How to Get to Hilton Head. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Hilton Head

Gateway Airports

Two main airports serve Hilton Head Island. Consider flight options.

Airport Details

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV): Approximately 45 miles (72 km) from Hilton Head Island. Offers more extensive flight options.
Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH): Located directly on the island. Offers limited regional flights.
Major airlines serve SAV, including American, Delta, Southwest, United, JetBlue, Allegiant, Sun Country. HHH serves American and Delta.

Flight Choices

Direct flight options connect to numerous U.S. Cities. No direct international flights.

Routes & Timing

SAV: Direct flights connect to major U.S. Cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington D.C., and Orlando.
Flight availability and prices peak during the high season. This includes summer, spring break, and the fall golf season.
Fewer direct options and lower prices mark the low season, which is winter. Exclusions are major holidays.

SAV Amenities

SAV offers on-site rental car agencies, taxis, rideshare pick-up areas, shuttle services, dining options, retail shops, ATMs, and free Wi-Fi.

HHH Amenities

HHH is a smaller terminal with limited amenities. Rental cars are on-site, as are taxis and rideshare services. A small cafe is available.

Transfer Options

From SAV, a rental car marks the most popular option. Shuttles, taxis, and rideshare services are also available. From HHH, rentals, taxis, and rideshares are readily available.

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Car Rentals

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Compare prices from numerous rental companies.
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Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

No direct Amtrak train service or Greyhound bus service reaches Hilton Head Island.

Public Transit Links

Closest Amtrak stations are in Savannah, GA, or Yemassee, SC.
The closest Greyhound bus station is in Savannah, GA.
From these stations, ground transportation, like a rental car, taxi, or shuttle, will take you to Hilton Head.

Self-Driving Considerations

If you prefer driving, here are requirements and road conditions.

Driving Your Way

You need a valid driver's license from your home state or country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for international visitors.
The minimum age for rental cars is generally 21, often with a surcharge for drivers under 25.
Roads on and around Hilton Head Island are generally well-maintained. U.S. Route 278 is the main artery connecting the island to the mainland.

Road Safety Concerns

Be aware of wildlife and traffic conditions for a safe drive.

Driving Cautions

Be aware of deer and other wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
Traffic on US-278 can be heavy during peak season and rush hours. Drive cautiously.
Pedestrians and cyclists frequently use pathways adjacent to roads.

Parking Information

Ample parking is available at public beaches, attractions, and shopping centers.

Parking on the Island

Many resorts and vacation rentals offer free parking.
Public beach access points have paid parking lots. Parking meters or pay stations are common.
During peak season, popular spots can fill quickly. Harbour Town has paid parking.

Sea/River Arrivals

No major cruise ship port is directly on Hilton Head Island. Cruise ships typically dock in Charleston, SC, or Savannah, GA.
Limited ferry services exist. A ferry connects Hilton Head's Harbour Town to Daufuskie Island (more for excursion).
No significant public river transportation for arrival or departure.

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Hilton Head Island.
For the Daufuskie Island ferry, land transportation on Hilton Head is available from Harbour Town.
Further land transfer is needed from Charleston or Savannah cruise ports.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

Plan your departure to be as smooth as your arrival.

Departure Protocols

Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights (from a major U.S. Hub).
Follow TSA guidelines for baggage and security screening.
Allow extra time for travel to the airport during peak season. Traffic congestion on US-278 causes delays.

Airport Facilities

Amenities are available at both SAV and HHH airports for departing travelers.

Departing Traveler Services

SAV: Check-in counters, baggage drop, TSA security checkpoint, dining, retail, restrooms, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, charging stations.
HHH: Check-in counters, baggage drop, TSA security checkpoint, a small café, and restrooms.
No specific exit fees or taxes are levied directly by Hilton Head Island or South Carolina for departing travelers. Airline tickets may include various federal taxes and fees.

Road Awareness

Be aware of deer and other wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk. Observe speed limits.

Traffic Tips

Traffic on US-278 can be heavy during peak season and rush hours. Drive cautiously.

Shared Pathways

Pedestrians and cyclists frequently use pathways adjacent to roads.

Final Departure Check

Before You Go

Ensure all your affairs are in order before heading to the airport.

Pre-Flight Checklist

Confirm your flight times and gate information.
Check baggage allowances with your airline to avoid last-minute fees.
Confirm your transportation arrangements to the airport.

Last-Minute Reminders

A few final considerations for a stress-free departure.

Departure Day Tips

Account for potential traffic delays on the way to the airport, especially during peak times.
Keep passports, IDs, and boarding passes readily accessible.
Have any required customs forms ready for international departures.

Road Conditions & Safety

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are enforced.

Road Maintenance

Roads on and around Hilton Head Island are generally well-maintained. Main roads, like US-278 (William Hilton Parkway), are multi-lane.

Internal Roads

Internal roads within resorts are well-maintained. They cater to smooth travel within the communities.

Departure Checklist

Confirm flight times, baggage allowances, and transportation to the airport. Account for potential traffic.

How to Get to Hilton Head