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- Hilton Head Island is an hour's drive from Savannah and has stunning beaches, golf, and dining.
- We looked for the best vacation rentals priced between $109 and $621, including a private island.
- Experts say Airbnb is considered safe and all our picks follow Airbnb's Enhanced Clean program.
Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is just under an hour from Savannah, Georgia, with pristine beaches, well-kept golf courses, and a vibrant dining scene. I've been writing professionally about leisure travel for two decades with a specialty in the South, and Hilton Head has long been a favorite destination of mine. Since I'm always on the lookout for the best value, I delved into the local vacation rental scene to see what might be available, even around expensive peak times.
This summer, in particular, families and couples can find attractive deals for vacation rentals in Hilton Head Island, such as homes found on Airbnb. I compiled a list of highly-rated rentals in Hilton Head that make it easy to soak up those breezy vacation vibes. Just remember to pack your golf clubs and a good book.
The best Airbnb rentals in Hilton Head Island were chosen based on the following criteria:
Browse all the best Airbnb homes in Hilton Head below, or jump directly to a specific area here:
- Best Airbnbs in Hilton Head
- FAQ: Hilton Head vacation rentals
- Find more cool Airbnbs on the East Coast
These are the best Airbnbs in Hilton Head, sorted by price from low to high.
Hotel-like guest suite
Book this Hilton Head guest suite on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $109
Sleeps: 2 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.98
The deep blue waters and high-end yachts of Shelter Cove Marina are a lovely sight and reflect the maritime traditions of Hilton Head. This good-looking, modern condominium complex overlooks this seafaring scene and allows guests to enjoy a wonderful harborside location.
The suite is set up like a large hotel room and has playful, tiki-like decor with classy hardwood floors, a Queen bed, and a small living area. It has a well-appointed bathroom but no kitchen equipment beyond a coffee maker, however, dining options abound outside the front door.
There's also the added bonus of a shared swimming pool and a free shuttle to the beaches from April through September. Dine at waterfront restaurants, enjoy the live music and fireworks in the evenings, and relax with everything you need within a few minutes' walk at this great value spot.
Oceanfront condo in a resort setting
Book this Airbnb condo in Hilton Head
Typical starting price: $117
Sleeps: 6 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.99
With a private patio, chic interiors, excellent amenities, a near-perfect guest rating, and a starting price of around $100, this is an incredible gem.
While there is only one true bedroom, the home can sleep up to six thanks to a pullout couch and bunk beds in a separate sleeping nook that includes doors for privacy. The furnishings are fun but stylish, with blue bar stools, coral-themed pillows, and tasteful seashell bedspreads.
The condo is located within a gated resort community and guests have access to a private beach, bike rentals, year-round pools, tennis courts, and a gym. The host also provides coffee, cocoa, popcorn, breakfast treats, beach towels, chairs, and umbrellas all for free.
Condo with pool near the beach
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $139
Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.79
Located at the Hilton Head Beach and Tennis Resort, this condo unit's value for money gets even better when you throw in access to the largest oceanside pool on the island and Singleton Beach is just a few minutes' walk beyond that.
Dark hardwood floors and cabinets elevate the interior, and the unit has contemporary soft furnishings, marble countertops in the bathroom, and a fully-equipped kitchen, plus a dining table. The hosts say that you can happily spend your entire vacation within the secure resort, which includes three restaurants and a lively tiki bar. There are also a couple of bikes for guests to use to explore the island without having to drive everywhere.
Harbor Town treehouse
Book this Hilton Head treehouse on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $140
Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.96
This tranquil treehouse offers a refreshing alternative to the more common condos typically offered in Hilton Head. This property is surrounded by the bucolic bliss of open woodlands and large windows grace every side of this architecturally curious house.
Inside, there is a magazine-worthy contemporary flare, with swooping ceiling beams and organic feeling wooden floors that creating a striking space. Take in the beautiful marsh views from the deck or indulge in some self-care with a bath in Japanese-style soaking tubs. The charm of Harbor Town is just a couple of minutes away by car.
One-bedroom condo close to Coligny Square
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $150
Sleeps: 3 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.91
This renovated first-floor condo would suit a couple, as it has a great location that's just a few minutes' walk from the south end of the beach with an on-site pool and hot tub.
The interior showcases a recent refurbishment boasting granite surfaces and neutral tones, plus plenty of room for two people. The unit comes with a nice-looking stone patio plus bikes for guests to use to explore the neighborhood and ride down to the beach. Tiled floors and large double sinks in the bathroom are equally welcome features, and the beauty spot of Coligny Beach Park is an easy stroll.
Cozy upgraded villa with a pool
Book this Hilton Head villa on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $171
Sleeps: 5 guests/2 bedroom
Rating: 4.95
Polished wood floors and pine furniture give this two-bedroom villa a clean, cabin-like look. The appearance is certainly fitting given the location, surrounded by the natural beauty of palmetto trees. It's also just a short 10-minute walk to the beach.
Amenities include a shared swimming pool and whole the home itself comes with a shady, peaceful furnished deck for winding down at the end of the day and a barbecue for grilling the catch of the day. It's a family-friendly property with plenty of room to stretch out, including bunk beds in the second bedroom that kids will love.
Two-bedroom rental
Book this Hilton Head home on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $172
Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.96
Some of the homes in gated communities sacrifice individuality and can all look the same after a while, but not this place, which oozes character through a joyous kaleidoscope of colors.
The 2,400 square foot property is located in Sea Pines on an acre of land within a gated resort community on the island's popular south end. The high ceilings have exposed wooden beams and a Santa Fe-style fireplace in the living room is a great spot to curl up on colder evenings. The kitchen and dining room is a symphony of exposed brick, marble, and tile elements, and the outside patio is surrounded by lush trees and colorful blooms. The hosts have an eco-friendly outlook, with organic sheets, non-toxic soaps, and the like. Guests also have access to Sea Pines Beach Club and the Harbor Town shops and restaurants within a couple of minutes' walk.
Condo on the beach
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $175
Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.67
Fall asleep to the sound of the ocean in this newly renovated condo in a gated community right on the beach. Indeed, some of the best sands on the island are just a minute or two away.
The condo itself features a tasteful beach-themed design that features seashell chandeliers, flamingo throw pillows, starfish accessories, and lush tropical plants. They sit alongside wicker and wooden furniture, which come together for an ambiance that is as fresh as a sea breeze. The complex has a shared pool, bar, cafe, and general store. Guests can stroll to the beach via a private boardwalk, which feels pretty exclusive.
Condo with private beach access
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $203
Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.98
This exceptionally well-appointed condo (cheekily named Sea' La Vie)is located on the quieter, northeastern coastline, along an evocative path that offers direct access to a private beach and the Atlantic Ocean.
The property is an Airbnb Plus listing with luxe amenities such as a Nespresso coffee machine and high thread count sheets. The stylish fittings are exquisite, with mint green kitchen cabinets, elegant furnishings, and splashes of blue and seaside accents that feel far more refined than the kitschy nautical theme found in other rentals. Guests will especially enjoy the screened porch, furnished with a table and chairs and a cozy nook overlooking the nearby tennis courts. Extras such as beach accessories, chairs, and umbrellas are also included.
Dog-friendly cottage
Book this Hilton Head cottage on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $203
Sleeps: 4 guests/1 bedroom
Rating: 4.86
If you're planning on bringing your four-legged friend on vacation, your rental options may be limited. Thankfully, there's a stylish solution that arrives via this free-standing cozy, one-bedroom cottage.
Just beyond the gate of the exclusive Sea Pines Resort, the property is designed like an elevated beach hut, with cute steps leading up to the hexagonal-shaped building.
Indoors, the large windows allow natural light to cascade into the living spaces, and polished hardwood floors and marble countertops add a touch of class. It's an open-plan concept with creams and dark browns contrasting against rustic farmhouse-style wooden cabinets and furniture. The private patio has a grill and tranquil, lagoon views.
Access to the resort's amenities includes the swimming pool and various bars and restaurants, and of course, plenty of space for your canine companion.
Coastal townhouse
Book this Hilton Head townhouse on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $205
Sleeps: 8 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.86
Unlike most large condo complexes, this Hilton Head rental is a single townhouse, which stands out as a rare find. The interiors are immaculate, with design-forward furnishings, which mix reclaimed wood, wrought iron, and leather sofas and chairs. Spread over two floors, the bedrooms have private decks for taking in those views and there's also a home office, making this well-suited to remote WFH travelers.
It's just a few minutes' walk to the beach and is also located in sight on the 18th hole of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Course. There's also a tennis complex and shared pool for guests.
Condo with a large deck
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $216
Sleeps: 8 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.87
Larger family groups and pets will love the unusual design and huge open spaces of this villa-style condo, which can sleep up to seven guests. A chic, open-plan design shows off polished wooden floors and exposed beams, which make the whole place seem airy and expansive.
The bedrooms are quite large and there are two baths, one of which features a zen-inducing large walk-in shower. Treat everyone to a gourmet cookout on the deck shaded by large peaceful trees while the dogs run around. Guests may also enjoy the shared pool or hit the beach, which are only a few minutes' walk to the beach, or a quick ride on the resort dune buggy shuttle.
Villa designed by an HGTV designer
Book this Hilton Head villa on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $289
Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.98
The hosts of this sleek-looking villa report that the interior was put together by an HGTV-endorsed designer and the pleasingly coherent aesthetic is a real testament to their abilities.
Tasteful whites and creams provide a classy color palette, and navy blue soft furnishings and throw cushions really pop within the living spaces. Hardwood floors, subtle aquatic art themes, modernist chandeliers, a large chef's kitchen, a King bed in the master bedroom, and all the technological comforts you could need are also included. The home comes with the use of two private patios, one with a BBQ grill. A shared pool, tennis courts and 27-hole golf course are all right there, as are the restaurants and bars of Sonesta Court.
Unique lofted treehouse
Book this Hilton Head treehouse on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $290
Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.90
Nestled on the marsh amid a neighborhood of treehouse-style homes, this perched home was featured on HGTV.
A winding metal staircase opens up to the lofted living area, which is an airy, sun-filled space with floor-to-ceiling windows and checkered floors. Two bedrooms invite guests to kick back among beach-themed decor such as seashell patterned bedspreads and blue and orange bed frames.
A wooden walkway leads to a floating private deck furnished with bright turquoise Adirondack chairs and a small table. It's a prime spot for a glass of wine or your morning coffee immersed in the surrounding treetops.
The home is ideally situated within walking distance of several shops and restaurants, PGA golf courses, and the iconic Light House in Harbor Town Yacht Basin. Guests also have access to three private beaches.
Beach resort condo
Book this Hilton Head condo on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $292
Sleeps: 4 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.94
Get in the vacation spirit at this tropical Airbnb Plus listing with fun design touches like the bright aqua decor, pillows stitched with scenes of bikes at the beach, hanging dolphin boogie boards, and starfish accents.
Ideal for families, the two-bedroom condo sleeps up to four guests and includes one double bed and two single beds. It's also more affordable since there are no added cleaning fees — but don't worry, it still abides by Airbnb's enhanced cleaning policies.
Because this condo is part of a larger resort, guests have access to excellent amenities that include indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, sauna, indoor track, fitness room, six lighted tennis courts, and a picnic area.
The 'Eternal Summer' villa
Book this Hilton Head villa on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $301
Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.91
This modern-day, elevated 'surf shack' is sure to play into all of your island life desires.
The owner is a lifelong beach volleyball enthusiast, and they bring that relaxed, sun and sand-flecked approach to the place. Cream and pastel blues reflect that maritime influence and the surfboards hang from paneled walls for a relaxed, beach house-style home.
Hardwood floors, abstract modern art, marble kitchen countertops, and washed wood headboards in the bedroom complete a New England-style coastal chic. The property is a two-minute walk to the Tiki Huts live music venue and a three-minute walk to Coligny Square and South Forest Beach, so everything you need is incredibly close.
Minimalist townhouse just steps from the beach
Book this Hilton Head townhouse on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $313
Sleeps: 6 guests/2 bedrooms
Rating: 4.87
Many seaside rentals go hard on the maritime decorations, and while some people like that style, others yearn for clean lines and minimalism. That's exactly the aesthetic on offer at this property.
This two-story, end-unit townhouse in the Shipyard Plantation community has a wrap-around porch and a great view of the 7th tee of the adjacent golf course. A full recent renovation resulted in a gleaming white kitchen and living room with white marble countertops and cream tiling throughout. There is also a beautiful and modern master bathroom with a walk-in rain shower, reclaimed wood, and a soft palette of light grays and blues.
The golden sands of North Forest Beach are just a couple of blocks away and the property comes with beach chairs, a beach wagon, and beach toys, as well as access to the on-site community pool and tennis courts.
Large house with a pool
Book this Hilton Head house on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $499
Sleeps: 10 guests/3 bedrooms
Rating: 4.81
Another rarity in these parks, this Airbnb comes with a private pool so you can skip staying in a more crowded resort or condo complex. The pool deck feels quite resort-like with loungers, a hot tub, hammocks, and Adirondack chairs surrounding a fire pit.
There's also a game room with a full-sized pool table and sizeable bedrooms that all come with their own TVs. This home is located in the middle of the island, but the beaches are just a few minutes by car.
Classic beach house
Book this Hilton Head house on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $556
Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms
Rating: 4.93
It feels pretty good to walk down the steps of your rental and immediately feel the sand between your toes, and that's just what this beach house offers guests.
The house enjoys a spacious, open-plan layout with hardwood floors and a farmhouse-style kitchen. There's also a breakfast bar, modern tiled bathrooms, and a shady porch with loungers where you can enjoy sundowner cocktails. The hosts have your days at the beach covered, too, as the place comes with beach chairs, towels, a beach umbrella, toys, and even a beach cart. The biggest draw, though, is being steps away from gorgeous Folly Field Beach.
Your own private island
Book this Hilton Head private island on Airbnb
Typical starting price: $621
Sleeps: 6 guests/3 bedrooms
Rating: 4.94
This place is a little more expensive than we'd usually go, but how many opportunities do you get to rent your own private island? Old House Cay is in fact made up of three private islands that you'll have to yourself. They're accessible only by boat, and the hosts are kind enough to transport you in theirs.
The rental is a beautifully renovated large wooden beach house, with gorgeous reclaimed wood, pillars, exposed beams on high vaulted ceilings, and corrugated iron that comes together to make the place magazine-level photogenic. There are also hardwood floors, wicker furniture, driftwood sculptures, model fish, and even a ship's figurehead hanging on the wall. It's fully loaded with home comforts for dining in and entertaining, and with boating or fishing the only real demands on your time, it's an ideal spot for getting off-grid (though, there is Wi-Fi). Savor the views from the wraparound deck, or hop into the hammock — you're on island time here.
FAQ: Hilton Head vacation rentals
Where is Hilton Head Island?
Informally known as Hilton Head, the island is a Lowcountry resort town in South Carolina. It is around an hour's drive from Savannah, Georgia, and is the southernmost point in South Carolina. It's a popular, relatively upscale resort town with beautiful natural scenery, several picturesque beaches, and rich history.
Where should I stay on Hilton Head Island?
Where you stay on Hilton Head depends a lot on your budget and personal tastes. The island has a number of exclusive, gated communities, many of which have private holiday rentals, which will be at the pricier end of the market. These include communities known as Sea Pines, Hilton Head Plantation, Shipyard, Wexford, Long Cove, Port Royal, Indigo Run, Palmetto Hall, and Palmetto Dunes.
For more affordable Hilton Head rentals, look to North Forest Beach, South Forest Beach, and Coligny Beach, all of which are located close to the main entertainment and nightlife district. Some of the best beaches are generally held to be Folly Field, Coligny, Islanders, and Driessen beaches.
How much do vacation rentals in Hilton Head Island cost?
If you want to book a private vacation rental in Hilton Head, the cost will depend on factors such as house size, proximity to beach and town, added amenities such as a pool, plus the time of year, and the day of the week you plan to visit.
The cost of vacation rentals in Hilton Head also depends on whether you're renting inside a gated community or not, or during peak seasons. Hilton Head Island gets incredibly busy during the summer and over holiday weekends.
For example, a simple studio apartment rental in Hilton Head might start under $100 per night off season, but surge to over $750 per night for a summer weekend. A large, lavish beach house could be closer to a thousand dollars or more per night at any time.
Expect to pay, at minimum, a few hundred dollars for a short midweek stay off season, or a couple of thousand for a weekend or summer visit in a higher-end property. Be sure to also budget extra fees for cleaning, service fees, and other additional costs imposed by vacation rentals such as Airbnb.
It's also important to note that additional costs can vary based on the host, e.g. cleaning, facility, or resort fees.
When are the best deals in Hilton Head?
For the best deals, as well as increased availability, visit in shoulder seasons like spring or fall when the weather is still quite pleasant and there are fewer crowds and less competition for inventory. If you're set on a summer trip to Hilton Head, plan to increase your budget or consider only staying midweek for lower rates.
What is there to do in Hilton Head Island?
The beaches are the main centers of activity, and draw large crowds, especially at peak summer times and over holiday weekends. A decent foodie scene has grown up around the island, and there's a good amount of nightlife and entertainment. Golf is another popular activity, and there are a dozen or so courses. The island also celebrates its rich history, with the historic homes of Old Town Bluffton and the Coastal Discovery Museum among the sights.
Is it safe to visit Hilton Head Island during COVID?
The CDC says fully vaccinated people can safely travel in the US.
Additionally, experts say Airbnb is safe, especially compared to hotels, because they eliminate interactions with others. Airbnb hosts must also follow enhanced cleaning guidelines.
What is Airbnb's cancellation policy?
Airbnb's COVID-19 cancellation policy doesn't cover new bookings, so if you're unsure about future travel plans, be sure to read listings closely and opt for one with its own flexible cancellation policy.
Additionally, there are no blanket policies on Airbnb and the cancellation policy differs from home to home, set by each individual host. Here's a closer look at Airbnb's cancellation policies.
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