Hilton Head Island Beachfront Rentals

It is likely, that when you are looking for one of the Hilton Head Island Beachfront Rentals, you really mean to look at the Hilton Head Oceanfront Rentals. There is a difference, however, it is true that a Beachfront Rental can be an Oceanfront Rental. For the purpose of this stop, Beachfront Vacation Rentals in Hilton Head are properties that are on the sides of Hilton Head Island no facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Oceanfront vs. Beachfront

Hilton Head Island Google Map showing the different waterways around the island showing Oceanfront and Beachfront
Google Map – Oceanfront vs. Beachfront

The difference between Oceanfront and Beachfront can get a little confusing, so let’s try to clear it up a bit. Any Vacation Rental on a Beach can be considered Beachfront. However, only Vacation Rentals facing the Atlantic Ocean side of Hilton Head Island are true “Oceanfront”. This means that Beachfront properties can be Oceanfront but Oceanfront Rentals can only be facing the Ocean.

Staying on an Island, like Hilton Head, means you have water on all sides. This means that only one side of Hilton Head Island is Ocean facing. The other edges of Hilton Head are touching waterways like Skull Creek, Broad Creek, Port Royal Sound on the heel, and Calibogue Sound brushing against the toe.

Benefits to staying on the River or Sound side of Hilton Head

If you stay at Hilton Head Island Beachfront Rentals that are not on the Ocean side, there can be some benefits. Typically, the Ocean will have larger waves. Staying on the Calibogue Sound, or Port Royal Sound, you might experience calmer waters. This also makes it a little easier to take your paddleboard, kayak, or other human-powered watercraft out on the water.

Gated Communities

Harbour Town Lighthouse on the marina docks from golf course 960
Harbour Town Lighthouse from the 18th hole

One of the prime properties for staying at a Hilton Head Island Beachfront Rentals, not on the Ocean, would have to be Sea Pines. A great place to stay, or visit is South Beach. The homes on the “toe” of the island have fantastic views of Calibogue Sound. Watching the boats as they come into the South Beach Marina is always a great sight and the sunsets are spectacular on this side of Hilton Head Island. Take in the Salty Dog Cafe for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner. sit on the deck and enjoy the views of the South Beach Marina. Bike trails lead to all of the wonderful places in Sea Pines from South Beach. And, don’t forget about the many Championship Golf Courses in the Sea Pines Plantation.

Another area to consider in Sea Pines that guests enjoy is Harbour Town. Although Harbour Town has a Marina with great shopping, dining and water sports fun, there is a small beach where you can walk and get seashells or take a kayak or paddleboard out on the sound. This could be considered Beachfront but it is a little bit of a stretch to say so. Still, the Sea Pines Harbour Town Villas are a great option overlooking the Calibogue Sound and the Boats in the harbor.

Other Beachfront Vacation Villas, Condos and Homes

There are not many Vacation rentals at the heel of Hilton Head Island, mainly due to it being owned by the Private Port Royal Community. There is however one area that you can rent a place right on the sound and it is quite lovely.

Beach City Road

Evening at the Beach on the Port Royal Sound beside The Spa on Beach City Road Hilton Head Island960
Evening at the Beach on the Port Royal Sound

At the Heel of Hilton Head Island, beside Port Royal is an area with Condos for Rent and a couple of homes. Off of 278, turn onto Beach City Road and you will find The Spa on Port Royal Sound. There are a number of less expensive condos at this location. At the end of Beach City Road are a few homes as well that can be found as a Vacation Rental overlooking the Port Royal Sound.

Reviews are important

As you look at the available Hilton Head Island Beachfront Rentals by Owner, Reviews can help you to determine the best options available. Owners are different with each property and knowing that the person who owns the property takes pride in how they maintain it, is really important. While the pictures are a good way to see what you are getting, reviews can be a great help before laying down the money for the rental. Check with the property owner and make sure the pictures are up to date. The way the owner interacts with you before renting can tell you a lot about how they will take care of you.

Beachfront Vacation Rentals in Hilton Head

Having a Beachfront Rental in Hilton Head might be a little more expensive but the views are spectacular. Take your time and locate just the right Hilton Head Rentals Beachfront by Owner at VRBO. What a great memory you will make with your family.

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