15 Best Beaches in South Carolina

Imagine a coastline kissed by sunshine, where the rhythmic lull of the Atlantic Ocean beckons you to unwind. South Carolina’s beaches are more than just stretches of sand; they are vibrant ecosystems, historical landmarks, and playgrounds for every kind of traveler. From the bustling boardwalks of Myrtle Beach to the serene, shell-strewn shores of Kiawah Island, the Palmetto State offers an unparalleled diversity of coastal experiences.

You will discover charming island towns, pristine natural preserves, and lively oceanfront communities, each with its own unique personality and allure. Planning your escape? The best times to visit are typically spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the weather is glorious, and the crowds are thinner, allowing you to truly soak in the beauty without the peak summer rush. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural splendor and southern charm that makes South Carolina’s beaches truly unforgettable.

Folly Beach

Folly Beach, affectionately known as “The Edge of America,” is a vibrant, bohemian surf town just a short drive from Charleston. What makes Folly truly unique is its quirky, laid-back atmosphere, a stark contrast to the historic grandeur of its neighbor. You can expect to see colorful surf shops, eclectic eateries, and a diverse crowd ranging from surfers catching waves to families building sandcastles.

The iconic Folly Beach Pier stretches over 1,000 feet into the ocean, offering spectacular views, excellent fishing opportunities, and a popular spot for leisurely strolls. Beyond the main beach, explore the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve for a glimpse of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, a truly picturesque and secluded spot ideal for nature photography and birdwatching. This beach is perfect for solo travelers seeking a relaxed vibe, couples looking for a charming escape, and families who appreciate a less commercialized, more authentic beach experience. The local community prides itself on its independent spirit, making it a refreshing alternative to more manicured resorts.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is the undisputed entertainment capital of the Grand Strand, a sprawling 60-mile stretch of coastline. This is where you go for non-stop action, towering resorts, and an endless array of activities. What sets Myrtle Beach apart is its sheer scale of family-friendly attractions, from the iconic Myrtle Beach SkyWheel offering panoramic views to countless mini-golf courses, amusement parks, and live entertainment venues.

You can expect vibrant boardwalks, bustling piers, and a high-energy atmosphere perfect for those who love options. Beyond the main beach, explore Broadway at the Beach for shopping and dining, or catch a show at the Carolina Opry. This destination is an absolute paradise for families with children of all ages, offering something to keep everyone entertained, but also caters well to groups and couples looking for a lively vacation. Its history as a popular vacation spot dates back decades, evolving from a quiet seaside town to a major tourist hub.

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms offers a more upscale, yet still relaxed, beach experience just north of Charleston. Its unique appeal lies in its balance of pristine natural beauty and sophisticated amenities. You will find meticulously maintained beaches, charming residential areas, and a focus on outdoor activities like golf and tennis.

Expect wide, clean beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and shell collecting, along with the bustling Isle of Palms Marina where you can embark on fishing charters or dolphin watching tours. The Wild Dunes Resort occupies a significant portion of the island, offering world-class golf courses and resort amenities. This island is ideal for families seeking a safe and clean environment, couples looking for a romantic retreat, and golf enthusiasts. Its development as a resort community began in the mid-20th century, carefully balancing growth with environmental preservation.

Hilton Head

Hilton Head Island is renowned for its championship golf courses, pristine beaches, and commitment to environmental preservation. What makes it special is its carefully planned development, which prioritizes natural beauty and a relaxed, upscale ambiance over flashy attractions. You will find miles of wide, hard-packed beaches perfect for biking at low tide, along with lush maritime forests and a plethora of outdoor activities.

Expect world-class golf and tennis facilities, deep-sea fishing charters, and dolphin tours. The island is divided into distinct “plantations,” each offering unique amenities and a sense of community. Hilton Head is a prime destination for families who appreciate active outdoor vacations, golf and tennis enthusiasts, and couples seeking a refined yet relaxed getaway. Its history is deeply rooted in the preservation of its natural landscape, making it a model for sustainable tourism development.

