News Release

Hilton Head Island Mayor John McCann Announces Hilton Head Island Beaches Closed

March 20, 2020

A Statement from Mayor John McCann

I would like to begin by saying thank you to all of our brave men and women who are working extremely hard in our emergency services and public safety functions.

They are using this opportunity to truly show us how effective and professional they can perform as an organization and we are truly grateful for their actions.

I would also like to use this opportunity to speak to members of our community. We have heard from many of you who have expressed your concerns regarding activities on our beaches and we are listening.

I am therefore declaring that the Town’s public beaches should be considered closed until further notice.

In support of this action, I am working with the Town Manager to order that all of the Town’s public beaching parking areas, to include restrooms and other public facilities, be closed effective tomorrow, March 21st.

This condition will remain in effect for a period of 60 days or unless rescinded sooner based upon appropriate conditions.

In further support of this action, I will be calling for an emergency ordinance that will authorize the towing of any vehicle that is illegally parked in any road or public right-of-way.

So for those of you that think "I can park anywhere I want to, to get to the beach please think again as you will be towed without warning."

Additionally, effective Monday, March 23rd, Town Hall and other Town owned buildings will be closed to public access.

The Town will continue to provide services to its residents over the phone or online.

Lastly, while our public beaches are now closed, we would still encourage people to stay healthy and get outside.

Take a walk on one of our pathways.

Go ride a bicycle.

Enjoy the natural beauty of Island, but please do so in a way that adheres to the guidelines regarding social distancing and other steps that are absolutely necessary to reduce the spread of this disease.

Please exercise common sense and respect and treat others how you would wish to be treated.

I continue to be amazed by the strength and resiliency of our Island and its residents.

We are here for you and will continue to respond to this ever rapidly changing situation. I will now take any questions that you may have.