Can we let you in on a little secret? The Lowcountry didn’t become a world-famous vacation destination only because of our beaches. It wasn’t the golf courses either, or the tennis courts or the inshore fishing. Those things all help, sure, but that’s not what keeps visitors coming back year after year.
It’s the people.
Around here, hospitality isn’t just a vocation. It’s a way of life. You’ll find few places as genuinely welcoming as the Lowcountry, because that’s just who we are. Here in this coastal paradise, we took Southern hospitality and perfected it. We might swap out the sweet tea for Tito’s, but that’s just because we’re on vacation just as much as you are. The principles are the same, only polished to a brilliant shine.
While we all hold this hospitality in our hearts, most of us operate on an amateur level. The true professionals, those who call the Lowcountry their home and hospitality their calling, elevate the standards of hospitality with every new face they greet. They’re the ones who set a place at the table for a new visitor, ensure their every moment equates to a lifetime of vacation memories, and share with them the joys of living in the Lowcountry.
Hospitality is what built this place, and we’re all pretty good at it here. But these professionals are operating on a higher plane. Their warmth and professionalism set the tone for what the Lowcountry offers to visitors. You can play golf or go fishing almost anywhere. But only here can you experience the kind of hospitality that makes every moment magical.
It’s all because of the people. Specifically, these people – our hospitality professionals.
Pete Savarese
The Ice Cream Cone & Frosty’s Ocean Cream, Owner
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I have lived here my entire life and have been blessed to have both my sons born on Hilton Head as well. What I love about it is this small, tight community. You hear people say that a lot, but it really is my favorite thing. Every single day, I run into somebody that my family knows or I’ve had a connection with over the years and it has been a blessing to know so many wonderful people.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
The olden days on Hilton Head were fun to experience growing up. The off-season was certainly a true off-season and a lot quieter. Even in just my time on the island, it has become way more year-round. Trips to Bluffton were considered a big deal. Now we laugh because most people my age live in Bluffton, so we are there a lot more often. I do miss the super quiet off seasons, but it’s also nice to see the island develop at the same time.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
The island has certainly become much more developed but I’ve enjoyed seeing the new parks built. All the new restaurants that have come in have been fantastic and the increase in tourism has certainly helped my business grow. We are in three stores now! Though the island has developed and grown, it has not lost that small community feeling for people who live here year-round.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
Besides the normal questions about what’s the best place to eat and where can I get local fish, most of my customers see the shark teeth collection that my brother and I have displayed on the wall at the ice cream shop and ask us the best place to find shark teeth. Of course, we don’t tell them our spots – but we try to send them to Folly Beach and to some other places we know. It’s always nice when they come back in later in the week with a few shark teeth and big smiles on their faces.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your opinion?
I think Ohio still reigns as No. 1! And I absolutely love it. They are loyal customers, and I hope they continue to come to Hilton Head for years to come!
If you had to recommend one item to your guests on the Ice Cream Cone’s menu, what would it be?
We have two new flavors at the Ice Cream Cone this year. Cool Mint Cookie and Dubai Chocolate. They have been selling like crazy and are some of my favorite ice creams! The Cool Mint Cookie has fudge and Girl Scout cookies mixed into a mint ice cream. Dubai Chocolate is the ice cream version of a Dubai chocolate bar and it’s to die for!
Favorite annual event or festival?
We have really enjoyed going to the Lantern Parade near Coligny Beach in the fall and the Hilton Head Art Festival at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina (location of Frosty’s Ice Cream) in the spring. We look at it as the Lantern Parade closing down the busy season and it’s our way to enjoy the end of the year. And we see the Art Festival as kickstart to the busy season. Both have become my family’s favorite parts of those seasons.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Honestly, my brother’s business, the H2O Alligator Boat, is a must-do highlight for every visitor. It’s a great nature tour that takes you around the lake systems in Sea Pines. You can see tons of wildlife and obviously the highlight is giant alligators. It’s a really cool tour and I recommend everybody does it.
Luke Willis
Lifeguard, Shore Beach Services
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I lived here for around three and a half months last summer and I’m back for another season this year. I like the weather and the overall vibe of the place.
What’s your favorite part about being a lifeguard on Hilton Head Island?
The people – whether the public on the beach or the other lifeguards who create a great environment at Shore Beach and Hilton Head as a whole.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“Where is that accent from?” Scotland
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio, by far
Favorite annual event or festival?
Fourth of July. I never experienced anything like it back home, but it’s an amazing day.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Go jet skiing.
