Top Free Things to Do in Hilton Head: Coastal Discovery Museum

We loved our visit to the Coastal Discovery Museum on Hilton Head Island, SC. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity that combines history, culture, and nature, it is a must-visit. Located on the scenic Honey Horn property, this museum brings the Lowcountry’s rich heritage to life. You could spend all day enjoying the hands-on exhibits, guided tours, and miles of picturesque nature trails.

The Coastal Discovery Museum offers something for every age. We visited with a big group of varying ages, and we all enjoyed it. We explored Gullah culture exhibits, learn about the island’s fascinating history, and went on a peaceful walk under towering live oaks. Best of all, it’s one of the best free things to do in Hilton Head, making it a perfect stop for both families and solo travelers alike.

Before You Go:

Make Reservations before you go. Bring bug spray. Lots of Bug Spray. There’s not much around, but you can bring water and some snacks, maybe a change of clothes for the kids. You can bring a stroller or wagon for the kiddos.

The Coastal Discovery Museum

The Coastal Discovery Museum is located on the Honey Horn property, a site with over 300 years of history. You can walk through preserved buildings dating back to the 1850s, giving a glimpse into Hilton Head’s past. It was once home to Native Americans, European settlers, and Civil War encampments before becoming a cultural landmark.

Our first stop was the Discovery House. It’s the oldest building on the property. This is where you will find the permanent and temporary exhibits, a gift shop, and a kids’ zone. This is where you want to go to find a map of the property and information on the exhibits, walks, talks, and tours.

What You’ll See and Learn

The museum plays a key role in conservation efforts, teaching visitors about local ecosystems, endangered species like loggerhead sea turtles, and how to protect South Carolina’s coastlines. It also highlights the unique heritage of the Gullah people, descendants of West African slaves who developed their own language, traditions, and cuisine in the Lowcountry.

Archaeologists have studied ancient shell rings on Hilton Head Island, some of which date back over 4,000 years. The museum shares insights into these fascinating structures left behind by Native Americans.

Activities At The Coastal Discovery Museum:

• Blue Crab Discovery
• Marsh Critters
• Gullah Heritage Trail Tour
• Dolphin and Nature Cruise
• Gullah Heritage Trail Tour
• Life Under The Sea
• Creature Crafts
• Hilton Head Farmer’s Market
• Explore Honey Horn
• Butterfly Learning Station
• Kayak Tour of Jarvis Creek
• Deliberately Unpredictable: Art Beyond Tradition
• Friday Feeding Frenzy!

Some of these activities cost money. See the full schedule HERE. You can see pricing and make a reservation on the schedule page.

Pictured Above: Tom Peoples Discovery Lab – this building is used for educational programming, classes, and family activities. See the full calendar of events here.

How Much Does It Cost To Visit the Coastal Discovery Museum

The Coastal Discovery Museum offers free general admission. It is one of the best free things to do in Hilton Head Island. Donations are welcome and help support educational programs.

Getting Out in Nature

The museum plays a key role in conservation efforts. It teaches visitors about local ecosystems and endangered species (like loggerhead sea turtles). We also learned how to protect South Carolina’s coastlines.

The Marsh and Walking Trails

The museum’s grounds feature 2 miles of walking trails through salt marshes, live oak forests, and open fields, giving guests a chance to experience Hilton Head’s natural beauty up close.

Salt Marsh Discovery Walk

The Coastal Discovery Museum has marshfront boardwalks. These lead you into Jarvis Creek and the neighboring tidal creek.  The boardwalks are lined with panels that help you learn more about tides and the salt marsh ecosystem.

What You’ll See:

• Visit at low tide and see oysters, crabs, and fiddler crabs
• If you visit at high tide, you’ll see more birds and fish.

The Horn Trail

The Horn Trail is 1.2 miles and includes the shorter Nan Lloyd Nature Trail. Before heading to the Trail, pick up a brochure from the office at the Discovery Center. You can also find a map and information about self-guided tours.  It’s a kid-friendly walk. It’s not a difficult walk, and you’ll see pretty water views, a horse barn, and a crab boardwalk. The kids will definitely stay entertained!

Karen Wertheimer Butterfly Habitat

The Karen Wertheimer Butterfly Habitat is a beautiful 1,200-square-foot butterfly habitat and a greenhouse. It is filled with nectar plants and host plants for butterflies to lay eggs. The enclosure showcases species native to South Carolina, including the monarch, painted lady, and swallowtail butterflies. We were able to see the butterflies in all different life stages, including the chrysalis and caterpillar.

We explored this butterfly enclosure, and the kids loved it!

Critter Meet & Greet

The Coastal Discovery Museum offers hands-on children’s programs. They offer scavenger hunts, craft workshops, and wildlife encounters. There are so many activities that families can enjoy together. It is one of the most family-friendly attractions in Hilton Head.

One of our favorite events is the Critter Meet & Greet. My kids learned about Lowcountry wildlife and were able to hold some animals.

This was a special event that does cost money. We paid $7.

The museum also hosts art shows, festivals, and seasonal events that bring together locals and visitors, creating a true community space on Hilton Head Island.

See the full calendar of events here: EVENT CALENDAR

Should You Visit?

Absolutely!

A visit to the Coastal Discovery Museum in Hilton Head is more than just a museum stop. It’s an immersive experience that connects you to the heart of the Lowcountry. The educational exhibits and kid-friendly programs will keep the kiddos happy. The whole family will enjoy the wildlife encounters, and everyone will be amazed at the stunning marsh views.

If you’re planning a family trip to Hilton Head Island, add this museum to your plans. It offers educational activities for kids and a peaceful outdoor escape. The Coastal Discovery Museum is a destination you won’t want to miss. I feel like we left with a deeper appreciation for the culture and wildlife of this area. We enjoyed the peaceful charm that makes this island so special.

Coastal Discovery Museum Website

Hours: Monday – Saturday 9-4, Sunday 11-4

Address: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Phone: 843.689.6767

You Might Also Enjoy:

Why Families Love Adventure Playground in Hilton Head

Visiting The Sandbox Children’s Museum in Hilton Head, SC

Let's Be Friends! Follow Me:

• 
• 
• 
•