Beaches

Some of the best beaches in America are in the region covered in this guide. While the upscale amenities aren’t always there and they aren’t very surfer-friendly, the area’s beaches are outstanding for anyone looking for a relaxing, scenic getaway.

By law, beaches in the United States are fully accessible to the public up to the high-tide mark during daylight hours, even if the beach fronts are private property and even if the only means of public access is by boat.

It is a misdemeanor to disturb the sea oats, those wispy, waving, wheat-like plants among the dunes. Their root system is vital to keeping the beach intact. Also never disturb a turtle nesting area, whether it is marked or not.

The barrier islands [1] of the Palmetto State have seen more private development than their Georgia counterparts. Some Carolina islands, like Kiawah [2], Fripp [3], and Seabrook [4], are not even accessible unless you are a guest at their affiliated resorts. This means that the only way to visit the beaches there if you’re not a guest is by boat, which I really don’t advise.

The Grand Strand [5], of course, has many miles of beach, from North Myrtle Beach on down to Huntington Beach State Park [6]. Charleston-area beaches include Folly Beach [7], Sullivan’s Island [8], and Isle of Palms [9]. Moving down the coast, some delightful beaches are at Edisto Island [10] and Hunting Island [11], which both feature state parks with lodging.

Hilton Head Island [12] has about 12 miles of beautiful, family-friendly beaches, and while most of the island is devoted to private golf resorts, the beaches remain accessible to the general public at four points with parking: Driessen Beach Park, Coligny Beach Park, Alder Lane Beach Access, and Burkes Beach Road.