Whether you’re a newcomer, visitor or longtime resident, the Coastal Discovery Museum is one of the most beloved places on Hilton Head. With a mission to provide experiences that inspire people to care for the Lowcountry, the Museum’s family-friendly atmosphere ensures there’s something for everyone to explore, learn and create.
In 2015, the Museum was recognized as a Smithsonian Affiliate. This partnership allows the Museum to borrow exhibits and artifacts from the Smithsonian, and also provides opportunities for staff training and professional development.
1. Historic Honey Horn:
The Museum is set on the historic Honey Horn property, a sprawling 70-acre site that dates back more than 300 years. And the Museum’s Discovery House, built in 1859, is the only original plantation house still standing on Hilton Head Island today.
2. Live Oaks and Spanish Moss:
If you’re a fan of natural beauty, you’ll love Honey Horn’s majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss. And don’t miss the Southern Red Cedar tree, one of the largest of its kind in South Carolina, dating back more than 400 years.
3. Walks, Talks, Tours & Exhibits:
The Museum offers more than 150 walks, talks, tours, workshops, exhibits, field trips and events every year to visitors, private and school groups. This is where you meet to take a Gullah heritage tour, hear an expert talk about migrating birds, get hands-on with its animal ambassadors, and discover the history and art of indigo dyeing, to name a few.
4. Interact with Lowcountry Critters:
Inside the Discovery Lab and outside during summer is where folks get up close to a variety of animals — such as baby alligators, turtles, horseshoe crabs, snakes and lizards — and learn about their habitats and how we can safely coexist.
5. Butterfly Hotspot:
The Karen Wertheimer Butterfly Habitat is one of the few open-air butterfly enclosures in the country. Home to native South Carolina butterflies and the different plants they love, you can learn about and see the butterfly lifecycle, from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly.
6. Magical, Mystical Dragonfly Pond:
Recently renovated, the dragonfly pond is an aquatic habitat for attracting and breeding these fascinating insects, who feed on mosquitos and are crucial to a healthy Lowcountry ecosystem. Besides spotting dragonflies, visitors can observe native water and land plants, frogs, tadpoles, turtles, birds and bees.
7. Every Picture Tells A Story:
Curated with care and innovation, the Museum’s art exhibitions introduce visitors to works that explore a diverse range of styles and perspectives and shine a light on the world we live in — past, present and future. Opening October 16 in the Main Gallery: an exhibition of rarely seen works of renowned Hilton Head artist Aldwyth. Register for a behind-the-scenes tour on October 28 with the director of exhibitions.
8. Best Camellia Garden on Hilton Head:
Located under a canopy of live oaks, the Museum’s Camellia Garden features over 135 varieties and is listed on the American Camellia Trail of noteworthy gardens. Programs on the history and care of camellias are offered throughout the year. And if you love camellias and would like to support the Museum, mark your calendars for the annual Cocktails & Camellias fundraiser on January 31, 2025.
9. Farmers Market Every Tuesday:
The Hilton Head Island Farmers Market at Honey Horn is open every Tuesday, from 9 am to 1 pm. Year-round. Rain or Shine. You’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, hot food, drinks, specialty goods, artwork, crafts and more.
10. Free for Everyone:
Admission to the Coastal Discovery Museum is free to all! Your donations are appreciated.
Plan Your Visit
The Coastal Discovery Museum is a place for the curious, offering unique experiences that inspire people to care about Lowcountry nature, history, art, and culture and take actions to protect and preserve its unique environment. Don’t forget to visit their website for current exhibits, tours, and special events!
For more information about Coastal Discovery Museum, call 843-689-6767 ext. 223 or email: [email protected]. Connect with Coastal Discovery Museum @coastaldiscoverymuseum.
Start planning your adventure today!