When not working, we can find you where, and doing what?
Probably the gym or by the beach chilling in the sun.
Sheila Polite
Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I have lived in Ridgeland since 1977, originally raised in Miami. What I like most is the Southern charm our little island brings to people.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
Watching all the native islanders clam, shrimp, crab, etc. right off the banks on the island and bring it in in their little boats. Also harvesting their own vegetables along Hwy. 278.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
The renovations of the local parks and working towards preserving our historical landmarks to make them well known around the island.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“Do you see alligators in these waters?” The answer is “Yes, we have a local one, his name is Charlie! He visits weekly.”
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your opinion?
Ohio.
If you had to recommend one item to your guests on the Hudson’s menu, what would it be?
Crab cakes.
Favorite annual event or festival?
Seafood Festival.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Watch the sunset.
Clarence Majors
The Breeze, Driver on the Hilton Head Trolley
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve been in Sun City for 14 years now. I enjoy the weather – no more winters for me! I also enjoy the arts and the food here. And there is great proximity to other cities, like Savannah and Charleston.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I wasn’t here in the olden days of the island, but I’ve heard stories. I remember a man riding with me on my trolley from Shelter Cove to the Westin. He said his grandfather had been a Rough Rider who served under Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War. When he returned home, a man offered him all of Hilton Head Island for $25 but he didn’t accept the offer. He said it was all sand and water and, as a farmer, he didn’t have any use for it. I bet he wishes he could do that over again.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
It’s amazing to see the Lowcountry’s recent growth spurt, but it’s also great to see infrastructure being improved to support this growth.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
My passengers offer often ask where the best restaurants are. I tell them that there are many great restaurants here – as a matter of fact, it’s hard to find a bad one, because the competition is such that, if you are not great, you won’t last very long.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your opinion?
Most of the trolley riders, and my survey of license plates, shows that most of our visitors are coming from Ohio, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and New York.
Favorite annual event or festival?
One of my favorite festivals is Shelter Cove Marina’s HarbourFest, which happens all summer long on Tuesday evenings. I also enjoy the Hilton Head Art Festival, the Concours d’Elegance, and the Hilton Head Gullah Festival.
One of my favorite festivals is Shelter Cove Marina’s HarbourFest, which happens all summer long on Tuesday evenings. I also enjoy the Hilton Head Art Festival, the Concours d’Elegance, and the Hilton Head Gullah Festival.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
A trip to the Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn, a ferry ride to Daufuskie Island, or a trip
to Sea Pines to enjoy the Quarterdeck restaurant.
Rob Bender
Director of Commercial, Marine & Leisure Operations, The Sea Pines Resort
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I lived on Hilton Head Island for 30 years and have most recently lived in downtown Savannah for the past four years. Since joining The Sea Pines Resort in 1993, I’ve grown more and more fond of the Lowcountry every year. There’s something truly special about the water, the wildlife, and the scenery that surrounds us. Of course, it’s the people here that make this area so memorable and unique – it’s a community that feels like family.
What is your favorite memory of Hilton Head Island?
My favorite memories of Hilton Head Island are deeply personal. This is where I met my wife, where we raised our daughter, and where our family has gathered time and again to celebrate life’s special moments. From holidays and milestones to simple days spent together by the water, this island has been the backdrop for some of the most meaningful chapters of my life. Hilton Head Island isn’t just a place I’ve lived – it’s where my family’s story has been written, and that makes it incredibly special to me.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
The addition of more parks and pathways has been fantastic. It really makes the island feel more inviting for everyone – residents and guests alike. It’s great to see people out and about, enjoying the natural beauty and exploring the island. Plus, I love that there are more fun activities, events, and unique experiences popping up for the community and visitors. The island just feels so lively and connected.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
The question I hear most often is, “Where’s the lighthouse?” Since I’m usually right in Harbour Town, I just smile and say, “Look straight ahead – and up.” That’s when they spot it, and the grin that follows is always the best part.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Most people say Ohio, and that’s definitely true, especially since I’m originally from there too. We see a huge number of visitors from the Buckeye State. But I’d add that Georgia makes a strong showing as well, and we welcome a large share of guests from there.
Favorite Annual Event or Festival?
