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.
Michael Hays
Tiki Hut, Bartender
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
More than 30 years. I moved here in 1994 and I love the family I’ve met along the way.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I really miss the heavy metal, hard rock jukebox that was in the downstairs bar at Prime Time! Those who know, know exactly what I’m talking about. Oh, and the belly flop contests as well. I also have to say that I always miss my friends that left us too early. It’s never where you are that matters, it’s who you’re with. I always say I can have a great time in a wet paper bag if I’m with the right group of people.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
My favorite change on the island isn’t recent. It will always be the addition of the Cross Island Expressway. If you ever had to leave this island from the south end in July before that road was built, you will have to agree with me!
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“What brought you down here?” I was looking to get out of small-town Kentucky. I didn’t realize that I really loved a small town, I just wanted it to be MY small town and not be living in my family’s small town. I love all my peeps back home, but I found out that I wanted to make my own mark in this world.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio, for sure. Whoever marketed this island up there was a genius!
If you had to recommend one item to your guests on the Tiki Hut menu, what would it be?
The ultimate marg, skinny with salt! Tequila is one of my faves.
Favorite annual event or festival?
I love the Heritage Golf Tournament and always will. So many good times with great friends. It explains itself.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
I always love a good dolphin tour. Watching a dolphin swimming two feet away from me and looking straight into their eyes is the best! It always brings a big smile to my face.
Caitlin Ryan
Memory Lane Portraits, Owner, Digital Creator, Artist
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I have lived on Hilton Head Island for 10 years. This is the longest I have ever lived anywhere, and I believe there are many more years ahead on this magical island. The sun, saltwater, and sand feel like the healthiest environment I have ever enjoyed.
What’s your favorite part about being a photographer on Hilton Head Island?
My favorite part is capturing authentic family connections against such a stunning, ever-changing coastal backdrop. I especially love running into the ocean with my families at the end of a session to capture epic, joy-filled portraits. Being part of some of the happiest moments in people’s lives is an incredible blessing. I am grateful that my legacy is their memories.
What question do you get asked most often by visitors? And what is your answer?
The question I get asked most often is how to pose and look good on camera. I have a few secrets that I share, but the most important one is simple: Have a good time, because happiness is beautiful.
The Mindful Triathlon. It is a beautiful 5K on the beach in April, when the temperature is just right and you can feel the ocean breeze guiding you to the finish line. It also includes yoga and meditation – no better way to finish the day.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of your visitors hail from, in your experience?In my experience, most visitors travel from Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Favorite annual event or festival?
The Mindful Triathlon. It is a beautiful 5K on the beach in April, when the temperature is just right and you can feel the ocean breeze guiding you to the finish line. It also includes yoga and meditation – no better way to finish the day.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Schedule a session with Memory Lane Portraits. Your time on the island may pass quickly, but the portraits you create here become part of your family’s story, carrying the feeling of a moment long after it has passed.
When not working, we can find you where, and doing what?
When I’m not working, you can find me taking my pups, Tigger and Sunny, to the beach at sunset. The beach is Tigger’s favorite place. Every time he hears the word “beach,” he perks his ears in anticipation. I rescued Sunny from the Dominican Republic. I’m pretty sure his favorite place is the couch; however, he is at home on the beach.
Nolan Gregory
Marriott’s Grande Ocean, Director of Operations
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve lived here my entire life, and my parents actually met on Hilton Head in the late 1980s while working for Marriott. It’s hard to pick just one thing, but I’d say the overall island lifestyle is what I love most. Knowing so many locals, having so many options for golf and tennis, being able to go to the pool or beach whenever, and having so many great local restaurants you can’t find anywhere else. Every time I go over the bridge, it’s a reminder of just how lucky I am to live here.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I would say having more local islanders actually living on the island. With the rising cost of living, that’s become less common. A lot of people now live in Bluffton or Okatie, and I find myself going to Bluffton a lot to spend time with friends.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
I really appreciate how much the variety of leisure activities and events has grown over the past 20 years. The town does a great job hosting festivals and keeping weekends full of things to do. There are also many more restaurant options now, with a much wider range of cuisines than there used to be, and that is not even counting everything Bluffton has added.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
The most common question is definitely “Where should I go to eat?” My answer is usually, “It depends on what you are looking for.” Whether someone wants something casual or something more upscale, you can find almost anything here. For casual spots, I like Fiesta Fresh, Amigos, Local Pie, and Smokehouse. For something more upscale, you cannot go wrong with Charlie’s, Ombra, or Michael Anthony’s.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Without a doubt, Ohio. You can tell just by how many restaurants and bars cater to Ohio sports fans. I would also say we see a lot of visitors from New Jersey as well.
