Best Beaches in Myrtle Beach

Edisto Island, located about 45 miles south of Charleston, South Carolina, is a serene coastal destination known for its pristine beaches and natural beauty. The island offers a tranquil atmosphere, with moss-hung oaks and unspoiled marshes, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature. Edisto Beach, situated at the end of Historic Highway 174, provides a peaceful setting for beach activities like swimming, surfing, and shelling. The area is also renowned for its wildlife, including dolphins and sea turtles, and offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
The island's laid-back lifestyle and lack of high-rise developments preserve its natural charm, making it a favorite among families and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the ACE Basin, a vast natural reserve, and enjoy the scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intercoastal Waterway.
Edisto Island is a haven for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a chance to unwind in a picturesque Lowcountry setting.

Garden City Beach, located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, is a vibrant beach destination known for its soft white sand and tranquil atmosphere. The beach offers a variety of activities such as fishing, surfing, and volleyball, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is also famous for its 668-foot long Garden City Pier, which serves as a hub for fishing and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy live music during summer evenings and explore nearby attractions like the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk and Brookgreen Gardens.
The beach community provides a range of accommodations, from oceanfront condos to hotels, ensuring there's something for every visitor. The proximity to Myrtle Beach adds to its appeal, offering a mix of quiet beach life and access to larger attractions.
Year after year, families return to Garden City Beach for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse dining options, including fresh seafood restaurants like Sam's Corner and Sara J's.

Cherry Grove Beach, located in the northern part of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a serene and picturesque destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and rich history. It is a bit isolated due to its location near the inlet, which adds to its charm as a quiet and relaxing beach getaway. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing at the famous Cherry Grove Pier, which stretches 985 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and offers some of the best fishing on the Carolina coast. The area also features horseback riding along the beach and sunset excursions, providing a unique way to explore the coastline. With its beautiful beaches and diverse recreational opportunities, Cherry Grove Beach is an ideal spot for families and those seeking a peaceful vacation.
The beach itself is uncrowded, making it perfect for those who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of more popular destinations. The local community is warm and welcoming, with a variety of restaurants and accommodations available to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an exciting adventure, Cherry Grove Beach offers something for everyone.
The area's natural beauty, combined with its laid-back vibe, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of a beach vacation.

North Myrtle Beach is a charming coastal city in South Carolina, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant community. Located about 15 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach, it offers a serene and peaceful environment, perfect for family vacations or romantic getaways. The city was formed in 1968 from four existing municipalities: Cherry Grove Beach, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, and Windy Hill Beach. It is renowned for its championship golf courses, water sports, and lively nightlife, especially in the Ocean Drive area, where the Carolina Shag dance originated. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing on the nine miles of beaches to exploring the Intracoastal Waterway.
North Myrtle Beach is part of the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area, which had a combined population of over 449,000 as of 2016. The city itself has grown significantly, with a population of 18,790 as of the 2020 census. Its small-town charm and big-time attractions make it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The area is also rich in history, dating back to the 18th century when William Gause established a tavern along the Kings Highway, marking the beginning of settlement in the region.

Myrtle Beach State Park, located in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, offers a serene escape with its pristine beaches and lush natural surroundings. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking. Its proximity to Myrtle Beach ensures that visitors can enjoy both the tranquility of nature and the vibrant attractions of the nearby city. The park's unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities makes it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers alike.
The park's scenic trails and picnic areas allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local flora and fauna. Additionally, the park offers educational programs and events, enhancing the visitor experience with insights into the local ecosystem.
With its beautiful beaches and diverse wildlife, Myrtle Beach State Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the natural side of South Carolina's Grand Strand.

Huntington Beach State Park is a stunning coastal preserve located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. It offers pristine white sandy beaches with fewer crowds, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility. The park features a nature center with historical displays and live animals, as well as the historic Atalaya Castle, a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can enjoy bird watching in the park's diverse habitats, including freshwater lagoons, saltmarshes, and maritime forests.
The park's natural beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With its peaceful atmosphere and rich wildlife, Huntington Beach State Park provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park is also a great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Pawleys Island is a charming barrier island located in South Carolina, known for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere. It is one of the oldest vacation communities in the southeast, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Myrtle Beach. The island is less than four miles long and is accessible by two causeways, separating it from the mainland by a beautiful salt marsh. Visitors often comment on the feeling of relaxation that comes with crossing onto the island, where the pace of life is slower and more peaceful. The beach itself is renowned for its surf and is a popular spot for activities like swimming, body surfing, and shelling. The island's historic district features antebellum homes, many of which are available for summer rentals and have been owned by the same families for generations.

Pawleys Island is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous golf courses nearby and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and crabbing. The local cuisine includes traditional Lowcountry fare and fresh seafood, making it a culinary delight for visitors. Despite its proximity to larger tourist areas, Pawleys Island remains uncommercialized, preserving its natural beauty and charm.

The island's nickname, 'arrogantly shabby,' reflects its unique blend of elegance and simplicity, making it a beloved destination for those seeking a genuine beach experience without the crowds and commercialization found elsewhere along the Grand Strand.

Burkes Beach Access on Hilton Head Island is a serene and picturesque beach destination, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located mid-island, it provides easy access to the beach via a long walkway, making it ideal for families and photographers alike. The beach is surrounded by beautiful dunes and sea oats, creating a stunning backdrop for photos. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The nearby Chaplin Community Park offers additional amenities like tennis courts and a dog park, enhancing the overall experience.

The beach is particularly noted for its historical significance, having been a popular spot for local Gullah communities and African Americans during the era of segregation. Today, it remains a cherished spot for both locals and tourists, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island.

With its expansive sandy shores and gentle waves, Burkes Beach is perfect for families and those seeking a relaxing beach experience. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles and dolphins, adding to its natural allure.

Surfside Beach is a charming family-friendly destination located on South Carolina's Grand Strand, just south of Myrtle Beach. It offers two miles of pristine oceanfront, making it an ideal spot for beach activities like swimming, surfing, and fishing. The town features a quaint atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, condos, and rental homes, providing a relaxed and welcoming environment for visitors. Surfside Beach has a rich history, having been developed significantly after Hurricane Hazel in 1954 and the expansion of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base. Today, it is known for its vibrant community, beautiful beaches, and popular attractions like the Surfside Beach Pier and Wild Water & Wheels water park.
The town is operated by a seven-member town council and offers various services, including police, fire, sanitation, and parks and recreation departments. Surfside Beach hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Surfside Beach 4th of July Celebration and the Surfside Beach Family Festival, which add to its lively atmosphere.
With its family-friendly vibe and numerous amenities, Surfside Beach is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.