These beach towns in South Carolina offer stunning coastline that is dotted with a plethora of charming towns, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty, coastal culture, and Southern hospitality.
From the bustling shores of Myrtle Beach to the upscale luxury of Hilton Head Island, and the historic charm of Charleston’s nearby beaches, the Palmetto State has something to offer every beachgoer.
Beach Towns In South Carolina
Whether you’re in search of a family-friendly getaway, a romantic retreat, or simply a place to relax by the ocean, South Carolina’s beach towns provide an array of options for all types of travelers to bask in the sun, enjoy water activities, and savor the coastal cuisine.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is one of the most famous beach towns in South Carolina. It is known for its beautiful beaches along the Grand Strand, a stretch of coastline that attracts millions of tourists each year.
The wide, sandy beaches and warm Atlantic Ocean waters are popular for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and various water sports.
Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of attractions, including amusement parks, water parks, golf courses, shopping centers, and live entertainment. Some popular destinations include Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and Ripley’s Aquarium.
The city offers a diverse culinary scene with a wide range of restaurants, from seafood shacks to fine dining establishments. You can find a variety of Southern and seafood dishes.
Myrtle Beach has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. It’s a popular spot for those looking to enjoy the nightlife after a day at the beach.
Myrtle Beach is a family-friendly destination with many attractions and activities suitable for children, such as miniature golf, go-kart tracks, and family amusement parks.
Find hotels in Myrtle Beach here.
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head is a luxurious place with pristine beaches, golf courses, and plenty of outdoor activities. It’s known for its upscale resorts and natural beauty and is one of the best beach towns in South Carolina for a bit of luxury.
Hilton Head Island boasts 12 miles of pristine, sandy beaches which are known for their wide shoreline and are great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
The island offers various water-based activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and fishing. There are also opportunities for dolphin-watching tours and boating.
Hilton Head Island is home to several nature reserves and parks, such as the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can explore these natural areas and observe local wildlife and ecosystems.
Much like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island is renowned for its golf courses. It’s a favorite destination for golf enthusiasts, with over 20 world-class golf courses designed by some of the most famous architects.
Located within Sea Pines Resort, Harbour Town is a picturesque marina area with a famous red-and-white striped lighthouse. It’s a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The Gullah culture is an important part of the region’s heritage, and you can learn about it through cultural exhibits, festivals, and local cuisine.
The island hosts a range of art galleries, live performances, and cultural events, making it more than just a beach destination.
Find hotels in Hilton Head Island here.
Pawleys Island
Pawleys Island is a historic and serene beach destination known for its beautiful sunrises and laid-back atmosphere.
The primary draw of Pawleys Island is its beautiful and unspoiled beaches. These beaches are known for their tranquility, with soft sand, dunes, and the absence of high-rise hotels or resorts.
Pawleys Island has a rich history and has historic, low-country architecture. The town is dotted with charming cottages and homes, many of which have been in families for generations.
The Hammock Shops Village is a unique shopping area on Pawleys Island featuring boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores. It’s a great place to find handmade hammocks and other local crafts.
You can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and birdwatching in the surrounding marshes, creeks, and rivers.
Pawleys Island Nature Park offers a peaceful escape for nature lovers. It has walking trails and boardwalks that wind through salt marshes and tidal creeks.
The town has a designated historic district with several historic buildings, some of which date back to the 18th century. The Pawleys Island Chapel, built in 1941, is a notable landmark in the area.
The quiet and laid-back atmosphere of Pawleys Island makes it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s a haven for those seeking a tranquil getaway.
Book hotels in Pawleys Island here.
Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island is an upscale beach town known for its natural beauty. The island offers a more secluded and private experience.
Kiawah Island is renowned for its wide, sandy beaches that stretch for over 10 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are a major attraction for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and water sports.
The island is characterized by its unspoiled natural beauty. There are extensive dunes, maritime forests, salt marshes, and tidal creeks that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Kiawah Island is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. Birdwatching and wildlife viewing are popular activities.
The island features numerous biking and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural surroundings. The Kiawah Island Nature Center provides information on the island’s flora and fauna.
The island offers a range of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. You can savor a variety of Lowcountry and Southern dishes.
Find hotels in Kiawah Island here.
Edisto Beach
Edisto Beach is a charming and laid-back beach place located on Edisto Island which makes it one of the best beach towns in South Carolina to visit. It is known for its pristine and uncommercialized beaches, abundant natural beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Edisto Beach State Park is located on the eastern end of the island and offers camping, hiking, birdwatching, and access to the beach. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
You can enjoy kayaking, boating, fishing, and shelling in the nearby creeks, rivers, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Edisto Island Serpentarium and the Edisto Memorial Gardens showcase local flora and fauna, including a collection of native and exotic snakes.
Edisto Island is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can savor fresh catches from the nearby waters, including shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish.
There are opportunities to take dolphin-watching tours, which allow you to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat.
Edisto Beach has a commitment to preserving its natural surroundings, and you won’t find high-rise hotels or resorts on the island, which contributes to its unique charm.
