Are you thinking of heading out to check out the beaches inMyrtle Beach? You can stop your search right now because you have come to the right place. Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular places not only in South Carolina but all of America, for families and couples to come on vacation. There are plenty of beaches in SC to see, but the beach spots in Myrtle Beach are particularly special.
Once you arrive you will quickly realize that there is so much to do in Myrtle Beach. Including an amusem*nt parkwith the world’s highest Ferris wheel, a boardwalk filled with souvenir shops, and world-class golf courses. Besides all of the beautiful beaches in Mrytle beach, it is also known for its food scene.
You are going to need to try one of the yummy breakfast spots before you head to enjoy the sandy shores. And after your day full of fun in the sun you will want to grub out. There are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Be sure to save this list ofMyrtle Beach beaches so you can refer to it easily once you are on your vacation.
Is there Clear Water inMyrtle Beach SC?
Although the water is not completely clear at all of the beaches of Myrtle Beach, the water is safe and clean to swim in. Most of the time the ocean water has a blueish or dark teal tint to it.
This is due to the different minerals and rivers that run into the Atlantic Ocean near the beaches of Myrtle Beach. The waters are tested and reported regularly by the city to ensure it’s safe for people to swim in. So can enjoy your swim without a care in the world.
Are Beaches free inMyrtle Beach?
Yes! All of the beaches in Myrtle beach are free and open to the public. You may run into a few of these spots where you have to pay to park, or where parking is limited.
Once you arrive you will see that all of these wonderful beach spots in Myrtle beach have their own charm and characteristics. You could always try and hit more than one of these free beaches on the same day too.
Make sure to check out our list of the Best Oceanfront Hotels In Myrtle Beach for your trip!
Best Beaches inMyrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach
Up first is one of the most popular and nicest beaches in Myrtle Beach. This strip of beach is often referred to as “America’s favorite beach”. This is where you will find the iconic boardwalk with the giant Ferris wheel. If you are just rolling into town this is where you should start exploring. This is because it has anything and everything you could ever want.
If you are looking for beach activities like parasailing or jet skiing Myrtle Beach would be the best spot for that. This is also one of the more popular spots for local surfers and bodyboarders to ride the waves. Along the strip, you will also find the amazing Ripley’s Aquarium which is fun for the whole family. You do not want to miss out on the excitement and thrills here at one of the best beaches in Myrtle Beach.
Surfside Beach
Up next is Surfside Beach, which is one of the best beaches near Myrtle Beach. Located just a short distance of about 8 miles away you find a lovely shallow water beach with plenty of things to do. This is one of the best beach spots in Myrtle Beach for families with children. The water is normally very calm and there is also a waterpark to play at.
During the season you will find lifeguards patrolling the water to keep everyone safe. If you are visiting during one of the few summer holidays you may be blessed with a golf cart parade put on by the locals. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from here as well. Surfside Beach was recently stated as the first autism-friendly beach with a sensory-friendly environment in certain places.
Litchfield Beach
Litchfield Beach is a tranquil experience and one of the best beaches aroundMyrtle Beach. This beach is located near all the luxurious golf courses and resorts. Parking here can be a bit tough so you will want to plan to arrive early in the morning to snag a good spot. This is one of the most popular beaches in Myrtle beach to fish, kayak, and people even try surfing here.
Another popular thing to do around Litchfield Beach is the biking trail Waccamaw Neck Bikeway. You will also find plenty of restaurants, hotels, and condos to stay in around here. If you are looking to chill out and relax at one of the nicest and best beaches aroundMyrtle Beach Litchfield Beach is the perfect spot for you.
North Myrtle Beach
Head up North to feel like a kid again. In North Myrtle Beach you will find all the best things to indulge in during your vacation. Stop by the Pavilion Amusem*nt Park to get your adrenaline rush in and even grab a snack. Then you can head out to one of the many best vacation beaches in Myrtle Beach.
North Myrtle Beach is a mix of Cherry Grove, Atlantic Beach, and Crescent Beach. In North Myrtle Beach the fun does not stop when the sun goes down. You will see plenty of beach clubs where you can enjoy live music any night of the week. If that is not your vibe there are also local breweries, and plenty of restaurants to relax in.
