ResortQuest Announces its Participation as an Official Patron Sponsor of the 43rd PGA The Heritage Golf Tournament at Sea Pines Resort

Leading vacation rental company offers five-night stay in Hilton Head's Harbour Town including two complimentary tournament Grounds Badges and walking-distance access to the golf course


The Scottish red tartan jacket worn by the tournament's victor and candy-striped lighthouse overlooking the 18th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links are each enduring symbols of one of golf's greatest tournaments: The Heritage.


Last year's finish at Sea Pines Resort's prestigious course was a testament to the sport's gentlemanly traditions when professional golfer, Brian Davis, admitted an error on his swing, which cost him two strokes thus awarding the title to his rival, Jim Furyk. The professional golfers will tee off once again on Thursday, April 21, 2011, for The Heritage's 43rd season on the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) tour.


As an official Patron Sponsor of The Heritage, ResortQuest^® by Wyndham Vacation Rentals is offering two complimentary Grounds Badges with a five-night stay at a vacation rental home or villa in the Harbour Town area of Sea Pines. The Grounds Badges, a part of the "Heritage Package 2011" package, allow access to the links for all seven days of the tournament, beginning April 18 and concluding April 24, 2011.


Some of ResortQuest's premier vacation rentals sit directly on the Harbour Town Links golf course. These private homes — many with gourmet kitchens, gas grills and large decks overlooking the links, and even a private pool or hot tub — provide more amenities at a greater value for entertaining during The Heritage.


With the spring season already in full swing, there are plenty of ways for non-golfers to make the most of a Hilton Head vacation during Heritage Week. The Harbour Town villa complexes not only lie within walking distance of The Heritage events but are also convenient to shopping, dining and water activities at the marina.


All ResortQuest guests enjoy discounted golf rates at the island's top courses, including Sea Pines and Palmetto Dunes. While tee times are unavailable for Harbour Town Golf Links during The Heritage, guests still may play two other notable Sea Pines courses during the week, Ocean Course and Heron Point by Pete Dye.


Whether this year's The Heritage finale is determined by unpredictable breezes off the Calibogue Sound or the unexpected revelation of an honor-bound opponent, spectators will anticipate an exciting finish, and the PGA pros know to approach the 18th hole with a healthy dose of respect.


To take advantage of Heritage Golf Lodging Package including complimentary Grounds Badges, guests should call 855-299-3327. Availability is limited, and this package must be booked by phone. More details are available online at www.ResortQuestHiltonHead.com/heritagegolftournament.htm.

Hilton Head Island Named #1 Beach by Fox News

On Wednesday, July 7, 2010, Fox News named Hilton Head Island the number one beach destination.

From the article:

"There is no better way to take advantage of the hot summer weather then enjoying some surf and sand. But not all beaches are created equal! Pack a cooler , slather on sun block and spend a day at one of these top ten U.S. beaches:

1. Hilton Head Island, SC – Full of perfect white sand beaches, bike trails, and the cutest towns, Hilton Head is great for a family vacation."

Read the full article here.

14th Annual Rib Burnoff - This Saturday

The Kiwanis Club of Hilton Head Island announced today that the 14th Annual Rib Burnoff and Barbecue Fest which will be held at Honey Horn, from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 PM, this Saturday, May 15, 2010, rain or shine, will have a record 18 cooks competing:

Applebee's • Longhorn’s • Barrier Island BBQ • L Woods • Danny's BBQ • Truffle's Montana’s • Disney Resort • Motley Cue • Elgie Stover • One Hot Mama’s Garage Gourmet Shawnuff BBQ • HH Diner • Smokehouse • HH Firefighters • Smoky Bonez • Hog Heaven

A special Armed Services Day theme with music and drills from local ROTC squads will begin shortly after Noon. Also Kiwanis is extending an offer of a $5 entry fee for active military members and their families.

The judges selected to do the blind tasting an issue the Judges Awards are:

Anne Marie Adams-HH Hospitality Assn
Jamie Daly – WTOC Savannah
Barry Kaufman – Bluffton Today
Justin Paprocki-Island Packet
CJ- 104.9The SURF
Lori Goodrich-HH Monthly
Dez Darazs – Friend of Kiwanis
Mark Robertson-98.7The River
Herb Novit – Friend of Kiwanis
Mayor Tom and Maryann Peeples

The Portajohns, formerly known as Southwind, who have been a mainstay of this event for 5 years, will play their usual country and bluegrass music. A large crowd is expected as the event is covered in the May issue of Southern Living Magazine and has attracted regional attention. A supervised complimentary children’s’ play area will be available with games and slides. Ticket holders will vote for the popular vote winners. Proceeds from this event have benefited local children’s charities throughout the year, such as The Children’s Center, Coastal Discovery Museum, programs For Exceptional People and The Marine Corps Scholarship Fund. For a complete list see our website at: www.hiltonheadkiwanis.com.

2nd Annual Nash Gallery Art Fair at Shelter Cove Harbour!

This Saturday: May 1, 10am - 6pm (Rain or Shine)

Over 20 local artisans will gather at Shelter Cove Harbour this Saturday for the 2nd Annual Nash Gallery Art Fair celebrating Hilton Head's local art scene. Call 843-785-6424 for more information. Don't miss this exciting event!

Featuring

PINE NEEDLE BASKET DEMONSTRATION

by local artist Donna Ireton

11am-3pm

About Nash Gallery:

Nash Gallery features handcrafted works of over 400 North American Artists. Each and every artist's distinctive style ensures that your experience will be unforgettable.

