What you need to know about Hilton Head’s incredible beaches.

Are you seeking the best beaches for a fantastic day on Hilton Head? Today, I'll be your guide to Hilton Head's hidden gems.

Our first beach is a true hidden treasure on Hilton Head, known as Fish Haul Creek Beach Park, or Mitchelville Beach to most locals. What sets this beach apart is its low crowds, ample free parking, and its suitability for activities like walking, shell hunting, and even shark tooth hunting. It's an ideal spot for relaxation, playing in the water, and swimming, although caution is advised due to sharp objects in the water. Wearing water shoes is a smart idea. If you're up for an adventure, cross the long bridge to Barker Field, a fantastic recreational park with an observation deck overlooking the marsh.

For those looking for the full beach experience, explore these five beaches spanning three miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean coastline. First up is Islanders Beach, often called the locals' beach. It's one of Hilton Head's best-kept secrets, offering excellent facilities, including a large playground, a picnic pavilion, and a grill area. While permit parking is available, there are also metered spots for visitors.

Folly Field Beach Park, located near Folly Field Road and Starfish Drive, features a picturesque boardwalk, outdoor showers, and restrooms, with metered parking that can fill up quickly, so arriving early is wise.

Driessen Beach Park, situated off Bradley Beach Road, offers plenty of metered parking and permit parking for locals. It boasts amenities like outdoor showers, a grilling area, a picnic pavilion, a playground, restrooms, and a boardwalk with beach matting.

“There’s a beach for everyone in Hilton Head.”

Burke's Beach is another gem, with parking available in Chaplin Community Park, offering 136 spaces. Beach access is convenient, with outdoor showers and beach matting, while restrooms are located in Chaplin Park. For a beachside restaurant and bar recommendation, you don't want to miss Sea Salt Beverage, connected to Marriott Surf Watch and located near Dry Sand Beach and Burke's Beach.

Singleton Beach, not officially a Hilton Head Beach Park but a tranquil spot, has minimal crowds. You can drop off visitors at the end of Collier Beach Road and find free parking on Cast Net Drive, though it's a bit of a walk. If you seek solitude, it's worth it. There are no amenities, but you can visit Chaplin Park for facilities. Another tip is to check the tides when traveling from Burke's Beach to Singleton Beach, as high tide can obstruct the path.

Moving to the south end of Hilton Head, Coligny Beach Park stands out as the most popular and award-winning beach on Hilton Head for good reason. It features an elaborate splash deck, changing rooms, and easy access to some of the finest Hilton Head beaches. Additionally, it offers direct access to Kogi Plaza, replete with restaurants and shops, exuding a relaxed beachy atmosphere. For dining and drinks, Pool Bar Jim's is a favorite, renowned for frozen drinks and cocktails, while the Tiki Hut is known for live music and sand volleyball.

If you adore South End beaches but wish to avoid crowds, Alder Lane Beach access might be your ideal spot. With 22 metered parking spots (don't forget your quarters), it's a bit of a walk from the metered lot, but this is precisely what keeps the crowds at bay and makes it a special spot.

Hilton Head beaches are world famous, and I’m delighted to assist you in discovering all that the island has to offer. If you need assistance, please call or email me; I'd be thrilled to help.