A bustling but beautiful year-round resort, Hilton Head Island, is probably the best known of South Carolina's Sea Islands. As one of the largest barrier islands on the Atlantic Coast, it is amply endowed by nature and history and offers something nearly year-round for everyone including a choice of excellent marina resorts. The ICW amenities offered on Hilton Head range from the ultra-luxurious to comfortable casual.

Navigating through Hilton Head presents an engaging challenge with rewards aplenty. The passage is well-marked, starting from Mile 555, where boaters are introduced to the island's array of marinas. Notably, boaters need to navigate carefully around the oyster beds and shoals that populate the area, especially near Broad Creek which is known for its shifting sands and shallow waters.

Navigational Notes:

Approaching Broad Creek: Use caution around green daybeacon "1," giving it a wide berth at low tide to avoid the nearby shoal. The creek itself runs deep once inside, leading to several marinas.

Ferry Traffic: The numerous ferry boats plying the waters of Calibogue Sound between Hilton Head and Daufuskie Island can leave large wakes.

Crossing ICW to Cooper River: Just as the ICW leaves Calibogue Sound for the Cooper River, navigators should be vigilant of the traffic and natural elements that could affect their journey.

Dockage options on Hilton Head are plentiful, each providing a distinct experience:

• Safe Harbor Skull Creek Marina offers modern amenities right on the ICW, including a nearby restaurant for a quick bite after a long day on the water.
• Hilton Head Harbor Marina, an enclosed basin marina, doubles as a luxury RV resort, providing a unique blend of amenities for both boaters and road travelers.
• Windmill Harbour Marina, known for its lock-controlled, tide-free harbor, offers an exclusive yachting experience and is home to the South Carolina Yacht Club.
• Harbour Town Yacht Basin is synonymous with Hilton Head's luxurious boating lifestyle, featuring a distinctive lighthouse and a bustling environment with shops and dining options.
• Palmetto Bay Marina and Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina both offer comprehensive marina services coupled with exceptional dining and shopping, making them perfect for those looking to enjoy a more social atmosphere.

For those planning to navigate these waters or considering a prolonged stay, it's advisable to consult detailed navigational charts and resources like the Waterway Guide. This ensures not only a safe passage but also enhances the overall experience by highlighting essential services and attractions along the way. 

To find marinas, anchorages, and navigation alerts for Hilton Head Island, view our destination page, here.

For more information on cruising Hilton Head and surrounding areas on the ICW, purchase a Waterway Guide Mid-Atlantic Edition.