This South Carolina beach has the most beautiful blue water – Southern Living

Any time spent at the beach is sure to make you feel like a vacation. And while there are many important things to consider when planning a trip, blue waters and white sand beaches always win bonus points. The good news is that if you’re heading to South Carolina with family or friends this summer, all of the beaches are truly gorgeous, so there’s no wrong decision.

The bluest water in South Carolina

Collini Beach on Hilton Head Island is where you should head for the bluest waters. Hilton Head is known for its beaches, so it’s no surprise that the waters here are extremely beautiful. While much of Hilton Head is home to luxury resorts with private beach access, Coligny Beach is open to the public free of charge, making it one of the most popular spots on the island. Read on to learn more about this spectacular place.

What makes the water at Coligny Beach so blue?

The sand on Hilton Head Island is bright white, blissfully soft and very fine, and the water is shallow, especially at low tide. Both qualities can make water appear sparkling blue. When the ocean is relatively calm and shallow, there is also less plankton, sand, particles and other materials in the waves, giving the water a cleaner appearance.

There’s a scientific reason, of course. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this phenomenon occurs when light passes through water and absorbs colors in the red part of the light spectrum, leaving colors in the blue end of the color spectrum.

How to see the water at Coligny Beach

Coligny Beach, Hilton Head Island’s most popular public beach, is a local favorite for more than just its aquamarine waters. Access is easy thanks to a beautifully designed park that includes a path and boardwalk that takes you right onto the sand.

Coligny Beach Park also has many amenities: gazebos with swings, a fountain with synchronized jets, seating areas (including rocking chairs), wheelchair-accessible beach mats, outdoor showers, and free parking. The Breeze, which is Hilton Head’s free public trolley, is also stopping. (Just be sure to check the seasonal schedule.) This is truly a beach that everyone can appreciate—for the magical color of the ocean and so much more.