Most Crowded Beaches in South Carolina

Hunting Island State Park Beach, located near Fripp Island, South Carolina, is a stunning 5,000-acre barrier island known for its pristine beaches, maritime forests, and diverse wildlife. It attracts over a million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina. The beach offers five miles of white sand, perfect for sunbathing and strolling, while the surrounding forest provides extensive hiking trails and opportunities to spot wildlife like alligators and seabirds.
The park's unique features include an historic lighthouse, a nature center with live exhibits, and a fishing pier extending into Fripp Inlet. Visitors can enjoy camping with easy beach access, making it an ideal destination for both nature lovers and those seeking relaxation.
The park's natural beauty and recreational opportunities create a serene yet adventurous atmosphere, appealing to families and solo travelers alike.

Folly Beach, affectionately known as 'The Edge of America,' is a vibrant beach town located on Folly Island in South Carolina. It is renowned for its eclectic vibe, stunning ocean views, and excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The beach offers a variety of activities, including surfing, fishing, and kayaking, and is home to the East Coast's second-largest fishing pier. Folly Beach has a rich history, with records dating back to the late 1690s, and it served as a Union stronghold during the Civil War. The town's 'golden age' began in the 1960s, when surfing became a major attraction. Today, Folly Beach is a haven for those seeking a laid-back beach experience with plenty of dining and shopping options.
The beach is situated just 11 miles south of downtown Charleston, providing easy access to historical sites and cultural events. Folly Beach is also a haven for wildlife, with its waters and tidal creeks supporting a variety of coastal creatures like dolphins and sea turtles.
With its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Folly Beach is an ideal spot for family vacations, surfers, and anyone looking for a relaxing beach getaway.

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.

Seabrook Island, located near historic Charleston, South Carolina, offers a serene and natural beach experience with nearly four miles of pristine coastline. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, including Pelican Beach and North Beach, both offering unique experiences. Pelican Beach is famous for its stunning sunsets and gentle waves, making it ideal for families. North Beach, on the other hand, is expansive and perfect for activities like horseback riding and wildlife watching. The island's private, gated community provides a peaceful retreat with lush maritime forests and serene marshes.
Seabrook Island is a popular destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. It features an oceanfront Beach Club with pools, dining options, and a variety of resort amenities. The island's proximity to Charleston adds to its appeal, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Visitors can enjoy dolphin watching, especially during strand feeding events near Cap'n Sam's Inlet, and explore the island's natural splendor through biking and nature walks.

Sullivan's Island Beach is a serene and picturesque destination located on the Atlantic Ocean, between Breach Inlet and Charleston Harbor. The beach stretches for over three miles, offering a smooth and sandy shoreline perfect for walking, biking, or simply relaxing. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, Charleston Harbor, and historic sites like Fort Sumter. The island's laid-back atmosphere and lack of commercialization make it an ideal getaway for those seeking tranquility. It is also steeped in history, having been a major site for the transatlantic slave trade and home to Fort Moultrie, a significant Revolutionary War site.
The beach is open year-round and offers activities like swimming, surfing, and fishing. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially during sunrise and sunset when the views are breathtaking. While it retains a peaceful vibe, Sullivan's Island is just a short drive from Charleston, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer stays.
The island's small-town charm, combined with its rich history and natural beauty, makes it a unique and captivating place to visit.

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.

Coligny Beach Park is a vibrant and popular destination on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Located at the heart of the island, it offers a wide, clean beach perfect for lounging or taking long walks along the shore. The park is well-equipped with amenities like clean restrooms, outdoor showers, and free WiFi, making it an ideal spot for both locals and tourists. The beach is accessible via a wheelchair-friendly boardwalk, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beautiful ocean views and activities. Coligny Beach is especially lively during summer, but spring and fall offer a more relaxed atmosphere, while winter is great for peaceful walks and dolphin spotting.
The beach is surrounded by Coligny Plaza, which provides a variety of dining options and shops, enhancing the overall beach experience. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities from swimming to sunbathing, and the nearby restaurants offer everything from casual beach eats to fine dining experiences.
Whether you're looking for relaxation, entertainment, or adventure, Coligny Beach Park has something for everyone.

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.