Favorite annual event or festival?
I am a little biased, but I would say the Lantern Parade, since it starts right in front of our resort at Grande Ocean. It is a beautiful event that keeps getting bigger every year. My second favorite would have to be Wing Fest, because there are very few things I enjoy more than a good chicken wing.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
That is a tough question because it really depends on the person, but I would say do something on the water or the beach. Ride a bike on the beach, ideally at sunrise or sunset, or my personal favorite is to get out on the water with a dolphin cruise or a casual boat cruise. It is the best way to experience what makes Hilton Head Island special.
Toniann Comello
Sweet Al’s and Sweet Al’s On The Beach
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
Four years. I love the Hilton Head bubble. It’s hard to explain unless you live here. It’s like life is simpler here but it’s also what you make of it. It’s busy but can also be so relaxing. And it almost feels like its own little world. Aside from that, the weather and community here are like nothing I have ever been around before and it brings me a lot of joy! Sunshine and smiles – that’s what life is all about!
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
Well, I wasn’t around for the old days, but I have heard great stories about it. Owning a coffee shop on the island where people coming in have been traveling with their families for over 20 years and telling us great traditions and stories about the island are always so fun to hear.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
Love the new pocket park in Coligny. Great place to hang.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“What made you move to Hilton Head from New Jersey?” We visited during 2021-2022 about six times and those were our first experiences on Hilton Head. Every time we came here, people were so friendly, made small talk, smiled, waved and we just felt so at home and welcomed here. It was a no-brainer for us.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your opinion?
Because I’m from New Jersey, I feel like I hear or am biased to hearing it more. But I definitely see a lot of New Jersey license plates down here while I’m driving. And they bring that great driving philosophy too.
If you had to recommend to your guests one item on the Sweet Al’s menu, what would it be?
The acai bowls on a healthy day or the cinnamon roll with homemade cream cheese icing on an “I need my sweets” day.
Favorite annual event or festival?
Love the wings festival. I’m a sucker for good wings and they bring out the best flavors there. My favorite this year was actually a peanut butter and jelly wing! Delicious.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Wake up early and walk out to the beach at sunrise and watch the magic happen when the sun casts the most magical view. You will be joined by so many others on the beach and it’s a truly energizing experience. Then come see me and get some coffee after!
Heath Babb
Dolphin Discovery Tours, Owner & Captain
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I moved to Hilton Head in 1993, just two months out of high school. What I love most about Hilton Head and the Lowcountry is the incredible diversity of the landscape. I can be on the beaches in the morning, then hop on a boat and head offshore, or duck into the saltwater creeks and rivers. I can head inland a bit and hit the swamps or just spend hours enjoying our saltwater marshes. There is just so much here to love.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
What I miss most about the old days are the quiet winters. There were evenings back then where you could drive down Pope Avenue and not see another single car. Those quiet times shared with the people who lived here year-round created some truly great memories.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
This is a tough one, because growth is always a challenge. But one thing that really stands out to me is the recent effort to remove the abandoned and sunken boats from the creeks, rivers, and the sound around the island. It’s a huge improvement, and I really hope they keep making changes like this to protect our local waterways from all that garbage.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
That’s easy: “When is the best time to see dolphins?” My answer is always the same: We guarantee you’ll see dolphins because they are so plentiful here! That said, I believe the absolute best time to go on a boat tour is first thing in the morning. That first tour of the day, right as the sun is coming up, usually has less wind, with calmer waters. Conditions like this allows you to see so much farther out. Honestly, there is nothing better than a Hilton Head sunrise.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
I’m sure everyone is going to give you this exact same answer, but on average, most of our visitors are coming from Ohio and Michigan. I will say, though, that over the past couple of years we’ve been seeing more and more people from all across the country as first-time visitors. It’s always really cool to see new people coming down to check out the island.
Favorite annual event or festival?
