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  • Writer's pictureCoastal Chic

The Hidden Gem of Sea Pines

Updated: Aug 6, 2023


Discover 605 acres of beautiful nature at the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, nestled in the heart of Sea Pines.


A must see attraction while visiting Hilton Head. This protected area of wildlife and nature, since 1970 with elevated wetland boardwalks, bridal paths, scenic lookouts, fishing docks, bridges, Indian Shell Ring and various tours available.






Points of Interest:

Indian Shell Ring

This 4,000-year-old historical Sea Pines Indian Shell Ring, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is a pretty spectacular archaeological site made up of thousands of oyster, clam, and mussel shells. It’s thought that the site was a religious or social gathering place for the Native American tribes who inhabited the region.


Wildflower Field

Native flora are blooming in spring at the Warner W. Plahs Wildflower Field, located near one of the preserves beautiful lakes.

Elevated wetland boardwalk

Be sure to take a walk along of the the boardwalks through the Vanishing Swamp.


Guided boat tours

H2O Sports offers guided alligator and wildlife tours through the prime alligator territory of the freshwater lakes in the preserve. Reservations required and arranged through H2O Sports. $$


Horseback rides

Saddle up and explore the lush preserve on horseback, riding under the canopy of the palmetto trees and moss-draped oaks. Reservations required and arranged through Sea Pines. $$


Wagon tours

Sit back, relax and experience the history and beauty of the preserve with searching for alligators and various birds native to the island. Reservations required and arranged through Sea Pines. $$


Fish Island

Equipped with shelter, picnic tables, grills, drinking water and portable toilets. Permits for group events can be obtained through Sea Pines.

There is an abundance of birds and wildlife available to see within the Forest Preserve. Kids can have fun exploring for tadpoles to turtles, while older kids can spy many species of birds from hawks, snowy egrets to bald eagles. You will also find many alligators on the banks and in the lakes, please be aware, while they are usually docile, they can move much faster than you think!!


Guides & Regulations:


  • Hours: sunrise to sunset

  • Smoking or open fires are NOT permitted.

  • Feeding or harassing alligators is illegal

  • Stay on trails or boardwalks at all times

  • Swimming is not permitted.

  • Fishing permits are required and can be obtained for a small fee at the CSA Security Office on Greenwood Drive. Minnow bait is not allowed. The stocked fishing lakes in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve are reserved for resort guests, as well as Sea Pines property owners and their guests

  • Bicycles are not permitted on the walking trails. Please park your bicycles at the locations provided.


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