Hilton Head has some of the finest hotel properties in the South, and prices are high -- unless you book into one of the motels run by national chains. Most facilities offer discount rates from November to March, and golf and tennis packages are available.
The most comprehensive central reservations service on the island, the Vacation Company, P.O. Box 5312, Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 (tel. 800/845-7018 in the United States and Canada; www.hiltonheadcentral.com), can book you into private homes or villas on the island at no charge. It's open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.
Another option is renting a private home, villa, or condo. Families might consider a villa rental if it fits into their budget. For up-to-date availability, rates, and bookings, contact Island Rentals and Real Estate, P.O. Box 5915, Hilton Head Island, SC 29938 (tel. 800/845-6134 or 843/785-3813). The toll-free number is in operation 24 hours, but office hours are Monday to Saturday 8:30am to 5:30pm.
By and large, the double rooms in the recommended hotels and inns below have private bathrooms with tub/shower combinations, unless otherwise noted.
Halfway between Manhattan & Miami
At last there's a great place to stay that's close to I-95 between the borders of the Carolinas. Spend the night in a seven-room country inn, Abingdon Manor, in Latta, South Carolina (tel. 888/752-5090; www.abingdonmanor.com). It lies 5 miles east of I-95 at exit 181, at the halfway point between New York City and Miami. In this turn-of-the-20th-century town, the manor is an opulent Greek Revival house listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The grand entry hall leads to elegant public rooms and luxurious bedrooms. The inn offers complete dining and liquor service. Rates range from $165 to $205, with gourmet dinners costing $45 per person.
