HI!
I live in hilton head, about 5 miles from the resort.
Some basics--the resort is in the shelter cove area, which is a complex of stores and dining about mid way down the island. (The island is about 10 miles long. It is on the water, though not the beach--it is one of our waterways).
You would need to drive or bike to the nearest beach (at least I would, it is a few miles away depending on which you go to. Our beaches are gorgeous, with no boardwalks.
Depending on when you come, you could go to the south end and parkl for free (limited parking), or check out one of the other beach areas (parking as abotu .50 per hour, and the accesses have restrooms and outdoor showers).
There is a lot to do in hilton head, esp if you enjoy the outdoors. If you have small children, we have some nice things for them as well. I have been to the resort a few times, for community art programs, not as a guest, and it seems very nice to me. I haven't eaten there, but there are nice places to eat nearby, as well as golf--mini and regular

let me know if you need to know somethign specific, I will tryto help
