News Summary

Hilton Head Island has been named the best beach in South Carolina by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, with Coligny Beach Park ranking ninth overall. The island implements new dog restrictions on Fish Haul Beach to protect vulnerable wildlife as part of a beach renourishment project slated for 2025. Upcoming accessibility enhancements aim to improve visitor experiences, while conservation efforts focus on local ecosystems and sea turtle habitats.

Hilton Head Island Celebrates Beach Recognition and Implements New Dog Restrictions

Hilton Head Island has recently received noteworthy recognition, with Coligny Beach Park being designated as the best beach in South Carolina by the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The beach is ranked as the No. 9 overall in the state and is conveniently located just 40 miles from Savannah, Georgia.

Coligny Beach Park, known for its accessibility and vibrant atmosphere, is situated a mere 0.2 miles from Tiki Hut, a popular beach bar that was ranked as the No. 3 best beach bar in the United States. Tiki Hut offers live music and a unique beachfront experience, further enhancing the appeal of Coligny Beach.

Changes to Dog Access on Fish Haul Beach

In addition to the beach recognition, significant changes regarding dog access on Fish Haul Beach were announced during the February 4 Hilton Head Town Council meeting. These new restrictions are part of a requirement to secure permits necessary for a beach renourishment project aimed at preserving the local ecosystem.

The beach dog ban will be implemented to protect vulnerable shorebird species that nest in the area, including the rufa red knot and piping plover, as well as loggerhead turtles. This restricted area extends from Fish Haul Creek northwest to the entrance of Fish Haul Beach Park.

Currently, dogs are not allowed on Fish Haul Beach during the summer daytime hours but are permitted at other times if on a leash. However, under the new regulations, dogs will be prohibited from accessing the restricted area at all times, including during winter months.

Upcoming Beach Renourishment Project

The first phase of the beach renourishment initiative is scheduled to begin in June 2025, contingent upon approvals from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and analysis from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Town Council has approved requests to sign permits while they await changes to the municipal code regarding the dog restrictions.

Enhancing Beach Accessibility and Safety

In efforts to make Hilton Head’s beaches more accessible, town officials are introducing enhancements such as Mobi-Mats and additional beach wheelchairs for visitors with mobility challenges. Further, beach officials are emphasizing community safety and educating on best practices for swimming.

As part of their conservation efforts, beachgoers are urged to respect sea turtle habitats, particularly during the nesting season which runs from May 1 to October 31. To minimize disturbances, it is recommended that visitors refrain from using lights after 10 p.m. when nesting turtles are most active.

For more details about Tiki Hut and its offerings, individuals can visit the Tiki Hut website, while information regarding beach regulations and initiatives is available through the Town of Hilton Head Island’s official channels.

Hilton Head Island’s recognition as a top beach destination and the new dog restrictions reflect a commitment to both community enjoyment and environmental protection, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty for generations to come.

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Additional Resources

• Savannah Now: Beach Near Savannah
• WTOC: Hilton Head Beach Renourishment
• Island Packet: Local News on Hilton Head
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
• Google Search: Hilton Head Island beaches