Edisto Beach

Edisto Beach offers a step back in time, a tranquil and uncommercialized escape on one of South Carolina’s last unbridged islands. Its unique charm lies in its untouched natural beauty, slow pace of life, and focus on simple pleasures. You will experience quiet, shell-strewn beaches, ancient maritime forests, and a strong sense of community.

Expect excellent opportunities for shelling, crabbing, fishing, and kayaking through peaceful creeks. The nearby Edisto Beach State Park provides camping, hiking trails, and educational programs about the local ecosystem. This destination is perfect for families seeking a peaceful, traditional beach vacation, nature lovers, and anyone looking to unplug and unwind. Edisto has a rich Gullah-Geechee cultural heritage, and its preservation reflects a commitment to maintaining its authentic character, largely untouched by major development.

Sullivan’s Island

Sullivan’s Island is a charming, historic barrier island located at the mouth of Charleston Harbor, offering a unique blend of casual beach life and significant historical importance. What makes it special is its rich past – it’s home to Fort Moultrie, a site of Revolutionary War and Civil War significance, and was the entry point for enslaved Africans to North America. You will find wide, unspoiled beaches perfect for dog walking (with restrictions), kiteboarding, and enjoying stunning sunsets.

The island’s main street boasts a collection of excellent local restaurants and pubs, creating a relaxed yet vibrant evening scene. Sullivan’s Island is ideal for history buffs, foodies, couples seeking a romantic getaway, and families who appreciate a quieter beach experience with cultural depth. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed here, inspiring his famous short story “The Gold-Bug,” adding another layer to its fascinating history.

Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a premier luxury destination, renowned for its pristine natural environment, world-class golf courses, and exclusive resort amenities. Its uniqueness stems from its commitment to preserving its natural beauty, with miles of unspoiled beaches, lush maritime forests, and abundant wildlife. You will discover a tranquil paradise where nature thrives alongside elegant accommodations.

Expect to see deer, alligators, and a vast array of bird species, alongside challenging golf courses like the Ocean Course, host of the PGA Championship. Activities include biking on paved trails, kayaking through tidal creeks, and relaxing on the uncrowded beaches. Kiawah is perfect for luxury travelers, avid golfers, nature enthusiasts, and families seeking a high-end, serene vacation. Its development since the 1970s has been meticulously planned to integrate with, rather than dominate, the natural landscape.

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is South Carolina’s most popular state park, a rugged and wild barrier island known for its dramatic, eroding beachfront and a historic lighthouse. What makes it unique is its raw, untamed beauty, where fallen trees dot the shoreline, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape.

You can expect opportunities for hiking through maritime forests, climbing the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse (the only one in South Carolina open to the public), fishing from the pier, and observing diverse wildlife, including loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season. It’s a natural wonderland, perfect for photographers, birdwatchers, campers, and families who love exploring the outdoors. The lighthouse, built in 1859 and rebuilt in 1875 after the Civil War, stands as a testament to the island’s enduring history and the forces of nature.

Murrells Inlet

Murrells Inlet is less a traditional beach and more a charming fishing village known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Its unique appeal lies in its picturesque marsh views, fresh seafood restaurants, and the famous MarshWalk, a half-mile boardwalk winding over the marsh. You will discover a vibrant culinary scene, live music, and opportunities for watersports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing charters.

While there isn’t a wide sandy beach within Murrells Inlet itself, it offers direct access to the ocean via boat and is just a short drive from Garden City Beach and Huntington Beach State Park. This area is perfect for foodies, fishing enthusiasts, couples looking for a romantic evening, and families seeking a relaxed coastal experience with excellent dining. The inlet’s history is deeply tied to its fishing industry, which continues to thrive today.

Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is a private, gated oceanfront community known for its untouched natural beauty, commitment to environmental preservation, and exclusive amenities. What makes it unique is its serene, residential atmosphere and focus on preserving its diverse ecosystem, including pristine beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes. You will find miles of quiet, shell-strewn beaches perfect for long walks, horseback riding along the shore, and observing abundant wildlife, including dolphins that strand feed in the creeks.

Expect world-class golf courses, a thriving tennis center, and a state-of-the-art equestrian center. This island is ideal for families seeking a peaceful, safe, and active vacation, nature lovers, and those who appreciate an exclusive, uncrowded environment. Its thoughtful development has maintained its natural character, making it a sanctuary for both residents and visitors.

