Refrigerated Trailer for Rent in Hilton Head, SC

If you’ve got a beach trip coming up and want to bring your drone, you might want to think again.

As technology continues to advance, drones have dramatically altered the field of aviation.

For both recreational and commercial use, drones can be used to shoot videos and photos, transport objects, search and rescue, construction, mapping, surveillance and more.

With the broad use of these devices, it’s good to know what’s what and how you can … and can’t use drones.

Here is a close look at the federal and state laws for South Carolina drone owners.

Drones are permitted in the United States for both recreational and commercial purposes, subject to the Federal Aviation Administration and local regulations.

The following list outlines federal drone laws that apply to every state in the US, including South Carolina.

For those looking to fly a drone for recreational purposes anywhere in the US, the FAA requires all recreational drone pilots to pass TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test).

This is a free online safety test to help flyers understand basic drone safety and regulations.

Here is what to know about the exam:

If you want to fly a drone, you must carry proof of test passage when flying. Click here to visit the TRUST webpage and take the test.

Here are some additional recreational model aircraft rules from the FAA to keep in mind:

For more information about recreational drone laws, click here.

If you are flying a drone for commercial use, different rules apply.

To fly commercially, you must:

To take the exam, it costs $175 plus an additional $5 drone registration fee, which is valid for three years.

For more information on drone setup and operation, visit the FAA Part 107 Guide.

According to the FAA, all drone pilots who are required to register or have registered their drone must operate per the rule on Remote ID.

Remote ID allows drones that are in flight to provide identification and location information that can be received by other parties through a broadcast signal.

It is needed for flyers because it helps the FAA, law enforcement and other federal agencies locate the control station when a drone appears to be flying in an unsafe manner or where it is not allowed to fly.

A remote ID for drones is required for hobbyists and recreational flyers.

For more information, you can watch this video from the FAA or click here to learn more.

The FAA has a list of restricted airspace and prohibited areas that all drone operators, no matter their location, are prohibited to fly in.

These areas include:

Drones are allowed on the island but not on the beach.

According to town ordinances, “the driving or operating of any motor vehicle of any kind or nature on the beach within the town” is prohibited, and drones fall into the vehicle category.

Under FAA rules, you cannot fly near airports or interfere with manned aircraft operations. This includes the Hilton Head Island Airport, MCAS Beaufort and Frogmore/Beaufort Executive Airport.

You also cannot fly over groups of people, public events or emergencies, per FAA.

Drone use is prohibited due to safety and visitor experience concerns.

No drone flights allowed.

No special drone regulations beyond FAA rules.

If you’re ever unsure about where you can fly, use the FAA’s B4UFLY app to check airspace restrictions.

Here are some additional regulations that are applicable for both commercial and recreational drone pilots:

All pilots must operate drones so they don’t pose a hazard to people or property.

If you see someone flying unsafely or something that poses an immediate threat, you should contact local law enforcement.

If a drone is over your property, you cannot shoot it down or provoke damage, as shooting an aircraft is illegal under federal law. It also creates a significant safety hazard to yourself, the pilot or other people and structures around you.

If you’re curious about the rules for flying drones in a neighborhood area, click here to learn more.

For more information on drone safety and use, visit https://www.faa.gov/ or the FAA Know Before You Fly webpage.

The Island Packet

(843) 626-0211

Anna Claire Miller is the Service Journalism Reporter for The Island Packet. Originally from Georgia, she has experience in magazine writing, non-profit communications and city government. Anna Claire has a bachelor’s degree in journalism, legal studies and English from High Point University.

A new chapter in Bluffton’s dining scene is set to begin as Radici Italian Chophouse prepares to welcome guests this spring.

Located in Parkway Commons at the former Pour Richard’s site, 4376 Bluffton Parkway, the restaurant aims to deliver an elevated Italian dining experience.

The staff, a team of seasoned culinary professionals with backgrounds in Michelin-star establishments, are ready to bring this new dining experience to the Lowcountry.

