Visit the South Carolina Coast Beaches

Enjoy an Aquatic Afternoon at the Beach

South Carolina, dubbed the Palmetto State, is a sterling example of southern hospitality – especially along the coast, where the sandy-white beaches attract visitors and tourists from across the state, and abroad.

Myrtle Beach, one of the meccas of beach and ocean tourism along the coast, is a charming and affable city. Set nearby in the middle of the Grand Strand – a stretch of more than 60 miles of sandy, festive beaches – Myrtle Beach accommodates more than 10 million beach-goers on a yearly basis.

Make the drive in from nearby cities like Conway, and North Myrtle Beach – a scenic drive that really pays off. Check out Murrels Inlet, home to Huntington Beach State Park.

Charleston, set south from Myrtle Beach, features it’s own unique beaches. Make a plan to visit Folly Beach, only a few miles from Fort Sumter National Monument, it’s nicked named the “edge of America,” and is known as a terrific surfing destination.

Just south of Beaufort is Hunting Head Island, a four-mile stretch of paradise. This beach, one of the most popular in all of coastal South Carolina, yields and array of exciting and, if you’d prefer, relaxing attractions.

You’ll be able to lounge out on the naturally beautiful sand and even out that tan of yours, or try your hand at some crabbing and fishing – all a part of what makes Hunting Head Island so popular. Many visitors enjoy staying in nearby Walterboro or Ridgeland – a perfect way to snuggle in after a fun-filled day at the beach.

Folly Beach

Set appropriately on Folly Island, Folly Beach is located on the South Carolina Coast near Charleston. A lively coastal city, Folly Beach features everything from family-family attractions to outdoor recreation and festivals.

Hit the beach at Folly Beach County Park, or take your rod and reel over to the Folly Beach Fishing Pier. Check out plenty of boutique shopping and seafood restaurants throughout town, or visit nearby James Island County Park – home to Splash Zone and events like Lowcountry Cajun Festival and the East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival.

Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park offers a reprieve from city-life in the form of about three miles of South Carolina coastline in the heart of Myrtle Beach.

Families visiting Myrtle Beach will enjoy a long list of outdoor recreational activities with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Enjoy world-class fishing from both the pier or surf fishing and crabbing. Active vacationers also enjoy the hiking and mountain biking trails traversing the park grounds.

Swimming is permitted on the beach as well, complete with Horry County lifeguards. Equestrian travelers, don't forget to utilize the equestrian trails for horseback riding.

Edisto Beach State Park

With stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Edisto Beach State Park is one of the top summer destinations in South Carolina. On your next trek across the coastal region of SC, be sure to plan some time for a visit to Edisto Beach State Park. Make the short and scenic drive in from nearby Charleston.

Created in 1935, Edisto Beach State Park is stretched across more than 1,200 acres of pristine coastal South Carolina parkland. A mix of marshes, woodlands, open expanses, trails, and plenty of trees fit for bird watching makes Edisto Beach State Park a top destination. You can explore six different trails for hiking, or visit the Edisto Interpretive Center which hosts a number of events throughout the year.

Huntington Beach State Park

Located along the South Carolina coast, just twelve miles from Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park makes for an ideal summer destination. Park visitors enjoy programs in the Environmental Education Center and the opportunity to view loggerhead turtles up close. Bring your camera to snap a shot of an alligator in the freshwater lake or bring your binoculars to look for some of the 300 species of birds.

Those ready for a behind-the-scenes-look at the park can participate in the Coastal Exploration program. During the program, visitors join the park staff to view alligators and explore the nature trails and marshes. Drive along Ocean Highway to enjoy the ocean breeze in the Palmetto State.