The Best Myrtle Beach beaches: A Paradise for Beach Lovers

Myrtle Beach is an iconic coastal city in South Carolina’s northeast region and is well known for its breathtaking beaches and lively atmosphere. Home to several beachfront areas, this area of the South Carolina coast provides many distinct options.  We will cover a few of the Myrtle Beach beaches, in addition to those in the surrounding areas!

1. Myrtle Beach: Where Fun Meets the Sun

Myrtle Beach is the heart of the Grand Strand coastline and is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in America. This vibrant beach destination perfectly blends entertainment, dining, and natural beauty. With easy access to restaurants, shops, piers, and the iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, visitors to Myrtle Beach can enjoy a wide range of activities. From strolling along the boardwalk to catching a ride on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, there’s something for everyone. The soft sands and warm waters of Myrtle Beach provide the ideal backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Don’t forget to watch for interesting seashells as you explore the beach!

Here are a few details regarding Myrtle Beach’s beaches:

• At first glance, the beach extends miles along the oceanfront with soft golden sand that gently curves along its coastline. Gentle dunes dotted with sea oats and beach grass border its edges as the shoreline.
• Waves gradually slope into the ocean, providing ideal swimming and playing conditions. Water is generally calm with only mild waves breaking onshore.
• Myrtle Beach offers many piers stretching into the ocean, including Myrtle Beach’s iconic 14th Street Pier featuring its towering SkyWheel attraction.
• The newly renovated 2nd Avenue Pier draws tourists and locals with fantastic fishing opportunities, restaurant services, and beautiful ocean views.
• The 14th Avenue Pier also features an arcade, gift shop, and snack bar. You will often see fishing enthusiasts trying their luck here as well.
• This area boasts several beachfront resorts, hotels, shops, restaurants, and bars close to its tourist center and attractions.
• Lifeguard stands can be seen along busier sections, and signs identify swim areas versus surf zones.
• Evenings bring live performances along the oceanfront promenade and Boardwalk area.

2. Litchfield Beach: A Serene Coastal Escape

 

Litchfield Beach is perfect for those seeking a more relaxed and uncrowded beach experience. Located between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach offers a tranquil setting with pristine white sands and breathtaking ocean views. This beach is known for its uncrowded shores, making it an ideal spot for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Litchfield Beach is also conveniently close to popular outdoor attractions such as Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park, allowing visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Here are a few key details of Litchfield Beach:

• Litchfield Beach can be found approximately 14 miles south of Myrtle Beach on Pawleys Island.
• These beaches provide a more tranquil, private atmosphere with limited public access points.
• Litchfield Country Club and nearby private communities and resorts share this beach.
• This shoreline showcases sparkling blue waters, natural dunes, and picturesque sandbars.
• Attractions include Litchfield Beach House restaurant, shopping village, and Russell Burgess Coastal Reserve.
• Fourth and Seventh Avenue are home to two small public access areas with parking spots.
• Litchfield Beach stands out among Grand Strand beaches by having limited public parking facilities available, making this beach less congested and popular with visitors.
• Beach houses lining the dunes instead of large hotels or high rises contribute to its peaceful, residential feel and give an area its distinctive residential character.
• Fishing jetties extend into the sea, offering anglers access to prime fishing spots.
• It is considered one of the premier locales for collecting seashells along the coastline.
• Offers stunning ocean vistas and is an ideal location for long beach strolls.

3. Myrtle Beach State Park: Nature’s Haven by the Sea

 

Nature enthusiasts will find their paradise at Myrtle Beach State Park. This scenic park, located on the southern edge of Myrtle Beach, offers a unique coastal ecosystem and a variety of recreational activities. Explore the park’s hiking and biking trails, which wind through lush forests and scenic marshes. Don’t miss the chance to spot endangered sea turtles nesting on the beach, as the park plays a crucial role in their conservation efforts. Myrtle Beach State Park also features a fishing pier, perfect for casting a line and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the ocean. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply looking to connect with nature, this park is a must-visit destination.