The word “radici” in Italian translates to “roots” in English, and the team is planting its roots right here in Bluffton.

Radici is the brainchild of Executive Chef Mattia Bianchi, Chef Giandomenco Prestopino and Manager Camila Eula.

When moving to South Carolina from Italy, they had a shared aspiration to create something that felt like a culmination of their careers’ work.

Together, this team collaborated with George and Piero Casalicchio (owners of Chez Georges Bistro & Bar) to bring their vision to life. Now, this team of five is ready to share authentic Italian cuisine to the Lowcountry.

“Radici represents our connection to tradition and our passion for quality ingredients,” said Executive Chef Mattia Bianchi. “Every dish we serve reflects the rich history and diverse flavors of Italian cuisine while also offering a fresh and modern approach.”

Bianchi honed his skills in international locations, including London and Italy, before stepping into instructor and management roles.

Radici’s menu is a carefully curated selection of Italian classics reimagined with contemporary flair. This select menu includes four starters, four pastas, three salads, four main dishes and a tasting menu.

Dishes including the beef carpaccio, tajarin pasta and cacciucco are particularly special to the team, as they highlight the diversity and depth of Italian flavors.

The pasta offerings will all be made fresh and in-house using imported Italian flour to give diners a truly authentic meal.

“Pasta is our craft and our talent,” Bianchi said. “But we’re looking to dive into other flavors and cuisine, too.”

For those seeking an immersive experience, Radici offers seating in the main dining area as well as at the chef’s table, where guests can observe the culinary team in action.

But for the Radici team, the restaurant will offer more than a delicious plate of food.

“When people think of Italian cuisine, I want them to think not only about the way it tasted, but about the memory that dish carries with it,” Bianchi said.

The new restaurant takes over the location of the beloved Pour Richard’s, a local institution that announced its sale in November. In collaboration with Chez Georges Bistro & Bar, the Radici team has undertaken a complete transformation of the space.

“We’ve restyled the entire layout: expanding the bar, redesigning the kitchen and reimagining the dining room to create an entirely new atmosphere,” Bianchi said.

With 50 seats available, Radici aims to provide a personal yet vibrant dining experience.

“We wanted to create a space that feels both intimate and inviting,” Bianchi said. “The changes we’ve made allow us to provide a unique experience that blends warmth, sophistication and a deep appreciation for Italian cuisine.”

The restaurant is still hiring, seeking chefs and line cooks to round out their team.

Bluffton is known for its appreciation of quality dining, which made the decision to open in this location a natural one for the team.

“We just fell in love with this area,” Bianchi said. “It’s a dream city … everyone is friendly, and it’s a great place to introduce new flavors and culinary techniques.”

While the focus is currently on the Bluffton location, the team hopes to expand in the future, bringing their blend of tradition and innovation to a broader audience.

“This town has a fantastic food culture, and we knew it would be the perfect place to share our passion for Italian cuisine,” Bianchi said.

Radici Italian Chophouse is on track to open during the first week of April, if not sooner.

“We’re ready to open our doors,” Bianchi said.

Dinner service will be available from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday and from 4:30 until 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

Lunch is also available from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Friday through Sunday. They are closed on Mondays.

Reservations can be made via www.radicibluffton.com, on Resy or by calling 843-707-1200.

From back-of-house operations to the artistry of plating every dish, more information on Radici Italian Chophouse can be found @radicibluffton on Instagram or Radici Bluffton on Facebook.

This story was originally published March 14, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

The Island Packet

(843) 626-0211

Anna Claire Miller is the Service Journalism Reporter for The Island Packet. Originally from Georgia, she has experience in magazine writing, non-profit communications and city government. Anna Claire has a bachelor’s degree in journalism, legal studies and English from High Point University.

Three Beaufort County food businesses and one Jasper County business were cited with “B” grades in February’s health inspections by the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control.

