With the exception of a portion near Fish Haul Beach across from Mitchelville Freedom Park where dogs are no longer permitted to protect endangered shore bird species, dogs are allowed on the beach off leash during certain periods but must at all times be under voice control or on leash.
| Animal Beach Visiting Hours | ||
|---|---|---|
| October thru March | Anytime | On Leash or Under Voice Control |
| April thru the Thursday before Memorial Day | 10 am – 5 pm | On Leash |
| 5 pm – 10 am | On Leash or Under Voice Control | |
| Friday before Memorial Day thru Labor Day | 10 am – 5 pm | Not Allowed on Beach |
| 5 pm – 10 am | On Leash or Under Voice Control | |
| Tuesday after Labor Day thru September | 10 am – 5 pm | On Leash |
| 5 pm – 10 am | On Leash or Under Voice Control | |
Restriction details
The area to be restricted does not currently experience substantial dog or human activity given its unique location and tidal movement. No other beach areas will be affected by this permit requirement to restrict dog activity.
As part of accepting the 2025-2026 Hilton Head Island Beach Renourishment Project permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Town of Hilton Head Island will be required to amend its municipal code to restrict dog activity near Fish Haul Creek.
The USFWS permit requirement seeks to protect endangered shore bird species who migrate and nest in an area about the size of two football fields and about 600 feet away from the Fish Haul Beach public access point.
USFWS has indicated that dogs may be disruptive to the birds’ habitat. The new restrictions will go into effect once the municipal code changes are adopted by Town Council. The area will be marked with signage so residents and visitors are aware of the new restrictions.
