About
While Hilton Head is a golfer’s paradise, the beaches are also noteworthy, especially when traveling with little ones. Case in point: Coligny Beach Park, which Parents magazine ranked as the #2 destination in America for vacationing families.
The Town of Hilton Head Island recently completed renovations to this award-winning beach area, further enhancing its amenities. From the attractive wooden signage, stunning architecture, tree-lined boardwalks, splash pads, and thoughtful layout, you’ll be returning time after time.
To better understand how Coligny Beach Park came about, we need to journey back to 1955. Norris and Lois Richardson envisioned what this beach area could become and opened the first grocery store, Forest Beach Market. The store quickly became a gathering place, enticing locals and visitors alike, even when the island had barely paved roads.
Over time, their business savvy and leadership led to the creation of Coligny Plaza, transforming a simple stretch of sand into a vacation mecca. Upgrades brought smoother walkways, shade from tall native trees, and easy transitions from shopping and eating to the open beach.
Its central location puts you at the heart of Hilton Head’s activities. Cruise the beach with a bike from Hilton Head Outfitters & Bike Rentals or combine beach time with a tee time at Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront Golf Course. With so much to see and do, the combination of possibilities is limitless.
Visit Coligny Beach Park and discover for yourself why it’s so popular with families. If you need further convincing, our next section will provide deeper insights.
Coligny Beach Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Before we explore the amenities, there’s one natural feature that parents love: the shallow water. The shoreline is broad with a gentle slope into the water, making it perfect for beach games and building sandcastles. Better yet is that this gradient continues into the water, generally reaching 3’ when 30 yards from shore. The shallow water translates into safer swimming and beachcombing conditions, which the kids will love, and parents applaud!
Speaking of children, they’re entertained long before reaching the sand. At the walkway’s entrance off the roundabout is a splash fountain. The jetstreams of water attract little ones like bees to honey. The water will entertain and refresh before getting to the beach.
From the splash fountain, the wide boardwalk leads straight to the beach. Lining the pathway are restrooms that showcase the area’s architectural integrity, while shaded areas, park benches, and a gazebo provide comfortable spots to relax.
Reaching the sand, the wide mats run over the dunes, inviting wheelchairs, strollers, and wagons to roll along with no struggle. The matting makes trips easier for families with small children, anyone with mobility challenges, and those carrying a boat-load of gear.
The facilities are another reason this beach is award-winning. Clean changing rooms, well-kept restrooms, and outdoor showers help everyone transition easily from saltwater to dinner. Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected, while trained lifeguards monitor the waters, giving parents extra peace of mind.
Another noteworthy feature is the free Palmetto shuttle, The Breeze. The bus runs from 10 AM to 4:30 on Fridays through Sunday from the USCB campus to Coligny Park. Many vacationers drop their crew and gear off at the park, then drive to USCB, park, and take the shuttle back. It’s the perfect solution when the beach parking lot is packed.
When you need a break from the surf and sun, you’re only steps away from Coligny Plaza. Here, you’ll find boutiques to shop, a playground, live music, and food and beverages.
Speaking of dining, if the surrounding restaurants aren’t appealing, you’re only minutes from Hilton Head’s top choices. The Sea Shack and A Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant offer superb seafood with charming atmospheres.
So, pack the cooler, slather on the sunscreen, and head to Coligny Beach Park for family-friendly fun at one of America’s top-rated beaches.
Local Tips
- Arrive early to find parking easily.
- Free beach wheelchairs are available.
- Pack food and drinks, but leave glass containers at home.
- The extra-wide beach at low tide is ideal for biking and beachcombing.
