While Hilton Head was very fortunate to have only limited damage after Hurricanes Matthew and Irma, our beaches suffered erosion. The Town of Hilton Head recognizes that our beaches are an important drawing card for visitors and an essential element in the locals’ lifestyle. The town has had a sand renourishment program in place for more than 20 years to protect our exceptional coastlines.
Hilton Head Plantation has a beautiful beach called Pine Island along Port Royal Sound. It is about a mile long, but what makes it unique is that there are no homes near this beach. To access, a person must arrive by boat or be a resident or guest of a resident of the community.
The Town is assisting with the renourishment expense by providing up to $100,000 to complete the task. The community has been granted a permit to put up to 18,000 cubic yards of sand on the beach, but Hilton Head Plantation intends to stay within the town allotment. With community management and town reimbursement, the project is expected to begin early next year.
Pine Island is a real asset. My grandchildren always referred to it as “Shell Beach” because it was our beach of choice when they were young during Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. While not a swimming beach, to walk beside the water is delightful and they loved collecting shell treasures.
It is also a great place to walk a canine friend. Everyone takes great care in cleaning up after their pets here and you can be sure, your pet will love socializing and running through the light surf.
On sunny days, regardless of the temperature, people like to bring a beach chair and favorite book while enjoying the breathtaking views, feel of warm sunshine, and breathing in the fresh salty air. All this reflection makes me want to stop writing and go for a walk.
If you are coming for a holiday visit, be sure to take in the winter beach. It is a totally different beach experience, but it has always been my favorite.