Burkes Beach

Burkes Beach, located on Hilton Head Island, offers a quieter, more local beach experience compared to the island’s bustling Coligny Beach. Its unique appeal lies in its balance of accessibility and a slightly less crowded atmosphere, making it a favorite among residents and those seeking a peaceful retreat. You can expect wide, hard-packed sands ideal for biking, long walks, and enjoying the ocean without the overwhelming crowds.

There’s also a public park with restrooms, a playground, and outdoor showers, adding to its convenience. This beach is perfect for families with young children who want a more relaxed setting, couples seeking tranquility, and anyone looking for a great spot for beach biking. Its proximity to Chaplin Community Park makes it a practical choice for a full day of outdoor activities.

Mitchellville Beach Park

Mitchellville Beach Park, also on Hilton Head Island, holds significant historical importance as the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States. What makes this beach unique is its rich history combined with its natural, undeveloped beauty. You will find a quiet, natural beach with soft sand and calm waters, perfect for peaceful reflection, shell collecting, and enjoying the tranquility.

Interpretation signs tell the story of Mitchellville, offering a powerful educational experience. Expect a serene environment, often less crowded than other Hilton Head beaches, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and a connection to history. This beach is especially poignant for history enthusiasts, solo travelers seeking quiet contemplation, and families looking for an educational and peaceful outing. Its status as a historical landmark adds a profound layer to its natural allure.

Surfside

Surfside Beach, often called “The Family Beach,” lives up to its name with a strong focus on family-friendly amenities and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. What makes it special is its commitment to being autism-friendly and its overall calm, low-key vibe compared to its bustling Myrtle Beach neighbor. You will find wide, clean beaches, a charming pier, and plenty of public access points.

Expect a well-maintained playground, an accessible beach, and a general sense of community. It’s a place where families feel safe and comfortable, with amenities designed to cater to diverse needs. Surfside is perfect for families with young children, individuals with special needs, and anyone looking for a quiet, safe, and friendly beach vacation without the intense crowds. Its dedication to inclusivity makes it truly stand out.

Litchfield Beach

Litchfield Beach offers a serene and upscale escape along the Grand Strand, known for its natural beauty and quiet residential feel. What makes it unique is its emphasis on tranquility and natural preservation, providing a stark contrast to the lively atmosphere of nearby Myrtle Beach. You will discover pristine, wide beaches perfect for long walks, shelling, and enjoying the peaceful sounds of the ocean.

Expect a more residential environment with beautiful vacation rentals, fewer commercial distractions, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal ecosystem. This beach is ideal for families seeking a peaceful retreat, couples looking for a romantic and quiet getaway, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty over bustling entertainment. Its history is rooted in its development as a residential and resort community that prioritizes environmental harmony.

Cherry Grove Beach

Cherry Grove Beach, located at the northern end of the Grand Strand, offers a classic, laid-back beach town experience with a strong community feel. What makes it unique is its iconic Cherry Grove Pier, a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing, and its quieter atmosphere compared to the central Myrtle Beach area. You will find wide, clean beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun.

Expect a mix of classic beach houses and smaller motels, giving it a nostalgic charm. The pier often hosts fishing tournaments and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Cherry Grove is perfect for families seeking a traditional, unpretentious beach vacation, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed pace with convenient access to North Myrtle Beach attractions. Its history as a fishing and vacation haven dates back decades, maintaining its welcoming character.

Plan Your Visit

From the lively boardwalks of Myrtle Beach to the serene, historic shores of Edisto and Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina’s coastline is a treasure trove of diverse experiences. You’ve now seen that whether you crave adventurous water sports, peaceful nature immersion, family-friendly fun, or a touch of luxury, there’s a perfect beach waiting for you. Each stretch of sand tells its own story, offering unique activities, distinct vibes, and unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags, choose your ideal coastal escape, and prepare to be charmed by the Palmetto State’s unparalleled beauty. Remember to factor in your preferred level of comfort when budgeting, knowing that South Carolina offers options for every wallet. Start planning your South Carolina beach adventure today – the sun, sand, and southern hospitality are calling your name!