The Forest Beach area of Hilton Head is a two and a half mile stretch of beach reaching from the Sea Pines Resort ocean gate to the Crown Plaza Resort in Shipyard Plantation. Divided into two sections, it includes South Forest Beach, a one mile stretch from the Sea Pine's gate to Coligny Circle and North Forest Beach which runs from Coligny to the Crown.

The Forest Beach area, specifically, Coligny Circle is referred to as "downtown" Hilton Head. In this area there are more than a hundred boutique style shops, and fifty restaurants. It is also the Island's largest public parking area. This is the lively area of the island. Accommodations range from large private homes and condo complexes to oceanfront villas.