Hilton Head Island is an award-winning getaway, repeatedly voted the #1 Island in the United States by Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Home to a breathtaking network of biking trails sprawling over 100 miles, Hilton Head Island is a vibrant destination with tranquil beaches, iconic Civil War-era plantations and amazing seafood restaurants.
The crown jewel of South Carolina’s Lowcountry region, Hilton Head Island allows ocean lovers to revel in the coastal splendors of the Atlantic Ocean. This island is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, award-winning golf courses, and spectacular oceanfront resorts.
Finding the perfect hotel can be tricky as premier accommodations are abundant. From lavishly extravagant resorts to oceanfront condominiums and elegant boutique hotels, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina (in no particular order)…
1. Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort – a stunning modern boutique resort perfect for a beach vacation
One of the finest boutique hotels to revel in the scenic splendors of Hilton Head Island, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort offers a quintessential resort experience with innumerable amenities and comforts. Omni, a proud member of the elite Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort community, gives guests exclusive access to an 11-mile lagoon system with abundant biking trails.
This resort attracts adventurers, golfers, families and jet-setters with extraordinary facilities, including sparkling pools, three championship golf courses, tennis courts, and onsite fine dining establishments. Guests can explore 323 studio suites featuring tastefully appointed living spaces, fully-equipped kitchenettes and private balconies offering sprawling views.
- To book, check prices or availability for Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
2. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa – a gorgeous sprawling upscale beachfront resort that also welcomes pets
The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa boasts a breathtaking Atlantic beachfront location, attracting travelers with its spellbinding views and luxurious comforts.
The resort elevates its beachfront setting with an intensely rejuvenating spa-like atmosphere that encourages one to unwind and immerse in the nautical vibes of the ocean.
The elegantly furnished and sun-soaked guest rooms feature a serene blend of coastal colors, luxuriously comfortable beds, and private balconies with picture-perfect ocean and island views.
The Westin is home to three sprawling outdoor pools, an onsite farm-to-table dining establishment, a world-class spa, and a versatile event space to throw weddings, gatherings and corporate events.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
3. Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island – a cool, hip and tropical resort that offers great amenities
Perched along the scenic Atlantic Coast, the charming Sonesta Resort is surrounded by spellbinding views of verdant island scenery and lush tropical gardens. This award-winning hotel is a popular spot for romantic getaways and corporate retreats.
Serenity-seekers can enjoy exclusive access to a secluded section of the beach, while nature lovers can carve tranquility in the hotel’s well-maintained tropical gardens. The Sonesta Resort is home to a spectacular zero-entry lagoon swimming pool and multiple onsite restaurants to feast on scrumptious delicacies.
Guests speak highly of the onsite Arum Spa, a full-service wellness center that offers an extensive range of wellness treatments, beauty services and massages.
- To book, check prices or availability for Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island
4. Beach House Resort Hilton Head Island – easily one of the coolest oceanfront hotels to stay in Hilton Head Island perfect for Millennials and Gen Zs
Travelers who don’t warm up to the extravagance and opulence of sprawling estate-like resorts will find their perfect match in the lively and free-spirited ambience of the Beach House. A resort unlike others, the Beach House is casual, comfortable and conveniently located in the heart of all the beachside action and recreation.
Vacationers can explore a wide range of guest rooms and suites decked in tranquil ocean-inspired hues and contemporary amenities. But travelers staying at the Beach House hardly want to stay cooped up in their rooms, for the resort is amazingly upbeat and always bursting with entertainment.
Guests adore the iconic Tiki Bar – an eclectic spot to sip on flavorful cocktails and enjoy incredible live music shows. The onsite Porch Southern Kitchen serves traditional Lowcountry cuisine with stunning beachfront views.
- To book, check prices or availability for Beach House Resort Hilton Head Island
5. Grand Hilton Head Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection – a modern and chic hotel set in the heart of Hilton Head Island
A project of the prestigious Ascend Hotel Collection, the Grand Hilton Head Inn curates a luxurious experience for travelers accustomed to the hospitality standards of well-appointed boutique hotels.
The Grand Hilton Head Inn offers an extensive range of mid-sized guest rooms and suites, equipped with modern appliances, comfortable bedding, air conditioning and fully-equipped kitchenettes.
Vacationers can lounge by the pool and connect with fellow travelers over hot platters of complimentary breakfast or soak up Vitamin D on the sun deck.
The state-of-the-art business center, designated meeting space and free high-speed WiFi make the Grand Hilton popular with business travelers and digital nomads.
