Best Hilton Head Beaches for Family Photography

Hilton Head Island is full of stunning backdrops — soft sand, windswept dunes, and golden sunsets that make every photo magical. As a Hilton Head photographer, I’ve spent years exploring the island to find the best spots for portraits. I know which locations offer the right combination of scenery, lighting, and comfort for relaxed portraits. Whether you’re planning family beach photos, a proposal, or a milestone celebration, these are some of the best Hilton Head beaches for photography — plus a few tips to make the most of your session.

Fish Haul Beach Park / Mitchelville Beach – My Top Pick

• Best for: Families who want privacy, unique scenery, and incredible sunsets

• Why it’s great: This is my go-to beach for sessions, especially at low tide. Located on the west side of the island, Fish Haul offers:

  • Sunsets over the water for warm, glowing family portraits

  • Large rocks exposed at low tide that make for beautiful posing spots

  • Seagrass dunes and tidal flats that add texture and depth to images

  • Easy parking and a short walk to the beach

• Photographer tip: Schedule your session to align with low tide for the most dramatic scenery and to make the most of the rock formations.Palmetto Dunes – Ideal for Vacationing Families

Palmetto Dunes – Scenic Beaches with Natural Wind Protection

• Best for: Families and couples who want a mix of open beach and sheltered spots

• Why it’s great: Palmetto Dunes offers wide sandy beaches and natural dune formations where you can step between the grasses to block the wind. These sheltered areas create a softer look and more privacy, making them perfect for breezy days.

• Photographer tip: Late afternoon light works beautifully here, with the dunes adding depth and texture to your portraits.

Burkes Beach – Wide Open Spaces for Play

• Best for: Active families with kids or pets

• Why it’s great: With its expansive sandy shoreline and fewer tourists, Burkes Beach gives you plenty of room to move, play, and capture natural, candid moments.

• Photographer tip: Golden hour provides warm, flattering light and makes the wide open beach look even more stunning.

Islanders Beach Park – Convenient and Family-Friendly

• Best for: Large groups or multi-generational portraits

• Why it’s great: Islanders Beach Park offers easy parking, restrooms, and shaded picnic areas, making it comfortable for families of all ages. The boardwalks and nearby dunes provide extra variety in backdrops.

• Photographer tip: Afternoon sessions can work beautifully here if you want softer light with the convenience of mid-day amenities.

Folly Field Beach – Classic Coastal Backdrop

• Best for: Timeless, traditional beach portraits

• Why it’s great: Folly Field Beach has clean sandy stretches, natural dune lines, and fewer distractions than some of the more crowded beaches.

• Photographer tip: Plan sessions during the week for a quieter setting and more intimate atmosphere.

Coligny Beach – Know Before You Go

Coligny is Hilton Head’s most famous beach — and while it’s convenient and lively, it’s not the best fit for most professional portrait sessions. Here’s why:

• Crowds: Especially during peak season, finding an open, distraction-free background is challenging.

• Buildings & Structures: The sun sets behind buildings, which can block light and limit golden-hour glow.

• Tourist Energy: Great for atmosphere, but not ideal for relaxed family sessions.

When it can work: If you’re staying at a rental on Dune Lane in North Forest Beach or South Forest Beach near Sea Pines, your photographer can travel to you for a session on the sand. This can be perfect for small groups or proposals — just try to be away from the busiest central area of Coligny.

🚨BEACH RENOURISHMENT PROJECT 2025

Note on Beach Conditions & Renovation Schedule

To protect the beauty and accessibility of Hilton Head’s shoreline, the Town will begin a $47.5 million beach renourishment project this summer and fall. Construction will start at Fish Haul and continue through other areas island‑wide through 2026. Click here for details on the Town’s Beach Renourishment Program and for an overview of what the project means for beachgoers

For full project details — including schedule, maps, and phase timelines — check the official Beach Renourishment Project page hosted by the Hilton Head Island–Bluffton Chamber of Commerce

❤️Final Thoughts

All these beaches offer different feels and opportunities — but Fish Haul stands out for its sunsets, scenic features, and quiet elegance. It’s where the light, warmth, and natural framing align to deliver truly memorable family portraits.

Ready to capture your Hilton Head vacation memories? Book your family photography session today, and let’s choose the beach setting that’s perfect for your story.

For additional inspiration on timing, styling, and location ideas, check out this guide to Hilton Head vacation portraits that covers sunset tips and more.