RedWeek’s recent roundup of 2021’s top 25 timeshare rental resorts included plenty of the usual suspects in the Caribbean, Florida and Hawaii. But one underdog destination saw a sharp rise in popularity: Hilton Head Island, also known as “America’s Favorite Island.” And we’ve got a feeling that this coastal South Carolina spot is going to continue resonating post-COVID, with travelers still opting for domestic road-trips over flying. With its 12 miles of pristine beaches and a charming seaside vibe, Hilton Head is easy to fall in with. Below, check out a few of the top oceanfront Hilton Head timeshare resorts, plus a handful of Hilton Head travel tips.
Marriott’s Grande Ocean
$229 – $700 / night
Say hello to your luxurious Hilton Head Island home away from home, situated on an untouched stretch of South Carolina sand. Marriott’s Grande Ocean makes it easy to enjoy those calm coastal breezes and beach views — each two-bedroom/two-bath villa features a furnished balcony overlooking the ocean or lagoons. Inside, you’ll find living rooms, dining areas and fully equipped kitchens, as well as two sleek bathrooms, with an oversized whirlpool tub in the master. The resort’s three outdoor pools are perfect for sunning and swimming, while The Dolphin Grille offers tasty American cuisine.
- Hilton Head Island Travel Tip: Hit the links! Golfers of all experience levels flock to Hilton Head Island to play a few rounds on such famed courses as Harbour Town Golf Links and Oyster Reef Golf Club.
Marriott’s Barony Beach Club
$200 – $743 / night
Located in Hilton Head Island’s vibrant Port Royal Plantation area, Marriott’s Barony Beach Club is a place to refresh and recharge. The world-class Namaste Spa offers rejuvenating body treatments, indulgent massages, and restorative beauty therapies. The spacious two-bedroom, condo-style villa rentals, meanwhile, offer escape and relaxation, with fully equipped kitchens and furnished balconies. All Y’all’s Bar & Grill is a laid-back restaurant with burgers, sandwiches, and cocktails — but if you feel like taking things into your own hands, there are BBQ areas for DIY grilling.
- Hilton Head Island Travel Tip: People aren’t the only ones who love Hilton Head. Bottlenose dolphins frolic in the waters just off the coast and in the area’s salt marshes and inlets. On a dolphin cruise, you can spot these magnificent mammals year-round.
Marriott’s SurfWatch
$214 – $657 / night
A spectacular Hilton Head retreat, Marriott’s SurfWatch takes full advantage of its oceanfront location. The outdoor pool here overlooks the Atlantic — and so does the stylish Sea Salts Beverage Company Pool Bar & Grill (open seasonally). SurfWatch’s two- and three-room villas are great for families, with separate living and dining rooms, plus fully equipped kitchens. Of course, you might not be spending too much time in your room. Burkes Beach is always just steps away.
- Hilton Head Travel Tip: You can’t visit Hilton Head Island without sampling some of South Carolina’s beloved Low Country cuisine. Favorites include oysters, gumbo, fried okra, and peach cobbler.
Marriott’s Monarch at Sea Pines
$186 – $500 / night
With an idyllic location within Hilton Head’s famed Sea Pines Plantation, Marriott’s Monarch at Sea Pines is set amid six oceanfront acres. During the day, you can find your own sandy spot along several miles of beaches or cool off in two outdoor swimming pools. The two-bedroom, two-bath villa rentals feature a master suite, furnished balcony or patio, and fully equipped kitchen. You’ll also have access to the adjacent Sea Pines Beach Club, offering tennis, golf and more.
- Hilton Head Travel Tip: Located nearby, explore the largest tract of undeveloped land on Hilton Head Island — Sea Pines Forest Preserve. This protected area is home to all kinds of wildlife, as well as the 4,000-year-old Sea Pines Shell Ring, the oldest known archaeological site on the island, made up of hundreds of thousands of oyster, clam and mussel shells.
Start planning your Hilton Head Island vacation now.