Hilton Head
Entertainment

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Many tourists flock to this veritable paradise simply to soak up the sun or improve their golf swing, but the residents of Hilton Head would have you know that there is more to the island than that. From art galleries to jazz clubs, the city is brimming with the Eastern Seaboard's Low Country culture.

Get Your Groove On

Hilton Head is home to a vibrant music scene, as each night many of the bars and restaurants feature live performances in a variety of genres, from jazz to classic rock. The stage at The Jazz Corner draws some of the top names in the industry, providing guests with unforgettable entertainment while they dine. When you feel like rocking out to your old favorites, head to Montego Bay for lively dancing and tunes performed by the restaurant's house band. Antonio's laid-back lounge is home to a range of talented local jazz artists, and its intimate setting make it an ideal spot for a romantic date.

After Hours

Though the streets of downtown Hilton Head are lined with boutiques and specialty shops, the nightlife scene there is by no means lacking. Murphy's Irish Pub is a local favorite because of its quality brews, appetizing pub-grub, and authentic atmosphere. All you cigar aficionados will enjoy the stogie socials at Crane's Tavern after 9:30p. When sports, steaks, and beer are on the mind, head to Callahan's Sports Bar and Grill to catch all the excitement. With pool tables, foosball, and multiple TV sets for your viewing pleasure, this bar is a haven for sports fans island-wide.

Art for Art's Sake

For the art-lovers out there, Hilton Head is brimming with small locally-owned galleries that celebrate the island spirit. The Hilton Head Art League features the work of both prominent and up-and-coming artists, as well as offering workshops and seminars to the aspiring artist in everyone. If this does not sate your appetite, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina showcases the work of local artists, while also offering a full season of theater performances and cultural events that are not to be missed. After checking out these exhibits, head to Smith Galleries to pick up a reasonably-priced object d'art for yourself. From prints to paperweights, this colorful shop is a tour through the world of contemporary American art, and a great spot to buy that last-minute gift.

Hit the Streets

When the crowds on the beaches near the downtown shopping district of Coligny Plaza become too oppressive, head north to Fish Haul Creek Park, where you can walk among the Spanish moss and ancient live oaks. If you are in the mood for a bike ride, Hilton Head is covered with an extensive network of paths, providing easy access to hot spots like Coligny Beach and Jarvis Creek Park. The natural beauty of Hilton Head can be seen across the island as long as you don't mind sidestepping a few manicured lawns here and there.


Tee Off

If golf is your game, Hilton Head is the name of the game. Tee up, tee off, and tee-lightful is the order of your Hilton Head day on the more than a dozen world-class courses. Many large clubs, like Golden Bear Golf Club at Indigo Run and Port Royal Golf and Racquet Club, offer lessons and workshops to help visitors improve their game (under the tutelage of famous professionals, nonetheless). If you do not take the illustrious game so seriously as that, forget the big resorts and head to Pirate's Adventure Island Golf for a swashbuckling good time with the family. Decked out in pirate's garb, you can put the other scurvy dogs in your party to shame with your mad "adventure golf" skills.