Edisto Beach is a serene and less commercialized destination compared to some of the more bustling beach towns in South Carolina.
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Litchfield Beach
Litchfield Beach is a quieter alternative to Myrtle Beach and is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil beach experience with some of the best beaches in South Carolina.
Huntington Beach State Park is a popular attraction for nature lovers. It features maritime forests, salt marshes, and a beautiful beach. You can explore nature trails, see the historic Atalaya Castle, and observe a variety of bird species.
In addition to beach activities, you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and boating in the surrounding waterways and marshes.
The area features boutique shops and local stores where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts.
The relaxed and peaceful atmosphere of Litchfield Beach makes it an ideal destination for relaxation, including sunset walks along the beach and unwind in the natural surroundings, making it one of the best beach towns in South Carolina.
Find hotels in Litchfield Beach here.
Garden City Beach
Garden City Beach is another relaxed and family-friendly destination, known for its serene atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities and is one of the best beach towns in South Carolina.
Garden City Beach boasts wide, sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are popular for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and water sports.
The Garden City Pier is a prominent landmark and a popular spot for fishing and strolling. It also features a café and an arcade.
Marlin Quay Marina offers charter fishing trips and boat rentals, making it a hub for anglers and boating enthusiasts.
You can often find live music performances and entertainment at some of the beachfront bars and restaurants in the area.
A short drive away from Garden City Beach is Murrells Inlet, known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” It offers additional dining options and a scenic waterfront boardwalk.
Huntington Beach State Park is located nearby and features nature trails, birdwatching, and a variety of wildlife.
Find hotels in Garden City Beach here.
Folly Beach
Folly Beach, or “The Edge of America,” is known for its laid-back, surfer vibe, and it’s a great place for relaxation and water sports.
The iconic Folly Beach Fishing Pier extends out into the ocean and is a popular spot for fishing, strolling, and enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.
Folly Beach is famous for its wide and scenic beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. The beaches are popular for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and beachcombing.
Morris Island Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that can be seen from Folly Beach and is a popular subject for photographs. You can reach it by boat or kayak.
Folly Beach County Park offers picnic areas, a boardwalk, and birdwatching opportunities. It’s a great place for family outings.
Folly Beach and the nearby estuaries and tidal creeks are home to a variety of bird species, making it a favorite spot for birdwatchers.
The heart of Folly Beach, Center Street, is lined with restaurants, shops, and bars. It’s the main hub for dining and entertainment.
Find hotels in Folly Beach here.
Isle of Palms
This barrier island offers beautiful beaches, excellent vacation rentals, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place for families and couples.
Isle of Palms boasts some of the most beautiful and well-maintained beaches in the Charleston area. The beaches are popular for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and water sports.
As with most of these beach towns in South Carolina you can enjoy a variety of water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and boating, in the ocean, estuaries, and Intracoastal Waterway.
The island offers nature trails and parks, like the Isle of Palms County Park, where you can enjoy walking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
Sullivan’s Island is a neighboring barrier island and a short drive from Isle of Palms. It’s known for its historic charm, beautiful beaches, and dining options.
Isle of Palms features a range of dining and shopping options, from seafood restaurants to boutique shops along Front Beach.
The island’s tranquil atmosphere and laid-back vibe make it an ideal destination for relaxation and unwinding.
Isle of Palms Marina provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and sailing, and you can charter boats for fishing excursions.
Isle of Palms is a favorite destination for those looking for a mix of luxury, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, making it one of the best beach towns in South Carolina.
Find hotels in Isle of Palms here.
Charleston
While not a traditional beach town, Charleston has some beautiful nearby beaches on Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and Isle of Palms.
This makes it the perfect base if you just want to day trip to some of the other places mentioned here and there are plenty of things to do in Charleston when there.
The heart of Charleston is its historic district, which is renowned for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens. You can explore historic homes, churches, and museums in this area.
The waterfront Park is a beautiful and serene park along the Cooper River, featuring fountains, walking paths, and stunning views of the Charleston Harbor.
Charleston is known for its culinary excellence and Lowcountry cuisine. The city boasts a wide range of restaurants, from upscale dining to casual seafood shacks, offering dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fresh oysters.
King Street is the city’s main shopping district, known for its boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries.
The Charleston Harbor is a hub for maritime activity, with boat tours, fishing, and access to historic Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began.
Charleston has several museums, including the Charleston Museum, which is the oldest museum in the United States. The Gibbes Museum of Art features a collection of American art, including works by local artists.
Charleston is also known for its rich Gullah culture, which preserves the African cultural heritage of the region. You can explore Gullah art, music, and cuisine.
You can enjoy the charm of historic Charleston while being a short drive away from the ocean.
Find hotels in Charleston here.
South Carolina
These are just a few of the beach towns in South Carolina to explore. Each offers its own unique charm and attractions, making it a great destination for beach lovers and vacationers.
If you want a good guidebook for the region then Fodor’s The Carolinas & Georgia is one of the best you can get.
For more travel on the east coast take a look at the 10 best coastal towns in Maine.
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