The Best Sunset Viewing Locations in the Lowcountry

I love a Carolina sunset
That’s one thing a man will never forget
It brings heaven a little bit closer to Earth…

“Carolina Sunset” by The Marshall Tucker Band

We love them, too! Slow Lowcountry evenings and sensational sunsets just seem to go hand-in-hand. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of local spots that offer breathtaking views of our radiant Carolina sunsets. Plug these locations into Google Maps and get those cameras ready!

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
Two Grasslawn Avenue
Hilton Head, SC

If our featured photo took your breath away, then you’ll definitely want to catch a sunset (or two!) on the stretch of beach in front of The Westin. Come prepared with a blanket or folding chair and settle in for a truly spectacular light display in which the vibrancy of the sky is reflected in the shallow film of water left behind by the tide. If you’re not staying at The Westin, plan to park your car at Islanders Beach Park, Driessen Beach, or Burkes Beach before making the walk down. Seasonal Tip: Stick around until after dark and you might catch an even MORE exciting show put on by our local wildlife! Sea turtles make their way from the water to the shore in order to lay their nests between the months of May and July. From July through October, hatchlings will begin to emerge and return to the ocean by moonlight. Just remember, this is a “look but don’t touch” activity. Flashlights are also a big no-no as they cause disorientation for the sea turtles. Learn more about the best practices for visiting Hilton Head beaches during nesting season here!

Harbour Town Lighthouse and Marina
149 Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head, SC

Whether you depart on a tranquil sunset cruise from the docks of Harbour Town or simply relax in the delightful red rocking chairs strung across the marina, dramatic sunset viewing is at a premium on the grounds of this Lowcountry landmark. Visitors can also enjoy casual dining, music, and shopping, or simply watch sea vessels find their way in and out of the many marina slips. Bonus: Dolphins sightings at sundown are a frequent occurrence!

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, Beaufort

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
Bay Street
Beaufort, SC

With lush landscaping, an outdoor playground, a stage for open air performances, and fantastic riverfront views, the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park offers enough to satisfy any lover of the Lowcountry outdoors. Throw in a truly remarkable sunset with palm trees and watercrafts silhouetted against an evening sky, and you have one glorious view! Bring blankets and beach chairs or just sit in the charming hanging swings available at the waterfront. Wherever you choose to land, the Carolina sky will offer up a marvelous show for your viewing pleasure!

Shelter Cove Towne Centre
40 Shelter Cove Lane
Hilton Head, SC

Located in the heart of Hilton Head Island, Shelter Cove Towne Centre has a premier waterfront location for sunset viewing. Overlooking beautiful Broad Creek, Shelter Cove offers shopping, dining, and a child-friendly community park, so there’s plenty to do while waiting for the sun to dip below the horizon. During the summer months, Shelter Cove even hosts a Sunset Celebration every Friday from 7-10 pm. Each week, live local music and fun family entertainment are offered for free by the Centre merchants. A stunning sunset and free entertainment are a winning combination in our book!

Shelter Cove Towne Center, Hilton Head Island

Skull Creek Boathouse
397 Squire Pope Road
Hilton Head, SC

With amazing waterfront views as well as a family and fido-friendly atmosphere, Skull Creek Boathouse restaurant is an ideal place to capture a stunning southern sunset. In addition to the Lowcountry cuisine offered, there is a play area for children and a charming General Store perfect for picking up fun souvenirs. Nearby Skull Creek Marina is home to the annual Skull Creek Fourth of July Celebration. When the sun goes down, the skies light up with an incredible (and free!) fireworks display discharged from a barge situated in the Intracoastal Waterway. Year ‘round, this is the place for all kinds of fun nightlife!

Sunset Grille
Jenkins Island Road
Hilton Head, SC

Off the beaten path (it’s located near the Hilton Head Harbor Marina within a RV park) and somewhat of a best-kept Hilton Head dining secret, Sunset Grille is an unassuming, intimate restaurant overlooking Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge. And—as the name suggests—it offers a spectacular sunset view. With windows surrounding this cozy space, patrons are able to experience the beautiful sunset hues reflecting off the Intracoastal waters from wherever they are seated. If you walk outside onto the surrounding deck, the view is even more dazzling! Seating is limited, so if you decide to dine while taking in the sunset scene, reservations are encouraged. Call 843-689-6744 to save your spot.

These are but a few of the sublime sunset-viewing locations the Lowcountry has to offer. Have a favorite spot of your own? Leave us a comment with your top recommendations!

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