Best Beaches in South Carolina

South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline serves as a favored destination for travelers from across the United States. Whether you seek a tranquil beach experience or a location teeming with entertainment options, the beaches in South Carolina offer a diverse range of choices.

You can visit renowned beach destinations such as Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head or venture into less commercialized locales to discover hidden treasures with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Diverse preferences exist among vacationers; some gravitate towards pristine, family-friendly beaches equipped with lifeguards and amenities, while others favor untouched destinations with minimal development.

1. Folly Beach

Regarded as one of the most recognizable beaches in South Carolina, Folly Beach is a favored spot for a variety of watersports such as surfing, kayaking, and boating. Numerous boat tours are available for those interested in exploring the scenic beauty of the area.

Important attractions include the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, known for its vibrant local atmosphere, and the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. Fishing ranks as one of the most popular activities among locals, with options for river fishing, deep-sea fishing, and pier fishing available.

After a day spent by the shore, visitors can explore Center Street, a charming street lined with local restaurants, shops, and bars. Accommodation typically consists of rental homes and privately owned villas.

2. Myrtle Beach

A prime location for family vacations, Myrtle Beach is comprised of multiple long stretches of sand that attract numerous tourists year-round. It is among the most frequented beaches in the state, with pleasantly warm waters during the summer season.

Water-based activities such as jet skiing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, surfing, and parasailing are particularly popular. Additionally, various areas along the beach cater well to swimming enthusiasts.

Families with children will appreciate the proximity to attractions such as Family Kingdom Amusement Park and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum. For shoppers, Tanger Outlets and Barefoot Landing are conveniently located.

Along Kings Highway, a variety of seafood buffet establishments can be found, while the 1.4-mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk offers a multitude of local dining options. Myrtle Beach is famous for its extensive collection of 50 mini-golf courses!

3. Isle of Palms

Located just a short drive from downtown Charleston, Isle of Palms is characterized as an upscale resort community that originally served as a recreational retreat for the affluent.

This ideal getaway encompasses nearly 3,000 acres of beaches, parks, and residential properties. Visitors can expect luxurious hotels, a substantial golf course, and a variety of rental homes and condos situated on beachfront locations.

Front Beach stands out as one of the most popular sites, providing opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle construction. The County Park features a family-friendly beach complete with restrooms and showers.

Exploring the island is best accomplished via a golf cart, although mopeds and bicycles are also available for rent. Numerous festivals occur throughout the year, ensuring ample entertainment options for visitors to Isle of Palms.

4. Hilton Head

Home to pristine beaches and expansive parks, Hilton Head is one of the premier vacation locales on the East Coast, boasting 12 miles of coastline. The entire island is designed to facilitate easy navigation for vacationers.

Numerous restaurants, bars, and family-oriented entertainment venues cater to visitors, while water enthusiasts can engage in swimming, paddle boarding, boating, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing.

In addition to beach activities, there are countless golf courses to enjoy a few rounds of golf. Shopping enthusiasts will find various shopping centers on the island featuring locally owned boutiques.

Accommodation choices abound, ranging from rental homes with private pools to luxurious 5-star hotels. However, budget-friendly options such as hostels are limited on Hilton Head.

5. Edisto Beach

Situated in one of the most serene beach towns in the state, Edisto Beach is often considered one of the last remaining non-commercialized areas of the region. It is an ideal destination for solo travelers, families, and couples on their honeymoon.

Anticipate charming vacation rentals, enjoyable attractions, and delightful dining options. There is also ample opportunity for camping, fishing, and golfing. While swimming is allowed at Edisto Beach, it is done at one’s own risk as lifeguards are not present.

For fine dining, consider Fins Restaurant & Bar located on the original pier or the beloved Whaley’s Store, a favorite among locals.

Visitors may also embark on boat tours to admire breathtaking coastal views or opt for guided kayaking tours and fishing excursions. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the Swamp Moss Nature Trail located within Edisto Beach State Park.

6. Sullivan’s Island

Located a mere 20-minute drive from Charleston, Sullivan’s Island represents an idyllic destination for families seeking to escape the urban hustle while enjoying a peaceful beach day.

The area is free from beachfront developments and lacks restroom facilities, with most of the coastline preserved in its natural state, offering simple recreational activities such as swimming and sandcastle building.

To secure free street parking, it is advisable to arrive early in the morning.

7. Kiawah Island

Renowned for its natural splendor, Kiawah Island is conveniently located a short drive from downtown Charleston, attracting visitors ranging from couples and families to solo adventurers.

