A89/100
Hilton Head Island Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 47,338 residents · South Carolina
What's In Hilton Head Island's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.005 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOA | 0.004 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2010.
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
SOUTH ISLAND PSD (SC0720001)
Population Served
18,299
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
SC0720001
HILTON HEAD PSD 1 (0720006)
Population Served
25,558
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC0720006
BROAD CREEK PSD (0720009)
Population Served
3,481
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
SC0720009
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilton Head Island Water
Is Hilton Head Island tap water safe to drink?
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 2 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 3 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Hilton Head Island's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Hilton Head Island's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFOA, Lead (90th percentile). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Hilton Head Island have any water quality violations?
Yes, Hilton Head Island has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2010. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Hilton Head Island?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Hilton Head Island is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Hilton Head Island's tap water come from?
Hilton Head Island's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SOUTH ISLAND PSD (SC0720001) and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 47,338 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Hilton Head Island's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Hilton Head Island's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Hilton Head Island's water compare to other cities in South Carolina?
Hilton Head Island's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Hilton Head Island among the better-performing water systems in South Carolina. Visit our South Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Hilton Head Island's water quality?
If you have concerns about Hilton Head Island's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (SOUTH ISLAND PSD (SC0720001)) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.