Summer’s over: Free parking returns to these Hilton Head beaches
Parking is now free again at all Hilton Head beaches, marking the end of the first season of paid beach parking.
As of Monday, visitors at Alder Lane, Driessen, Fish Haul, Folly Field and Islanders Beach Parks will not have to worry about parking until March 1 of next year. At Chaplin Community Park, parking enforcement will begin May 19. Parking at Coligny is free year-round.
Hilton Head’s local government introduced new rules for beach parking earlier this year as part of efforts to improve enforcement of parking violations and other community issues, such as trash.
Town officials have not yet told The Packet how much revenue the new parking fees generated in its first season.
What are the beach parking rules?
During peak season of March 1 to Sep 7, parking is enforced from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Parking is $3 per hour on weekdays and $5 per hour on weekends.
Parking fines for violations such as parking in the right-of-way or failing to pay for beach parking, are as follows:
- First offense: $50
- Second offense: $100
- Third offense: $250 and possible towing or immobilization
- Subsequent offenses: $500 and possible towing or immobilization
A $25 late fee applies to fines unpaid after 30 days.
How can I get a parking pass?
Residents that can prove that they live on Hilton Head for more than half the year qualify for a free parking permit issued by the town. Permits issued this year are valid through December 31. Residents will need to renew their permit for the 2026 season. Renewal applications will open mid-December according to a town Facebook post.
This story was originally published September 8, 2025 at 6:57 PM.
