunset & Seafood (That Even Kids Will Eat)

Head to Hudson's on the Docks for dinner. This iconic spot dishes out the freshest local seafood, hush puppies so good they deserve applause, and a killer mudpie for dessert. Sunset views are complimentary. Not feeling seafood? Swing by Tin & Tallow’s Burgers for a smash burger like you've never had before—crispy edges, melty centers, and full bellies guaranteed.

7:30 PM: Music, Marsh Breezes & Maybe a Meltdown

Wrap up your day with live music at Shelter Cove HarbourFest (summer months only). Face painting, live bands, and fireworks if you time it right.
Prefer Bluffton? Head to Wright Family Park for a chill evening on the lawn with games, snacks, and space to breathe.

Q&A: Bluffton & Hilton Head for Families

What’s the best beach for families in Hilton Head?
Coligny Beach Park is perfect with clean bathrooms, splash pads, and soft sand. Easy for little ones, ideal for big ones.

Where can we eat with kids in Bluffton or Hilton Head?
Fishcamp, Hudson's on the Docks, Tin & Tallow’s Burgers, and Local Pie in Bluffton are all family-approved with space, variety, and kid-friendly menus. with space, variety, and kid-friendly menus. with space, variety, and kid-friendly menus.

What activities are best for younger kids?
Try The Sandbox Museum, pirate cruises, splash pads, and nature trails.

Is Bluffton or Hilton Head better for families?
Both offer great family vibes, but Bluffton’s small-town charm and walkability win major points for year-round living.

Can we find a home with a yard and space for the kids?
Absolutely. That’s our specialty. Ask Allison Cobb & The Cobb Group—we know where the best family neighborhoods are.

From Vacation to Home Base

You came for the sunshine and sand. But if you’re suddenly picturing bike rides to school and backyard oyster roasts, we get it.

Let Allison Cobb & The Cobb Group, brokered by eXp Luxury Realty, help you explore your next chapter in Bluffton or Hilton Head Island. Whether you're dreaming of a family vacation home or a forever kind of move, we’re here to make it real.

www.thecobbgroup.com
843-338-7256

Written by Allison Cobb

The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or emissions in the content of this blog. The information provided on is an “as is” basis with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, usefulness, or timeliness.

Posted by The Cobb Group on July 18th, 2025