Secluded beach on Hilton Head with historical significance as the site of the first self-governed freedmen’s town after the Civil War. Features excellent bird watching, dramatic tides, and fossil hunting. Less crowded than other island beaches.
South Carolina Beaches
Folly Beach County Park
Managed beach park at the west end of Folly Island with seasonal lifeguards, chair and umbrella rentals, and picnic areas. Features excellent views of Stono Inlet and Morris Island Lighthouse. Recently renourished shoreline.
Capers Island
Undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat, featuring the famous “Boneyard Beach” where fallen trees create a hauntingly beautiful landscape. Offers primitive camping, wildlife viewing, and truly unspoiled natural coastal environments.
Front Beach – Isle of Palms
The main public beach area on Isle of Palms, featuring volleyball courts, nearby restaurants and shops, and a fishing pier. Popular with families and day visitors from Charleston. Offers chair and umbrella rentals during the summer.
Huntington Beach State Park
Pristine beach park featuring 3 miles of shoreline, the historic Atalaya Castle, and world-class bird watching opportunities. Known for its natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and excellent camping facilities.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
While not a traditional beach, this waterfront boardwalk along a natural saltwater estuary offers access to several beach areas. Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina” with numerous waterfront restaurants, live music, and water activities.
Botany Bay Plantation
Spectacular undeveloped beach on a 4,600-acre wildlife preserve featuring a boneyard of weathered trees. Known for its pristine condition, shell-covered beaches (shells must remain on beach), and lack of commercial development.
Coligny Beach Park
Hilton Head’s most popular and well-equipped public beach access, featuring accessible boardwalks, showers, restrooms, and changing facilities. Adjacent to Coligny Plaza shopping center with numerous dining and shopping options.
Fripp Island
Private resort island featuring 3.5 miles of beaches, two championship golf courses, and a marina. Known for abundant wildlife including deer and alligators, and as a filming location for “Forrest Gump” and “The Prince of Tides.”
Beachwalker Park
The only public beach access on private Kiawah Island, offering boardwalks through maritime forests and dunes. Features picnic areas, restrooms, and chair/umbrella rentals. Consistently ranked among America’s best beaches.