Ocean
Intermediate
Beginner

Swimming in Hilton Head

Hilton Head, South Carolina, United States

6 swim spots
1 water type

Best Swim Spots in Hilton Head

Ranked by community ratings. Check real-time conditions before heading out.

Hilton Head Island - Folly Field Road

Ocean
Intermediate

Folly Field Road on Hilton Head Island provides beach access with calm, protected conditions often found on the island's quieter side. Intermediate swimmers will enjoy the developed facilities and safe swimming environment. Check tide schedules for optimal swimming conditions.

Hilton Head Island - South side of Westin

Ocean
Beginner

South side of Westin on Hilton Head Island offers controlled beach access with developed amenities and calm water conditions. Beginner to intermediate swimmers will appreciate the safe, well-maintained environment with nearby facilities. Visit during high tide for the best swimming depth and comfort.

South Westin

South Westin

Ocean
Intermediate

South Westin in Hilton Head, SC, offers a family-friendly swimming spot with clear waters and lifeguard services. The gradual slope of the beach provides safe entry for all ages. Facilities include restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic areas. Be mindf...

Folly Field Road

Folly Field Road

Ocean
Intermediate

Folly Field Road in Hilton Head, South Carolina offers a beautiful beach perfect for swimming. The waters are generally safe, with lifeguards on duty in peak season. Watch for tides and currents, and swim near lifeguards. Facilities include showers and...

Burkes Beach

Burkes Beach

Ocean
Intermediate

Burkes Beach in Hilton Head, SC offers a family-friendly swimming experience with lifeguards on duty during peak times. The shallow waters are ideal for kids. Be cautious of occasional strong currents and jellyfish. Beach amenities include restrooms, s...

Hilton Head Island - Burkes Beach

Ocean
Intermediate

Hilton Head Island's Burkes Beach offers sandy beach swimming with moderate Atlantic swell and typical low-country conditions. Intermediate swimmers will appreciate the developed beach amenities and lifeguard presence. Be aware of rip currents and respect posted beach advisories.

Open Water Swimming in Hilton Head

Hilton Head offers 6 open water swimming locations across Ocean environments. Whether you are a beginner looking for a calm, sheltered swim or an experienced open water swimmer seeking a challenge, there are options for every level.

Before heading out to any swim spot in Hilton Head, check current water conditions on SwimPass. Our SwimScore combines real-time weather, marine data, tides, and water quality into a single 0-100 rating so you can make an informed decision in seconds.

Ocean swimmers in Hilton Head should pay attention to tide schedules and swell forecasts. Swimming around slack tide typically offers the calmest conditions. Check our guide to reading water conditions for tips on interpreting local marine forecasts.

New to open water swimming? Start with our safety guide and first swim guide before heading to any new spot.

Ready to swim in Hilton Head?

Get real-time conditions, personalized SwimScore ratings, and community reports for every spot. Free to start.