This may not be the exact type of event you’re looking for, but my favorite annual event is simply the arrival of fall. There is absolutely nothing better here than the fall season. You get slightly cooler weather, less wind, and the water temperature is still warm enough to enjoy – not to mention all the new fishing and wildlife species coming into season. It is just hands-down my favorite time of year on the island.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Well, I’m definitely biased on this one, but the number one thing I recommend people do is a dolphins, sharks, and shells excursion. This boat tour rolls three of everyone’s favorite activities all into one. You get to see dolphins in their natural habitat, you get to safely touch and hold sharks, and you get to do some of the best shelling around – which happens on spots you can’t reach from the regular Hilton Head beaches. I always tell people to book at least the four-hour tour to give yourself ample time for all three. Trust me, the time goes fast!
Jodi O’Brien
Outside Brands, Kayak, SUP Guide, SUP Yoga Instructor
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I have lived on Hilton Head Island off and on for the past 13 years. I love the beauty and availability of the island – there is always something to do. The weather is always nice, sun is out, you can hit the water, go to the beach, eat amazing food, listen to live music almost anywhere, sit, or go for a walk and admire the beauty of the Lowcountry. There are always festivals or events going on, so many dog-friendly spots, you can really enjoy island life. The island has so much history and beauty to offer, with such an amazing community that brings it all together!
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I miss when the island was less developed, it was like a hidden secret.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
They have built more parks, and restaurants for more amazing food, and places to come together. I love heading down to Celebration Park for gatherings and events.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
What I get asked most is “You get to live here?” My answer is “Yes! Once I moved here, I knew this is where I needed to be. The weather, tight-knit community, balance of nature, and historical surroundings are what makes me proud to call Hilton Head Island my home!”
Once I moved here, I knew this is where I needed to be. The weather, tight-knit community, balance of nature, and historical surroundings are what makes me proud to call Hilton Head Island my home!
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Isn’t the obvious answer “Ohio”? Joking aside, I have had a lot of visitors from New England and the Midwest. It really depends on the time of year and school vacation schedules. We have visitors from all over the world come to see our beautiful Island.
Favorite annual event or festival?
This is tough! We have so many amazing events every year. If I have to pick one, it is the Lantern Parade – such a cool event! The creativity, ingenuity, and intricacies of the lantern designs always make me awestruck. What an amazing time to gather with friends and community to showcase all the creativity this island has to offer. I love seeing all the lanterns people have made! It brings together all age groups to enjoy in the fun.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Explore and try something you’ve never done before to create new memories and be present in what you chose. You could always come join me for SUP Yoga! It’s more approachable than people think and we always have a good time! What’s the worst that could happen – you go swimming on a hot day?
Misty Marshall
Poseidon and The Rooftop Bar, General Manager
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I moved to Hilton Head in 2005. Having grown up in the small town of New Concord, Ohio, I have always appreciated the “slow pace” of the Lowcountry. The small-town feel was very comforting when I first moved to the area.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I miss some of the old shops and restaurants that have come and gone – Loose Lucy’s, Internet Cafe, Market Street Cafe, Monkey Business, and Murphy’s, to name a few.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
I really enjoy Celebration Park and the various upgrades throughout the south end area.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
Visitors most often ask where the locals go for dinner. Since I live in Bluffton, Nectar in Old Town is always a go-to. I also recommend Pomodori and Calhoun’s. While on the island, I love WiseGuys and French Bakery.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
In my experience, many visitors come from Ohio. Like myself, many fall in love with the area and are eventually lucky enough to call Hilton Head “home.”
If you had to recommend one item from the Poseidon menu to your guests, what would it be?
I would recommend the New Bedford Scallops, served with a baked sweet potato and haricots verts, followed by a slice of our homemade Key Lime pie.
Favorite Annual Event or Festival?
I love the Lantern Parade. It is unlike anything I have ever seen, and I enjoy seeing everyone’s creativity and vision come to life.
If you had to recommend a visitor do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
I would encourage everyone to see the Lowcountry from the water, whether by renting a kayak or taking a dolphin or sunset cruise. Hilton Head is best enjoyed outdoors, and its natural beauty is a significant part of its draw.
Orla Clasby
Lifeguard, Shore Beach Services
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I have lived here for five summers and now one full year. I love the Lowcountry charm and, most of all, living and working by the ocean.
