Large Rooms & Thoughtful Design
The extra space at Disney Hilton Head is ideal for families. The studio, measuring 455 square feet, actually offers more room than the studios at Old Key West (OKW) and feels even more thoughtfully designed. The layout is smart and efficient, with the kitchenette tucked around the corner from the sleeping area, providing added privacy and a more functional use of space.
While Old Key West studios can sometimes feel bland, these rooms bring in vibrant touches, think butterfly curtains and floral pillows. It really brightens up the space. Best of all, there’s no dreaded chain bolted to the wall like another resort!
The room includes both a standard bed and a convenient pull-down bed, making it perfect for accommodating multiple guests. But the true highlight? The balcony. It’s huge! It honestly felt like we could do cartwheels on it! There’s even a cute little picnic table and two rocking chairs, making it the perfect place to enjoy Mickey waffles and coffee each morning.
Still Holds That Disney Magic
Don’t forget to pack your Disney pins, as the resort has some of the best-stocked trading boards we’ve seen.
Although it’s not always advertised, we’ve been lucky to spot Chip and Dale making surprise appearances around the pool at lunchtime on weekends. This always makes for a fun and memorable moment.
And let’s be honest, a big part of the Disney magic comes from the Cast Members, and the team at Hilton Head is truly exceptional. From the warm welcome outside with giant Mickey gloves to the cookies available in the lobby between 3 and 4 PM, the service here consistently goes above and beyond.
Throughout the resort, you’ll also find whimsical Disney touches, like hedge sculptures of Bambi, Thumper, and Mickey, and classic Disney music playing softly in the background, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Food On the Hilton Head
While Tide Me Over and Signals, the resort dining locations, have limited hours, they still serve familiar favorites like Mickey Waffles and Dole Whip.
That said, the island is full of amazing local restaurants. Take advantage of the limited resort dining hours to explore!
Our Local Favorites:
- The Bank – Perfect for families and football fans. There are big screens to catch the game, Mexican food indoors, and various food trucks outside offering a wide variety of bites. Bonus: Yard games for the kids and nighttime campfires!
- The Frosty Frog Café – Great for even the pickiest eaters (think: chicken tenders for Jeff). With everything from pizza to tacos and a large selection of frozen drinks for both kids and adults, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Nectar – For a more upscale experience, this is a must-try. We’ve never had a bad meal here. The chicken and waffles were a huge hit with my husband. The Hilton Head location is great, but if you get the chance, check out the Bluffton location too. It’s set in a charming historic neighborhood. (Tip- show your room key as you will receive a discount)
Family-Friendly Activities
At the Resort:
- Community Hall / Broad Creek Rentals – Offers daily crafts like painting ceramics, creating Mickey bracelets, or designing character money banks.
- Outdoor Fun – Enjoy campfires, bingo, trivia, and a rotating activity board with new options every day. There’s also mini golf, corn hole, horseshoes, and basketball.
- Bike Rentals – A must! Hilton Head is super bike-friendly, and there are trails everywhere.
- Private Beach House & Pool – The resort has its own private beach area and pool. Perfect for a relaxing family day by the water.
Nearby Attractions:
- Coastal Discovery Museum–Free admission and perfect for kids. They offer a fun scavenger hunt with a prize at the end, and the grounds are beautiful with classic Southern charm, think giant oaks draped in Spanish moss and marshland views. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it!
- Lowcountry Celebration Park- A clean and spacious park with a huge pirate ship-themed play area that kids will love. There’s a splash pad for cooling off and a large green space that often hosts concerts and festivals on the weekends. Be sure to check their events calendar before your visit!
Final Thoughts
Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort truly lives up to its reputation as the ultimate family getaway on the coastal marshes. While it offers a more relaxed vibe than the bustling theme parks, the resort is overflowing with charm, comfort, and unforgettable moments that families will cherish. From spacious rooms and exceptional cast member hospitality to delicious local dining and a variety of fun activities, this Disney destination perfectly combines magical memories with the beauty of the coastal marshes.
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