The Lowcountry Shines: Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beyond Earn Top Honors in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards

The Lowcountry Shines: Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beyond Earn Top Honors in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards

Hilton Head Island: America’s Favorite Island, Again

For more than eight consecutive years, Hilton Head Island has ranked as the #1 Island in the U.S. in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s easy to see why over 757,000 readers voted to celebrate this coastal gem, where pristine beaches, world-class golf, and a relaxed island pace define everyday life.

From bike rides along 12 miles of shoreline to evenings at Shelter Cove Harbour, Hilton Head blends natural beauty and luxury living in perfect harmony. For those considering a move, Hilton Head Homes for Sale offer everything from waterfront estates to charming villas tucked among the oaks.

 

The Inn & Club at Harbour Town: A Hilton Head Icon

Highlighting the Top Hotels in the South, Condé Nast Traveler honored The Inn & Club at Harbour Town, a sophisticated retreat nestled within the Sea Pines Resort. Known for its exceptional service, luxury accommodations, and proximity to the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, it’s yet another reason Hilton Head continues to lead in hospitality and lifestyle.

 

Bluffton: Gateway to the Lowcountry Lifestyle

Just over the bridge, Bluffton continues to capture national attention as home to one of the best family resorts in the U.S. - Montage Palmetto Bluff. Recognized for multiple consecutive years in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, the resort’s timeless Southern charm, sweeping river views, and oak-lined streets represent the heart of the Bluffton lifestyle.

For many, visiting Montage Palmetto Bluff sparks a dream of owning a home nearby, where life slows down and community runs deep. Explore Bluffton Homes for Sale to experience the beauty of Lowcountry living every day.

 

Charleston, South Carolina: The #1 Small City in the U.S.

Once again, Charleston topped the list as Condé Nast Traveler’s #1 Best Small City in America. This historic coastal city blends cobblestone streets, pastel-hued homes, and award-winning cuisine to create an irresistible Southern experience. With its proximity to Hilton Head and Bluffton, Charleston serves as both a day-trip destination and an inspiration for architectural beauty and design across the region.

 

Savannah, Georgia: A Southern Classic with Timeless Appeal

Just an hour south, Savannah earned the #6 spot among the Best Small Cities in the U.S. Readers praised its oak-canopied squares, antebellum architecture, and thriving food scene, from The Grey’s reimagined Southern fare to riverfront dining along the Savannah River. With its charm and accessibility via the award-winning Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, Savannah perfectly complements Lowcountry living.

 

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport: The Nation’s Best

Voted the #1 Best Airport in the U.S., Savannah/Hilton Head International (SAV) was praised for its intimate, town-square-inspired layout and warm Southern hospitality. Travelers appreciate its calm, welcoming energy, proof that even the journey to the Lowcountry can be an enjoyable experience.

 

Why the Lowcountry Continues to Captivate

From Charleston’s historic charm to Hilton Head’s award-winning beaches and Bluffton’s timeless community spirit, the Lowcountry remains one of the most celebrated destinations in the country. These rankings reaffirm what locals already know, life here is more than beautiful; it’s unforgettable.

Whether you’re planning your next vacation or considering calling the Lowcountry home, our team at The Agency Hilton Head – Beaufort can help you find your perfect place under the moss-draped oaks.

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