Getting Around Hilton Head. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Hilton Head Island has limited public transit compared to larger cities. The main options serve specific areas or groups.

The Breeze Trolley: This seasonal trolley service typically operates from spring to fall. It serves specific routes, mainly in the South End of the island. This includes Coligny, Forest Beach, Pope Avenue, and parts of Sea Pines and Shelter Cove. It connects popular attractions, shopping, and dining areas.

Trolley & Buses

The Breeze Trolley: Seasonal (spring-fall) service in South End, connects attractions.
Palmetto Breeze Transit: Limited fixed routes, mainly for commuters, not tourist exploration.
Route maps for The Breeze Trolley are available online and at trolley stops.
The Breeze Trolley has a low cash fare per ride. Day passes may be available.

Accessible Transit

The Breeze trolleys and Palmetto Breeze buses are generally ADA compliant and wheelchair accessible.

Efficient Travel

Relying solely on public transit for island-wide exploration has challenges. Combine with walking or biking in the South End.

Trolley Hubs

Important hubs: Coligny Plaza, Harbour Town (Sea Pines), Shelter Cove Towne Centre, and various public beach access points.

Operational Details

Operating Times

The Breeze Trolley operates seasonally, usually April-October, during daytime hours.
Specific hours and dates vary by season and year. Check current schedules before your trip.
Frequency is typically every 30-45 minutes.

Frequency & Tips

Palmetto Breeze Transit generally operates during weekday business hours.
For exploring the entire island, a rental car or bicycles offer more utility.
Combine trolley use with walking or biking for efficient travel in the South End.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identifiable by taxi signs and meters. Best to call or find at designated stands (airports, resorts, Coligny Plaza).

Typical Fares

Fares metered, based on distance and time. Expect $15-$40 for a typical island ride. Payment via cash or credit card.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft are widely available. Fares calculated and paid through the app, often cheaper than taxis for shorter rides.

Safety Tips

Confirm driver name, license plate, and vehicle match the app before entering. Share trip status with a trusted contact.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle, especially a car or bicycle, offers flexibility for island exploration.

Car Rental Essentials

Requirements: Valid driver's license, credit card for deposit. Minimum age generally 21, often with a surcharge for drivers under 25.
Companies: All major car rental agencies operate at SAV and HHH airports. Some also have satellite offices on the island.
Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season, for best rates and availability.
Consider a rental car insurance policy if you are not covered by personal insurance or a credit card.

Bike the Island

Hilton Head Island is very bike-friendly. It has over 60 miles of paved multi-use pathways, separate from vehicle traffic.
Numerous bike rental companies operate on the island. They offer a wide range of bicycles.
Many bike rental companies offer delivery and pick-up services to accommodations.
Pricing: Typically $25-$50 per day, or $70-$150 per week. Rentals often include a lock and helmet.

Other Rental Options

Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Limited availability for motorcycle rentals. Scooter rentals are generally not common or widely advertised for tourist use.
Golf Carts: Popular for short-distance travel within some gated communities like Sea Pines or Palmetto Dunes. They are generally not permitted on public roads.
Strollers/Baby Gear: Several companies specialize in baby equipment rentals, which saves bulk in travel.

Kayaks/Paddleboards: Numerous rental operators on lagoons and the ocean. Often guided tours are available.
Beach Chairs/Umbrellas: Readily available for rent from various vendors directly on the beaches.
Specialty Vehicle Options: No other unique specialized vehicles are present for rent on Hilton Head Island.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Regulations

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are enforced.

Road Conditions

Roads on and around Hilton Head Island are generally good and well-maintained. Main roads, like US-278, are multi-lane.

Parking Availability

Ample parking is available at public beaches, attractions, and shopping centers. Most resorts and vacation rentals offer free parking. Public beach access points have paid parking lots. Harbour Town has paid parking.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer enjoyable ways to explore the island's natural beauty and attractions.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Hilton Head is very pedestrian-friendly, notably within its planned communities and around public beach access points.
Coligny Plaza/Forest Beach: Excellent for walking, with sidewalks connecting shops, restaurants, and the beach park.
Harbour Town (Sea Pines): Scenic walking around the marina and lighthouse.
Beach: Miles of wide, flat beach are ideal for walking or running, especially at low tide.

Walking Tour Options

Guided Tours: Gullah heritage tours often involve walking historical sites.
Nature walks are available in Sea Pines Forest Preserve or at the Coastal Discovery Museum.
Self-Guided: Explore bike pathways, beaches, and various villages independently. Use a map or a navigation app.
No-Go Areas: Generally, all areas of the island are safe. Stick to designated pathways and sidewalks. Avoid walking or cycling directly on busy multi-lane roads like US-278 where no pathways exist.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Extensive Paths

Over 60 miles of designated, paved multi-use pathways separated from vehicle traffic.

Makes Hilton Head one of the most bike-friendly destinations in the U.S.

Connectivity

These paths connect beaches, resorts, shopping centers, and attractions across the island.

Explore the island's many points of interest seamlessly.

Safety Measures

Always be alert for pedestrians, other cyclists, and crossing vehicles. Use hand signals, obey traffic laws when crossing roads.

Wear a helmet. Bike lights are recommended for early morning or evening rides.

Specialized Transportation

Tour & Water Transport

No traditional hop-on-hop-off bus services, as found in major cities.
Various tour operators offer guided bus tours of the island, typically focusing on history, culture, or specific attractions.
Limited public water taxi services. The main water transportation is for tours, like dolphin cruises or fishing charters, or private boat rentals.

Accessibility Services

Many resorts and attractions are ADA compliant.
Several public beach access points, like Coligny Beach Park and Islanders Beach Park, offer accessible matting and beach wheelchairs for loan.
Rental companies on the island offer mobility equipment, including wheelchairs, scooters, and beach wheelchairs.

Important Considerations for Mobility

During peak season, parking spots can fill quickly at popular attractions. Plan to arrive early.
Traffic congestion on US-278, especially during peak hours, can lead to delays.
Golf carts are not permitted on public roads; obey local regulations.
Summer afternoon thunderstorms can affect outdoor travel plans; seek shelter promptly.

Avoid walking or cycling directly on busy multi-lane roads where no dedicated pathways exist.
While paths are separate, always stay alert for pedestrians, other cyclists, and crossing vehicles.
Be mindful of wildlife, especially deer, when driving at dawn and dusk.
Confirm taxi companies are licensed and ride-share vehicles match app details for safety.

Final Mobility Tip

Hilton Head Island is best explored with a combination of transportation methods. Renting bikes for local trips and using a car for longer distances across the island works well.

For convenience and a relaxed pace, consider staying in areas with good access to bike paths and trolley stops.

Getting Around Hilton Head