South Carolina’s beaches offer an eclectic and very personal experience for visitors and tourists. The local communities open themselves up to strangers in the quintessential Southern Hospitality method of greeting others, and visitors instantly feel welcome and right at home, even when traveling alone.
Few Southern states offer more beautiful miles of coastline to explore than South Carolina. The coastal region of Hilton Head Island is known for its blend of great food, warm welcomes, and excellent beaches. This popular vacation destination features a number of beaches that are suitable for travelers.
There is truly something for everyone to enjoy when visiting Hilton Head Island. For those planning a visit to the area, here are ten of the best beaches in Hilton Head.
1. Coligny Beach
It may not be the largest area, but Coligny Beach is certainly the most popular of the Hilton Head beaches. One of the first towns to incorporate, the founders definitely realized the potential of this beautiful spot. It was essentially created to entertain the masses. There is plenty of shopping and a variety of ways to explore the surrounding community.
There is plenty of parking and free beach access available for visitors on a day trip. There are outdoor showers, changing rooms, restrooms, and chair and umbrella rentals available, making this a perfect destination for a hassle-free beach day.
Places To Stay Near Coligny Beach
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2. Burkes Beach
Visitors with high energy will not want to miss out on the action at Burkes Beach in Hilton Head, South Carolina. This small but mighty beach park is nearly famous for the barrel waves that are perfect for surfing and bodyboarding. Lessons are available at a reasonable cost from local surfers.
Aside from the great waves, Burkes Beach features miles of pristine coastline and powdery white sand. Kayaking and biking options, as well as various water sports, are also popular activities here. There are limited amenities for families with small children, but the beach is easily accessible by car, bike, or a short walk.
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3. Folly Field Beach
Folly Field features an authentic boardwalk to the beach area. This is one of the smaller beaches in Hilton Head, but it is still popular with locals and tourists. This compact beach is found about midway along the Hilton Head coastline. Visitors who are traveling the coastline will know they are halfway done when they reach this fun beach park.
Folly Field beach park is perfect for a day trip and requires very little packing or preparation. It offers all the amenities that are necessary for a day at the beach. Umbrella rentals, public restrooms, and plenty of local tourist attractions are available here, along with a boardwalk bridge and beach-matted paths for easy access.
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4. Mitchelville Beach
This secluded park with beach access is commonly known for the nearby Fish Haul Beach Park. Both are perfect for enjoying nature at its undisturbed finest. The morning sunrise welcomes the day in perfect harmony and a spectacular color spectrum. Visitors enjoy the sunset at the end of a long beach day as the sun fades into oblivion, slowly sinking into the Atlantic for a night of rest.
The nature observation gazebo offers a great learning experience that is interesting to visitors of all ages, making it a great spot for families with young children. Visitors can kayak the meandering waterways or explore the rich marshy areas by foot and bicycle.
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5. Daufuskie Island
Although this intriguing area is more of a destination than a beach, Daufuskie Island features unforgettable views. Locals and tourists arrive by water taxi or private boat to enjoy a day of uninterrupted peace and tranquility.
This natural barrier island is a great place to walk, hike, or bike through nature. History buffs will enjoy learning about the history of the Gullah people. Visitors can enjoy the local wildlife and take advantage of all the incredible photo opportunities throughout the island. Golfers will enjoy the chance to play a round in this beautiful and undisturbed setting.
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6. Palmetto Dunes
While not technically a beach, this popular saltwater lagoon area has much to offer. A favorite spot for local and visiting fishermen, this area features private docks and excellent fishing opportunities. While there are plenty of fishing adventures throughout the island, this one is a favorite for local anglers.
South Carolina offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy their coastline and fish to their heart’s content, provided they purchase a temporary fishing license beforehand. Palmetto Dunes and the surrounding lagoons are a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature while casting a line.
Places To Stay Near Palmetto Dunes
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7. Alder Lane Beach
Travelers who venture toward the Southern tip of Hilton Head Island are rewarded with a beautiful sandy retreat in a luxurious golf resort area. Even though Alder Lane Beach is one of the larger areas of the island, it is comparatively uninhabited and certainly not overrun with travelers.
Vacationers can relax and watch the wind lazily blow over the dunes or take a swim in the calm Atlantic waves. Parking is available at a reasonable hourly rate, and the beach area features public restrooms, beach matting for easier access, and vending refreshments.
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8. Driessen Beach Park
Most widely known to locals as Bradley Beach, the Driessen Beach Park is the perfect place for families with small children or elderly members. This quiet spot is popular with residents, especially during peak tourism weeks.
The miles of white sandy beaches are largely uninterrupted by crowds of people. This Driessen Beach Park offers plenty of free parking, but access to the beach is not necessarily close to the parking areas. Be sure that everyone in your party is able to walk up to half a mile.
9. Islanders Beach Park
This mid-island treasure of a beach is popular with residents and still relatively unknown to many tourists. It is located slightly further inland than most of the resort areas, but is still easily accessible. The location makes it a great midway stopping point for island bike rides and local nature hikes.
Islanders Beach Park is family-friendly and features a close walk to the shore via a beautiful boardwalk. A large playground area with built-in climbing and play equipment ensures children enjoy safe beach fun.
Explore the Best Beaches in the Hilton Head Island Area
The South Carolina coastline has much to offer, and the beach areas are just one of the most notable attractions.
Some guests want to dig their toes in the sand and enjoy a vacation novel while sitting in the sun soaking up the rays. Others want adventure, history, outdoor showers, action, and surfing. Most vacationers heading to Hilton Head Island are looking for something in the middle.
Whatever items may appear on the vacation wish list, this quaint area will surely deliver satisfaction to all.