News Summary
Hunting Island State Park has been named the 6th Best Beach in South Carolina in the USA Today Readers Poll. Its warm sand, blue water, and fresh breezes attract over a million visitors annually. The park features five miles of undeveloped beach, nature trails, and South Carolina’s only accessible lighthouse. With unique attractions like Boneyard Beach and a variety of recreational activities, Hunting Island stands out as a cherished destination for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Beaufort, SC – Hunting Island State Park has been recognized as one of the Top Ten Best Beaches in South Carolina according to the recent USA Today Readers Poll, securing the 6th place on the list. The park’s pristine environment including warm sand, blue water, and fresh breezes from the Atlantic Ocean contributed to its high ranking, which was determined by votes from readers following a panel of experts.
More than a million visitors flock to Hunting Island State Park each year, drawn by its stunning beaches and recreational opportunities. The park boasts five miles of undeveloped beach, a fishing pier, nature trails, beach access camping, and South Carolina’s only publicly accessible lighthouse. Notably, Boneyard Beach—a section of Hunting Island known for its bleached, skeletal trees—offers unique scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset at low tide.
In addition to Hunting Island, other beaches that made the list include Edisto Beach at number 7 and Coligny Beach at number 9. The complete list of the Top Ten Best Beaches in South Carolina is as follows:
- Pawley’s Island
- North Myrtle Beach
- Litchfield Beach
- Huntington Beach State Park
- Cherry Grove Beach
- Hunting Island State Park
- Edisto Beach State Park
- Myrtle Beach State Park
- Coligny Beach
- Bloody Point Beach
This is not the first time Hunting Island has garnered attention; it has also been listed among the Best in the South by Southern Living and featured by Garden & Gun as an ideal Southern escape. Moreover, Beaufort, where the park is located, has been named one of the Top 10 Beach Towns in South Carolina by Travel + Leisure, further emphasizing the allure of the region.
Visitor Experience and Activities
Hunting Island State Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Popular ocean activities include fishing, kayaking, and boat tours. Guests can explore scenic hiking and biking trails throughout the park and participate in guided tours such as Sea Turtle Discovery, Gator Gab, and Serpent Exploration. With over 3000 campsites available, the park ranks as a great location for camping enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Seasonal Insights
Hunting Island is a year-round destination, with summer months being the busiest but still less crowded than many other beaches. Ideal times to visit include spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are fewer. Winter offers a quieter retreat, making it an appealing option for those seeking solitude. Despite its popularity, Hunting Island offers natural beauty and tranquility, maintaining regulations that preserve areas like Boneyard Beach.
Historic Significance
The park’s lighthouse, established in 1859, is a historic landmark for the area but is currently undergoing renovations as of April 2025. Its presence adds to the charm and historical significance of Hunting Island, providing visitors not only with recreational activities but also a glimpse into the past of South Carolina’s maritime history.
Overall, Hunting Island State Park continues to attract visitors from all over, thanks to its numerous natural features and recreational opportunities. As it maintains its status as one of South Carolina’s top beaches, the park remains a cherished destination for both residents and tourists alike.
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Additional Resources
- Explore Beaufort SC
- The Travel
- Southern Living
- Lonely Planet
- World Atlas
- Wikipedia: South Carolina
- Google Search: South Carolina beaches
- Google Scholar: Hunting Island State Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- Google News: Hunting Island State Park
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
