Best Beaches in South Carolina – Are you dreaming of the Best Beaches in South Carolina? South Carolina is full of beautiful white sand beaches and sunshine perfect for relaxing. So which areas should you go to enjoy the best of what South Carolina has to offer?
South Carolina is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the United States. From its southernmost point, all the way up to Myrtle Beach, there are over 200 miles of coastline with an unbeatable combination of sun, sand, and surf.
Whether it’s a romantic getaway or quality time with friends, our roundup of some of the best beaches in South Carolina will help you find your perfect spot for soaking up some rays and enjoying the scenery that only this part of the world can offer. Here are ten great options for your next beach vacation.
1. Hilton Head — Bluffton
Hilton Head is a luxurious destination located on the East Coast of the United States. With 12 miles of coastline, it offers plenty of activities for water lovers such as swimming, paddle boarding, boating, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing. There are also several shopping centers and luxurious hotels to choose from for accommodation. The island is known for its spas, four-diamond restaurants, and world-class golf courses.
The nearby town of Bluffton is just a short drive away from Hilton Head Island. This charming town has a variety of attractions including historic sites, art galleries, and boutiques. Visitors can explore Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge which offers nature lovers a chance to observe salt marshes, lagoons, deer, and alligators as well as a variety of bird species. Public beach access with metered parking is available at eight of the island’s beaches making it easy to enjoy the stunning coastline.
2. Huntington Beach State Park — Murrells Inlet
Huntington Beach State Park is a 2,500-acre nature preserve located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. This coastal paradise offers visitors three miles of pristine beach perfect for swimming, surfing, fishing, and picnics. The park also features Atalaya Castle, a unique 1930s-era mansion that can be explored. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife spotting opportunities with over 300 bird species in the area.
The park also offers a gift shop on-site selling items to ensure a safe and enjoyable family day at the beach. There are trails for hiking and camping as well as creeks and marshes to explore. The park’s nature center has informative displays and lives animals that will delight all ages. Huntington Beach State Park is an ideal destination for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet in the great outdoors.
3. Edisto Beach — Edisto Island
Edisto Beach is a family-friendly destination located on the South Carolina coast. It’s a gently developed area, with plenty of wholesome activities for all age groups. Visitors are welcomed as part of the family and can enjoy shell-hunting in the shallow waters or at souvenir shops. Edisto Beach State Park preserves the northern section of the beach, offering visitors a unique natural experience.
Accommodation and dining options are plentiful in Edisto Beach, ranging from bed and breakfasts to restaurants, art galleries, and shops. There are also Vacation Rentals available for those who want to stay longer. Kayaking is another popular activity in the surrounding waterways, while Club Wyndham Ocean Ridge offers a luxurious resort experience. With its beautiful beaches and friendly atmosphere, Edisto Beach is an ideal destination for families looking for a relaxing getaway.
4. Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Carolina, offering golden sands, luxury resorts, restaurants, and nightlife spots. It appeals to families and spring breakers alike, with attractions such as theme parks, golf courses, and spas. The bustling boardwalk is one of the best in the nation, lined by arcades, souvenir shops, and mini-golf courses.
Myrtle Beach is also the unofficial capital of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beaches on the South Carolina coast. Here you can find sandy shores and world-class golf courses as well as attractions like the SkyWheel Ferris wheel, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and Promenade. Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes is just one of many oceanfront hotel options in this area.
No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone. Whether it’s a family getaway or a wild
5. Surfside Beach — Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach is a popular beach destination for families located south of Myrtle Beach. It was unified in 1964 and is located at 11 S Ocean Blvd, Surfside Beach, SC 29575-3633. Visitors can contact the beach by phone at (843) 238-0121.
Surfside Beach offers a variety of activities to enjoy during your stay. Watersports such as swimming, surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all available for visitors to take part in. Deck chairs and umbrellas are also available for rent so you can relax on the beach without having to bring your own equipment. The beach also features attractions such as a pier, mini-golf course, water park, ice cream stands, music concerts, and playgrounds for children. With so much to do and see, Surfside Beach is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family!
6. Coligny Beach Park — Hilton Head Island
Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island is a great spot for families to enjoy the sun and sand. The beach is accessible for those in wheelchairs or using other assistive devices, and there are change areas and comfortable swing seats available. Just steps away from the beach are Coligny Plaza, which offers meals, souvenir shopping, beach accessories and clothing, movies, and live entertainment. Free Wi-Fi is also available at the beach so visitors can stay connected while enjoying the sun.
