Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum on Your Hilton Head Vacation

When you come and stay at our Hilton Head Island resort, you can do so many things. Outside of your Hilton Head condo, there’s a whole world to explore. Why not spend the day getting hands-on with the environment and learning all about what Hilton Head Island has to offer! The Coastal Discovery Museum in Hilton Head is the perfect place to visit!

About

The Coastal Discovery Museum is perfect for outdoor exploration and discovery. Its mission is to inspire people to care for the Lowcountry and the environment. There are enough exhibits to ensure that there is something for everyone to learn and explore.

Considered as “one of the most memorable experiences in Hilton Head,” they have redefined what it means to be a museum. Founded in 1985, they moved twice before settling into one of the oldest certified buildings.

In 2015, they were recognized as a Smithsonian Affiliate. The staff here has built programs to help visitors connect with the exhibits. 

Exhibits

The Santa Elena Center focuses on 16th century Hilton Head and the area of Port Royal Sound. The ground-breaking work the history center has done helps bring the fascinating story of Santa Elena to light. Learn all about the natural harbor and one of the primary ports for early colonists.

The Kids Zone offers kids an interactive way to learn for perfect Hilton Head Island kid activities. The exhibit has treasures, information, artifacts, and inhabitants. This is a fun and exciting way to have visitors of all ages learn about the cultural and natural history of the Hilton Head Island area. Kids can play games, put puzzles together, or explore Native American artifacts.

The grounds and gardens have been a destination for weddings, film shoots, and so much more. There are 68-acres of land covered with beautiful trees, gardens, and floral designs. This is the perfect place to stroll through the trails and learn about floral and plant life. You can find Marsh Tacky horses grazing in open pastures. This gives you something to explore on a lazy afternoon.

In-Person Presentations

You can meet the experts and get a more in-depth learning experience. The reptiles of the Lowcountry exhibit allow you to get close to the turtles, alligators, and snakes of the area. You’ll see and might be able to touch some of them as the experts talk about them and teach you about their lives.

The Sea Turtle exhibit allows you to learn about the Loggerhead Sea Turtles. You’ll get to know all about their journey from being in the egg to adulthood. The experts will teach you how easy it is to help protect the sea turtles.

The deep and rich history of Hilton Head Island provides the experts with all there is to know about the stories of the area. They’ll teach you about Native American history and all the visitors who helped develop this land. There is even a Civil War exhibit where you can learn about the Civil War’s impact on the Hilton Head area. 

Plan Your Visit

When you stay at one of our Hilton Head Island condo rentals, you’re never far away from all the fun HHI has to offer! Book your trip today and prepare for an unforgettable vacation.

Hands-On Programs

The hands-on program is a great way to get involved in the exhibits! With the Blue Crab Discovery Tour, you can discover the beauty of the blue crab. The Indigo Tie Dye is a great way to learn about one of the essential plants in South Carolina, the Indigo. There is also a Sweetgrass Basket Class and a butterfly exhibit for you to explore!

Coming to Hilton Head Island and need a place to stay? With our luxurious Hilton Head Island condos, you’ll have the life you dream of right on the water. Book your Hilton Head condo today!