Even though there is so much to do here it still has a relaxing laid back beach kind of vibe. If this sounds like the best beach in Myrtle Beach for you be sure to check out the many hotels and resorts here. You should spend at least one day exploring everything that North Myrtle Beach has to offer.
Garden City Beach
Garden City Beach is one of the most popular beach spots in Myrtle Beach for fishing, crabbing, and chilling. It is just a short 10-mile drive away from Myrtle Beach. There are over 5 miles of pristine sandy shore here so no matter what time the year you go you will always find a spot.
Check out the Garden City Pier while you are there. It is 668 feet long and offers some amazing views of the inlet. Garden City Pier is also one of the best places to pier fish. They sell bait and even fishing gear there too. When the sun goes down the live bands start up at the local pier restaurant as well.
You could spend your day soaking in the sun and then head out to enjoy the Garden City Arcade. Play some vintage games like Pac-Man or street fighter. There are colorful cottages peppered along the coastline here you can rent. Garden City beach is one of the most beautiful beaches near Myrtle Beach and you should definitely consider staying here.
Huntington Beach State Park
If you are looking for one of the best beaches close to Myrtle Beach this coastal preserve is a must-see. Here at Huntington Beach State Park, you will find three miles of preserved land and even a Moorish-style castle. This is definitely a place for nature lovers. You can bike or hike the trails, bird watching, and in the right season, you may even see sea turtles.
Be sure to pack a lunch or grab a takeaway meal on your way because there are plenty of covered shelters with picnic tables. At Huntington Beach State Park you can also set up camp for a night or two. They have over 100 campsites for RVs and tent campers with a complete water and power setups.
If you are looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city this is one of the best vacation beaches in Myrtle Beach. You can set up your tent and fall asleep to the gentle crash of the waves. It is a memory you will never forget. This would be a perfect day trip as well to see one of the best beaches aroundMyrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach State Park
You cannot leave out the state park beach when making a list ofMyrtle Beach beaches. This beautiful nature reserve is 312 acres and has officially been open since 1936. Here you will find miles of trails and plenty of great places to try your hand at surf fishing. There is also a lovely pier that is popular with tourists and fishers alike.
If you wanted to spend the night you can check out the campground. Or if that is a little too rustic for you there are a few cabins that are available to book. Be sure to check out the state website to book your spot early and to find out the pricing for the overnight stays. You are going to love the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful greenery at one of the best beaches around Myrtle Beach.
Cherry Grove
Up next is Cherry Grove and it is up high on the list of great beaches inMyrtle Beach. This beautiful beach has plenty to offer and it is up in the northern section of the city. Here you can go all out and try parasailing or relax and take a nap on the quiet shores. You will also find a long pier to explore and the beautiful Cherry Grove Oceanfront Park is a perfect picnic spot.
There is plenty of parking here and they also have public restrooms. You will find lifeguards on duty during the summer as well. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Myrtle Beach and regularly pops up on lists of the south’s best beaches year after year.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach or the “Black Pearl” may be the smallest of all of the beaches of Myrtle Beach but it still deserves all the love. It is a beautiful patch of beach that is only about 4 blocks long. When this Beach was first established back in the early 1930s it was the only place for the black residents to go and enjoy the sun and sand.
Because of this the culture and many of the residents are descents of the Gullah Geechee people from West Africa. Back in 2017, the city invested in the area to keep the culture of the Gullah Geechee people alive. Since then they have opened new restaurants and new housing areas have developed.
Atlantic Beach is also where beach music was born. Many famous musicians have performed here, including Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye. This is one of the most popular beaches close to Myrtle Beach to get married at as well. Be sure to stop by and check out Atlantic Beach and enjoy the live music it is a must-do.
Murrell’s Inlet
If you get hungry on your trip Murrell’s Inlet is known as the “seafood capital of South Carolina”. When you get to Murrell’s Inlet you will see that is it a quaint village that is full of life and marshes. If you are traveling with any history buffs this would be an amazing spot on your trip. Legend says the pirate Blackbeard used the inlet to store his boat from time to time.
There are also deep sea fishing excursions and kayak tours during the day. This is one of the best beaches near Myrtle Beach to visit at night time as well. You can experience what they call The Marshwalk at night. This is a stroll along the half-mile wooden boardwalk where you can learn the history of the town and take in the sights.
