November is a great time to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Relatives from all over the country flock to Hilton Head Island like migratory birds. Now is the time to make some plans and ideas in place to get everyone outside.
Remember to prepare any visitors on how to dress for any outside activities. The average temperatures in November range between a low of 49 degrees and a high of 70 degrees. Advise guests to bring layers to accommodate potential 20-degree temperature swings. Take into consideration that winter tends to be rather wet here on Hilton Head Island, so waterproof gear is preferable. Clothes made out of natural fibers like cotton and wool are not water resistant. So quick-dry jackets, pants and shoes are a better choice when packing. Bear in mind that it can feel chillier on or near the water. Have an extra hat or pair of gloves on hand for family members.
Many people may think kayaking or boating is a summertime activity.
But our tidal marshes are stunning in the late fall. The Spartina grass takes on a golden hue and our water clears, as the phytoplankton begins to die back.
Bird watch for American Oyster Catchers, Piping Plovers and Willets. Catch a glimpse of our resident bottlenose dolphin frolicking in local waterways. Plus, mussels and periwinkle snails can be seen in the high marsh.
Biking is another fantastic fall option to get a group outside and exploring.
Bike on the beach or take advantage of the miles of bike trails on the Island. Want to ramp up the fun? Take a guided E-bike tour of Hilton Head Island or Palmetto Bluff and enjoy the thrill of zipping from place to place on these electrical-assisted bikes.
You can also gear up the group and head outside for a hike.
Mitchelville Beach Park at low tide is a real naturalist’s dream come true. You’ll discover all kinds of cool ocean critters wandering on the mud flats and see birds feeding in scores of tidal pools.
Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge is another great hiking choice. Bring water and be aware there are no bathroom facilities on-site. However, these minor inconveniences are well worth the incredible beauty of the vast stretches of marsh and the bird life that festoons the freshwater lagoons.
This month, get out, explore the beauty of the Lowcountry and think about all that we have to be thankful for here on Hilton Head Island.
By Anneliza Itkor