Lowcountry Luxe: The Best Luxury Hilton Head Resorts

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and haven’t yet discovered the laid-back pace of Hilton Head Island, SC, you’re in for a treat. Hilton Head, or HHI as it’s also often known, is a paradise for those wanting to sample a little of that famous Lowcountry hospitality and boasts plenty of great accommodation options to consider.

I visit South Carolina frequently (more times than I can remember!), with Hilton Head being a favorite stop not just for its endless beaches, but also its proximity to another place I like a lot: Savannah, Georgia, just a 50-minute drive south. So I can vouch for the fact that HHI is home to many excellent high-end resorts that offer quality accommodations, fun beach experiences, and top-notch amenities.

Sure, while you won’t find the glitz and glamor of, say, those 5-star resorts lining the shores of Palm Beach in Florida, you’ll certainly not be disappointed with the modest luxury on offer at the best hotels and resorts in Hilton Head.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an action-packed adventure, or a transformative wellness retreat, our list of the best luxury Hilton Head resorts will help you plan an unforgettable Lowcountry escape.

 

The Best Luxury Hilton Head Resorts

 

Montage Palmetto Bluff

Nestled within the sprawling 20,000-acre Palmetto Bluff community, Montage Palmetto Bluff is the epitome of Lowcountry charm and luxury. This plush 5-star resort offers a variety of superlative accommodation options, including spacious guest rooms, suites, cottages, and private residences.

You’ll also have access to a variety of world-class amenities such as a Jack Nicklaus golf course, a 13,000-sq ft spa, multiple dining venues, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The Montage resort also offers a myriad of recreational activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, and nature walks through the expansive nature preserve. Other amenities worth mentioning include the resort’s swimming pools and private marina.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Montage Palmetto Bluff

 

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Another of my favorite luxury Hilton Head resorts, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends modern amenities with the island’s natural beauty. This 4-star resort is certainly one of the largest on HHI, boasting a total of 416 rooms and suites, all boasting private balconies and some offering stunning views.

In need of some TLC? Book a session or two at the Heavenly Spa by Westin which offers a wide array of treatments designed to soothe and rejuvenate. The resort’s three outdoor pools also provide ample opportunities for relaxation, too. Interested in sports? Your stay Guests at The Westin includes access to the adjacent Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club which boasts three 18-hole golf courses and a world-class tennis facility.

You’ll also want to reserve a table at the award-winning The Carolina Room. Here you can indulge in delicious, locally sourced cuisine without even having to leave the resort.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations at one of the best luxury Hilton Head resorts, visit The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

 

Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

The Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort is another great choice for luxurious accommodations in a stunning beachfront setting. This 4-star resort features 323 spacious guest rooms and suites, each with a private balcony or patio, a handy kitchenette, and a separate living area.

The property boasts several swimming pools, including an adults-only pool and a zero-entry family pool, as well as a full-service spa and a fitness center. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the resort’s beachfront location, which offers direct access to the island’s 10 miles of wide, sandy beaches.

Outdoor activities on offer here include water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing, plus sea swimming and fishing. Golf enthusiast? Then you’ll appreciate the resort’s proximity to the acclaimed Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, home to three championship golf courses.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

 

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

The Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is another lovely oceanfront property to consider. This excellent 4-star resort features 340 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, many with private balconies boasting ocean views.

On-site amenities include a lush tropical garden area to relax in, multiple swimming pools, and a full-service spa. There’s also an array of on-site dining options to sample, too. Given its location in the island’s Shipyard Plantation community, guests at Sonesta Hilton Head also have access to 27 holes of championship golf, world-class tennis facilities, and miles of scenic bike trails.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

 

Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Hilton Head Island

The Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Hilton Head Islandis another of the larger beachfront vacation properties worth considering. This plush 4-star resort features 513 stylish accommodations including larger family-friendly suites, each outfitted with modern amenities and private balconies.

Amenities include two good-sized outdoor swimming pools, a full-service spa, plus a state-of-the-art fitness center. You’ll also have access to the renowned Palmetto Dunes Golf Club, which features three 18-hole championship golf courses designed by some of the game’s most respected architects. The resort also offers a variety of on-site dining options, from casual poolside fare to upscale seafood at Blue Restaurant and Lounge.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, and rates, and to make reservations, visit Hilton Beachfront Resort & Spa Hilton Head Island

 

Marriott’s Barony Beach Club

Located on the shores of Port Royal Sound, Marriott’s Barony Beach Club is a personal favorite and is an idyllic retreat that offers guests a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere. The resort features spacious two-bedroom villas with full kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and private balconies with views over the property.

In addition to a full program of family-friendly events and activities, you’ll enjoy the resort’s indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center, and full-service spa. You’ll also find yourself conveniently located near several first-rate golf courses, too.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations at one of the best luxury resorts in Hilton Head, visit Marriott’s Barony Beach Club

 

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Travelling with kids? Then you’ll definitely want to consider Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort. When my boys were younger we stayed here and loved every minute of the experience, and this 3-star resort brought a touch of that classic Disney magic to our HHI vacation.

I’ve heard from friends that this great family resort in Hilton Head still provides families with a one-of-a-kind island vacation experience. Featuring 123 rooms, suites, and villas all designed to evoke the spirit of a bygone era, popular accommodations here are the larger two-bedroom units which feature fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms.

On-site amenities include outdoor pools complete with waterslides, as well as fun family activities such as campfires, movie nights, and nature walks around the resort’s 15 acres of land. Be sure to book one of the special Disney character appearance breakfasts, too. You’re also close to the shops and dining opportunities at ritzy Shelter Cove Harbour, all just a short stroll away.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

 

Hilton Head Health – Weight Loss Resort & Health Spa

For those seeking a transformative vacation experience, Hilton Head Health – Weight Loss Resort & Health Spa is a premier wellness retreat that combines luxury with a focus on health and well-being.

This unique 4-star offers up personalized weight loss programs, fitness classes, and a wide range of spa treatments designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Not only will you enjoy comfortable accommodations, but this Hilton Head all-inclusive resort also features nutritious gourmet meals.

In addition to offering a supportive environment that fosters personal growth and development, the resort boasts beautiful surroundings and is just a short stroll or bike ride away from the beach.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Hilton Head Health – Weight Loss Resort & Health Spa

 

Marriott’s Grande Ocean

Another great 4-star option from the Marriott group which I’ve stayed at, the Grande Ocean is a great choice for those needing larger accommodations than the standard hotel room. The accommodations here consist of spacious two-bedroom villas with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, as well as two spacious bathrooms and even laundry facilities. They also have large furnished balconies with ocean or garden views.

On-site amenities include both indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and several on-site dining options. You’ll also be close to a variety of recreational activities including championship golf courses, tennis facilities, and miles of scenic bike trails.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Marriott’s Grande Ocean

 

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head

Part of the popular Hilton Grand Vacations Club (I’m a member, yeah!), the timeshare group’s Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head is a great family-friendly resort that offers spacious two-bedroom suites. Each of these large units comes with full kitchens, separate living and dining areas, two bathrooms, as well as large private balconies.

There are also plenty of fun things to do on the property, too. Highlights include the resort’s two outdoor pools, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving fresh locally sourced dishes. In addition to having direct access to that endless Hilton Head Island beach, the resort is also conveniently located near several championship golf courses, making it an ideal destination for golf enthusiasts.

LuxuryUnitedStates Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and to make reservations, visit Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head

 

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Kim Kerr-Dearsley is an experienced travel writer and co-founder of Riley, a leading source of news and reviews relating to luxury experiences, lifestyles, real estate, and travel.