And since it is the seafood capital of South Carolina you already know there are going to be delicious restaurants on the waterfront for you to enjoy. Murrell’s Inlet and Hunnington State Park are very close together so you could knock off two of the best beaches in Myrtle Beach in one day.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
As an expert in beach destinations and travel enthusiast, I can confidently say that Myrtle Beach is a top-notch vacation spot. With its stunning beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and abundance of activities, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone.
One of the standout features of Myrtle Beach is its beautiful beaches. While the water may not be completely clear at all the beaches, it is safe and clean for swimming. The ocean water often has a blueish or dark teal tint due to the minerals and rivers that flow into the Atlantic Ocean near Myrtle Beach. The city regularly tests and reports the water quality to ensure it is safe for visitors to swim.
Another great aspect of Myrtle Beach is that all the beaches are free and open to the public. While you may encounter some spots where you have to pay for parking or where parking is limited, the beaches themselves are accessible to everyone. Each beach in Myrtle Beach has its own unique charm and characteristics, making it a great idea to explore multiple beaches in one day.
Now, let's delve into some of the best beaches in Myrtle Beach:
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Myrtle Beach: Known as "America's favorite beach," Myrtle Beach is a popular and beautiful destination. It offers a wide range of activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, and surfing. The iconic boardwalk with the world's highest Ferris wheel is a must-visit attraction. Families can also enjoy Ripley's Aquarium and the amusem*nt park.
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Surfside Beach: Located just a short distance from Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is perfect for families with children. The water is usually calm, making it safe for swimming. There is also a waterpark and lifeguards on duty during the season. Surfside Beach was recently recognized as the first autism-friendly beach, offering a sensory-friendly environment in certain areas.
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Litchfield Beach: Situated near luxurious golf courses and resorts, Litchfield Beach provides a tranquil and scenic experience. It is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and even surfing. The biking trail, Waccamaw Neck Bikeway, is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts. You'll also find a variety of restaurants, hotels, and condos in the area.
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North Myrtle Beach: A perfect destination for those looking to have fun and enjoy a vibrant nightlife, North Myrtle Beach offers a mix of Cherry Grove, Atlantic Beach, and Crescent Beach. The Pavilion Amusem*nt Park and beach clubs provide ample entertainment options. You can also explore local breweries, enjoy live music, and dine in excellent restaurants.
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Garden City Beach: Just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, Garden City Beach is renowned for fishing, crabbing, and relaxation. With over five miles of pristine sandy shore, you'll always find a spot to soak up the sun. Don't miss the Garden City Pier, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and try pier fishing. The area also offers an arcade and colorful cottages for rent.
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Huntington Beach State Park: If you're seeking a coastal preserve near Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park is a must-visit. It features three miles of preserved land and a Moorish-style castle. Nature lovers can enjoy biking, hiking, bird watching, and, if lucky, spot sea turtles. The park offers camping options with RV and tent sites, allowing you to fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
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Myrtle Beach State Park: This beautiful nature reserve encompasses 312 acres and has been open since 1936. It offers miles of trails and excellent surf fishing opportunities. The lovely pier is popular among tourists and fishermen. You can even camp overnight or book a cabin for a more comfortable stay.
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Cherry Grove: Located in the northern section of Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove is a picturesque beach with options for parasailing or simply unwinding on the quiet shores. The long pier is perfect for exploring, and Cherry Grove Oceanfront Park is an ideal picnic spot. The beach has ample parking, public restrooms, and lifeguards during the summer.
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Atlantic Beach: Despite being the smallest beach in Myrtle Beach, Atlantic Beach holds immense cultural significance. It was initially established as a place for black residents to enjoy the sun and sand, and it still preserves the culture of the Gullah Geechee people. The beach has witnessed performances by famous musicians like Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye. It's also a popular choice for weddings.
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Murrell's Inlet: Known as the "seafood capital of South Carolina," Murrell's Inlet is a charming village with marshes and a rich history. It offers deep-sea fishing excursions, kayak tours, and The Marshwalk, a half-mile boardwalk where you can learn about the town's history. The waterfront restaurants serve delicious seafood, making it a perfect spot for food lovers.
Visiting these incredible beaches in Myrtle Beach will provide you with unforgettable experiences and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, Myrtle Beach has it all.