2H Harbourside Lane, Left of the Neptune Sundial Statue

www.nashgallery.com

About Shelter Cove Harbour:

Shelter Cove Harbour is one of Hilton Head's most popular waterfront locations for shopping, dining, treasure hunting, people-watching or just browsing. Enjoy a casual lunch or dinner — or just take a stroll with an ice cream cone and watch the boats and kayaks come and go. Shelter Cove Harbour is conveniently located mid-Island, directly across from the entrance to Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort.

www.palmettodunes.com/shelter-cove-harbour.php

Hilton Head Seafood Fest

April 24th Event to Support Cancer Research, Island Recreation

Coligny Plaza and The David M. Carmines Memorial Foundation announced that they will sponsor the third annual Hilton Head Island Seafood and Arts Festival, April 24. After a 20 year hiatus, the festival resurfaced in 2008 hosting record crowds. The event serves as the David M. Carmines Foundation’s annual fundraiser, and will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Shelter Cover Community Park. Admission is $5 for adults. Kids under 12 are FREE. Proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society, the M. D. Anderson Cancer Research Center, and the Island Recreation Scholarship Fund.

At this year’s Seafood Festival over a dozen island restaurants will dish up their local and regional seafood specialties. There will also be an “Iron Chef” competition, local artists showcasing their talents, live entertainment, and a silent auction.

Food and more food …

Participating restaurants include, Black Marlin Bayside Grill, Bluffton Oyster Company, Kenny B’s French Quarter Bistro, Hudson’s, Le Bistro, Street Meet, Lwoods, among others.

Up to six local chefs will compete in the “Iron Chef” event, modeled after the TV show of the same name. Competing chefs will be presented with identical “mystery baskets” containing various ingredients including two local seafood ingredients. Each will be allotted one hour to create an appetizer and an entrée. Finished plates will be judged on creativity, composition, taste, and presentation. Prizes and trophies will be awarded.

Ron Andrews, President of the Low Country Chapter of the American Culinary Federation is assisting with competition logistics and organization. Ron has competed in numerous Iron Chef Competitions, and will serve as one of the event judges.

And fun…

Custom Audio Video is sponsoring this year’s performances, with Trillium kicking off the day before the featured band, The Headliners, take the stage.

There will also be a large “Kids Zone” with inflatable bounce houses and games for the kids. The Famous Crab Races will return this year, which is always fun and exciting to watch.

And fundraising.

Sponsors say the Silent Auction, which has become one of the foundation’s most popular events, will be “even bigger and better” this year. Last year, winning bidders had a chef prepare a four-course meal for their friends, took a wine tour in Sonoma County, experienced a guided turkey hunt on one of the regions premier private hunting properties, and went on a deep sea fishing expedition – to name just a few of the many prizes.

All beverage sales, restaurant purveyor fees, artists’ fees and auction funds will benefit the M. D. Anderson Cancer Research Center, the American Cancer Society, and the Island Recreation Scholarship Fund.

For more information visit www.davidmcarmines.org or call (310)903-7755.

Sunny warm weekend ahead on Hilton Head Island!

It looks like we are in for a beautiful sunny and warm weekend here on Hilton Head Island! Maybe a walk on the beach!
Here are the hi's: Friday 55°F, Saturday 56°F, Sunday 65°F, Monday 67°F

Hilton Head Business Expo After Hours Photo

This photo on the front page of the Island Packet today of Mark Halverson reacting to sinking a winning putt to win a free round of golf at the Dolphin Head Golf Club booth shows how much fun the Business Expo is on Hilton Head island.
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Hilton Head Vacation Rentals

How to Make the Most of Vacation Rentals When Traveling to Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island, SC February 7, 2010 – With a TV commercial highlighting vacation rentals having aired in Sunday’s big game, football fans are discovering why renting vacation homes, condos, villas and cabins is a favorite choice for many versus hotels. Beyond the experiences families and friends build by staying in a home away from home in Hilton Head Island, SC, there are numerous benefits to choosing vacation rentals – sometimes in ways they’d least expect.

Whether trying vacation rentals for the first time or if you’re one of the nearly nine in 10 travelers who plan to rent again,* Hilton Head travel and vacation rental expert, General Manager Robert Stenhammer offers the following planning tips and insights as a post-game update for visiting Hilton Head Island, SC:

• KNOW YOUR DESTINATION: Whether you are a first-time traveler to Hilton Head or an old pro, it’s recommended that you become familiar with the state’s special events, seasons and offerings. Some of the most popular activities on Hilton Head Island include deep sea fishing, biking, dolphin tours, kayaking the lagoons, jet skiing Calibogue Sound, spa treatments, shopping at Harbour Town or Shelter Cove Marina, the Coastal Discovery Museum and more. This spring, two of Hilton Head’s signature events grace the island: the 25th Annual Hilton Head Food & Wine Festival and the Verizon Heritage Golf Tournament.

• LOOK FOR PACKAGES: During certain seasons, vacation rental packages can provide even more value, some with 2-bedrooms starting at just $175 per night, with all of the typical amenities of a resort and more. Search Hilton Head Vacation Specials online to become familiar with various vacation rental types, reservation rates as well as travel specials available in Hilton Head.

• AVOID AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES: Most Hilton Head vacation rentals come equipped with washers and dryers, and ResortQuest Hilton Head Island also provides free laundry detergent and bath amenities. Travelers may choose to use these perks to pack less clothing and toiletries, avoiding commercial airlines’ baggage fees and restrictions.

• USE SPACE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE: Hilton Head vacation homes and condos can be from 1,000 to more than 7,000 sq. ft., often costing less than a single hotel room by sleeping up to 20 guests versus just a few.

