Hilton Head Island Beach Access and Rules
How to get to the Ocean on a Vacation Getaway
Mar 24, 2008
Hilton Head Island is a famous and popular United States vacation spot located on the Atlantic Ocean in southernmost South Carolina. The warm weather in this region allows for beach fun during much of the year.
Temperatures in the 80 degree range Fahrenheit or higher are common from April to October. During this time ocean temperatures are pleasant, and the sea breezes provide a welcome break from the heat.
Even in the off-season, the climate is still warm enough for long, comfortable walks along the ocean shore.
How to get to the Hilton Head Beach
The sandy beach is a continuous twelve mile stretch along the eastern and southern side of the island. The main part of the beach is on the Atlantic Ocean, with the northern side facing Port Royal Sound, and the southern on Calibogie Sound.
The beach is public property, but access to the beach is limited. Much of the Island is divided in Plantations, and access to the beach in those Plantations is reserved for owners and guests.
In some areas, public access is available. Only foot and bicycle traffic is allowed. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the beach, unlike Daytona Beach. The areas with public access include:
- Coligny Beach and the adjacent Forest Beach area – the largest public access, with substantial public parking, located mid-island. Many restaurants and villas (condominium units) are in this area.
- Folly Field Beach Park at Folly Field Road – a popular access point, with some parking.
- Driessen Beach Park on Bradley Beach Road - limited parking, this area is nearer the north end of the island.
Hilton Head Tides
Many first time visitors to the area are surprised at the extent of the effect of the tides on the beach. The change from low tide to high tide can cause the water to cover hundreds of yards of beach, nearly engulfing the beach for a time in certain places.
Many blankets have to be moved during the day. Tides run a full cycle every 25 hours. When in the water, be aware of Jellyfish, which have a painful sting. Monitor news reports, and stay out of the ocean if necessary.
Beach Amenities
There are no food concessions on the beach. Beach chairs and umbrellas can be rented for the day near beach access areas.
Beach Restrictions
The Town of Hilton Head enforces some strict but reasonable laws for everyone’s enjoyment at the beach:
- No glassware
- No bonfires
- No overnight sleeping
- No alcoholic beverages
- Dogs are allowed on the beach during certain times in different seasons. Check locally for details. They must always be on a lease or under voice control, and owners must clean up after them.
- Shell collecting is encouraged, but live sea animals (sand dollars, hermit crabs) should be left alone.
An Enjoyable Time at the Beach
Each year, Hilton Head welcomes millions of guests to the beach. A safe and fun trip will include great memories and with the proper use of sunscreen.
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