Do you think Hilton Head is a summer-only destination? Think again! Fall in Hilton Head brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a full lineup of festivals and holiday traditions. With world-class golf courses, bike trails, live entertainment, and plenty of ways to relax by the beach, this is one of the best times of year to plan a getaway.
Another perk? When you reserve your Hilton Head vacation rental with Beach Properties of Hilton Head, you can take advantage of complimentary activities through our exclusive Xplorie programs. That means you’ll enjoy perks like daily rounds of golf at nine local courses, dolphin tours, bike rentals, mini golf, and more—over $370 in added value per day in select homes and villas. It’s our way of making sure your fall getaway is packed with fun, without the extra planning stress.
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Enjoy Perfect Fall Weather
How many times have you wished you could trade freezing snow for warm sand? Instead of shoveling sidewalks, imagine spending your mornings walking the beach or biking Hilton Head’s scenic trails. In the fall, average temperatures in Hilton Head Island range from the high 60s to low 70s, with plenty of sunshine and crisp evenings perfect for layering up.
On warmer October days, you may still see people taking a dip in the ocean, though by late November and December, it’s more about beach walks, shelling, or enjoying the views with a light jacket. Overall, the weather is what makes fall the best time to visit Hilton Head.
Quick Weather Outlook by Month:
- Hilton Head October Weather – Days in the high 70s and lows in the upper 50s
- Hilton Head in November – Weather is typically a bit cooler with highs around 70 and lows near 50
- Hilton Head December temps – Usually dip even further with days in the low 60s and evenings in the low 40s.
Relax on the Beach Without the Crowds
Hilton Head’s beaches are stunning in every season, and fall offers a quieter experience compared to summer. You’ll find plenty of open space for a long walk, an afternoon picnic, or simply setting up your chair to listen to the waves. And because Hilton Head has miles of bike trails, you can even pedal right along the sand when the tide is low.
Tee Off at World-Class Golf Courses
Fall is one of the best times to play golf on Hilton Head Island. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, you’ll have your pick of prestigious, award-winning courses. Harbour Town Golf Links in Sea Pines is the most famous, home to the RBC Heritage, but there are more than 40 courses in the area to choose from.
Explore Harbour Town
If you’re staying in one of our Sea Pines properties, make time to explore Harbour Town. Browse boutiques, enjoy waterfront dining, and soak in the views of the iconic red-and-white lighthouse. In the fall, it’s a great place to enjoy outdoor patios with live music, hunt for early holiday gifts, or just relax by the marina after a day on the beach or golf course.
Fall Events on Hilton Head Island & Bluffton
Fall isn’t just about great weather—it’s also festival season! Here are some of the best events happening in October and November:
Bluffton Arts & Seafood Festival
A weeklong celebration of Lowcountry seafood, art, and culture with live music, a juried art show, boat parades, and much more! The highlight is the two-day street fair on the 18th and 19th.
- Date: Saturday, October 11 - 19, 2025
- Location: Bluffton Historic District (15 minutes from Hilton Head)
- Full Event Schedule – Some events are free, while others require a ticket.
Hilton Head Italian Heritage Festival
Don’t miss this beloved annual celebration of all things Italy! Bring the family out for a day of live music, pizza-eating contests, grape stomping, and even some new events you’ll only know about if you attend. Grab a bite from local restaurant booths featuring traditional fare like cheese, bread, pasta, meatballs, gelato, and Italian ice, peruse the silent auction items, and just enjoy a day of cultural immersion.
- Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 11 AM – 4 PM
- Location: Coastal Discovery Museum at Honey Horn
- Tickets: $8 per person, free for kids under 10, and free parking.
Rock N Ribs Festival
Dig into delicious all-you-can-eat BBQ from top pitmasters while listening to live music from Algorhythm, Cranford Hollow, and Nick Poulin at the Rock N Ribs Festival. This annual fundraiser benefits Second Helpings, an organization dedicated to fighting food scarcity and ending hunger in the Hilton Head community.
- Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
- All You Can Eat BBQ – 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Location: Coligny Plaza, Hilton Head Island
- Tickets: $49.87. Only 400 tickets available.
Hilton Head Oyster Festival
Celebrated for more than three decades, the Hilton Head Oyster Festival is one of the island’s signature fall traditions. Friday evening kicks off with a ticketed feast of steamed oysters, Lowcountry boil, pulled pork, and chowders, paired with live music from Rock Candy. On Saturday, the festival explodes into a full day of entertainment with multiple bands, craft vendors, kids’ activities, and plenty of seafood favorites.