• SAVE ON DINING OUT: With full kitchens, and sometimes, outdoor grills, Hilton Head vacation rental travelers often make and store meals and snacks for less, including football favorites like homemade nachos during postseason trips. Use local ingredients and recipes for more memorable mealtimes, like the famous blue crab and succulent shrimp found just off the Hilton Head coast. This also provides healthy travel options, cutting the amount of calories typically consumed while on vacation.

• ASK ABOUT AFTER-HOURS SERVICE: When looking into any vacation rental accommodations, check to see if there is an accessible customer service number for emergency needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and for after-hour requests. ResortQuest Hiton Head provides a 24-hour guest services line for our customers.

• ENTERTAIN FOR FREE: Most of ResortQuest Hilton Head’s vacation homes, villa rentals and condos include amenities not found in hotels, some with game rooms, BBQ grills, wireless internet, wet bars, Jacuzzi tubs, private pools and hot tubs, sundecks, outdoor entertainment areas, free DVD rentals, discount golf and free tennis. Many are also in communities with access to bike paths, beachfronts, lagoons, parks, community pools, fitness centers, tennis clubs, golf courses and more.

• ASK ABOUT PARTNERSHIPS: Beyond the ability to live like a local on Hilton Head Island, vacation rental guests can also take advantage of our relationships with activity providers, shops, restaurants, tour companies and more. The ResortQuest Hiton Head Recommends Program offers exclusive discounts for ResortQuest guests on over 160 of Hilton Head’s most popular activities, shopping, dining and spa vendors.

• REMEMBER BIG EVENTS: Whether it’s for football championships or national Bowl games, concerts, baseball series’, basketball or other events, vacation rentals can save fans from the hassle of finding multiple hotel rooms during big events, and on the cost of multiple reservations.

• TRANSPORTATION: Other relationships to remember are those made between vacation rental managers and transportation providers, whether it’s rental cars, shuttle services, golf carts, bicycles or more.

For more information on Hilton Head vacation rentals, visit the ResortQuest Hilton Head website at www.resortquesthiltonhead.com or call 800-875-8726.

Hiton Head Flat fact: In the Lowcountry, the country is, well, low

Courtesy of www.islandpacket.com

By JOSH McCANN
jmccann@islandpacket.com
843-706-8145

Published Friday, January 29, 2010

Lowcountry? Perhaps its low country.

Beaufort County and its surroundings are so overwhelmingly flat that most of the highest points are manmade.

County officials say a 2002 survey performed by an airplane using a laser showed mounds as high as 70 feet above sea level. But many of those were related to the building boom then under way.

"A lot of them are piles of dirt," said Dan Morgan, director of the county's Geographic Information Systems. "It's not natural."

The county's loftiest natural locations are probably about 40-feet high, he said.

Some of the lowest elevations recorded in 2002 were also created by humans -- the remains of old mining sites or the result of developers carving out bodies of water, Morgan said.

That's how Berkeley Hall in greater Bluffton manufactured what it claims is the highest point in the county near the 8th hole on its north course. Staff estimate the spot, atop a gully that separates tee from green, might be as high as 70 feet above the fairway's lowest point.

When Tom Fazio was designing the course, he piled up earth -- dug to form a lake -- to create a hill by the back tee, assistant golf professional Loren White said.

"They had to put it somewhere," White said. "There's actually quite a few hills on that golf course."

Fazio designed a rolling layout so the course would be different from others in the area, including its flatter, southern sister, White said. The undulating design provides a welcome change of pace for club members, many of whom moved here from the likes of Ohio or the Northeast.

"It's more like what you would see up there," White said. "It almost makes them feel like they're back home."

A similar story accounts for the highest point on Hilton Head Island, according to staff at the Country Club of Hilton Head.

Near the ladies tees of that club's signature 12th hole, a "silly little plaque" proclaims the highest point on the barrier island, towering 20-some feet above sea level and the nearby Skull Creek.

Tom Briley, a self-described "old retiree who works part-time" in the pro shop, said the claim of either local club doesn't impress him much. "Neither one of them were hills when the Indians were here," Briley said. "They pushed up a lot of dirt so they could brag about having the highest point."

He prefers our topography to that of central Pennsylvania, which he left about nine years ago.

The reason? No awkward uphill or downhill lies.

"It makes the golf courses easier than the ones most of us played up north," he said.

Not having significant hills for miles around impacts other types of athletes, too.

Dave Adams knows something about the problems the area's terrain poses for distance runners. He is athletic director at Bluffton High School, and his son, David, became a state record-holder in cross-country at Hilton Head Island High School.

Bluffton High's teams travel by bus about once a week to traverse area bridges to get the feel of hills, but it's still difficult for athletes here to practice ascending extended grades, Dave said.

As a result, few Lowcountry schools excel at distance running, he said.

Dave compared the challenge Lowcountry runners face to that football players would if they were prohibited from lifting weights. His son only became a rare exception to the rule by substituting work in the weight room and pool and on a stationary bike, Dave said.

"It was always a challenge," he said.

But it's one you can see coming a long way off.

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Hilton Head vacation rentals

ResortQuest Hilton Head Honors Lowcountry Culture with the Annual Gullah Celebration, February 1 – 28, 2010

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina has a long history of culture rooted in the early settlement and colonization of the United States. The Gullah Celebration is a unique event that pays homage to the culture and language of the original “Gullah”, West African slaves who were brought to work the cotton plantations of the South. ResortQuest Hilton Head offers vacation rentals and condominiums on Hilton Head Island and is proud to support the Gullah Celebration, a Hilton Head cultural event.

January 23, 2010 Hilton Head Island SC – Although its origins are rooted in slave history of the South, the Gullah Celebration in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina has become a tribute to West African language, crafts, culture and art. Described as “One of the cultural wonders of the world you must see,” by USA Today, the Gullah Celebration spans the month of February, and is hosted by the Native Island Business and Community Affairs Assocation, Inc (NIBAA).

