Hilton Head Island was named the No. 1 island in the continental United States by the readers of Travel+Leisure magazine in its World’s Best Awards.

The award, which was won for the fourth year in a row by Hilton Head Island, furthers the efforts of South Carolina’s premier Multiple Listing Service, HHIMLS.com, to bring continued awareness of the area’s beautiful neighborhoods and thriving real estate market.

“We are so proud of the community and business owners who have helped develop an impeccable reputation for the Hilton Head Island area,” said Colette Stevenson, chief executive officer of www.HHIMLS.com. “Hilton Head is one of many beautiful communities we serve. To know that our members speak so highly of Hilton Head Island and to receive this recognition for the fourth year in a row by the readers of a respected magazine is very fulfilling. It is a testament to all the efforts we spend ensuring Hilton Head remains a world-class island for visitors and residents alike.”

The announcement was broadcasted July 10 on The Today Show.

Also receiving recognition was the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, which has a significant impact on the Hilton Head area. The airport was ranked fourth in the nation among domestic airports, which were scored for things such as shopping, food options, layout and more.

That recognition is significant because according to a survey by the S.C. Parks, Recreation & Tourism department, 53 percent of inbound passengers to come to Hilton Head.

“When second homeowners or those looking to buy a property in our area come to visit, they like to feel welcomed from the moment they step off the plane to the moment they walk into their dream home,” Stevenson said. “We’ve known our realtors and real estate agents have handled the dream home portion of the trip for decades, so it’s nice to see the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport getting recognized for its incredible standards and its delivery of a great experience.”