Last Updated on January 11, 2026 by Kimberly Stroh
Fripp Island might be one of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets for families. With quiet roads, minimal car traffic, and unspoiled natural surroundings, Fripp Island is the kind of place where kids can explore more freely, and parents can truly unwind. From cruising around in golf carts to spotting alligators sunning by the lagoons, Fripp offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and memory-making. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this guide is packed with tips to help you make the most of your family getaway. I’m sharing what we learned from our own trip with three kids.
How To Get Around Fripp Island With Kids
The three largest airports serving Fripp Island range from 30 minutes away to 2 hours away. Whether you fly in or drive in, it’s the type of island where you can park the car for the duration of your stay. Golf carts are the main mode of transportation on the island. There are no traffic lights. Mostly, it’s golf carts or bicycles making the island feel very relaxed.
My kids love driving around Fripp on a golf cart. A perk of booking your vacation rental directly through Fripp Island Resort is having a complimentary golf cart included with your booking. Pick between a four-seater or a six-seater. Golf cart parking is available at every beach access point and at all resort amenity buildings.
Major Airports Near Fripp Island:
- Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) – Closest and most convenient, a 30-40 minute drive.
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) – Best mix of flight options & convenience.
- Charleston International Airport (CHS) – Biggest hub for international travel
Lodging That Works For Your Family
Driving around Fripp, it seems like every home is more beautiful than the last. From condos to vacation homes that fit multiple families, Fripp Island Resort offers a large variety to pick from. With two championship golf courses and six pools across the island, there’s not a “bad” location.
However, I’d choose a vacation home that fits your family’s needs. Pick from golf course views, ocean views, and marshland views. Fripp Island Resort manages most of the vacation homes and handles maintenance. They’re fully stocked for the comfort of your stay, with linens.
Check out this video of our Fripp Island vacation home, below. The marsh views were peacefully perfect for our nature-loving kids.
Planning Your Itinerary: Classes, Tee Time & The Beach
Fripp Island Resort is the most relaxing, laid-back destination. Your biggest decision is which golf course to choose, or whether to pick the pool or the beach. Every guest receives an amenity card upon arrival. This gives guests complete access to all amenity buildings.
Reserve your tee times in advance and check out the event calendar. During peak season, Camp Fripp is an option for parents who want some time together. Or pick from family classes, like tile-making or tie-dye shirt-making. My three boys adored the gatorology class, which offers an in-depth look at the island’s most popular residents and takes guests around the island (with binoculars) to see gators.
I cannot say enough positive things about the kids’ activities staff at Fripp Island Resort. They’re so patient and welcoming to all ages. I have very hyperactive boys, and the family classes were some of our favorite Fripp memories.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your guest amenity card when packing for your day out. Guest services will check your card for access to the pool areas.
Dining Options & Grocery Shopping Tips
The closest city to Fripp is Beaufort, SC. If you’re driving to Fripp Island, stop at a Beaufort grocery store to stock up on basics for your beach home. There’s a small market on the island, the Marina Store and Deli, but the selection is limited.
All the island restaurants are family-friendly and have a resort vibe. From American classics to Lowcountry favorites, there’s a variety of options. Fripp Island Resort offers a fantastic catering service for family-style dinners. Delivered directly to your door, it gives guests the option to have a home-cooked meal without hassle. The resort website offers an order form, and you can pick from taco night, Italian, and BBQ.
Fripp Island Resort Restaurants:
- Bonito Boathouse Restaurant – Waterfront seafood restaurant with views over the marina and often great sunsets — known for Lowcountry seafood like fish tacos, shrimp & grits, and coastal comfort dishes.
- Island Bites – Casual grab-and-go or quick lunch option near the Beach Club — perfect for families on the go.
- Cabana Club Poolside Grille – Poolside grill offering casual lunches and drinks — great after a swim or beach day. This was a must for our poolside lunch (and frozen adult drinks).
- Beach Club – Central resort dining with Southern-coastal fare and a relaxed vibe for dinner or brunch.
- OP Bar & Grill – Our family loves breakfast, and this was our favorite spot. It’s attached to the pro shop and offers classic breakfast & lunch favorites.
What to Pack for a Family Trip to Fripp Island
Plan on packing for a traditional family beach vacation with golf included. Swimsuits, beach-friendly shoes, and cover-ups are a must. Check the resort website for golf attire requirements on the course. Some of my out-of-the-box recommendations to pack are items that will make life a little easier during your stay.
Fripp Island With Kids Packing List:
- Beach chairs or towels for comfort on the beach
- Laundry supplies
- Seashell bags or nets (there are plenty of sand dollars to look for)
- Sunscreen & bug repellent for the evening
- Bikes and helmets (or consider renting)
- Water bottles and other hydration sources for your vacation home
- Plastic gallon bags (to transport your tie-dye shirt home without mess)