The original “Gullah” were African slaves who were shipped across the Atlantic from West Africa to work the cotton plantations of the South. Out of this slavery was born a unique culture that is now known as Gullah. Although commonly associated with the language of these West African immigrants, the essence of Gullah encompasses the struggle, spirituality, perseverance and tradition of the people. The modern day Gullah subscribe to high religion and the celebration of spiritual redemption in leading their daily lives. The culture is a thriving mix of language, folktales and superstition that has shaped generations of families who live on Hilton Head Island and in the Lowcountry today.

Schedule of events for the month includes: De Aarts Ob We People XII Art Show & Sale, an Ol’ Fashioned Gullah Breakfast, National Freedom Day, A Gullah Film Fest Series, A Taste of Gullah – Food & Entertainment, The Arts, Crafts & Food Expo on Presidents Day Weekend, and The Youth Musical.

For additional information regarding event schedules, group ticket sales, or hotel and travel information, contact the Gullah Celebration Hotline: (877) 650-0676 or locally: (843) 689-9314, or visit www.gullahcelebration.com.

ResortQuest Hilton Head Island supports this celebration of local culture and community awareness. Guests searching to experience the Gullah Celebration this February can book vacation rentals and condominiums on Hilton Head Island through the ResortQuest Hilton Head Island vacation rentals website, www.resortquesthiltonhead.com. The Hilton Head Island vacation rentals offered by ResortQuest Hilton Head Island offer the space, amenities and location ideally suited for a family retreat. Guests enjoy free tennis, discounted golf, free DVD rentals and the exclusive ResortQuest Recommends program offering deals and discounts on over 160 restaurants, shops and activities. All vacation rentals offer fully-equipped kitchens for family meals and immediate access to beaches, tennis, golf and water sports.

In addition to attending the annual Hilton Head Island Gullah Celebration which gives visitors the opportunity to share in rich cultural traditions and crafts; while in town, guests can also visit Mitchelville - the first freed Negro township; Gullah Heritage Trail - Hilton Head Island; Ibile Indigo House - a working studio where visitors learn the tradition of West African indigo-dye processes and products; Zion Chapel of Ease - Hilton Head's oldest cemetery; Queen Chapel AME Church - established in 1860 as a "praise house" for Pope Plantation slaves.

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Hilton Head Vacation Rentals

Hilton Head Restaurant Week - yum, yum!

Hilton Head Chamber presents Restaurant Week!
January 23-30, 2010
Hilton Head Island & Bluffton



Are you dying to try that new Hilton Head hot spot that you just haven't made it to yet? Or, do you just need a decadent night out at an old favorite that you haven't been to in awhile?

Well, get ready for the 2nd Annual Restaurant Week, being held January 23-30, 2010!

Presented by the Hilton Head-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, the Hilton Head Restaurant Week is modeled after similar popular events held in NYC and Los Angeles and features local participating which will be offering specially price-fixed “prix fixe” menus. Enjoy fantastic meals at some of Hilton Head's most popular and renowned dining locations - often for a fraction of the normal price!

To make a reservation, or to find out specific information about each restaurant’s menu, please contact the restaurant directly. Thank you and bon appetit!



Alexander’s
(843) 785-4999
Palmetto Dunes
76 Queens Folly Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.alexandersrestaurant.com

Antonio's
(843) 842-5505
Village at Wexford
1000 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.antonios.net

Aqua Grille and Lounge
(843)341.3331
10 North Forest Beach Drive.
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.aquagrilleandlounge.com

Aunt Chilada's Easy Street Cafe
(843) 785-7700
69 Pope Avenue
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.auntchiladashhi.com

Big Bamboo Cafe
(843) 686-3443
1 N Forest Beach Dr # 210
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.bigbamboocafe.com

Bistro 17
(843) 785-5517
Shelter Cove Harbour
17-D Harbourside Lane
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.bistro17hhi.com

Black Marlin Bayside Grill
(843) 785-4950
Palmetto Bay Marina
86 Helmsman Way
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.blackmarlinhhi.com

Bluffton Live!
(843) 815-5483
2 Gateway Village (by Home Depot)
Bluffton, SC
www.BlufftonLive.com

British Open Pub
Village at Wexford
1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite D-3
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.britishopenpub.net

Café St. Tropez
(843) 785-7425
South Island Plaza
841 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.cafesttropezofhiltonhead.com

Charley’s Crab
(843) 342-9066
2 Hudson Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.muer.com

Charlie's L'etoile Verte
(843) 785-9277
8 New Orleans Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.charliesgreenstar.com

Chef David's Roastfish and Cornbread
843-342-2996
70 Marshland Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.roastfishandcornbread.com

Christine’s Cafe
(843)785-4646
The Atrium Building
840 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.christinescatering.com

Claude & Uli's Signature Bistro
(843) 837-3336
Moss Creek Village
1533 Fording Island Road, Suite 302
Bluffton, SC
www.claudebistro.com

Conroy’s Restaurant & Lounge
(843) 686-8400
Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa
1 Hotel Circle
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.hiltonheadmarriott.com

CQ's
(843) 671-2779
140A Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.cqsrestaurant.com

Crane’s Tavern Steakhouse & Seafood
(843) 341-2333
26 New Orleans Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.cranestavern.com

The Crazy Crab
(843) 681-5021
104 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.thecrazycrab.com

The Crazy Crab
(843) 363-2722
Harbour Town
149 Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.thecrazycrab.com

Deli By the Beach
(843)785-7860
Village at Wexford
1000 William Hilton Parkway, Suite B1
Hilton Head Island, SC

