Building
and development are still strictly controlled with emphasis placed on nature preserves, bike riding trails and
non-invasive commercialism in most areas. The main draw is, obviously, the shoreline. The Island has over 12 miles
of pristine white sandy beaches publicly accessible in many places. Local government is protective of their raison
d'etre, and as such, have had Beach Rules and Regulations in place since 1995 to create a safe and pleasant family
atmosphere all along the shore line. Hilton Head has also just completed a $16mm beach replenishment along 6 miles
of beach which will hopefully keep the beaches wide and healthy for another 7 - 9 years.
The beach is a huge draw, certainly during prime season (Summer) and shoulder seasons (Spring and Fall). Soft sand
and low surf make for a wonderful day, weekend or week at the beach. First time visitors should be aware, however,
that the tidal swings are huge. While it may be very appealing to set up your encampment near the water's edge
in the morning, trust us when we tell you that its not a smart move. As you are scouting out the best place to
decamp for the day - take a look around at all the savvy Hilton Head vacationers. They will be up against the dune
line, as far back as they can go. It may be a haul to the water in the morning, but by the end of the day, you'll
be quite pleased that your chairs, beach toys and umbrellas aren't underwater or floating out to sea on the incoming
tide. It's a wet lesson to learn - so take it from one who now knows!
Building
and development are still strictly controlled with emphasis placed on nature preserves, bike riding trails and
non-invasive commercialism in most areas. The main draw is, obviously, the shoreline. The Island has over 12 miles
of pristine white sandy beaches publicly accessible in many places. Local government is protective of their raison
d'etre, and as such, have had Beach Rules and Regulations in place since 1995 to create a safe and pleasant family
atmosphere all along the shore line. Hilton Head has also just completed a $16mm beach replenishment along 6 miles
of beach which will hopefully keep the beaches wide and healthy for another 7 - 9 years. 