- To book, check prices or availability for Grand Hilton Head Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection
6. Marriott’s SurfWatch – a cool, trendy and laid-back hotel that offers a private beach area
A striking oceanfront accommodation with a wealth of family-friendly amenities, Marriott’s SurfWatch guarantees a memorable vacation with its contemporary splendors and proximity to the charming Harbor Town.
Groups and families enjoy the convenience of spacious and well-furnished two and three-bedroom villas, featuring sprawling bedrooms, living rooms and dining areas with fully-function kitchens. The interiors of the villas are incredibly impressive, inspired by the coastal scenery and cultural essence of South Carolina.
Guests enjoy access to the indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a world-class whirlpool spa, and an upbeat poolside bar. The resort’s crown jewel is indeed the remarkable oceanfront pool, connecting to an exclusive beach strip to enjoy the Atlantic.
- To book, check prices or availability for Marriott’s SurfWatch
7. Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa – a world-class oceanfront hotel where guests can make use of a golf resort
The Marriott Hilton Head Resort and Spa enjoys popularity among jet-setters, leisure seekers and luxury travelers. Perched directly along the sandy beach, this striking luxury hotel offers an abundance of recreational adventures, including indoor and outdoor pools, a state-of-the-art spa, seasonal cafes and three PGA golf courses.
The beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites are equipped with tech-savvy appliances and modern amenities to create a soothing and comfortable environment. The suites come with sprawling private balconies to enjoy spellbinding ocean views with ample privacy.
Guests adore the onsite seafood restaurant, Blue, famous for its traditional South Carolina specialties and fresh seafood delicacies.
- To book, check prices or availability for Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa
8. Inn and Club at Harbor Town – an upscale boutique resort that blends Scottish heritage with unique English-style service
The Inn and Club at Harbor Town combines a classic Lowcountry ambience with superior standards of hospitality and contemporary comforts. Rated as the #1 luxury hotel in Hilton Head Island, this opulent Inn curates unforgettable experiences with its state-of-the-art amenities, indulgently comfortable bedding and unique gastronomic experiences.
Travelers can explore 60 elegantly designed guest rooms and suites with luxurious sleep stations decked with fine Egyptian cotton linens and coastal-themed cosmetic accents.
The Inn is seeped in the cultural and natural charm of Harbor Town, capturing the true spirit of South Carolina’s coastal beauty.
Guests have access to the Harbor Town Clubhouse, the ultimate spot for spirited cocktail evenings, fine dining and exhilarating rounds of championship golf.
- To book, check prices or availability for Inn and Club at Harbor Town
9. Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head – a refined resort that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean
A recent recipient of the prestigious AAA Inspector’s Best of Housekeeping Award, the Hilton Grand Vacations Club is an ideal destination for travelers who are increasingly conscious of hygiene and quality standards. Perched along the wind-swept coastline, this luxury resort offers a dreamy location to bask in the sun-soaked glories of Hilton Head Island.
The all-suite resort is home to spacious and well-appointed two-bedroom suites, featuring fully-equipped kitchens, stainless steel appliances, living rooms, 2 luxury bathrooms, dining areas and modern appliances.
Vacationers can splash around in the scenic oceanfront pool, sip flavorful cocktails at the poolside bar or host fun-filled picnics with onsite charcoal grills.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head
10. Marriott’s Barony Beach Club – a fun and trendy beach resort ideal for families and kids
The Marriott’s Barony Beach Club is a magnificent oceanfront retreat set against a magical backdrop of coastal beauty and romantic sights of Harbor Town. This vacation ownership resort offers lavishly appointed two-bedroom villas with a distinct condominium-style layout.
The villas allow families and large groups to enjoy home-like independence and privacy with spacious bedrooms, functional kitchens, living rooms, dining areas and furnished balconies.
The close proximity to Hilton Head Beach makes the Barony Beach Club quite popular with adventurers, water sports lovers and serenity seekers.
Guests can rent bikes from the Beach Club to explore nearby destinations, including Harbor Town, Shelter Cove and the Coligny Plaza.
- To book, check prices or availability for Marriott’s Barony Beach Club
11. Marriott’s Grande Ocean – a sophisticated resort that provides great facilities
One of Hilton Head Island’s finest oceanfront resorts, Marriott’s Grande Ocean is a class-apart in opulence, luxury and finesse. Home to an array of tastefully decorated two-bedroom villas, the Grande Ocean is a treasure trove of extravagant and lavish vacation rentals.
