by Ashley Murphy

Looking for a fun trip this summer that's compatible for everyone of all ages? Try Hilton Head Island, South Carolina! This beautiful coastal town has a piece of paradise for everyone. Great family friendly beaches and locations, numerous golf courses, wonderful restaurants and a little bit of night life for you night owls. Good thing, from Cleveland, the drive is only about 6 to 7 hours long...depending on your choice of speed limit! So pack up the kiddies, even the pets too, and head out for a good trip to the beach.

I recently got back from my first trip to HHI and before leaving everyone was telling me what a "senior" town it was. I'll admit, it was full of the older crowd and families with a million kids. But there were also several groups of people around our age and plenty of fun things for us to get into. But usually, as long as I have a clear spot on the beach and can get a safe distance away from the kids, then there's not much more you need besides the sand, ocean, a towel and a bathing suit. And don't forget the sunblock!

If the kids get to be too much for you, take a stroll down the beach. On several different sides of the island you'll find various beach bars to stop and relax. At the Hilton Head Resort where we stayed there's a cute little shack-type structure known as Coco's on the Beach. It's a wonderful, laid back open air (but covered) deck. They serve a full bar, various fried foods and burgers and even accommodate for the young one's with snow cones.

Just beware, alcohol is not permitted on the beaches in HHI. A lot of places say that and most people get away with it, but if caught, you can receive a hefty fine that could end your lovely beach trip. So spend the morning on the beach, make a stop, then head back out. Another warning for the beachgoers, during the summer peak season, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Which is really upsetting, because my dog is very much like my kid! I'm sure she behaves better than most, too.

After a long, lazy day on the beach, you may start to get that all too familiar rumbling in your belly for some yummy food. Coastal towns are always a wonderful place for some fresh seafood. But I have to go ahead and admit it now...I don't eat seafood. I've always been a strange one about food and sickness, so ever since I repeatedly came down with food poison type symptoms after eating shrimp as a kid, I just don't do it anymore.

However, the friends I went with love their crabs, lobsters, scallops and various other ocean drifters. So, based on the way they cleared their plates at Skull Creek Boathouse, I believe that's a big plus. I ate a very large mushroom Swiss burger that night and I must say, it wasn't lacking. But the best part of this whole dining experience is the view. Skull Creek Boathouse is located along the bay on HHI and if you're lucky enough to get a seat outside or at the bar come sunset, you will be in awe. I believe I actually got some pretty, award winning shots that night.