So how is SB not Atkins. I have heard that it is healthier than Atkins, but looking at the books they seem much the same. Both have the 2 week restrictive phase after which they both allow more carbs.

How is it healthier?

First of all, no bad fats are allowed on South Beach. That means no full fat cheese, fatty cuts of meat like bacon, pork rinds, or foods containing sat or trans fats.
Carbs ARE allowed but they are good carbs. Even the first Phase does allow good carbs such as those in milk and yoghurt, tomatoes and other veggies PLUS legumes.
Check out the revised food list in this section.
I hope this helps. Any doctor I've spoken with thoroughly approves of this way of eating.

I get the fats thing, but veg and salad is still allowed on Atkins. Fruit isn't allowed on either.

Atkins limits your carbs to 20 in the induction phase. Phase I on SBD does not limit carbs as good carbs can still be eaten - and should be eaten to avoid ketosis.
Are you thinking of joining us? Pretty nickname, by the way.

Possibly. I'm reading through the book at the moment. Not sure how practical it will be money wise because when I did low carb before (not Atkins though) it was really expensive not being able to fill up on pasta.