Hilton Head Island is a great place to explore the Lowcountry region of South Carolina with its biodiverse ecosystem and cultural influence from the Gullah people. Visitors can take a day trip to Savannah just an hour away by car or boat. For those looking for a luxurious stay while exploring the island, The Inn & Club at Harbour Town offers 60 rooms with three golf courses and a tennis program developed by former U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion Stan Smith. Guests can enjoy all
7. Isle of Palms
The Isle of Palms is a beautiful beach located between the Atlantic Ocean and Intracoastal Waterway in South Carolina. It offers seven miles of pristine beachfront, making it one of the best beaches in the state. Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as tennis, surfing, paddle boarding, and golf. The island also has educational opportunities related to its role in the Civil War. Visitors can stay at Wild Dunes Resort or rent an oceanfront home for their vacation.
The Isle of Palms County Park provides lifeguards, outdoor showers, restrooms, a playground, chair and umbrella rentals, and beach-accessible wheelchairs for visitors to use. This makes it a great place for families with young children who want to enjoy the beach safely. There are also plenty of entertaining activities available on the island such as fishing charters, dolphin cruises, kayaking tours, and more. With so much to do and see on this beautiful island paradise, it’s
8. Folly Beach County Park
Folly Beach County Park is a great destination for those looking to relax and have some fun. Located just 20 minutes south of Charleston, the island offers a variety of activities and attractions that make it popular with locals and tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy the well-maintained beaches, board shops, and souvenir stores while taking in the natural coastal areas where they can observe wildlife like pelicans and sea turtles. Watersports such as kayaking, surfing, paddle boarding, and kitesurfing are also available for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Those who prefer to stay on land can spot marine life such as dolphins, sharks, and stingrays while enjoying beachfront bars and restaurants.
No matter what your preference is, Folly Beach County Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or take part in some exciting watersports activities, this South Carolina beach town has it all. With its convenient location near Charleston and its wide range of
9. Pawleys Island
Pawleys Island, South Carolina is a charming beach town that has remained largely unchanged for generations. It was first settled by rice planters in the 1700s and has been a popular summer destination since the 1800s. The island offers a laid-back appeal with no modern establishments, and bed-and-breakfasts like the Pelican Inn and Sea View Inn to provide visitors with an authentic experience. Pawleys Island is located 25 miles away from Myrtle Beach and provides a lowkey beach spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.
Visitors can explore the island’s historic district or visit its zoo, or spend time on the beach which is safe and lifeguards are on duty during the summer season. There are plenty of activities to enjoy such as fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing, swimming, sunbathing and more. For those looking for something a little more adventurous there are also boat tours available that take you around the
10. Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is a secluded beach getaway located 25 miles from Charleston, South Carolina. It features 10 miles of beautiful beaches with white sand, lush marshes, and maritime forestry. Visitors can enjoy the stunning golf courses designed by professional players and designers. Accommodations include The Sanctuary, a luxurious 255-room beachfront hotel with spa, pools, and dining venues.
Kiawah Island is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery, it’s easy to see why Kiawah Island has become such a popular vacation spot. Whether you’re looking for an exciting day on the golf course or just want to relax in the sun on the beach, Kiawah Island has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway that offers plenty of activities and amenities, then Kiawah Island is definitely worth considering
11. Seabrook Island
Seabrook Island is a luxurious destination located in South Carolina. With only 2,000 permanent residents, it has a small-town feel that makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Guests can enjoy restaurants and lively music after a long day of relaxation by the water. Amenities are available for guests, but visitors can also simply lay on a towel and listen to the tide for hours on end.
The island is renowned for its uncrowded beaches and magnificent marshland. It is considered the best beach for swimming in South Carolina due to its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Whether you’re looking for an active vacation or just want to relax in nature, Seabrook Island has something for everyone. From kayaking through the marshland to sunbathing on the beach, there’s something here that will make your stay unforgettable.
12. Burkes Beach — Hilton Head
Burkes Beach is a beautiful beach located in Hilton Head, South Carolina. It features wide and tranquil sandy dunes, metered parking spaces, and outdoor showers. This beach is considered one of the best beaches in South Carolina and is a great spot for sunbathing. The Lowcountry region’s biodiverse ecosystem is full of wildlife and provides an opportunity to learn about the Gullah people’s culture through museums and other attractions.
The Inn & Club at Harbour Town is a luxurious 60-room hotel located on the south end of Hilton Head Island. It is part of the Sea Pines Resort and features three golf courses and a tennis program developed by former U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion Stan Smith. The hotel provides a comfortable place to stay while exploring the area or taking a short drive or boat ride to Savannah to explore more of the South. With its convenient location near Burkes Beach, this hotel offers guests easy access to all that Hilton Head has to offer.
In conclusion, South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. From Kiawah Island to Seabrook Island and Burkes Beach, there are plenty of options for a relaxing beach getaway. Whether you’re looking for an active vacation or just want to relax in nature, South Carolina has something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a beach destination that offers plenty of activities and amenities, then South Carolina is definitely worth considering.
