Burkes Beach is a wonderful public beach on Hilton Head Island. Maintained by the town of Hilton Head Island, Burkes Beach offers access to a large serene stretch of public beach with parking and amenities. Additionally, there are numerous paved trails leading to a park where you can find basketball and tennis courts, wide fields, and a fenced dog park where you can let your four-legged friend run and play off-leash.
Overall, Burkes Beach is a beautiful place for walking, picnicking, sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying gorgeous views!
Location and Access
You can find Burkes Beach off William Hilton Parkway at the end of Burkes Beach Road (there is a sandy path leading to the beach). The beach is located right next to the Chaplin Community Park and it is very convenient to go there by bike (if your bike can go through loose sand).
Since on-street parking and metered spaces have become unavailable until further notice, Burkes Beach Visitors have to park at the Chaplin Community Park (11 Cast Net Drive). Be aware that in case you park illegally in an unmarked space, your vehicle will be towed.
Burkes Beach is a public beach so it features no entrance fee. It is open 24 hours daily.
Amenities
There are outdoor showers right before the beach entrance so you can rinse the salt water and sand off your feet and body when leaving the beach. However, if you need to use a restroom, you’ll have to take a 15-minute stroll away from the beach.
Sand and Water
The beach is very clean and usually not too busy. The sand is good for running and exercising – neither too firm nor too soft. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at a very decent price.
The water is warmer than on the beaches further south. Your swimming experience here can be different depending on the tide. There is an area where the coming water forms separate pools – you can swim and fish there. Or you can go and swim in the ocean.
The waves are often pretty big, which is a lot of fun, but you should always exercise caution. For more safety, there are lifeguards on duty. You can also ask them for help if you need any information about the area.
Dog Rules
Good news for dog owners – Burkes Beach is pet-friendly! You can bring your furry friend to the beach during the dedicated hours (until 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m.). Additionally, there is a dog park within walking distance from the beach.
Driving Time
- 2 hours 5 minutes from Charleston, SC
- 3 hours 55 minutes from Charlotte, NC
- 4 hours 15 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 Burkes Beach which you can visit:
- Singleton Beach (0 miles)
- Bradley Beach (South Carolina) (0 miles)
- Driessen Beach Park (0 miles)
- Hilton Head Island Beach (1 mile)
- Folly Field Beach (1 mile)