Hilton Head
South Carolina Beaches
Hilton Head beaches are some of
the most beautiful in the world!
South Carolina beaches invite you to share their beauty! Hilton Head is home to some of the hottest tourist spots on the Eastern coast. This small island contains many of the finest South Carolina beaches, both public and private.
When visitors choose the sparkling shoreline of this Low County island paradise as their destination it is time to relax, play and enjoy the sand and surf around the clock.
Hilton Head beaches are a great place to bring the family. Everyone enjoys the mild weather, warm water and ocean themed activities such as shelling.
Unlike many coastal beaches the ones that are located on the shores of Hilton Head will calm your fears about venturing into the water.
Hilton Head beaches have an underwater terrain with a gentle, gradual slope. This means that you can stroll far out into the water with confidence. Of course a gradual slope at a Hilton Head beach means that the waves are not of surfing caliber, but for those who are nervous about keeping their footing it is perfect.
There are a half dozen Hilton Head beaches that have been designated "public access". All of these summer playgrounds have large crowds of visitors during peak season which runs from May to September for South Carolina beaches. While you might have to claim your spot on the sand early there is usually plenty of parking available for a small fee.
Hilton Head Beaches
Alder Lane Beach is the southernmost of all Hilton Head beaches and is just a few yards from the Marriott Grand Ocean Resort. Most South Carolina beaches are wide and spacious, and Alder Lane Beach displays a stunning expanse of sand that is wheelchair accessible and this site is very well maintained. If you dont feel like swimming you can relax with a leisurely stroll along the shore. There are public restrooms at this beach and the vending machines are always stocked with icy, cold drinks. If you are visiting for the day you can park at a lot directly across the street for $1 per hour.
- Busy, Buzzing Coligny Beach
The busiest Hilton Head beach can be found at Pope Avenue and South Forest Beach Drive. This is the site of Coligny Beach which has recently been upgraded to a wheelchair accessible status. Sports enthusiasts have volleyball nets available and there are also Hobie Cats, bikes, 3 wheeled trikes and umbrellas that can be rented. Lifeguards man the towers during peak season for South Carolina beaches.
An outdoor bar operates just off the sandy beach and you will find it set up at the Holiday Inn. Water fountains, restrooms, changing rooms and showers provide guests with the necessary amenities to enjoy their time at the Atlantic Ocean. If you need to find a parking space for your car you can use the town parking lot for $4 a day. This is a short walk from the beach and there are additional sites that are closer, but you pay much higher rates for this added convenience.
- Get off the Beaten Path and Explore Burkes Beach
Burke's Beach is available but this site has no lifeguards or amenities to offer. The area is definitely quieter than many other beaches in South Carolina. If you just want to hang out at the water for a few hours you can do so without being bothered. This Hilton Head Beach is found on Burkes Beach Road just off the William Hilton Pkwy.
Dreissen beach is also accessible from the William Hilton Pkwy. Turn onto Bradley Beach Rd and it is just a short distance away. This is another wheelchair accessible site and has Life Guards, lots of room for parking, public rest rooms, showers and vending machines. Dreissen Beach also has a big playground for the kids and a grill and picnic tables for a picnic. Like many other Hilton Head beaches access is accomplished after a hike along the boardwalk.
- Be Alert When Visiting Folly Field Beach
Folly Field Beach at Starfish Road is wheelchair accessible and has public restrooms, showers, drinking fountains and lifeguards. This area is where you can come to surf or watch others that do. This is the most dangerous of all the Hilton Head beaches because the undertow can be very strong and riptides are common.
This is a park that leads you to the beach at Port Royal Sound. You will have to walk for a considerable distance to reach this quiet beach but this is one of the more private settings available to the public at Hilton Head. Fish Haul Creek Park was opened to the public in 2007 and although it is technically a park, it still deserves being mentioned in any listing of Hilton Head beaches.
Parking at this Hilton Head beach is only for those who buy the annual permits, and these are restricted to people who own property on the island. If you park elsewhere you can still enjoy Islander's Beach. Vending machines are available if you need to quench your thirst with a cold soda and there is a playground, showers, restrooms and changing areas for all visitors to use.
Rules for Beach Conduct
The rules for South Carolina beaches are not overly restrictive, but they need to be observed.
Flying stunt kites and Frisbee throwing have certain rules that must be followed and designated areas where these activities can be performed.
There is no fishing allowed in swimming areas. Leave the sandollars and starfish alone.
Dogs must be on leashes and are only allowed in designated sections. Owners must clean up after their animals.
No alcohol is allowed to be present on any South Carolina beaches. Also there is no walking on the sand dunes, and sea oats are not to be disturbed.
