Hilton Head Island
Bike Trail Guide
64+ miles of paved paths through maritime forests, lagoon-side resorts, and right along the beach. Here is how locals ride the island.
Local Favorite
Hilton Head Bicycle Company
For over 30 years, HHBC has been the island most trusted bike rental company. They deliver directly to your vacation rental — beach cruisers, e-bikes, and guided e-bike tours. Free delivery on rentals of 3+ days.
Where to Ride
The Best Bike Trails on Hilton Head
Sea Pines Forest Preserve Trail
Easy- 2713Winds through 605 acres of maritime forest
- 2713Passes the Stoney-Baynard Ruins and a 1,500-year-old Native American shell ring
- 2713Connects to Harbour Town and South Beach Marina
- 2713Wildlife sightings: alligators, deer, herons
Insider Tip
Enter via the Greenwood Drive gate. There is a $10 day-use fee per car for non-resort guests, but it is worth every penny.
Palmetto Dunes Bike Paths
Easy- 2713Flat, wide, and well-maintained paved paths
- 2713Ride along the famous 11-mile lagoon system
- 2713Access to three championship golf courses
- 2713Short ride to the beach
Insider Tip
Non-resort guests can access the paths — just enter through the main gate and park near the tennis center. The lagoon path at sunset is stunning.
Hilton Head Island Public Pathway Network
Easy to Moderate- 2713Connects major areas: Coligny Beach, Shelter Cove, Pope Avenue, US-278
- 2713Mostly flat with some gentle grades near crossings
- 2713Separated from traffic on most major corridors
- 2713Free to use — no resort access required
Insider Tip
The stretch along William Hilton Parkway (US-278) runs the full length of the island. Combine it with the Cross Island Parkway path for a longer loop.
Shipyard Plantation Trails
Easy- 2713Quiet, shaded paths through a gated resort community
- 2713Connects to Coligny Beach via the public pathway
- 2713Three golf courses accessible by bike
- 2713Very low traffic — ideal for kids
Insider Tip
Shipyard is one of the most underrated biking areas on the island. The canopy of live oaks over the main road is spectacular.
Beach Biking at Low Tide
Moderate- 2713Ride on hard-packed sand at low tide
- 2713Best at Coligny Beach, Folly Field, and Driessen Beach
- 2713Sunrise and sunset rides are unforgettable
- 2713No trails needed — just follow the shoreline
Insider Tip
Check the tide chart before you go. The best riding window is 1-2 hours before and after low tide. Standard beach cruisers handle the hard sand easily.
Glow Bike Tour (Nighttime)
Easy- 2713LED-lit bikes and glow accessories provided
- 2713Guided evening tour through the island scenic paths
- 2713Great for groups, couples, and families
- 2713Unique way to see the island after dark
Insider Tip
Book in advance — the Glow Bike Tour sells out quickly in summer. It departs from the Coligny Beach area.
Biking Tips from Locals
Bring a lock
Most rental bikes come with a lock, but double-check. Bike theft is rare on the island but it does happen at busy beach access points.
Check the tide before beach riding
The best beach biking is 1-2 hours before and after low tide. The sand is hard-packed and perfect for cruising. At high tide, there is no room to ride.
Helmets are recommended, not required
South Carolina law does not require helmets for adults, but HHBC provides them on request. Always helmet up kids under 16.
E-bikes are restricted in some resorts
Sea Pines, Shipyard, and Hilton Head Plantation do not allow e-bikes. Stick to regular bikes if you are staying in those communities.
Download the trail map
The Town of Hilton Head Island publishes a free PDF trail map at hiltonheadislandsc.gov. Download it before you go — cell service can be spotty in Sea Pines.