Hear the sound of crashing waves, feel the sun’s warmth on your skin, and smell the scent of salt in the air. Without a doubt, beaches create a sensory experience that melts stress away! In Hilton Head, you’ll get an endless supply of this sandy, salty, and sunny serenity. With 12 miles of gorgeous shoreline, the island has so many beach access points that it feels like the waters will follow you wherever you go. Here are nine of the top beaches to help you find your paradise.
Alder Lane Beach
Address: 2 Woodward Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-4600
Alder Lane Beach, tucked beside the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort just off South Forest Beach Drive, is a quiet stretch perfect for an early morning or late afternoon escape. Once you arrive, beach matting will welcome and lead you all the way down to the sand. Outdoor showers, clean restrooms, and seasonal lifeguards? Check! There’s also Wi-Fi to share your sun-soaked selfies in real time.
Burkes Beach
Address: 60 Burkes Beach Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-4600
If you’re chasing peace, Burkes Beach is a true gem. It’s at Burkes Beach Road’s end, promising fewer crowds than the more touristy spots. While only 13 metered spaces are directly at the access point, additional parking is available nearby at Chaplin Community Park. The park itself has basketball and tennis courts, a playground, and even an area for your four-legged friends!
Coligny Beach
Address: 1 Coligny Circle, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-4600
Arguably Hilton Head’s most popular and award-winning beach park, Coligny Beach offers more than just sand and sea. It’s right across the bustling Coligny Plaza, a shopping, dining, and entertainment hub! Grab ice cream after a swim or browse boutiques; there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy yourself. From public art installations to wheelchair reservations, Coligny Beach has thought of everything and everyone.
Driessen Beach
Address: 64 Bradley Beach Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-4600
For those who like their beaches with a side of greenery, Driessen Beach Park is the mark. This mid-island destination on Bradley Beach Road off William Hilton Parkway has a boardwalk that meanders through lush natural surroundings. It also stands out for its generous 200 parking spaces, a rare luxury on the island. Find a shaded picnic pavilion, playground, grills, and more!
Fish Haul Beach
Address: 124 Mitchelville Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 341-4600
A wild charm awaits at Fish Haul Beach, a less-traveled treasure that begins with a scenic walk through maritime forest. Your journey starts at the parking lot and winds past an observation deck overlooking marshes filled with fiddler crabs and birdlife. A covered pavilion with a circular bench and binocular viewer invites you to take a moment. Further down the trail are picnic tables, grassy areas, rocks, and even sandbars.
Note: Fish Haul Beach is also known as Mitchelville Beach. Mitchelville, the first self-governed town by formerly enslaved people, was established in the 1860s. Yes, the beach holds so much history!
Folly Field Beach
Address: 55 Starfish Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 341-4600
Folly Field Beach Park has long been a go-to for beachgoers who appreciate a classic setup. Though smaller in scale, this park doesn’t skimp on convenience! The wooden boardwalk and beach matting make the sand accessible, and the entrance has vending machines, restrooms, and water fountains to keep you cool and hydrated. Folly Field Beach simply checks all the boxes.
Islanders Beach
Address: 94 Folly Field Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (843) 341-4600
What about a full day of family fun? Islanders Beach is calling your name! This beautifully maintained beach park lets you enjoy a beachfront barbecue after you float and play your hearts out. There’s plenty of space for bicycles, too, so you can ride around and explore the area. You’ll probably have a hard time leaving after all the merriment. Good thing you can always come back the next day!
Palmetto Dunes Beach
Address: 4 Queens Folly Road, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Phone: (888) 909-9566
Palmetto Dunes is a private resort community that knows how to do beach days right. It has three miles of sun-drenched coast, the Dunes House serving casual beachfront dining and live music, and Hilton Head Outfitters selling beach essentials. Choose to relax with a cocktail in hand or gear up for a surf lesson; Palmetto Dunes delivers the ultimate beach experience you’ll never forget.
Sea Pines Beach
Address: 87 North Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island, 29928
Phone: (843) 785-3333
Luxury meets laid-back at Sea Pines Beach Club. With upscale amenities like a rooftop bar, oceanfront dining, and air-conditioned restrooms, the place will make you want to stay forever! At the Surf Shop, you can stock up on floats, beach toys, and high-end resort wear. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a surf or sail lesson with the Island Recreation Association. Sea Pines is sure to impress!
Hilton Head Beach Day Tips
With so many beaches to fall in love with, Hilton Head Island is an absolute coastal playground. From tranquil corners like Fish Haul and Burkes to lively locales like Coligny and Sea Pines, there’s a beach for every mood and moment! How do you make the most of your time in one?
- Arrive Early: Popular spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Early birds get the best spaces and the quietest surf!
- Bring Quarters: Many beach access points have metered parking. Come prepared to avoid delays.
- Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, snacks, drinks, and towels, and rent an umbrella. Don’t forget a Bluetooth speaker or a book!
- Be Mindful of Tides: Low tide means more walking and shell hunting, while high tide means more waves. A quick tide chart check can make a difference.
- Follow Local Rules: Hilton Head beaches have guidelines on pets, fires, alcohol, and more. Respect the rules!
Swim, Surf, and Sit Back With Beachside Hilton Head
When you’re ready to turn your sunny dreams into reality, Beachside Hilton Head is here to make it happen. Our vacation rentals are just steps from the beaches, offering a home base for all your beach journeys.
Travel with family, go on a romantic retreat, or plan a friend’s getaway! We’ll give you the best beach days possible. Call Beachside Hilton Head at (843) 342-9909 or contact us online.