Guests enjoy the privacy of fully-functional and independent villas, featuring living spaces, dining spaces, intensely comfortable bedrooms, state-of-the-art kitchens, and elegant décor.
The resort offers a world-class fitness center with 24-hour access, and multiple swimming pools to splash around.
The poolside restaurant, the Dolphin Grille, gets amazing reviews for its seasonal specialities, and guests can enjoy flavorful cocktails at the Loggerhead Landing Pool Bar.
- To book, check prices or availability for Marriott’s Grande Ocean
12. Palmera Inn and Suites – a charming and spacious hotel ideal for a relaxed stay
Surrounded by a whimsical canopy of magnolia and palmetto trees, the Palmera Inn is nestled in the heart of the island, surrounded by popular beaches, golf courses, fine dining establishments and chic boutiques.
Travelers eager to situate themselves in the heart of all the action and entertainment will find the Palmera Inn perfectly suited to their needs.
This delightful getaway commands a bold and beautiful presence with its majestic décor, characterized by chalky white slate roofs, heavy columns and a regal entryway. The Inn offers 156 beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites, equipped with contemporary amenities and smart appliances.
The suites offer more privacy and independence than the rooms with their fully-functional kitchens and living areas. The Inn is also home to an outdoor pool and a dog-friendly Jacuzzi.
- To book, check prices or availability for Palmera Inn and Suites
13. Waterside by Spinnaker Resorts – a cool and casual vacation resort that is within walking distance from the beach
Tucked at a ten-minute walk from the beach, the Waterside by Spinnaker Resorts is a leisure haven for island lovers and adventurers.
Surrounded by hip beachside restaurants, boutiques, retail outlets, golf courses and tennis courts, this luxury address will position you in the midst of Hilton Head Island’s best tourist attractions.
Honeymooners and couples adore the romantic setting and intimate accommodations at Waterside. Vacationers can carve peace and tranquillity in the privacy of opulently appointed condos, featuring fully-equipped kitchens, dining areas and living rooms.
The resort is home to 2 outdoor pools, a hot tub and a children’s area with fun-filled recreation.
Guests can throw fun BBQ parties by the pool using the onsite barbecue equipment.
- To book, check prices or availability for Waterside by Spinnaker Resorts
14. Ocean View at Island Club by Capital Vacations – a unique place to stay on Hilton Head Island that provides nine tennis courts
Ocean View at Island Club is an impressive project of the prestigious Capital Vacations, offering a spectacular location with a dramatic three-tiered pool and freshwater lagoon. Ocean lovers flock to this scenic resort-like estate to revel in the luxurious comforts of 1 and 2-bedroom condominiums.
The condominiums are designed for travelers who prefer the privacy of running their own kitchens and entertaining guests in sprawling dining areas, living rooms and private balconies. Vacationers can also explore 1-bedroom deluxe lofts, spacious suites, and mid-ranged queen-sized bedrooms.
Ocean View at Island Club also offers a hot tub, sauna, outdoor racquetball equipment, and a tennis court.
- To book, check prices or availability for Ocean View at Island Club by Capital Vacations
15. HHI Homes LLC – a charming B&B that will make guests feel at home
Nestled 0.4 miles from St. Francis and the Sea Catholic Church, HHI Homes LLC is one of Hilton Head Island’s most fashionable and ideally located accommodations.
This classic B&B-style address perfectly balances traditional comforts and modern luxuries.
Guests can explore a variety of well-appointed and comfortable rooms featuring luxury bathrooms, fine bedding, and smart appliances.
The fully air-conditioned suites are more suited to large groups and families as they come with state-of-the-art kitchens, living rooms, dining areas and multiple amenities.
The B&B also offers an outdoor swimming pool, a delightful patio and a designated picnic area set against a scenic backdrop.
- To book, check prices or availability for HHI Homes LLC
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Born and raised in Brazil, Gaby has always had a taste for the intriguing, the off-beat and the far flung. After travelling around most of South America, living in Spain and Italy and then moving to England, her feet have stayed continually twitchy. Studying for a degree in Spanish translation and then learning five more languages only poured more fuel onto her travelling ardor.
Gaby likes nothing better than discovering new destinations and meeting the locals, tasting the cuisine and hearing about the local stories. Her other indulgences include French cinema, boxing, photography, colourful manicures and soaking up the rays on a sun-infused beach. She counts Rio de Janeiro, Rome, Barcelona, Lisbon and Cornwall as her most favourite places in the world.