Hilton Head Monthly Magazine

Best-selling lifestyle author and Lowcountry vacationer offers tips for enjoying the local landscape.

When the Italians dine outdoors, they call it al fresco; the French, En plein air. Here, in the USA, we call it picnicking The weather is warm, the air is fresh and clear, and there is no nicer way to enjoy a simple meal with family and friends. I happen to love eating outdoors, especially when I’m at my home away from home, Hilton Head Island, where idyllic settings, postcard views and excellent weather make for a supreme picnic experience.

For those who may be new to the Lowcountry, or for you locals out there who might need a refresher course on the art of eating out without making a reservation, I offer you a picnic primer.

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE SPOTS:

FISH HAUL CREEK PARK, BEACH CITY ROAD

I love clamming, so this park at the northernmost tip of the island, is a favorite of mine. Enjoy your lunch under the pavilion, and when you’re done, take a short walk to the beach on the Port Royal Sound to clam at low tide. If you’ve never dug for clams before, the easiest way to do so is by treading; simply get into the water and twist your feet into the mud to feel for clams (it’s a smart idea to wear a pair of water shoes to prevent your feet from getting cut).

SEA PINES FOREST PRESERVE, GREENWOOD DRIVE

The Sea Pines Forest Preserve is best known for its 4,000-year-old Indian shell ring (for those who don’t want to do the math, that’s as old as the Great Pyramids), one of only twenty shell rings still in existence. This 605-acre preserve has approximately eight miles of trails, a wild flower meadow, lakes with fishing docks, observation decks, bridle paths, restrooms – and (of course!) a picnic area.

JARVIS CREEK PARK, JARVIS PARK ROAD

Freshwater fishing fans will want to make Jarvis Creek Park their picnic destination. This 53-acre public park boasts an 11-acre, man-made lake that’s stocked with bass for catch-and-release fishing. There are also picnic areas with grills, restrooms and playgrounds.

Note: To go fresh water fishing outside of the plantations, anyone over the age of 16 needs a state fishing license. A seven-day non-resident (SC) license can be purchased for $11 at many sporting goods stores or by calling the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources at 1 (888) 434-7427 or by visiting dnr.sc.gov/licensing.html.

THE INTRACOASTAL

Rent a kayak and have a peaceful floating picnic on the waterways of Hilton Head Island. Broad Creek is a great place to get started if you’re new to kayaking, but my favorite place is the Calibogue Sound, as there is always something interesting to see. One time I was lucky enough to be surrounded by a pod of friendly, frolicking dolphin, and another time, a curious sea turtle paid me a visit.