Uncover the Coastal Quiet You’ve Been Craving!

 

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 

Shops:

• Shelter Cove Towne Centre – Stroll this waterfront plaza full of upscale boutiques and holiday window displays.
• The Art League Gallery at the Arts Center – A great stop to admire and buy local art, perfect for winter inspiration.
• Harbour Town Christmas Shop and Gallery – A charming place for year-round Christmas décor and Lowcountry gifts.

Restaurants:

• The Jazz Corner – Sip craft cocktails and warm up with live jazz and Southern fare.
• Delisheeyo – Cozy up with warm grain bowls and smoothies after a brisk island walk.
• Michael Anthony’s Cucina Italiana – Italian comfort food in a cozy fine-dining setting.

Family Winter Fun:

• Winter Nature Walks at Sea Pines Forest Preserve – Explore quiet woodlands and spot winter birds.
• Mini Golf at Legendary Golf – A warm way to play, even if it’s chilly outside (weather permitting).
• The Sandbox Children’s Museum – Hands-on, warm, and welcoming for little explorers.

Local Winter Favorites:

• Hilton Head Island Winter Wine Fest (March) – Celebrate local vintages with tastings and pairings.
• Shell Hunting on Coligny Beach – Best done at low tide in January when the crowds are gone.
• Gullah Heritage Trail Tours – Explore the rich culture and history of Hilton Head’s native islanders through storytelling and scenic drives.

 

 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 

Shops:

• The Market Common – Decked out in lights in winter, this lifestyle center feels like a Hallmark movie set.
• Christmas Mouse – Year-round holiday cheer with cozy ornaments and decorations.
• Gay Dolphin Gift Cove – Quirky, nostalgic, and a fun rainy-day activity.

Restaurants:

• Sea Captain’s House – Warm your soul with she-crab soup and oceanfront views.
• Croissants Bistro & Bakery – A sweet stop for pastries and hot drinks in the heart of Myrtle Beach.
• Carolina Roadhouse – Southern comfort food served generously in a cozy cabin-style atmosphere.

Family Winter Fun:

• Ripley’s Aquarium Festival of Trees (through January) – A dazzling display of holiday trees from every U.S. state.
• WonderWorks Myrtle Beach – Science, indoor ropes course, and 100+ exhibits.
• Broadway Grand Prix – Enjoy go-kart fun without the summer crowds (open February – December) .

Local Winter Favorites:

• Winter Wonderland at the Beach (Late Nov–Jan) – Lights, skating, and seasonal cheer along the boardwalk.
• Brookgreen Gardens Nights of a Thousand Candles (early Jan) – A magical evening walk through candlelit gardens.
• Beachcombing at Huntington Beach State Park – Peaceful and beautiful in cooler weather.

 

Ocean City, Maryland / Fenwick Island, Delaware 

Shops:

• South Moon Under – Cozy sweaters and stylish finds for a winter beach wardrobe.
• OC Outlets at West Ocean City – Post-holiday deals in a quiet setting.
• Sea Quest Fashions (Fenwick) – Local boutique for coastal apparel and accessories.

Restaurants:

• Lighthouse Sound (West OC) – Fireside dining with panoramic bay views.
• One Coastal (Fenwick Island) – Warm, seasonal fare in a rustic-modern space.
• The Shark on the Harbor – A warm, upscale spot overlooking the commercial harbor, offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes with an ever-changing menu.

Family Winter Fun:

• Winterfest of Lights (ends early Jan) – A magical light display through Northside Park.
• Indoor Ice Skating at Carousel Resort – The beach’s only ice rink—yes, really!
• Ocean Bowl Skate Park (weather-permitting) – Open year-round for a quiet ride.

Local Winter Favorites:

• Brisk Beach Walks on the Boardwalk – Wrap up and stroll with a hot drink and no crowds in sight.
• Fenwick Island State Park – Serene in the winter, ideal for seal spotting and stargazing.
• Dumser’s Dairyland (Year-Round Locations) – Because ice cream in winter just hits different.