Here is a rundown of restaurants that received the lowest ratings in February:

Chophouse 119 scored 86% (B) on Feb. 13 in a routine inspection. Issues noted by inspectors included:

Chophouse 119 was reinspected on Feb. 21 and scored 100% (A).

Dolphin Head Golf Club scored 79% (B) on Feb. 11 in a routine inspection. Issues noted by inspectors included:

Dolphin Head Golf Club was reinspected on Feb. 21 and scored 100% (A).

Taqueria El Primo scored 85% (B) on Feb. 25 in a routine inspection. Issues noted by inspectors included:

Taqueria El Primo has not been reinspected as of March 7, but one is required within 10 days.

Bryan’s Country Store scored 79% (B) on Feb. 11 in a routine inspection. Issues noted by inspectors included:

Bryan’s Country Store was reinspected on Feb. 20 and scored 100% (A).

Inspectors give restaurants a grade of A, B or C, depending on the conditions found at the time. Points are docked for various infractions, and restaurants have a chance to correct the problems and improve their score in a reinspection.

The grade scale is as follows:

During February, SCDA recorded 227 inspections of restaurants, schools, stores and other food establishments in Beaufort County and 43 in Jasper County.

The agency publishes the results of these health inspections on its website.

Newer food-grade decals include a QR code that customers can scan with their phones to see a food establishment’s latest report.

This story was originally published March 7, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

Wondering what the “reel” scoop is for fishing on Hilton Head?

From licenses, types of fish you can catch, places to go and other rules to get hooked up on, it can be hard to decipher what’s allowed.

With the sunshine creeping in and boat weather approaching soon, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on the rules for fishing in South Carolina, no matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time visitor.

Here is what to keep in mind before heading out on the water this year.

General fishing rules

According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, all anglers aged 16 and over must have a South Carolina fishing license to fish in state waters. You can fish from a boat, pier, or beach, but a license is required for all forms of sport fishing.

If you are planning to fish at the beach, make sure to pay attention to all signs you see and any designated swimming areas, as fishing in these areas is prohibited. You’ll know you’re in a designated swimming area when you see signs or a lifeguard.

Fishing within 3 miles of the Hilton Head Island shoreline follows South Carolina state regulations.

These regulations include these guidelines:

These rules extend to the fishing of fin fish, oysters, clams, shrimp and crab.

Once you go beyond that, federal regulations apply.

Species restrictions:

The Hilton Head is home to a variety of species of fish. Here are the most commonly caught species inshore and their regulations for catching:

If you’re worried about the kind of fish you’ve caught, you can check the “tail length” to make sure it’s okay to keep it.

To check, it’s recommended you squeeze the tail to get an accurate measurement, similar to how you squeeze a lemon.

Upon a squeeze, if the fish’s tail is only the slightest bit past the legal length, release it. If you’re ever unsure or can’t tell, it’s best to release the fish.

Hilton Head offers many public places for fishing. Here are some of the top public locations you can visit.

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May 08, 2024 6:00 AM

Forgot a fishing pole? That’s no problem.

Hilton Head Island has several outdoor outfitters where you can rent fishing equipment and purchase bait.

Here are a few:

If you are visiting, you can also reach out to your resort or rental company to ask about the closest outfitter.

Hilton Head is known for its practically perfect fishing weather all year round, but with different seasons, there are different catching opportunities.

Here is what you can expect during these seasons:

For more information and guidance on fishing rules and licenses, please visit the SCDNR Fishing License and Guidelines webpage.

This story was originally published March 5, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

If the beach—or anywhere near the water—is your happy place, you might consider South Carolina as a place to settle down now or one to file away as a potential candidate for retirement one day. The Palmetto State is probably best known for its unofficial Southern capital of Charleston, but its 187 miles of coastline are a close second. From North Myrtle Beach on the North Carolina-South Carolina border all the way down to Hilton Head located just a couple clicks from the Georgia coast, each one of South Carolina's beach towns, barrier islands, and waterfront destinations is more scenic than the last. Here are eight of the most beautiful places on the South Carolina coast.