DelVecchio's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria
(843) 842-8700
890 William Hilton Parkway
1 Fresh Market Shoppes
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.delvecchios.com

Flavors
(843)785-3115
Heritage Plaza
81 Pope Avenue, Suite 12A
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.flavorsofhiltonhead.com

Frankie Bones
(843) 682-4455
1301 Main Street Village
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.frankieboneshhi.com

Giuseppi's Pizza & Pasta
(843) 785-4144
The Plaza at Shelter Cove
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.giuseppispizza.com

Giuseppi's Pizza and Pasta
(843) 815-9200
Kittie's Crossing
25 Bluffton Road
Bluffton, SC
www.giuseppispizza.com

Grumpy Grouper Grille
(843) 842-2455
71 Pope Ave # E
Hilton Head Island, SC

Harbour Town Grill
(843) 363-4080
11 Lighthouse Lane
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.seapines.com

HH Prime Steaks and Seafood
(843) 341-8058
Hilton Oceanfront Resort, Palmetto Dunes
23 Ocean Lane
Hilton Head, SC
www.hhprime.com

Hilton Head Brewing Company
Hilton Head Plaza
7C Greenwood Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC

Hot Dog Harbour
(843) 785-5400
Coligny Plaza
1 North Forest Beach Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC

Hudsons
(843) 681-2772
1 Hudson Rd
Hilton Head Island SC
www.hudsonsonthedocks.com

Hugo’s at Wexford
(843) 785- 4846
Village at Wexford
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
www.hugosatwexford.com

Island Bistro
(843) 785-4777
Heritage Plaza
81 Pope Avenue, Suite 10-A
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.islandbistrohhi.com
VIEW SPECIAL PRIX FIXE MENU

It's Greek to Me
(843)842-4033
11 Lagoon Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.itsgreektomesc.com

The Jazz Corner
(843) 842-8620
The Village at Wexford, C-1
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.thejazzcorner.com

Jim 'N Nicks B-B-Q
(843) 706-9741
872 Fording Island Road
Bluffton, SC
www.jimnnicks.com

Kenny B's Cajun Seafood Hut
(843) 785-3315
Circle Center
70 A Pope Avenue
Hilton Head Island, SC

La Famiglia
(843) 785-3455
807 William Hilton Parkway # 1600
Hilton Head Island, SC www.lafamigliahhi.com

LeBistro
(843) 681-8425
430 William Hilton Pkwy # 301
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.lebistroofhiltonhead.com

Market Street Cafe
(843) 686-4976
Coligny Plaza
4 Egret Street
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.marketstreetcafe.com

Marleys Island Grill
(843) 686-5800
35 Office Park Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.marleysislandgrille.com

Mellow Mushroom
(843) 686-2474
Park Plaza
33 Office Park Road # 15
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.mellowmushroom.com

Michael Anthony’s
Orleans Plaza
37 New Orleans Road, Suite L
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
www.michael-anthonys.com

Old Fort Pub
(843) 681-2386
65 Skull Creek Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
www.oldfortpub.com

Old Oyster Factory
(843) 681-6040
101 Marshland Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.oldoysterfactory.com

One Hot Mama’s American Grill
(843) 682-6262
Hilton Head Plaza
7 Greenwood Dr # A,
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.onehotmamas.com

Outback Steakhouse
(843) 681-4329
20 Hatton Place
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.outback.com

Red Fish
(843) 686-3388
8 Archer Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.redfishofhiltonhead.com

Reilley’s North
(843) 681-4153
Port Royal Plaza
95 Mathews Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.reilleyshiltonhead.com

Reilley’s South
(843) 842-4414
Hilton Head Plaza
7D Greenwood Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.reilleyshiltonhead.com

River House Restaurant
The Inn at Palmetto Bluff
(843)706-6500
476 Mount Pelia Road
Bluffton, SC
www.palmettobluffresort.com

Robert Irvine's eat!
(843) 785-4850
Village at Wexford, Suite B6
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.eathhi.com

Santa Fe Cafe
(843)785-3838
Plantation Center
807 William Hilton Parkway
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.santafecafeofhiltonhead.com

Sea Grass Grille
(843)785-9990
807 William Hilton Parkway, Suite 1000
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.seagrassgrille.com

Sigler's Rotisserie and Seafood
(843) 815-5030
12 Sheridan Park Circle
Bluffton, South Carolina
www.siglersrotisserieofhiltonhead.com

Signals Lounge
Crowne Plaza Hilton Head Island Resort
(843) 842-2400
130 Shipyard Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
www.cphiltonhead.com

Signe’s Heaven Bound Bakery & Cafe
(843) 785-9118
93 Arrow Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.signesbakery.com

Skillets Café
843.785.3131
1 N Forest Beach Dr.
J-1 Coligny Plaza
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
www.skilletscafe.com

Stellini Italian Restaurant
(843)785-7006
15 Pope Avenue Executive Park
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.stellinihhi.com

Truffles Cafe
(843) 785-3455
Sea Pines Center
71 Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.trufflescafe.com

Truffles Cafe
(843) 815-5551
91 Towne Drive
Bluffton, SC
www.trufflescafe.com

Truffles Grill
(843) 785-3663
Pope Avenue
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.trufflesgrill.com

Up the Creek Pub
(843) 681-3625
Broad Creek Marina
18 Simmons Road
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.broadcreekmarinahh.com

Urban Bistro
(843) 815-6960
4376 Bluffton Parkway, Suite 101
Bluffton, SC
www.urban-bistro.com

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
2 Grasslawn Avenue
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.westin.com/events

WiseGuys
(843) 842-8866
1513 Main Street
Hilton Head Island, SC
www.wiseguyshhi.com

Vacation Rentals Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island: How you can help the relief efforts in Haiti

Courtesy www.islandpacket.com

Local Red Cross to act as clearinghouse for donations to help Haiti quake victims


The Lowcountry chapter of the American Red Cross is accepting donations to support those affected by the Haitian earthquake.

