Hilton Head Island, October 15, 2025
News Summary
Hilton Head Island has been awarded the title of Top Island in the United States for the ninth consecutive year, as recognized in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. With a score of 96.39, Hilton Head remains a preferred destination ahead of the Florida Keys and Nantucket. Kiawah Island secured the second position with a score of 95.52. Additionally, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport was honored as the Best Airport in the U.S. for the seventh year in a row, further enhancing the island’s accessibility and attractiveness for travelers.
Hilton Head Island has been awarded the title of Top Island in the United States for the ninth consecutive year, as recognized in the recent Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. The final score for Hilton Head in these prestigious awards was 96.39, solidifying its position above competitors such as the Florida Keys, Nantucket, and various locations across Hawaii.
Reinforcing the appeal of South Carolina as a top travel destination, Kiawah Island came in second place with a score of 95.52 in the same awards ceremony. This continued recognition highlights the growing reputation of the Hilton Head area and its surrounding attractions.
Bill Miles, president and CEO of the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, noted the community’s pride in achieving this recognition through its commitment to stewardship, hospitality, and a strong sense of pride in the area.
In addition to the island’s accolade, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport was named the Best Airport in the U.S. for the seventh consecutive year during the awards presentation. This honor reinforces the accessibility and convenience for travelers visiting Hilton Head Island.
Further emphasizing the area’s appeal, multiple accommodations from Hilton Head Island were distinguished in the awards. The Inn & Club at Harbour Town ranked sixth among the Top 25 Hotels in the South, while the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa secured the seventh position among the Top 20 Resorts in the South. Other notable mentions include The Sea Pines Resort at 16th, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort at 18th, and Montage Palmetto Bluff at 20th among the Top 20 Resorts in the South.
A Look at the Awards
The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards have been a reputable platform for 38 years, with results determined by a substantial participation of 757,109 votes from travelers. These awards reflect traveler experiences and preferences across various categories, including hotels, resorts, and travel destinations, making it a significant benchmark in the hospitality industry.
Community and Travel Amidst Recognition
These acknowledgments not only showcase the natural beauty and tourist offerings of Hilton Head Island but also represent a local community dedicated to providing exceptional service to visitors.
As travel interest continues to grow post-pandemic, this recognition serves as a beacon for those seeking premier destinations in the United States, accentuating the unique charm that Hilton Head Island has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What title has Hilton Head Island received for the ninth consecutive year?
Hilton Head Island has been awarded the title of Top Island in the United States for the ninth consecutive year.
What was the final score for Hilton Head in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards?
The final score for Hilton Head in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards was 96.39.
Which destinations ranked below Hilton Head Island in the awards?
Hilton Head ranked above the Florida Keys, Nantucket, and various locations across Hawaii.
What position did Kiawah Island achieve in the awards?
Kiawah Island, another South Carolina destination, came in second with a score of 95.52.
Which airport was named the Best Airport in the U.S.?
The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport was named the Best Airport in the U.S. for the seventh consecutive year in this award ceremony.
What were some notable accommodations recognized from Hilton Head?
Several accommodations from Hilton Head were recognized, including: The Inn & Club at Harbour Town ranked sixth among the Top 25 Hotels in the South, and The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa ranked seventh among the Top 20 Resorts in the South.
How many votes were cast for the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards?
The results were determined by 757,109 votes from travelers.
Key Features Summary Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Top Island Title | Hilton Head Island – 9th Consecutive Year |
| Final Score | 96.39 |
| Runner Up | Kiawah Island – Score 95.52 |
| Best Airport | Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport – 7th Consecutive Year |
| Notable Accommodations |
|
| Total Votes | 757,109 |
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Hilton Head Named Top Island in US
- WIS TV: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Recognized as 1 Airport in US
- Condé Nast Traveler: Top Islands Readers’ Choice Awards
- Travel + Leisure: World’s Best Awards 2025 Resorts in South Carolina
- Island Packet: Local News on Hilton Head
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Hilton Head Island
- Google Scholar: Hilton Head Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
- Google News: Hilton Head Island
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
