Holiday Inn Resort Beach House

A leisurely bike ride away from our hotel, the landmark 90-foot, candy-striped Harbour Town Lighthouse offers views of a glitzy yacht basin and Calibogue Sound. Inside, a small museum charts the history of the island. Take in exhibits including images of native tribes, Civil War photographs and Coast Guard life-saving gear as you climb 114 steps up to the wrap-around observation deck.

Make the most of your island vacation with a trip out on the water. Spot bottlenose dolphins, herons and sea turtles as you kayak through tranquil marshland. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Speed around the Calibogue Sound on a jet ski, or take off on a parasail for heart-racing views of the South Carolina coastline and islands from way up in the air.

Spotlighting the Lowcountry’s fascinating landscape and heritage, the Smithsonian-affiliated Coastal Discovery Museum makes a great family day out. Explore old plantation buildings, stroll through themed gardens and wander extensive grounds under moss-draped oak trees. Then try your hand at making South Carolina’s famous sweetgrass baskets or join an expert-led nature tour of the estate.

Save on car rental and ditch the wheels for an eco-friendly stay. You’ll find everything you need at the resort, plus more restaurants, shops and entertainment within easy walking distance at Coligny Plaza. If you want to explore further, rent a bike from one of several outlets nearby to pedal along 12 miles of beachfront, or park your cycle and stroll shady trails at Sea Pines Forest Preserve.