- Date: Friday, November 7th, 5 PM – 8 PM | Saturday, November 8th, 11 AM – 5 PM
- Location: Friday at Shelter Cove Community Park, Saturday at Lowcountry Celebration Park
- Tickets:
- Friday: $60 adults, $45 children 12 and under; VIP tables $750 (10 guests)
- Saturday: $7.50 presale, $10 at the gate; free for kids under 11 and veterans/first responders with ID
Hilton Head Island Lantern Parade
Join renowned lantern artist Chantelle Rytter and hundreds of other locals and visitors for a night of fun as the sky over Coligny Beach is illuminated with dozens of spectacular creations. Over the years, the Lantern Parade has become one of fall's most beloved events, highlighting the beauty of the coast in a truly unique way. Handmade paper lanterns in the shape of sea horses, pelicans, fish, jellies, and more march down the sand, lighting up the twilight sky with a beautiful glow that signals the start of the holiday season.
- Date: November 22
- Location: The parade route begins at the Tiki Hut/Beach House Resort parking lot, crosses South Forest Beach Drive, and heads to Lowcountry Celebration Park
- Participant Arrival Time: Line up close to Alder Lane beach entrance at 4:45 PM
- Spectators: Between Alder Lane and the Beach House, or gather at Celebration Park for the finale. Dogs are also allowed.
Celebrate Thanksgiving on Hilton Head
Does hosting Thanksgiving for your family seem like a daunting task every year? It doesn't have to be! Many families choose to spend their holiday in one of our gorgeous rental homes. You won't have to worry about making up guest beds or whether there's enough room for everyone. We'll take care of that for you. Plus, you can enjoy dinner at one of the exquisite local restaurants. We offer exclusive savings at preferred restaurants. If you're looking for specific recommendations, Redfish and The Westin both host popular dinners. You can also enjoy brunch the day-of at Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. For more great ideas, check out our Hilton Head Thanksgiving Guide!
After the bit of turkey is put away, the Christmas fun begins with Harbour Town Lights, running November 28 to January 1. Stroll the harbor, admire illuminated seasonal displays, and gather for the official tree lighting, which takes place on the 28th before the Gregg Russell concert. Families are encouraged to bring a canned good or toy for donation to the Deep Well Project.
For those sticking around into December, the holiday fun continues with events like the Hilton Head Jingle Jingle Bridge Run (December 21). This family-friendly 5K and 10K race across Broad Creek is a local tradition complete with music, prizes, and plenty of costumes.
- Race Start Time: 8 AM
- Location: Crossing’s Park
- Registration Fees:
- 5k – Early $32 until Sept 21st, Advance $36 until Dec 6th, Pre $42 after / Race Day $50.
- 10k - Early $42 until Sept 21st, Advance $46 until Dec 6th, Pre $52 after / Race Day $60.
Book Your Fall Getaway with Beach Properties
Featured Property: 20 Forest Drive
Fall triggers the quick march toward the holiday season, making it the perfect time to refocus on family and friends. At Beach Properties of Hilton Head, we make the season even better with our vacation homes and villas.
Enhance your fall getaway with amenities like private hot tubs, pet-friendly options, and oceanfront views, and enjoy access to exclusive local discounts and Xplorie perks just by booking directly!
Are you ready to experience the perfect fall getaway? Discover why families love fall in Hilton Head when you browse our collection of Beach Properties vacation homes and book your trip today.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Fall in Hilton Head
Is October a good month to go to Hilton Head?
Yes! October is one of the best times to visit Hilton Head thanks to fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and fun seasonal events.
What is there to do in Hilton Head in the fall?
So much! You can still enjoy the beach in early to mid-October, and cooler temps make outdoor recreation like bike riding, golf, or tennis even more enjoyable. Fall festivals and events give you a taste of local fun, while restaurants roll out the holiday menus just in time for late November visits. Trade ocean swims for hot tub soaks and find your fall vacation rental before they’re all booked!
Is November a good time to go to Hilton Head?
Absolutely. November weather is mild, with highs in the upper 60s and plenty of sunshine. It’s also when the Hilton Head Oyster Festival takes place, and the holiday season begins with Harbour Town Lights right after Thanksgiving.
Can you swim in Hilton Head in October?
Yes, on warmer days in early October, you’ll find some people swimming in the ocean. The water cools off later in the season, so by November and December, most visitors prefer beach walks or enjoying the views instead of swimming.