Temperatures may dip in January, but on Hilton Head, winter is a relative term. Not only is snow a rarity in the Lowcountry, with Hilton Head Island getting a dusting just every four years or so, but average high temperatures come in at around 60 degrees, sometimes reaching into the 70s! What this means for Hilton Head residents and visitors is that even in the middle of winter, families will still find many opportunities to head out for a cool bike ride around the island.
To gather some ideas for where to go and what to do, we chatted with Hilton Head Bicycle Company co-owner Sue Hall, who is always in the know about the best family-friendly activities on Hilton Head Island.
Sue says, “Why not hop on two wheels and roll over to …”
The Sandbox Children’s Museum
This early childhood, hands-on play museum was founded more than 20 years ago with the goal of educating children through age-appropriate activities and interactive exhibits. This is where young kids can learn while they play, and parents can feel good about their choice. The Sandbox offers a variety of regular programs like STEAM time and DIG (Discover, Imagine Grow). In January, special events like Perler Pixel Art, Future Makers: 3D Design to Print, the Sock Puppet Workshop, and more enhance the experience.
Lawton Stables
A short bike ride to Sea Pines will get you to Lawton Stables, where visitors of all ages can rub shoulders with goats, pigs, alpacas, and other small critters in the Animal Farm or take a behind the scenes tour of the property. To take a break from pedaling, young children can enjoy a pony ride. Lawton Stables also offers one-hour guided Western-style trail rides into the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. For animal-loving families, this is a must-visit spot.
Sea Pines Forest Preserve
On horseback isn’t the only way to see the Sea Pines Forest Preserve. You can also bike though the easy 8-mile trail of this forest and marshland. In addition to simply enjoying the landscape during a time of dormancy, visitors will encounter sites like a 4,000-year-old Indian shell ring, freshwater lakes for fishing, and a bird habitat. Accommodations like restrooms and a picnic area make this nature-inspired outing comfortable for everyone.
Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground
Before leaving Sea Pines, families can bike over to the Gregg Russell Harbour Town playground, named for everyone’s favorite family-friendly Sea Pines performer. Inspired by nature, the playground features a forest theme with tree houses, swings, slides, and climbing structures, including live oak trees. This sprawling playground is sure to bring out the kid in anyone.
There are plenty more places for families to bike on Hilton Head Island during January, from nature trails to public pathways. With its sunny skies and cooler air, you might just find winter in Hilton head to be your favorite season of all.
Sue Says: Where Hilton Head Families Bike in Winter
