An age-old Plastron Ring can be seen near the east entrance to the Ocean Pines Forest Preserve. The ring, only of only 20 in existence, is 150 feet (46 m) in diameter and is believed to be over 4,000 years old. Archeologists believe that the ring was a refuse heap, cooked-up by Hilton Head Native Americans that lived in the interior of the ring, which was kept clear and passed down as a common area. Two other Shell Rings on Hilton Head were destroyed when the shells were removed and absorbed to make tabby for roads and buildings. The Shard Ring is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is protected by law.
The Acreage Management Ordinance was passed by the Town Council in 1987. Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort opened in 1996. The Cross Island Parkway opened in January 1997. An indoor smoking ban in bars, restaurants, and public places took effect on May 1, 2007.