Besides being a prime location for vacations, Hilton Head has an interesting history that dates back to occupation by Native Americans, European exploration, and the American Civil War. If you rent Hilton Head vacation rentals, you’ll be immersing yourself in a culture that has maintained many of its unique attributes over the years. The origins of what we today call the native islanders can be traced back to the Civil War when the island was used to support a blockade of southern ports. Once the Union occupied the island, freed slaves from all over the south took up residence in Hilton Head, and many of the locals to this day are descendants of those original inhabitants.
The actual Town of Hilton Head Island became an official municipality in 1983. Interestingly, the Natural Resources Division has a considerable amount of control over development and has the last say as to where new buildings may be erected, and what level of impact they may have on the local environment. Due mostly to this control, visitors will notice an unusually high number of large trees in developed areas, something that gives the area a very natural feel. Also, several large land-buying deals have been brokered by the local government to reduce and control commercial growth. If you do your research and choose carefully, the Hilton Head vacation rentals you stay in will be well shaded and have an old-town feel to them.
Just to the north of Hilton Head is Savannah, GA, a city that you’ll definitely want to take a day trip to visit if you’re into historical architecture. This is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in America, with its countless squares full of Live Oak trees, Spanish Moss, fountains, and statues. The city itself could easily be the topic of an entire week long trip, and we’ll cover the highlights in another article.
Another interesting fact that you’ll find while enjoying Hilton Head vacation rentals is the amazing number of refined, cultural activities that the town of Hilton Head offers. Between their quality plays, Hilton Head Choral Society and Hilton Head Symphony, you won’t have a problem finding sophisticated ways to fill your free time while not on the beach or playing in the water.
If golf is your game, you’ll be excited to know that Hilton Head is home of the Verizon Heritage, which is a PGA Tour FedEx Cup event played on Harbour Town Golf Links, a course designed by Pete Dye with consultation by Jack Nicklaus. The course is always high on every “best courses” list, and is something you won’t want to miss.
Hilton Head offers some of the most diverse opportunities for vacationers to enjoy. If sight seeing is your passion, you’ll be able to fill weeks and weeks of time taking everything in. If you love golf, you won’t have a very restful vacation trying to take in all the championship quality courses. Or, if lounging on the beach is what you want, Hilton Head vacation rentals offer plenty of that as well.