Disney resorts

From Magic Maker® Kevin Gallagher

WELCOME HOME

That’s what the sign says as you enter Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort.  After about five minutes on site that’s exactly how you feel – like you’re at home!!  Nestled among the Spanish moss laden Oaks and the gorgeous scenic marshes, one can easily get swept away into a magnificent world laced with history and in communion with nature.

The rooms reflect the beautiful Carolina architecture and recall the fishing and hunting resorts of the 1940’s.  Whether enjoying a Grand Villa, a two or one-bedroom villa, or simply staying in the studio, all of the accommodations continue the story and provide a warm and relaxing environment from which the guests can enjoy all of the wonders the resort has to offer.  All of the rooms have a balcony from which to enjoy either an inland view or a marsh view.  All of the rooms except for the studios have a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, and a whirlpool tub providing all the comforts of home.

Activities are abundant at the resort as well.  With a large pool, a giant water slide, a toddler pool, and a hot tub there is no shortage of places to just get your feet wet.  Add in the 12-miles of beach and additional pool at the beach-house and hours of watery enjoyment are to be had.  If that’s not enough, guests can also enjoy a variety of wonderful nature excursions – including dolphin tours along Broad Creek – by both boat and kayak!!  Bike rentals and kayak rentals are also available.  As for the kids, the recreation department is just amazing.  With a plethora of classes, crafts, and adventures, the recreation staff keep the kids busy and make them feel as special as can be.  There are also campfires and a night of bedtime reading with milk and cookies!  From the first moment there, the Cast Members throughout the resort not only call the kids by name, but also engage the guests and the kids in more than just exchanging pleasantries, but in conversation – enhancing both the child’s experience and making him feel special, but also showing that extra little magic guests come to expect from Disney.

And what would a Disney resort be without a good story – or a good story-teller!   While this is a Disney resort, you won’t find Mickey and Goofy.  That doesn’t mean the resort is not without its own story and its own characters.  As the story goes, when Longview Island was being transformed into Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, the Imagineers kept coming across a beautiful – and mischievous – little golden retriever pup.  By the time the resort opened in 1996, the pup had worked her way into not only the hearts of the Cast Members, but also into the story as told throughout the resort.  Upon entry to the villas, note the paw prints embedded in the floor.  Guests also take note of the dog house on the deck in front of the entry where guests who check in on Sunday afternoons may have the chance to get a glimpse of the resort’s Shadow.  The resort also has its very own banjo playin’ story-tellin’ entertainer and conjurer by the name of B’Lou Crabbe.  Guests should not miss the opportunity to sit and listen to him spin a yarn about old Shadow and her adventures in the marsh.  He gives guests the chance to take a stroll with Shadow in search of bunnies and enjoy some brilliantly crafted and fantastically delivered stories.

While the resort has “TIDE ME OVER” – a delightful little outdoor café, there are no restaurants on-site.  Not to worry however, for there are a wide variety of fine dining and restaurants nearby with ocean and marsh views available.  There is also an abundance of shopping – both big chain and small boutique.  The island provides a little something for everyone.  Add in the fact that Historic Savannah, GA is only a 45 minute drive away and you have access to both pop-culture and historical adventures.

So if you are looking for a relaxing, reserved, and incredible vacation getaway, look no further than Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort.  You will enjoy all the comforts of a relaxing vacation with all of the adventures that you can handle – and maybe come up with some of your own stories along the way.

Have you ever visited Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort?  Tell us about your experience in the comments below.