Here are a few key identifiers about Myrtle Beach State Park:

• Myrtle Beach State Park can be found just a short drive south of Myrtle Beach along Ocean Boulevard.
• -Covering over 300 acres, it comprises maritime forest, marshland, and beachfront properties.
• For ease of entry and check-in, this park features a separate gate and ranger station for check-ins.
• Recognizable landmarks include the wooden fishing pier extending into the ocean and the camp store.
•  Myrtle Beach State Park’s beach area features more space between umbrellas, making the beach area less congested than other sections.
• Wooden walkways and trails wind throughout wooded natural areas and marshland.
• The State Park offers camping sites, cabins, and youth group camping areas for youth groups to experience camping at its best.
•  Oceanfront campsites located directly on the dunes offer incredible beachfront views.
• This park provides recreational activities including guided nature tours, surf lessons, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
• Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool with picnic shelters and a playground nearby.
• At the entrance to this state park stands an iconic red and white-striped lighthouse replica.
• Myrtle Beach State Park parking requires an admission fee or a state park pass.

4. Garden City Beach: A Tranquil Retreat

Nestled just south of Myrtle Beach, Garden City Beach offers a serene, laid-back atmosphere perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach experience. This charming beach community features a picturesque shoreline with colorful residences and provides many amenities and dining options. While the beach area is relatively quiet during the day, it comes alive in the evenings with live music and entertainment.

• Garden City Beach can be found about 10 miles southeast of Murrells Inlet in Myrtle Beach.
• Garden City Pier, a popular fishing and crabbing pier, stands as a centerpiece of this city.
• The Pier has restaurants, arcade games, and bait and tackle stores; fishermen often find bountiful catches from it!
• The beaches here offer vast, sandy stretches known for gentle waves – making this location particularly family-friendly.
• Garden City Beach is known for plenty of species of seashells such as whelks and angel wing shells.
• Nearby landmarks include Garden City Beach Community Center and Chapel by the Sea.
• Beach access points have small parking lots known by names such as Moody’s, First, or Surf’s Up that provide beach access.
• A few casual, low-key beach restaurants and bars popular among locals serve simple cuisine at reasonable prices.
• Garden City Surf Shop and several other beach shops provide beach rentals and souvenirs in this region.

 

5. Cherry Grove Beach: Coastal Beauty and Tranquility

Located in North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Beach offers a secluded and picturesque escape. This beach is the last public stretch of sand before reaching the North Carolina state line, providing visitors exclusivity and tranquility. Cherry Grove Beach is known for its quiet ambiance and stunning ocean views. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and watch for the hidden treasures of the beach, such as shark teeth and unique seashells. For a panoramic view of the area, head to Cherry Grove Point and catch a glimpse of the untouched beauty of Waties Island.

Here are a few key details about Cherry Grove Beach:

• Cherry Grove Beach lies 16 miles northeast of Myrtle Beach.
• Cherry Grove Fishing Pier is an iconic structure extending 1000 feet out into the ocean.
• The Pier offers restaurants, bait and tackle stores, and an ice cream parlor; fishermen often frequent this popular spot!
• Cherry Grove Beach offers less crowded shorelines, giving it an intimate, small-town charm.
• The coastline is well known for its natural beauty with sea oats blooming amongst dunes and stunning sunset views.
• Beach houses line Ocean Drive, including the well-known White Inn at Cherry Grove near the pier.
• There are fewer high-rise hotels today, while small inns and condo rentals have become increasingly commonplace.
• This area boasts several casual restaurants, a fishing charter company, and family-run shops.
• Shell hunting on the beach offers great opportunities, particularly whelks, olive shells, and moon shells.

Conclusion of the Best Myrtle Beach beaches

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a beach lover’s paradise, offering a range of stunning beaches to suit every preference. Myrtle Beach has everything whether seeking a vibrant and bustling atmosphere or a serene and secluded escape. From the iconic Myrtle Beach with its endless entertainment options to the tranquil shores of Litchfield Beach, each beach in Myrtle Beach offers a unique experience. Explore the natural wonders of Myrtle Beach State Park or unwind at the peaceful Garden City Beach or Cherry Grove Beach. Whatever your beach style, Myrtle Beach is sure to captivate you with its coastal beauty and warm hospitality.

So, pack your bags, embrace the sun, and embark on a beach adventure in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Discover your perfect beach haven and create unforgettable memories amidst the captivating beauty of the Grand Strand coastline.