Maintained by the town of Hilton Head Island, Adler Lane Beach Access provides convenient wheelchair-friendly beach access, metered parking spaces, restroom and shower facilities, and a lifeguarded swimming area. Additionally, it is a nice, quiet getaway from the commercialized and crowded beaches in the area.
Location, Access, and Parking
Alder Lane Beach Access is located off South Forest Beach Drive, next to the Marriott Grande Ocean Resort. Finding the beach can be a bit tricky so be sure to pay attention to the special directions.
The open hours vary depending on the season, namely – from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the summer months and from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the winter months. The beach is open every day throughout the year. There are bike paths leading to the beach and a bike rack on site.
If you go by car, you can occupy one of the 22 metered parking spaces that are available across the street from the entrance. Cards are not accepted so be sure to bring some quarters! There is also free parking at the beginning of the road about a 15-minute walk away from the beach. Be aware that any vehicles illegally parked along the road or in unmarked spaces will be towed.
With special beach matting stretching down near the water, Alder Lane Beach is a wheelchair accessible beach destination.
Amenities
This beach access has restroom and shower facilities to rinse the sand and water off your body after visiting. If you bring a bottle, you can replenish your drinking water supply since there is a water fountain. If you want a cocktail or beer, Marriott Grand Ocean Resort provides access to its beachside bar and restaurant.
Beach Conditions
The sand is white, clean, and hard-packed, probably not great for shelling but good for building sandcastles. During the turtle season, you will find marked turtle nests. Adler Lane Beach is less busy than the other beaches in the area but it can get a bit crowded near the entrance so you might want to take a short stroll down to less busy areas. The beach is long.
The sea is shallow, which is great for kids. For more safety, there are lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
Dog Policies
Good news for dog owners – pets are allowed anytime in the off-season (from October to April) and before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. during the official beach season (from April to September). Ensure that your dog is leashed and obeys your voice commands and don’t forget to properly dispose of their excrement and you’re welcome!
Driving Time
- 2 hours 15 minutes from Charleston, SC
- 4 hours from Charlotte, NC
- 4 hours 20 minutes from Atlanta, GA
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Alder Lane Beach Access which you can visit:
- Coligny Beach Park (1 mile)
- South Beach (Hilton Head Island) (4 miles)
- Singleton Beach (5 miles)
- Burkes Beach (6 miles)
- Bradley Beach (South Carolina) (6 miles)