The Red Cross is contributing an initial $1 million from its International Response Fund to support the relief operation, according to a news release. The organization also is sending supplies, including tarps and cooking sets, from its warehouse in Panama to meet the immediate needs of 5,000 families.

Donations can be made locally through the Palmetto Service Center on Sheridan Park Circle in Bluffton by calling 843-757-7437 or online at www.LowcountryRedCross.org.

The Red Cross also is receiving money through a third-party fundraiser sponsored by Mobile Accord, according to the news release. Donors can text "Haiti" to 90999 to send a $10 donation.

The Red Cross is deploying only volunteers specially trained to manage international emergency operations. Eileen Hadbavny of the Red Cross' Carolina Lowcountry Chapter said Wednesday no groups of local volunteers had been sent to Haiti.

"Usually during international disasters, the best way to support, if people want to get behind those on the ground, is to provide a financial donation through the Red Cross," she said.

Telephone, Internet and other communication lines are often disrupted in disasters. The Red Cross advises those with loved ones in Haiti to be patient and continue to call or contact other relatives who live nearby.

If trying to reach a U.S. citizen living or traveling in Haiti, contact the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services, at 1-888-407-4747.

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Hilton Head Island, SC

History Park Considered for Hilton Head Island

Courtesy of www.islandpacket.com

By LAURA NAHMIAS
lnahmias@islandpacket.com
843-706-8169
Published Saturday, January 2, 2010

History park proposal considered for Hilton Head Island

A Revolutionary War-era cemetery and an early-1800s mausoleum on Hilton Head Island are the centerpieces of a proposed history park an area group says will bring history to life.

The cemetery and mausoleum, owned by the Heritage Library Foundation, stand at the headwaters of Broad Creek, near the intersection of Mathews Drive and William Hilton Parkway.

"This (site) was really the center of civilization for Hilton Head Island," said Jason Stevens, a foundation volunteer who helped develop the proposal along with foundation president Robert Smith.

Before the Civil War, the island had as many as 25 plantations, said Smith. Plantation owners attended church at Mt. Zion Chapel of Ease, a small wooden structure on the site. Their slaves worshipped in a separate prayer house. Both structures were dismantled by Union soldiers during the Civil War to build temporary housing for themselves.

But that wasn't the site's first brush with history.

In 1781, it was the location of the ambush of Revolutionary-era landowner and patriot Ambrose Davant, Stevens said.

Hilton Head Islanders supported the Revolutionary rebels and drew the ire of nearby Daufuskie Islanders, who supported the English Crown. Tories from Daufuskie rowed to Hilton Head and lay in wait for Davant in the woods near where the cemetery now stands.

They shot him dead.

Later, in 1795, the first body was buried in the cemetery, which now includes members of some of the island's leading families -- Baynards, Kirks and Stoneys.

The 2.3-acre site also included a muster house and Masonic lodge, according to a 1825 map.

The mausoleum and cemetery largely fell out of use by the end of the Civil War.

"People drive by this site every day and are completely unaware of its historical significance," Stevens said after he recounted the skirmishes and stories of the people who lived and died near the island's core.

The mausoleum and cemetery are inaccessible from the highway. Shrouded in moss and with only a few historical markers to highlight the area, most people pay little attention to the place that was once at the epicenter of Hilton Head social life in the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, Stevens said.

Foundation members want to place markers where the church and other buildings stood.

Another part of the plan is to grow crops similar to those planted at the plantations, including indigo and a local strain of cotton known as sea island cotton.

The foundation is asking the town to consider ways that it can promote the site as a tourist attraction by adding historical markers and information kiosks, as well as developing town-owned land near the site for parking and bike access.

The town's Public Facilities Committee will consider the proposal Tuesday.

The foundation's ideas are still flexible and funding hasn't been discussed, said Curtis Coltrane, assistant town manager. He said the site, so close to the parkway, might be difficult to develop but the town is open to suggestions.

Foundation president Smith believes the site would be a boon for the island.

"It will give the community and our visitors a wonderful place to learn about and celebrate the Island's fascinating history," he wrote in a foundation newsletter.

Hilton Head Island

Heritage Classic Foundation Donates $300k to Local Charities

courtesy of www.islandpacket.com
By JOSH McCANN
jmccann@islandpacket.com
843-706-8145
Published Thursday, December 10, 2009

The Heritage Classic Foundation, which runs Hilton Head Island's PGA Tour event, dipped into its reserves to distribute some of the $300,000 it awarded to area charities Thursday.

David Ames, chairman of the Children's Center and chairman emeritus of Hope Haven, encouraged the charities at the luncheon at the Harbour Town Conference Center to discuss at upcoming board meetings how they can help the tournament. Verizon announced it will not continue its title sponsorship after 2010.

Such efforts would serve as a "thank you" to the foundation, which has provided the "lifeblood" of many nonprofits over the years, he said.

"I think the Heritage Classic Foundation deserves our thanks and that of our community," Ames said. "But it also deserves our help and support at this time in our island's circumstances."

Other charity leaders were invited to speak, too.

Some spoke of the benefits the tournament provides for their organizations. Others shared strategies on how to use the foundation's Birdies for Charity program, in which agencies collect pledges for each birdie players make during the tournament.

Vera Bailey, executive director of the Pregnancy Center & Clinic of the Low Country, wished foundation leaders the best as they search for a new title sponsor.

