Forest Beach holds a special place in Hilton Head Island’s history as one of the original oceanfront communities developed on the island. Unlike the private, gated plantations that dominate much of Hilton Head, Forest Beach offers an open, walkable neighborhood with a distinctly casual beach vibe. Centered around the iconic Coligny Circle, this three-mile stretch of oceanfront property delivers everything visitors love about a classic beach vacation.

Understanding Forest Beach

Forest Beach stretches along the southeastern shore of Hilton Head Island, encompassing approximately three miles of pristine Atlantic coastline. The neighborhood divides into two distinct areas separated by Coligny Plaza, the island’s original shopping center.

North Forest Beach

Running from Coligny Circle northward along about a mile of oceanfront to Pope Avenue, North Forest Beach features:

  • Eclectic architecture ranging from 1950s beach bungalows to modern oceanfront mansions
  • Walking distance to Coligny Plaza with its 60+ shops and restaurants
  • Direct beach access at multiple points along the shoreline
  • No HOA fees or gating for a more relaxed, open atmosphere
  • Every lot within 600 yards of the Atlantic Ocean

The neighborhood retains much of its original character, with some cottages dating back to the 1950s and 1960s standing alongside newer construction. This mix creates a charm that newer planned communities simply cannot replicate.

South Forest Beach

Extending from Coligny Circle southward to the Sea Pines Ocean Gate, South Forest Beach offers a different character:

  • More condominium and villa developments than single-family homes
  • Easy access to Sea Pines through the nearby gate
  • Quieter atmosphere than the busier North Forest Beach area
  • Excellent beach access along the shoreline
  • Mix of vacation rentals and residential properties

The Forest Beach Lifestyle

What sets Forest Beach apart from Hilton Head’s other vacation areas is its distinctly casual, walkable character. Without gates, passes, or private security, visitors experience a neighborhood that feels more like a traditional beach town than a planned resort community.

Walkability

Forest Beach ranks among the most walkable areas on Hilton Head Island:

  • Beach access steps from most accommodations
  • Coligny Plaza within walking distance of virtually every property
  • Restaurants and shops along Pope Avenue and surrounding streets
  • Flat terrain perfect for strolling or biking
  • Connected pathways linking neighborhoods to attractions

Families often park their car on arrival and do not move it again until departure, enjoying the freedom of exploring on foot or by bicycle.

Beach Character

The beaches along Forest Beach offer classic Hilton Head Island features:

  • Hard-packed sand ideal for biking, jogging, and long walks
  • Gentle waves perfect for swimming and wading with children
  • Excellent shelling opportunities, especially at low tide
  • Shark teeth hunting - Forest Beach beaches yield regular finds
  • Lifeguards on duty at Coligny Beach Park during peak season

The beach width varies with the tides, but at low tide, expansive stretches of sand accommodate everything from sandcastle building to beach volleyball.

Coligny Beach Park: Forest Beach’s Crown Jewel

Coligny Beach Park serves as the primary public beach access point for Forest Beach and one of the most popular destinations on all of Hilton Head Island.

Amenities

Coligny Beach Park provides amenities rare at most island beaches:

  • Free parking in the adjacent lot (arrives early in summer for spaces)
  • Outdoor showers for rinsing off sand
  • Changing rooms and restrooms with climate control
  • Beach wheelchair access with matting extending to the water
  • Free WiFi throughout the park area
  • Shaded gazebos with swings and seating
  • Lifeguards on duty during summer months

The Atmosphere

Unlike private beach access points at gated communities, Coligny Beach Park buzzes with energy:

  • Families gathering for beach days
  • Live entertainment during summer evenings
  • Food trucks and vendors during special events
  • People-watching opportunities throughout the day
  • Stunning sunset views drawing crowds each evening

The park represents the heart of Forest Beach’s social scene, where visitors and locals mingle in a way unique to this neighborhood.

Coligny Plaza: Steps from the Sand

Coligny Plaza sits at the center of Forest Beach, serving as both a practical shopping destination and the de facto downtown of Hilton Head Island.