Key attractions on the island include scenic maritime forests, protected marshes, and undulating sand dunes. Golf enthusiasts will find the Kiawah Island Golf Resort to house one of the finest golf courses in South Carolina.

However, there is only one public beach on Kiawah Island, situated at the west end of the island, offering swimming as its sole activity. Facilities include restrooms, snack bars, and outdoor showers, with lifeguard presence during the summer season. Kiawah Island also welcomes pets, provided they remain leashed at all times.

Adding Beachwalker Park to your itinerary is highly recommended, located between the Bohicket River and the ocean.

8. Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park, located an hour’s drive from Hilton Head, is home to one of the state’s premier family beaches.

This expansive 5,000-acre park features a remarkable camping area and is celebrated as one of the most tranquil beaches in the region, offering a wealth of activities including boating, pier fishing, visiting the only accessible lighthouse in South Carolina, and traversing numerous hiking trails.

If camping is not appealing, Beaufort offers delightful Bed and Breakfast establishments for accommodation. Discover the charming cobblestone streets and various galleries in downtown Beaufort.

For breathtaking sunset views over the ocean, visit the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park or stroll along the Henry Robinson Boardwalk at Sands Beach.

9. Murrells Inlet

As a historical fishing village situated a short drive from Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet draws outdoor enthusiasts, artists, and adventurers alike.

While few facilities exist on the beach, those seeking a natural environment away from the crowds will find Murrells Inlet a must-visit location during their South Carolina vacation.

The town center features various entertainment venues, shops, and dining options, along with numerous annual events celebrating the holidays.

10. Seabrook Island

Spanning a 4-mile stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, Seabrook Island is divided into two prominent beaches. Pelican Beach garners higher popularity due to its breathtaking sunset vistas, while North Beach offers its own distinctive allure with rolling sand dunes and excellent swimming conditions.

Notable island features include a tennis court, an equestrian center, and two championship golf courses.

Despite its proximity to Charleston, Seabrook Island successfully retains its natural beauty and tranquility.

11. Burkes Beach

Situated near Chaplin Community Park on Hilton Head Island, Burkes Beach is recognized as one of the finest family-friendly beaches in South Carolina.

The most efficient way to access this beach is by bicycle, as several paved and sandy paths lead visitors directly to it. While restroom facilities are not available on the beach, outdoor showers are provided.

When you require a break from beach activities, visit Chaplin Community Park, which features a dog play area and a basketball court.

12. Mitchellville Beach Park

Located on Hilton Head Island, Mitchellville Beach Park serves as a family-oriented beach boasting ample free parking options with a brief walk from the car to the sand.

Visitors will discover restrooms, outdoor showers, and a small picnic area. While the water activities are limited to swimming and kayaking, the soft sand is perfect for sandcastle construction for children.

To avoid overcrowding, arriving early is advisable, especially during weekends.

13. Surfside

Renowned for its extensive stretch of white sand, Surfside Beach is among South Carolina’s premier family destinations. The beach can be accessed from over 30 points and features a popular boardwalk lined with bars, restaurants, and fishing opportunities.

While fishing is possible at the pier, it’s important to note that 50 feet of it sustained damages during Hurricane Matthew.

Rental services are available for beach chairs and umbrellas to provide necessary shade, although water activities primarily consist of swimming.

Numerous hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are conveniently situated near the beach, facilitating leisurely morning or evening walks in the sand. Additionally, Surfside is home to various entertainment venues, bars, and excellent dining establishments.

14. Litchfield Beach

Located approximately thirty minutes from Myrtle Beach, Litchfield Beach offers a serene location for guests. Activities available include kayaking, surfing, swimming, and fishing.

With only a few access points to the beach and limited parking, arriving earlier than later is recommended to ensure a convenient parking experience.

This 1.5-mile-long stretch of tranquil white sand seldom experiences crowding, even during peak weekends and summer months. For those seeking relaxation, seclusion, and privacy, Litchfield Beach is an ideal retreat.

15. Cherry Grove Beach

Nestled between Little River and North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Beach is a quaint yet beautiful stretch of sand adorned with captivating landmarks and activities.

Visitors can explore the pier or enjoy lunch and drinks at one of the charming local bistros along the popular strip.

Fishing is a prominent activity here, with the Cherry Grove Pier boasting numerous record catches. Even if fishing is not your interest, witnessing skilled anglers in action is worthwhile. You can also fish at Cherry Grove Inlet.

Golfing remains a favored pastime at Cherry Grove Beach, with several nearby golf courses, including Heather Glen and River Hills.