"I know it's our collective prayer they will find a sponsor (after) next year," Bailey said. "We need you," she told the tournament's organizers.

Including Thursday's grants, the foundation will give more than $1.3 million to charity this year, down from the nearly $1.8 million distributed in 2008. About $200,000 came from reserves, said Ed Dowaschinski, the foundation's vice president of finance and administration.

Tournament officials attributed the decline to the economic downturn, which hurt secondary sponsorships and ticket sales, they said.

Money is distributed in several ways besides grants and the birdies program, including scholarships and a concession program in which charities run booths during the tournament to raise money.

The foundation has distributed almost $20 million since it took over the tournament in 1987.

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Verizon Heritage Lodging Packages

A White Christmas in Hilton Head? Rare, but true!

Courtesy of www.islandpacket.com
Published Thursday, December 10, 2009

It started snowing Friday afternoon, Dec. 22, 1989. It didn't stop until the next day, after 3.5 inches coated Beaufort County.

Temperatures remained below freezing for several days, preserving the snow and providing an extremely rare white Christmas for Beaufort, Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

As expected, there was some fallout.

Power failed for about 1,000 homes on Hilton Head because of blown fuses, Palmetto Electric reported at the time, and pleaded with people not to flip on heat pumps and space heaters as soon as power was restored to keep circuits from overloading again.

Airports along the coast, including Hilton Head and Savannah, closed for days. Little could be done to clearrunways, so crews had to wait for the snow to melt. Crews spread sand on local roads to keep them passable.

Snow fell in a band from Wilmington, N.C., to Florida, giving thousands a holiday to remember.

Tell us your memories of that storm and if you have photos, send them. We'll post the stories and photos online and publish a few in the newspaper.

Send them to Lisa Allen, city editor, P.O. Box 5727, Bluffton, SC 29938 or lallen@beaufortgazette.com.

Blue-bottle trees -- A throwback to Gullah traditions

Article courtesy of www.theislandpacket.com
By JEFF KIDD
jkidd@beaufortgazette.com
843-706-8175
Published Friday, December 11, 2009

An authentic relic of African culture, or a modern-day fad with the historical relevance of a Snuggie?

Spirit-catcher, old-time bug zapper or mere decoration?

Shabby chic, or just plain tacky?

Blue-bottle trees adorn many a Lowcountry garden and roadside stand, and their cobalt ornamentation makes them undeniably eye-catching. They generally are believed to be derived from African-American folk art, but little is documented about their origins, according to Rosalyn Browne, Penn Center's director of history and culture.

And that only adds to their mystery.

So The Beaufort Gazette and The Island Packet pose seven questions to explain the history and appeal of the blue-bottle tree.

• So which is it -- do blue-bottle trees have roots in African-American culture, or are they simply a fad designed to tap the wallet of gullible tourists?: Browne says that despite scant documentation of their origins, blue-bottle trees are an authentic piece of southern and African-American culture. She points to a book by a professor at the State University of New York tracing their use to religous rituals in the Congo.

Mary Inabinett Mack, owner of the Red Piano Too Art Gallery on St. Helena Island, agrees blue-bottle trees are authentic.

In the interest of full disclosure, Mack's shop sells the yard and garden decorations (sans blue bottles.) But she also recalls her grandmother tying blue bottles to the branches of a magnolia tree in her yard, a memory dating at least to the 1940s.

"That goes back to a tradition in the African-American community when we used to sweep and decorate the yard," Mack said.

• What, exactly, is the significance of the blue-bottle tree?: According to several sources, the trees are used to keep evil spirits --"haints" or "wooly boogers," for example -- out of one's home. They even are effective on a particularly nasty goblin known as a "plat eye" -- in Gullah culture, the evil spirit of someone improperly buried, according to the Web site Moonlitroad.com.

The spirits come out at dusk and are beckoned inside by slanting light refracted through the sparkling blue bottles. Once inside, the spirits are trapped. Some say they are vaporized when the bottles are flooded with morning sun. Others say the spirits simply cannot escape the bottle and that you can hear them moaning in agony when the wind blows through the tree branches.

• Why the color blue?: Today, you can find the trees adorned with bottles of many colors, but blue is particularly popular and particularly true to the tree's origins. Browne says the color blue long has been believed to ward off evil spirits.

"In fact, the aspect of using colors and symbols -- related to good spirits and bad sprits -- came with the Africans themselves, as they came to the Americas from Africa or the Caribbean," Browne said.

That belief in the power of colors also explains blue doors and blue porch ceilings -- both are so painted to keep evil from crossing the threshold into a home. Blue-bottle trees prevent the spirits from even getting that close.

Some say the blue-bottle trees did a fair job of ridding homes of more terrestrial nuisances -- bugs.

According to the blogger The Lazy Gardener, the lime once used to make blue bottles also is an insect repellent that keeps skeeters and noseeums out of your house. This doesn't work anymore, though -- apparently, lime no longer is used to turn things blue.

• How are blue-bottle trees made?: Mack recalls her grandmother tying blue bottles to a magnolia. A crape myrtle mature and sturdy enough to support the weight of the bottles is another popular choice, with the branches simply inserted into the bottle necks.

Some artists now craft artificial trees made of wood or metal rods. Mack sells in her store trees made by a man in Aiken. A blue-bottle tree behind her store was constructed by a Hank Herring, a Beaufort resident, artist, retired Marine and former part-time employee of Red Piano Too.

• What is the most difficult part of assembling a blue-bottle tree?: Many say it is finding the blue bottles, particularly those in the distinctive cobalt shade usually associated with the trees. Milk of Magnesia, Vick's Salve or certain brands of bottled water are highly sought-after.

