Hilton Head

Hidden in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve on Hilton Head is a 3,500-year-old Native American archaeological treasure.

I am truly amazed that this archaeological site is surrounded by a gated community with limited access. I was really looking forward to seeing the shell ring. It’s made up of hundreds of thousands of oysters, clams and mussels. The Sea Pines Shell Ring is one of some 50 known shell rings found along the coasts of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, all dating back as far as 5,000 years. Also behind the gates is a museum and The Harbor Town Lighthouse.

We were not allowed to enter because we were in a “camper” (see photo). We offered to park and walk in. That is not allowed either. But we could rent a car to enter or call an Uber. Apparently the community does not want “campers” driving or humans walking through their neighborhood. Why they would build a community around a tourist attraction is lost on me.

So…we shopped, bought the tee shirt, had lunch and went to the beach. It was still a beautiful day. It was nice to see some flowers. It’s been a long winter.

Check out the sign of rules posted at the fountain in the photo below. Rules 3 through 6 are especially inviting.

I guess if you don’t golf or live in an elite gated community, Hilton Head is a bust.Read more