The Beaches of Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island has over 12 miles of beaches for your relaxation and recreation. But if you are not staying within one of the oceanfront resorts finding beach access and parking can be difficult.
There are four beaches on the Island that are designated as public access, but public parking is limited. If you park in a shopping center or a no parking zone and head to the beach for the day chances are your car will be ticketed or towed. If you are planning to spend most of your time at the beach you should plan on staying at one of the oceanfront Hilton Head hotels.
Public Beaches of Hilton Head Island
- Alder Lane
The Alder Lane beach is located on South Forest Beach Road next to the Marriott Grand Ocean Resort. Metered parking is available ($1.00 per hour). Amenities at this beach include restrooms and vending machines.
- Coligny Beach
Coligny Beach, located near the Holiday Inn Oceanfront at Coligny Circle and Pope Avenue, is the most popular beach on the Island. Metered parking is available. While it may be tempting to park at the nearby shops and restaurants, these parking lots are monitored on a daily basis. If you cannot find metered parking, there is a town parking lot located behind the Smokehouse Restaurant ($4.00 per day). Amenities at Coligny Beach include: bathrooms, changing rooms, sand showers, water fountains, a playground, and telephones.
- Burke's Beach
Burke's Beach is located on Burke's Beach Road off of Highway 278. There is limited parking, and there are no lifeguards or amenities.
- Dreissen Park Beach
Driessen Park Beach is located on Bradley Beach Road. Parking your vehicle requires you to first note your parking space number, then pay the machine near the restroom. Amenities at this beach include restrooms and vending machines.
- Folly Field Beach
Folly Field Beach is located on Starfish Road, off of Folly Field Road. Metered parking is available at the rate of $1.00 per hour. Amenities at this beach include: restrooms, sand showers, and water fountains.
Limited Access Beaches of Hilton Head Island
- Sea Pines Beach Club
If you are not staying in Sea Pines Plantation there is a $5.00 daily pass fee. Parking at the beach is limited. Your best bet is to park at the Greenwood Drive parking lot and take the Sea Pines Trolley to the beach. Nearby amenities include: restrooms, showers, restaurants, bar, picnic tables, and seasonal entertainment for children.
- Islander's Beach Club
The Islander's Beach Club is intended for the use of local residents only. Parking is limited to local residents with an annual permit. This beach is located off of Folly Field Road on Sparkleberry Lane. Amenities include: restrooms, sand showers, playground, picnic tables, and vending machines.