Mack has a tree in her yard that she has festooned with pint jars she found at a Dollar General store and bottles of the energy drink Bawls. Also used are wine bottles -- she once purchased a case of a particular vintage from a Rhode Island vineyard just to have the distinctive, blue bottles.

"If I see a blue bottle of wine, a lot of times I'll buy it whether I like the wine or not," she said.

• What's the second-most difficult part of assembling a blue-bottle tree?: Sometimes, getting permission, as Hilton Head Island couple Deborah Brooks and James Borton discovered in August 2008.

They erected a tree outside their home -- apropos, it seemed to them, since they lived in a neighborhood carved from land off Spanish Wells Road that long was used by African-American families.

"We moved into an area where our bottle tree could be considered a small part of what we've all taken from this area," Brooks told The Island Packet.

But the Oakview neighborhood has restrictive covenants, and the bottle tree fell among other no-nos islanders are familiar with: No clothes lines, fences, statuary or structures in the yard.

• Just how "Lowcountry" are blue-bottle trees?: They're strongly associated with the area because of their African-American/Gullah roots, but they hardly are unique to the Lowcountry.

One Web site devoted to bottle trees displays pictures of them from many southern states, Australia, France, the Netherlands and even exotic locales such as Oklahoma.

New unit videos on RQ Hilton Head website!

You may have noticed a couple recent upgrades to the RQ Hilton Head website. We've recently added unit videos of each individual unit, so you know exactly what you're getting when you book. All videos are also posted on YouTube, which makes them easily accessible at any time. Check out our YouTube Channel to view all of our units.

Or, look for the video at the unit level page on the www.resortquesthiltonhead.com website. Here's an example

In addition, ResortQuest has partnered with HiltonHead360.com to provide better mapping of all of our complexes. Sea Pines complex maps are added, with more coming soon! Check it out

ResortQuest General Manager Robert Stenhammer Nominated to Three-Year Term on the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to helping the business community and expanding the regional economy on Hilton Head Island and the nearby town of Bluffton, South Carolina. Hilton Head is one of the nation’s premier resort destinations and offers a variety of villas and private homes available for vacation rental.

November 16, 2009, Hilton Head Island, SC -- Robert Stenhammer, General Manager for ResortQuest Hilton Head Island has been nominated to serve a second term on the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, beginning in 2010. In his first term, Stenhammer has been instrumental in advancing the common interest of the professionally managed Home & Villa vacation rental industry on the Island by establishing VTRiP (the Vacation Travel Research Program) which monitors and projects the health of tourism on the Island. Additionally, Stenhammer has served as the Co-Chairman of the Home & Villa Committee and has worked to increase participation and support of bringing rental company leaders together to prioritize issues and seek a collective voice.

“I am extremely proud to again serve on the Board of this great Chamber”, Stenhammer says, “I will work to further promote tourism on the Island while balancing the quality of life our residents enjoy with the objective of increasing property values for homeowners. My family and I feel fortunate to live and work in this great place; and are extremely happy to call the Hilton Head Island community home.”

ResortQuest Hilton Head Island is Hilton Head Island’s largest vacation rental company, offering over 500 vacation rentals. The ResortQuest Hilton Head portfolio of rentals includes a large variety of villas, luxury private homes, beachfront properties and exclusive golf course locations. For more information on ResortQuest Hilton Head vacation rentals, visit www.resortquesthiltonhead.com or contact a reservations specialist at 800-875-8726.

About ResortQuest:
ResortQuest, one of the nation's leading hospitality and resort real estate companies, provides a one-stop resource in North America's premier resort destinations. ResortQuest is the largest marketer and management company of vacation condominiums and home rentals in the U.S., based on a portfolio of nearly 10,000 vacation rental properties. With the inclusion of Partner Affiliates in North America and Europe, ResortQuest now offers over 100,000 vacation rental choices in over 140 destinations world-wide. With over a billion in sales, ResortQuest Real Estate is one of the nation's leading real estate companies focusing exclusively on resort properties, offering superior brokerage services in the country's premier beach, ski and golf destinations.

Hilton Head Island: Golf Channel's School of Golf Comes to Hilton Head

This season on Golf Channel, get a behind the scenes look at the students of the Hank Haney International Junior Golf Academy. Hank Haney, one of the greatest golf instructors of all time, is now teaching junior golfers. For some, balancing good grades and good golf - while struggling with the pressures of trying to be the next golf superstar and being away from home for the first time - may prove to be more than they can handle. School is in session every Tuesday at 11:00 p.m. ET.

The Ultimate in Golf Luxury: Air-Conditioned Carts & Segways!

If you're nervous about the effects heat of a South Carolina summer could have on your golf game, fret no longer.

Palmetto Dunes Oceanfrton Resort golf courses offers two unique, state-of-the-art amenities: entire fleets of air-conditioned golf carts and Segway Golf Transporters for use on the course.

The golf carts provide air-conditioned comfort with the Coolwell G2 Climate Control System, which enables players to enjoy a round of golf while shielding them from the heat and humidity associated with a South Carolina summer.

Segway Golf Transporters can travel at more than 12 m.p.h. and are easy to operate and maneuver. Palmetto Dunes has the distinction of being the only Hilton Head Island resort to offer Segways, which have become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional golf carts for transportation on the green

In February 2008, the resort proudly unveiled the new Segway X2. This all-terrain vehicle with wider deeply treaded tires, scratch resistant fenders and higher ground clearance provide for a smoother ride than earlier models. This also allows for superior preservation of the golf course. All of this, and incorporating Segway's innovative LeanSteer technology, makes for an excellent golfing experience.

Looking for Golf Packages in Hilton Head?

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