Shopping

The plaza features over 60 shops including:

  • Piggly Wiggly grocery store for all your vacation provisions
  • Beach supply stores with chairs, umbrellas, toys, and gear
  • Boutique clothing shops like Francesca’s and Chico’s
  • Surf shops with beachwear and rental equipment
  • Specialty stores including the Christmas Mouse, Hot Daddy’s Sauce, and Island Fudge Shoppe
  • Bike rentals for exploring the island

Dining

With more than 20 restaurants, Coligny Plaza covers every craving:

  • Big Bamboo Cafe: South Pacific themed with Carolina seafood and live music
  • Skillets Cafe and Grill: Family-friendly with breakfast through dinner
  • FISH Casual Coastal Seafood: Fresh catches in a relaxed atmosphere
  • Frosty Frog Cafe: Daiquiris, pizza, and beach bar vibes
  • Ice cream and sweets: Multiple options including Frozen Moo and Rita’s Italian Ice

Entertainment

Beyond shopping and dining, Coligny offers:

  • Coligny Theatre: An art house cinema showing independent and classic films
  • Live music venues: Regular performances at restaurants and bars
  • Seasonal events: Concerts, festivals, and holiday celebrations
  • Nightlife options: Bars and restaurants open late

Who Should Choose Forest Beach

Forest Beach appeals strongly to specific types of visitors:

Families with Young Children

  • Easy beach access without driving or gate passes
  • Lifeguarded swimming at Coligny Beach Park
  • Walkable to ice cream, restaurants, and shops
  • Casual atmosphere without resort formality
  • Affordable vacation rental options

Visitors Seeking Convenience

  • Walk to everything from your accommodation
  • No car needed for most activities
  • Restaurants and entertainment steps away
  • Central location for exploring the entire island
  • Easy access to both Sea Pines and mid-island attractions

Budget-Conscious Travelers

  • No daily gate fees to access beaches
  • Variety of accommodation price points
  • Affordable dining options at Coligny
  • Free beach parking at Coligny Beach Park
  • Grocery store walking distance for self-catering

Repeat Visitors Who Know the Island

Many longtime Hilton Head visitors eventually migrate to Forest Beach, appreciating:

  • The authentic beach town atmosphere
  • Freedom from resort schedules and passes
  • Integration with local community
  • Access to their favorite shops and restaurants
  • The nostalgic character of older beach homes

Practical Considerations

Traffic and Parking

During peak summer season, Forest Beach experiences significant traffic:

  • Pope Avenue can become congested, especially afternoons
  • Beach parking fills early at Coligny Beach Park
  • Walking and biking often faster than driving
  • Off-peak hours (early morning, evening) offer easier movement

Accommodations

Forest Beach offers diverse lodging options:

  • Oceanfront vacation homes for families wanting premium locations
  • Beach cottages with classic charm and character
  • Condominiums and villas at various price points
  • Timeshare properties in South Forest Beach
  • Short-term rentals throughout both neighborhoods

No Gating: Pros and Cons

The open nature of Forest Beach creates trade-offs:

Advantages:

  • No daily gate fees
  • Easy access for guests and visitors
  • More relaxed, less controlled atmosphere
  • Freedom to come and go without passes

Considerations:

  • More traffic during peak times
  • Less controlled beach access
  • More commercial development than gated communities
  • Mixed residential and vacation rental character

Making the Most of Forest Beach

Insider Tips

  • Arrive at Coligny Beach Park before 9am in summer to secure free parking
  • Rent bikes and explore beyond the immediate neighborhood
  • Walk the beach at low tide for the best shelling and shark tooth hunting
  • Eat dinner early to avoid long waits at popular Coligny restaurants
  • Catch sunset at the beach - the gazebo swings offer perfect viewing
  • Shop the Piggly Wiggly for breakfast supplies and avoid restaurant crowds

Best Times to Visit

  • Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather, manageable crowds, best value
  • Summer: Peak beach season, most activities and entertainment
  • Winter: Quiet retreat, mild temperatures, lowest rates

Book Your Forest Beach Getaway

Forest Beach delivers an authentic beach vacation experience that has attracted visitors to Hilton Head Island for over six decades. The combination of beautiful beaches, walkable convenience, and that classic seaside atmosphere keeps families returning year after year.

Ready to experience the magic of Forest Beach for yourself? Stone’s Throw vacation rental offers the perfect home base for your Hilton Head adventure. Our comfortable accommodations put you steps from the beach and minutes from everything Coligny Plaza and Forest Beach have to offer. Contact us today to reserve your dates and start planning your Lowcountry getaway.