Beaches, beaches and more beaches! Hilton Head Island's official beach season runs April 1 through Sept. 30 , but this time of year still makes for a great beach visit for shell collecting, photography, or just leisurely strolling the beach with each other. Parking meter costs range from 25 cents (quarters only) per 15 minutes to 25 cents per 30 minutes. Lifeguards are stationed at designated areas. Restrooms, water fountains and soda machines also are available. All beaches are public, but access to the beach may be private in plantations or other residential areas.

As a reminder while on our local beaches, alcoholic beverages are not allowed, nor are glass containers, or motorized vehicles, except wheel chairs. During the summers, federally-protected loggerhead sea turtles nest on island beaches. If you encounter one of these creatures leave it be! Do not shine any light on or around the turtle. If you encounter a nest or hatchling turtles also leave them alone. In addition, please remember that we share our beaches with the wonderful wildlife. It is very important that leave sand dollars, star fish and hermit crabs in the water after you look at them. You may want to check the tide before arriving. The yearly tide chart is located in the center of the local phone book and in most tourist publications. Low tide means less waves, but more beach.

Coligny Beach
Located off Coligny Circle at Pope Avenue, has 32 metered spaces. Handicapped-accessible parking and ramps are available. A long-term lot with 314 spaces is across the street. The designated swimming area is from the Breakers to Holiday Inn.

Islanders Beach Park
Located near the end of Folly Field Road, just south of the rear entrance to The Westin Resort. The park's 100 parking spaces are reserved for island property owners who buy an annual beach parking pass.

Alder Lane Beach
Located near Marriott's Grande Ocean Resort, off South Forest Beach Drive, with parking across the street on Woodward Drive. Twenty-four metered spaces are available, two are handicap accessible. The designated swimming area is 100 feet to the north, and 100 feet to the south.

Folly Field Beach Park
Loccated mid-island at the end of Folly Field Road. The parking lot accommodates 52 vehicles with two handicap-accessible spaces.

Driessen Beach Park
Located mid-island, at the end of Bradley Beach Drive. The paid parking lot has 212 regular spaces and six handicapped spaces.