Beach Rules

Find all of the best beach access points and learn about the rules and regulations while visiting the beaches

Beach Rules & Regulations

Beach Rules & Regulations

Hilton Head Beaches

Prohibited Activities in Designated Swimming Areas (April 1 to September 30 Between 10AM and 6PM) These areas will be clearly marked and are located at Alder, Coligny, Driessen, Folly Field, and Islanders beaches. Lifeguards are stationed in each of the designated swimming areas during beach season.

  • Fishing
  • Surfboards, boogie boards, etc.
  • Frisbees or other team sports involving a ball
  • Games with metal components

PROHIBITED at all times and on all beaches:

  • Alcoholic liquor, beer, wine
  • Glass (bottles, containers, etc.)
  • Littering
  • Indecent exposure (nudity), Disorderly conduct, Solicitation or Disturbing the peace
  • Unauthorized vehicles
  • Fires and Fireworks
  • Shark Fishing
  • Removal, harming, or harassment of any live beach fauna (sea turtles, sand dollars, conchs, starfish, etc.)
  • Removal, alteration, or damage to sand dunes
  • Operation, launching, or landing of unauthorized motorized watercraft
  • Unauthorized commercial activity
  • Sleeping on the beach between midnight and 6AM
  • Unauthorized wearing of lifeguard emblems, insignias, etc.
  • Kites not under manual control (Stunt kites 10AM to 6PM - April 1 through September 30)
  • Sand-sailing

Pets on the Beach

  • Are not permitted between 10AM and 5PM from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day
  • Must be on a leash between 10AM and 5PM from April 1 through the Thursday before Memorial Day
  • Must be on a leash between 10AM and 5PM from Labor Day through September 30
  • Must be on leash or under positive voice control at all other times and you must pick up after your pets (bags are provided at each public beach entrance that allows pets)