Tips on Hilton Head Island Warnings or Dangers - Stay Safe!

Hilton Head Island is a popular tourist destination in South Carolina. Before you visit, it’s a good idea to get acquainted with its customs, laws, and potential dangers.

One thing about having a place that people from all over the country love to visit is you get a lot of different driving styles mixed into one place. Traffic circles are common on the island. Keep an eye out for drivers who don’t know how one works and, if you don’t know how to drive one yourself, pay careful attention. Don't stop your vehicle in the circle (even to figure out a sign), because the person behind you can run into you. If possible, you might want to consider traveling to or from the island on a weekday. There tends to be significantly more traffic on the weekends due to arrivals and departures.

Local laws regarding the reduction of signage and street lights makes it difficult to find the places you are looking for, especially if driving at night. Additionally, since the buildings on Hilton Head Island share similar architecture, (green roofs and sand colored siding), finding your destination can be confusing. Many of the buildings are also hidden from view from the roads, further adding to confusion.

If you decide to go swimming in the water, be careful of jellyfish. They are especially prevalent after a storm, and their stings are painful. Like many southern areas in the United States, you also have to watch for alligators near bodies of water. They look slow and sleepy but, when ready, they can move quickly. The water in Hilton Head is not the place to go fishing for your golf balls! Also watch out for airborne cabanas–that ocean breeze can be strong and send them flying.

Editor's Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings or dangers on Hilton Head Island.