I might be a little biased since I am involved with the event, but my favorite annual celebration is the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Harbour Town. With two drops – one at 7 p.m. and another at midnight – there’s truly something for everyone, no matter your bedtime. The 7 p.m. drop is wonderfully family‑friendly and always draws a big crowd, while the midnight drop has that classic, high‑energy party feel. Being in Harbour Town to welcome in the New Year is something that feels special to me every single time.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
If I could recommend just one thing to every visitor (and resident), it would be to get out on the water. We’re an island, after all, surrounded by some of the most beautiful waterways you’ll ever see. Whether it’s a dolphin cruise, a fishing charter, a sight-seeing cruise, a Waverunner ride, or a peaceful kayak trip, experiencing Hilton Head from the water is unforgettable. There’s no better way to truly appreciate the island.
Amie Baima
Owner, Skillets Café & Grill
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
My family moved here in 1977. This is my home. I love the beauty that surrounds the island.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
The quaintness that the island provided. It really was and, in the winter, can still be, a small town.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
The island is more family friendly for the kids that grow up here and visitors. When I was growing up here, we had one movie theater and the waterpark. Of course, the was the beach, golf, tennis, and horses.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
Having a business in Coligny, the question is “Can I park here and go to the beach?” Or “Where is the beach?” I know everyone knows the answer already.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio
Menu item for breakfast?
Stuffed French Toast. Since I used to have a bakery, we still bake the bread, let it get stale, and then make it into French toast.
Favorite annual event or festival?
Lantern Parade
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Explore! The island is so much more than beach, golf, and tennis. Our island has so much wildlife and is rich in history.
Kevin Stead
Starter Ranger, Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Course, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve lived here for five years, and one of the things I love most is the beautiful weather year-round.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I miss the Bluffton Dispensary that was in Old Town Bluffton.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
I love that there are always new places popping up around the island (like Local Legend Brewery) that bring fresh energy and excitement to the community.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
People often ask me where to eat on the island, and I always recommend Hudson’s and Smokehouse.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Easy answer – Ohio!
Favorite annual event or festival?
My favorite annual event is the Italian Festival at Honey Horn, which my kids absolutely love. And you can’t beat the HarbourFest fireworks at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina!
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
I would definitely recommend visiting the Harbour Town Lighthouse, but the dolphin tours at Shelter Cove Marina are also a great experience and one of the best ways to enjoy the water and local wildlife.
Anthony Savarese
H2O Alligator Boat , Captain, Educator
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
41 years. I like living close to my family, seeing the ocean every day, and experiencing the Lowcountry through artifact diving, hunting, fishing, and spear fishing with my father and brother.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I do miss a more prominent Gullah community on the island. I am very close with several members of the Gullah community and I was fortunate enough to learn about their culture from a young age. They have a remarkable history. I have always loved and respected their culture and community and my prayer is that they will continue to be recognized as an integral part of Hilton Head Island’s culture for generations to come.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
I love that Hilton Head is cognizant about development in correlation with respect for nature. I have been fortunate enough to have seen a bobcat in the woods on the north end in the mid ’90s. I would love for Hilton Head to adopt the bobcat conservation program that is active on Kiawah Island, near Charleston. This program encourages the mutual existence of humans and bobcats living together in harmony, sharing the resources of the island.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
I get asked all the time about the dangers of the snakes, sharks, and alligators that coexist in our environment. I always emphasize respect, careful distance, and education to whomever is inquiring about these things. We have an opportunity to live and coexist with these beautiful animals and that responsibility should not be taken lightly.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your opinion?
Most of my visitors come from Ohio and I embrace them as my guests. I consider the opportunity to share my passion for my home a privilege and I appreciate people from Ohio who could choose to go anywhere in the world but consistently come here.
What’s your go-to restaurant and why?
I cannot specify my favorite restaurant as I truly believe that Hilton Head offers some of the finest dining in the world. However, I do love Charlie’s, Cranes Tavern, and Il Carpaccio. I could also eat an Amigos BBQ chicken salad with extra ranch every day.
Favorite annual event or festival?
My favorite annual event is the RBC Heritage. Sea Pines does a wonderful job of showcasing the best of our home and I enjoy the pride that all the local people take in such a fun event. To me, there are few things more beautiful than the 18th green of Harbour Town Golf Links, with my favorite PGA player and former Heritage champion Jordan Speith about to tee off. I look forward to it every year.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
I would recommend taking the H2O alligator tour. Louise and I are passionate about what we do and I am blessed to have worked with her over the years. We truly want to provide an educational experience for our guests and help develop a love for Hilton Head in every person that embarks on our trip. I would also recommend taking the Gullah tour by the Campbell family. This is a truly unique experience. The Gullah tour gives you an inside look into the rich culture of a very special and important people. I would also recommend going to The Ice Cream Cone in Coligny. I am biased, and I am very proud of my brother Peter’s accomplishments with the store.
