Hilton Head Beaches

You will discover a lot of great reasons to visit a beach in your area. Regardless of the activity – swimming, grilling on the beach, playing volleyball, flying a kite, fishing, or just getting a tan, beaches are a source for a wide range of fantastic activities.

Finding the perfect swimming beach in Hilton Head with plenty of area for beach activities is easy. If you need some assistance with locating a beach near your location, start by finding one with our list below. Begin, by entering a zip code in the displayed box below.

Beaches Near Hilton Head

Prior to going to a beach in Hilton Head, SC or the surrounding location, verify on Google to make sure that the beach is accessible to the greater public. Frequently beaches will only remain open during specific seasons of the year or during certain hours of the day.

The beach may be periodically shut down because of water quality issues caused by unexpected events such as E. Coli outbreaks, stormfall runoff, or flooding. Review the beach’s website before you go to the beach for water quality concerns.

Hilton Head, SC Beach Guidelines

Whenever you go to any beach in Hilton Head, there are always rules that you should follow. Nearly all beaches will expect you to follow these guidelines:

  • You should always know that you’re entering the water at your own risk, even if there is a lifeguard nearby.
  • Don’t drink alcohol at the beach.
  • Clean up after yourself.
  • Only visit the beach during specified hours.
  • Don’t go beyond the swimming region.
  • Fires may not be permitted on most public beaches in Hilton Head.

Hilton Head Beach Checklist

  1. Research the restroom situation. Bathroom details are probably the least of your concerns before you plan out your beach visit. However nobody wants to be caught in a situation when you must go to the restroom fast but there isn’t one available. If you’re unable to find bathroom details on the website of the beach, then you can plan on the fact that a public bathroom or porta potty is not open. Try to go to the bathroom prior to heading to the beach.
  2. Store items in a mesh bag. It’s convenient to find a purse, grocery bag, or waterproof travel bag to store beach gear such as pillows, kid toys, flotation devices, and spare clothing. However, these types of bags keep moisture from escaping, leading to mold growth or just keeping beach gear from drying out.
  3. Sunscreen is critical. Even when the sun isn’t out, you can get a sunburn while at the beach. Don’t forget to pack plenty of sunscreen for the group.
  4. Prepare for cold weather. It’s common knowledge that weather in Hilton Head often changes with no warning. It is especially necessary if you are wanting to go in the water, so bring enough dry items including sweatshirts, towels, sweatpants, and a hat.
  5. Get there early. Arriving at your Hilton Head beach early is the best way of avoiding crowds.
  6. Grab some shade. If you know that finding a shady spot may be hard to come by, or if you think that there may not be too many shady areas around, pack your own shade! Bring a beach umbrella, shaded beach tent, or similar equipment that blocks sunlight. It’s best to use something that has good ventilation.
  7. Bring plenty of towels. Don’t forget to take plenty of fresh towels before heading off to the beach. This is especially important if you’re bringing young kids with you or if you are thinking of going for a swim.