Choosing the Perfect Beach in Hilton Head
Not all beaches are created equal; not even on Hilton Head Island! Some have more parking than others, some have free parking and some don't. Some are more crowded, some are close to shopping and restaurants and some aren't. Some have bathrooms and showers, some just have bathrooms and some don't have either. Some are perfect for swimming and sun bathing; others are good for fishing and shelling. Some are attached to parks (called "beach parks" and some are just beaches. One, in particular, is reserved only for Island Residents. There are over 12 miles of beach on Hilton Head Island, most of it is on the ocean and a little is on Port Royal Sound. The entire beach is public, but public access is limited, in other words; once you're on the beach you can go anywhere you like, but there are only certain places you can get to the beach. Some have life guards and some have matting for easy wheel chair and stroller access. Some of the lifeguards rent chairs, umbrellas and other beach accessories and playthings; the life guards ("Beach Patrol") are the only vendors allowed on the beaches.
Above the high tide mark the beaches are all deep, white, powdery sand but, as the tide goes out hard packed sand is revealed; perfect for bicycle riding, which is allowed on all Hilton Head beaches. Bring your cooler and anything else you like but, don't bring glass and your not supposed to have alcohol. There are absolutely no nude beaches. Please use the trash cans located on the beaches. From Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend, you cannot have your dogs on the beach between 10 and 5, before 10 and after 5 your dogs are welcome to frolic, play, swim and fetch, unleashed; so long as they are under your control. Before Memorial Day and after Labor Day they have to be on a leash between 10 and 5. As a matter of courtesy (and local ordinance) you are responsible to "pick up" after your dog; there are numerous locations stocked with free "poopy bags" all around the island.
No artificial light is allowed on or near the beach after 10 at night: This is because the baby Logger Head Turtles hatch and instinctively go to the brightest horizon (which is the ocean and surf). If your room faces the beach, please close your curtains or turn your lights out after 10. It is also illegal to disturb a Logger Head nest in any way, so don't mess with 'em. If you should happen upon a nest or a turtle laying eggs, please notify the nearest Beach Patrol officer, and they will in turn notify the proper authorities - so the nest will be properly marked and protected.
By South Carolina Law you don't need a fishing license to fish or crab from the beach, or shore or from a pier, but Shark fishing is not allowed on the beach and fishing is prohibited in designated swimming areas, which are clearly marked. It is also illegal to remove live Sand Dollars, Conchs (or Whelks) or disturb the Sea Oats or Sand Dunes. Lifeguards (Beach Patrol) are there for your protection but; be advised: they are also law enforcement officers with full police powers. If you have trouble, or require the assistance of the Beach Patrol, you can call them at 843-785-3494 (please don't use 911 unless you have a true emergency) there are numbered markers all along the beach to help the Beach Patrol and other emergency services find you; please note your location when you call.
