The Plaza at Shelter Cove Shopping Center

The Plaza at Shelter Cove is a modern and elegant shopping and leisure destination located in the heart of the picturesque city of Hilton Head Island, USA. As part of the larger Shelter Cove Towne Centre complex, this venue offers a unique blend of retail, dining, and stunning views of Broad Creek.

Unlike traditional indoor malls, the Plaza is designed as an open-air pedestrian area where cozy streets lead to the waterfront and an expansive park. Here, you can not only update your wardrobe but also enjoy strolls along scenic trails while observing local marsh wildlife.

Spanning over 27,000 square meters, the complex harmoniously blends major anchor tenants with charming boutiques. The Plaza at Shelter Cove is more than just a shopping spot; it's a full-fledged lifestyle center that has become the island's social core, where coastal-style architecture highlights the natural beauty of South Carolina.

To find out more about specific store hours or upcoming events, you can use the center's official contact information. The management is always ready to help guests find their way around the complex.

Visitors to The Plaza at Shelter Cove will find a wealth of activities to suit every taste. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate T.J. Maxx for its great deals on designer clothing, while connoisseurs of fine beverages should definitely stop by Hilton Head Wine & Spirits. For those looking to pamper themselves or stay active, there are spas and an F45 fitness center offering intense group workouts.

The center's dining scene deserves special mention. You can enjoy classic Italian cuisine at Giuseppi’s Pizza & Pasta or opt for a more laid-back vibe at the Hilton Head Tavern. Many restaurants offer terrace seating with peaceful water views—the perfect accompaniment for lunch or an evening cocktail.

Beyond the shops, a 5-acre waterfront park awaits. It's a wonderful place for walking or cycling along specially designed paths. During the warmer months, the park regularly hosts festivals, live concerts, and spectacular fireworks displays. Don't forget to walk to the marina to see the legendary Neptune statue and watch the sunset over the Lowcountry marshes.

Located at 50 Shelter Cove Ln, The Plaza at Shelter Cove is situated right off William Hilton Parkway (SC-278)—the island's main transport artery. If you are arriving by car, the drive from the local Hilton Head Island Airport (HHH) will take only 10–15 minutes, while the trip from Savannah (SAV) lasts about 45 minutes. Ample free parking is provided for visitors, located behind the retail rows to preserve the aesthetic of the pedestrian area.

The island is famous for its extensive network of bike paths spanning over 100 miles, and this shopping center is perfectly integrated into it. A bike ride from the Palmetto Dunes resort or neighboring hotels is a pleasant addition to your vacation. Many tourists prefer this eco-friendly mode of transport, as bike racks are available throughout the site.

While there is virtually no direct public transport system on the island, you can always use rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft. Additionally, its proximity to Shelter Cove Harbour allows you to combine shopping with an arrival by boat or by participating in one of the many boat excursions departing from the neighboring docks.

The history of this location began back in 1980 with a massive harbor development project. During construction, nearly one million cubic yards of earth were moved to nourish local beaches. Just a couple of years later, the first residential complexes appeared, giving rise to the unique concept of "dockominiums"—the opportunity to own a boat slip as private property.

A major milestone was the 1983 unveiling of the famous Neptune statue. This monument, standing over 26 feet tall, doesn't just decorate the shore; it also serves as a giant sundial. In 1988, a classic indoor shopping mall opened here, featuring dozens of well-known brands like Banana Republic and Victoria's Secret. However, over time, the traditional mall format began to lose its appeal.

In 2013, the old building was completely demolished to make way for a modern open-air space—Shelter Cove Towne Centre. The new "lifestyle center" concept transformed the area into a charming village with pedestrian boulevards where architecture and nature harmoniously complement each other. Today, the venue focuses on family recreation and leisurely walks along Broad Creek.

For a quick shopping trip and a light snack at The Plaza at Shelter Cove, 1 to 2 hours will be sufficient. This is enough time to browse the main stores and enjoy a cup of coffee with a view of the creek.

If you are planning a full outing that includes a waterfront stroll, visiting the park, and dinner at one of the restaurants, it is worth setting aside 3 to 5 hours. On days with festivals or live concerts, you could easily spend an entire afternoon here, transitioning smoothly from shopping to cultural activities and watching the sunset.

The shopping center operates on a consistent schedule throughout the week, with the exception of Sundays. This allows guests to plan their shopping and leisure in advance.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Saturday: 09:00 AM – 07:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Exploring the surroundings of The Plaza at Shelter Cove allows you to dive deeper into South Carolina's unique atmosphere. Near the shopping center, you'll find both historical landmarks and scenic natural spots that make a stay on the island truly fulfilling.