What’s your favorite part about being a lifeguard on Hilton Head Island?
I love being able to help this amazing community on the island and working closely with such an awesome staff of guards from all over the world.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
I most commonly get asked what type of jellyfish wash up on our beaches. I always tell them that they are usually Cannonball Jellyfish which lack tentacles and rarely sting humans.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
Ohio!
Favorite annual event or festival?
Oyster Fest
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Besides the beach, I always recommend exploring Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Pinckney has some really beautiful sights and you will see a large variety of Lowcountry wildlife.
When not working we can find you where, and doing what?
When not working I still love going to the beach. You can almost always find me spending my days off swimming in the ocean and looking for shark teeth!
Cappy the Clown
(a.k.a. Robin Carrig)
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I arrived on Hilton Head Island about 41 years ago as a boat captain. There is so much history and natural beauty to explore here along the beach, walking through nature preserves, watching birds, and learning about sea life.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
The phone book was maybe half an inch thick! Everyone knew everyone in the community.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
There are more ways to learn about local people and culture with magazines, books, museums, live theatres, arts centers, and music.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“Where should we go to eat?!” I answer, “We have choices for every palate at Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina!”
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
I have a map for visitors to put stickers on their home state. Ohio still wins, however other East Coast visitors increase each year.
Favorite annual event or festival?
That’s easy: HarbourFest!
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Go out on a boat. But also, to name a few others: crabbing, fishing, dinner, sunset cruise, and dolphin watching.
Ana Rojas
Island Bagel Owner
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I’ve lived 25 years on the island. I love the beach and I love that it’s a small town.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
I really miss Cracker Barrel.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
What I like about new Hilton Head is that we are creating new parks for families.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
They pretty much ask me for a good Mexican restaurant, and I say, “It’s next door to us! Try Carlitos.”
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
New York and Ohio.
Favorite Annual Event or Festival
I like WingFest.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Of course, visit Island Bagel for fresh, made from scratch every day bagels and our delicious flavors of homemade cream cheese.
What is your personal favorite bagel order!
Veggie omelet on multigrain bagel with provolone cheese. Yummy!
Andy Kennedy
Outside Brands, Boat Captain
How long have you lived here and what do you like most about it?
I grew up in the big city of Due West, about four hours straight up the Savannah River from Hilton Head. I’m told by my parents that I first set foot on the island in 1969. Funny, I don’t recall that. Whenever my parents said that we were going to Hilton Head in our early years, my sister and I would complain that there was NOTHING to do on Hilton Head and why weren’t we going to Myrtle Beach! Funny how much smarter the parents were than we thought. I made the Lowcountry my permanent home in 1985 after graduating from USC.
What’s one thing you miss about Hilton Head Island’s olden days?
There was certainly a calm that we had the opportunity to experience through the cooler months that we no longer realize … a nice time to take a breath and have maybe a little more of an opportunity to experience all the attributes and benefits that the Lowcountry offers. I remember Edwin (McCain) at Wild Wing (Café) on the duck pond; Hootie at the OPO (Old Post Office) and just the OPO, period; Perry White’s Gullah Flea Market, the Crow’s Nest, Remy’s, cycling on the roads without the serious pucker factor.
What’s one thing you love about recent changes to the island?
I’d have to say the renovations to some of the older hotels is something that I appreciate. It was needed. It certainly was to the benefit of our visitors as well as the island economics.
What question do you get asked most often by our visitors? And what is your answer?
“Are there sharks here?” and “Are there alligators here?” (Pretty much the same frequency.) After staring blankly, I say “yes.” I did have one visitor ask how far off the beach was the metal fencing that was designed to keep the sharks out, about which she’d been told.
Unofficial Poll: Where do most of our visitors hail from, in your experience?
C’mon! Outside of SC and Georgia, it’s Ohio.
Favorite annual event or festival?
Wine Fest. Wing Fest is a close second.
If you had to recommend a visitor to Hilton Head Island do ONE thing before they leave town, what would it be?
Discover the island! See it through Coastal Discovery Museum, an adventure on the water, a tour with Gullah Heritage Trail Tours, a horseback ride with Lawton Stables, a visit to the Arts Center, or a long early-morning beach walk. Whatever raises an interest, discover the island. It’s a lot more than golf, tennis, and beach.