Hilton Head Island

With more than 12 miles of pristine white-sand beaches, vivid sunsets, and endless activities, it’s no surprise this Lowcountry paradise is continually voted as a reader favorite in our annual South’s Best poll. Hilton Head Island will give you just the right balance of small-town warmth and world-class sophistication. Whether you are exploring its scenic bike trails, enjoying a round of golf at one of the island’s 23 renowned public courses, or savoring the catch of the day at a waterfront restaurant, Hilton Head Island has all the makings of a magical getaway.

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Folly Beach

Just a short drive from Charleston, Folly Beach, nicknamed the “Edge of America” by locals, is a quaint and colorful destination known for its laid-back beachtown vibes. There is no shortage of beach rentals, surf shops, and excellent waterfront restaurants. You can enjoy your vacation at a slower pace with a stroll down The Folly Beach Pier, or you can venture out to see the dolphins with a sunset boat tour. It’s a relaxed destination, where feeling the breeze in your hair is just one bike rental away.

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Myrtle Beach

This list wouldn't be complete without the shining star of the Grand Strand. With 60 miles of coastline to enjoy, Myrtle Beach is as versatile as it is beautiful.Enjoy a relaxed beach day hunting for shark teeth along the shoreline in North Myrtle Beach, or gear up for some action-packed fun at the beloved boardwalk. With so much to explore, Myrtle Beach is a do-it-all destination perfect for making memories.

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Murrells Inlet

Most vacationers won’t think of Murrells Inlet when they think of South Carolina, but as the seafood capital of the state, this neighborhood is worth adding to your itinerary. About a 30-minute drive from Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is a prime destination for fishing, watersports, and sunset viewing. One of the best ways to experience the inlet is to take a stroll along The MarshWalk, a half-mile boardwalk along its saltwater estuary. Head there for a divine waterfront dinner soundtracked by the swells of live music. From the MarshWalk you'll have excellent views of one of Murrells Inlet's most odd but worth-seeing attractions, Goat Island.

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Kiawah Island

Known for its gorgeous sand dunes, diverse wildlife, and perfectly preserved maritime forest, Kiawah Island is a nature lover’s dream. This 10-mile-long barrier island grants you breathtaking views of the Kiawah River and the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re looking for luxury, Kiawah Island has that too. You can book a stay at a world-class resort or tee off at one of the five championship golf courses. However you choose to spend your getaway, Kiawah Island is an excellent place to unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.

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Hunting Island State Park

Located near Beaufort, this barrier island is popular for its outdoor recreation and charming historic lighthouse. Make your trip memorable with a horseback ride along the beach or a paddleboarding session along the salt marsh. If you’re a fan of “Forrest Gump,” you won’t want to miss the Marsh Boardwalk Trail, where the movie’s Vietnam war scenes were filmed. At the end of this trail, you’ll find a platform overlooking the water, providing one of the best spots in the Lowcountry to watch the sunset and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Pawleys Island & Litchfield

These two neighboring beaches make for one peaceful getaway. Pawley’s Island is less than four miles long, but make no mistake, it has plenty to offer. As one of the oldest seaside resorts on the East Coast, Pawleys Island is rich with historical charm and timeless beauty. The island’s calm atmosphere and 25 mph speed limit make it a popular spot for family outings. Less than three miles up the road, Litchfield Beach compliments the old-world charm of Pawleys Island with modern comforts. Here you find tennis, golf, and uninterrupted peace and quiet.

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Georgetown

This slice of Southern heaven is something out of a storybook. As the third oldest city in the state, Georgetown’s streets are lined with towering oak trees, 200-year-old-homes, and gorgeous historic properties. Cozied up beside the Sampit River is the heart of Georgetown, the Historic Downtown District. You will find many lively and colorful shops on downtown’s Front Street, which is just a few steps away from the Harborwalk. Thanks to stunning sunsets and scenic river views, a stroll along this boardwalk will have you feeling like the main character in your very own fairytale.