Best Family-friendly Hotels on Hilton Head Island

Whether you're planning your first multi-generational trip or Hilton Head Island is your longtime family vacation tradition, here's where to stay to keep everyone happy.

A summer vacation on Hilton Head Island is an annual tradition for many families. Pristine white sand beaches, miles of bike paths, and endless outdoor activities make a trip to the largest barrier island on the southern Atlantic seacoast an ideal destination for all ages.

Hilton Head has a number of beachfront resorts that offer enough amenities to keep the entire family entertained. There are conference centers, spas, multiple pools, kids clubs, and a variety of dining outlets. Wherever you stay, you're sure to create happy memories and return to vacation with many future generations to come.

The Westin Hilton Head Resort and Spa

From private cabanas by the pool to family portraits on the beach, The Westin offers a personalized experience for those looking for an intimate stay to celebrate special occasions. And the entire family can come, including your pets — dogs are welcome, and there even is a dedicated dog park on property.

For those seeking to learn more about the natural beauty on the island, The Westin also brings in local experts. You can go on an alligator tour at Sea Pines, learn about sea turtle nesting on the beach, discover why Hilton Head Island's beaches have frequent tides and fewer seashells, or gaze at stars from a telescope at night. The experts don't just show you the local wildlife, but share their knowledge about conservation, safety, and nature.

Marriott Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa

At Marriott Hilton Head Island Resort and Spa, kids have their own hotel check-in area, complete with step stool to reach the counter. The Marriott boasts an impressive 513 guest rooms, an 18,000-square-foot ballroom, an Olympic-size pool, and a 10,000-square-foot spa with 16 treatment rooms.

The hotel is located on seemingly endless Palmetto Dunes, which has 11 miles of lagoon system and more than 100 miles of bike trails. It is common to see families riding tandem bikes, kayaking, and canoeing, unless parents happen to me teeing off that morning at one of the area's three top golf courses.

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Located in the gated Shipyard community, Sonesta Resort on Hilton Head has a great program for toddlers and young families to safely enjoy a beach vacation. From its swimming pool, water fountains, and pool toys to its extensive Kids Club, there are nonstop events listed on the activity board each day. During the summer, there are half- and full-day kids camps that include outdoor sports and arts and crafts, as well as meals and snacks. Plus, there's a make-your-own ice cream bar and a snow cone happy hour to look forward to.

You can also see some of the island's wildlife at Sonesta's lush lagoon. Kids can check off a punch card and win a T-shirt by spotting local wildlife, such as sand dollars, jellyfish, horseshoe crabs, egrets, and cormorants. They can also observe resident turtles sunbathing by “turtle beach.”

In the evening, families can watch movie on the big screen, or gather around the firepit for s'mores. And when parents need a night out on the town, the concierge at Sonesta can arrange for a private nanny service to watch the little ones in the comfort of their hotel room.