We've been to HHI three times in the last 2 years, & each time we do some of our favorite things, but always seem to come up with new favorites!
If you are going in the summer time, Shelter Cove is a hopping place. Very fun to go over & browse in the shops, grab something to eat & catch the Shannon Tanner show. They also have fireworks one night.
We thoroughly enjoy renting bikes & riding over to the beach house. The beach is gorgeous & we've spent much good family time there. Last year, we did one of the activities at the Beach House. It was a really cool thing about turtles...honestly, I was not overly enthusiastic, but my DS really wanted to do it, & it turned out to be great. The kids & DH also love fishing off the pier at the resort (they've caught small sharks, crabs, & they saw someone catch a stingray!)
There's also a multitude of things to do on the island. We have done mini putt-putt, walked a trail in the Sea Pines nature preserve, shopping at Coligny Plaza, ceramics at the Art Cafe, exploring Harbourtown (very pretty view from the top of the lighthouse) & Sea Pines areas, etc. DH has taken a few of the kids on a dolphin excursion w/ Capt. Scott, which was awesome, & I went parasailing with DD, which was also awesome!
The best family thing is just being there together!
Whether we're relaxing, trying a new restaurant or exploring a new activity, it's an awesome place to be! Have fun planning!