Since 1970, the Sea Pines Forest Preserve has been a protected area for wildlife habitat and outdoor exploration. Following the construction of the first trails in the early 1970s, the preserve has grown to include bridle paths, wetland boardwalks, bridges and fishing docks, creating even more ways for visitors to explore and enjoy this stunning and pristine part of Hilton Head Island.
Today, there are many ways to explore the natural wonders of Hilton Head Island. Choose from guided boat tours, horseback rides, fishing expeditions, or wagon tours, or simply pick up a map and stroll the trails at your own pace.
Don't forget to explore these Sea Pines Forest Preserve points of interest:
• Discover the 4,000-year-old Sea Pines Shell Ring, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• See acres of native flora blooming in Warner W. Plahs Wildflower Field, which is located near one of the preserve's beautiful lakes and is a must-see in the spring.
• View marshes and wildlife from a boardwalk at Old Lawton Rice Field.
• Explore a secluded forest on the boardwalk through the Vanishing Swamp.
• Enjoy a picnic along the banks of Fish Island.
Forest Preserve Trails
The Sea Pines Forest Preserve also offers guided boat, horseback, fishing and wagon tours.
Support The Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Donations toward our conservation efforts to keep the Sea Pines Forest Preserve pristine and intact are welcome and appreciated, and may be made to our non profit organization via mail or phone:
The Sea Pines Museum & Forest Preserve Foundation, 175 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island SC 29928
Rules and Regulations
Thank you for respecting our rules and regulations while enjoying the Sea Pines Forest Preserve.
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Smoking or open fires are not permitted.
• Feeding or harassing alligators is illegal.
• Stay on trails and boardwalks at all times.
• 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.
• The picnic area on Fish Island is equipped with a shelter, picnic tables, grills, drinking water and portable toilets. Permits for group outings must be obtained by contacting the CSA office at (843) 671-1343.
• Swimming is not permitted in the Preserve.