Lydia Forehand
Bartender, Sea Salts Beverage Company at Marriott’s SurfWatch
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I moved to Hilton Head about 11 years ago. I definitely love the nature. The water, the trees, the different species of birds and, of course, all of our incredible sea creatures. I also really appreciate the strong sense of community we have here.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I miss when Mitchelville beach was a bit more undiscovered, because it felt like a “locals only” kind of spot. And maybe I’m just getting older, but I miss the old night life – the Silicone Sister shows, the later nights, and when a couple of my spots still had arcade machines with Galaga, where I could try and beat a high score while drinking a PBR. … The good old days.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
Well, I’m a bit of a hippie and not big on change, but if it involves preservation and protecting our natural environment, I’m all for it! I do like to support new local spots though; my new go-to is Pour & Proper!
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
I’m constantly asked where I like to go for dinner and where I go out for night life. I may be a bit biased since the chef is also my boyfriend, but I send them to Michael Anthony’s. Then Cool Cat’s Lounge, since that’s my second gig and who doesn’t love a local dive bar where you can tape dollar bills all over the wall?
I moved to Hilton Head about 11 years ago. I definitely love the nature. The water, the trees, the different species of birds and, of course, all of our incredible sea creatures. I also really appreciate the strong sense of community we have here.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
I would be interested in any answer that isn’t Ohio. I mean, this island is the reason I’ve even been there, since I met my best friend working here and that’s where she’s from.
Favorite annual event or festival?
That’s tough. Mayfest and the RBC Heritage are both such a good time and kind of the kickstart to our busy season for me. I also love the Jazz Corner Christmas party whenever I’m lucky enough to snag a ticket.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Don’t just admire it from the shore all week, get on the water! Whether it’s a kayak or dolphin tour, the sunset hibachi cruise, or a trip to Daufuskie, make sure you take the time to appreciate the beauty of this island from the water that surrounds it.
Craig De Villiers
Culinary director of Wiseguys and Frankie Bones
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve lived here a little over three and a half years now, and there’s just a certain vibe to the area that makes you feel lucky to be here. The energy is different – people are on vacation, enjoying themselves. It’s more shirts than suits, and that laid-back atmosphere really grows on you.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I can’t really say. Being a newer transplant, I never got to experience the “good old days.” But honestly, I think change can be a good thing. There’s constant growth in the area, and I think it’s making this place more accessible for people to enjoy what we get to experience every day.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
There’s a new brewery in town and I get a discount! You got to try out Local Legend. The food and beer are great!
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
Where’s the best place to park at the beach. It’s a secret.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio no doubt, but I see a lot of Kentucky too.
If you had to recommend one item to your guests on the WiseGuys menu, what would it be?
Ribeye with Cowboy Butter is my favorite, but if I had to recommend something to someone who hasn’t been here before, it would have to be the Fried Stuffed Olives and Rotisserie Prime Rib.
Favorite annual event or festival?
Lantern Parade, because it’s beautiful and it’s my favorite time of year.
I can’t really say. Being a newer transplant, I never got to experience the “good old days.” But honestly, I think change can be a good thing. There’s constant growth in the area, and I think it’s making this place more accessible for people to enjoy what we get to experience every day.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Dolphin tour. I’m a sucker for anything wildlife related, even though I get to see them almost every day I still get excited about it!
Cindy Rodriguez
Shelter Cove Marina Charter Coordinator, Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve lived on Hilton Head Island for 47 years, and what I like most is its down-to-earth Lowcountry feel. From the natural beauty and coastal charm, there’s no place like Hilton Head Island (home)!
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I miss being able to go to the beach anywhere.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
One of the things I love most about Hilton Head Island is all the new parks and outdoor spaces. They’ve added so much to the community by creating beautiful places for people to relax, stay active, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
Many guests ask where they should go to eat and I always recommend Hudson’s for great seafood.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio is, of course, top of the list, although I’ve seen many guests over the last year or so from the Midwest.
Favorite annual event or festival?
HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina is my favorite festival on Hilton Head Island. It consistently captures the fun, family-friendly atmosphere and is one of those events that brings both locals and visitors together to showcase the beauty and energy of Hilton Head.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
I would definitely say “get out on the water.” Whether it’s boating, fishing, or taking a sunset cruise, being on the water is one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty and relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle.