Hilton Head is nice, really nice.
I always seems to have a good time in South Carolina; whether it’s in Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Charleston or others.
When I was planning my Hilton Head trip, I told my wife to think of it as a potential retirement spot.
Although I am not a big golfer, I would definitely prefer to retire somewhere South of NYC, where the weather is better and the taxes are lower.
Although, I really enjoyed Hilton Head and I would highly recommend it, I don’t believe I can retire there.
Reason?
It’s too “resorty”. I believe almost 70% of Hilton Head is owned by private communities, but don’t get me wrong, Hilton Head is beautiful.
Pros: Warm weather but not as unbearable as Southern Florida. Very clean and manicured with outstanding golf and tennis courts. Appears to have very good health care options with an active senior population, along with many young families.
Cons: Expensive for South Carolina. Mostly private resorts with annoying security guards. Reminded me of Boca Raton.
Overall, Hilton Head is a beautiful city and an excellent place for a family vacation. Although I wouldn’t retire there personally, I could see how it would make sense for many people.
High recommended: We stayed at the Sonesta that was very nice and I would also recommend Harbour Town. They have a downtown area that has many restaurants, a light house and one of the nicest kids parks I have ever seen.
My son had a blast.
Hilton Head deserves a “B+”
-John
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