Insider beach tips

Animals on the beach
Animals are not permitted on Hilton Head beaches between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Memorial Day through Labor Day.


No-nos
  • The following are prohibited on all Hilton Head beaches:
  • Liquor, beer, wine
  • Glass (bottles, containers, etc.)
  • Littering
  • Nudity
  • Disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace
  • Fires and Fireworks
  • Removal, harming or harassment of any live beach fauna (sea turtles, sand dollars, conchs, starfish, etc.); removal, alteration or damage to dunes, sea oats, or other dune flora
  • Operation, launching, or landing of unauthorized motorized watercraft
  • Sleeping on the beach between midnight and 6 a.m.
  • Kites not under manual control

Here’s a rundown of the island’s public beaches, along with some insider tips.

Alder Lane Beach
Where: Next to the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort off South Forest Beach Drive; meter parking is 25 cents for 15 minutes
Tips: There are vending machines, restrooms and outdoor showers. It’s a hidden gem and is a bit less crowded than most of the other island beaches.

Burkes Beach
Where: Off William Hilton Parkway at Burke's Beach Road; meter parking is 25 cents for 15 minutes
Tips: There are no lifeguards or other amenities, but Burke's Beach is a nice little get-away.

Chaplain Community Park
Where: Off William Hilton Parkway between Burkes Beach Road and Singleton Beach Road; parking is free
Tips: This park has beach access, restrooms, outdoor showers and a playground. There are also tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields. The park includes Best Friends Dog Park.

Coligny Beach
Where: Off Coligny Circle at the end of Pope Avenue ; parking is free
Tips: This is the island’s most popular beach and can get crowded — and for good reason. There are volleyball nets; umbrella and bike rentals; and (bonus!) there’s an outdoor bar, the Tiki Hut, at the Holiday Inn. There’s also food and shopping nearby.

Driessen Beach
Where: Off William Hilton Parkway at Bradley Beach Road; meter parking is 25 cents for 30 minutes
Tips: There is a boardwalk, restrooms, outdoor showers, vending machines and picnic tables (one with a grill). There’s a playground at Driessen, so it’s a great place to take the kids. The boardwalk is pretty long, so be prepared for a hike.

Folly Field Beach Park
Where: Off William Hilton Parkway, follow Folly Field Road; meter parking is 25 cents for 15 minutes
Tips: There are restrooms and outdoor showers. Surfers love this beach.

Mitchelville Beach Park
Where: Off William Hilton Parkway, follow Beach City Road; parking is free
Tips: This park has restrooms and beach access, but the beach has a lot of shells, so bring shoes. Also make sure to bring everything else you’ll need — there aren’t any restaurants or shops within walking distance.