BEACHES & PARKS
When it comes to discovering the ideal place to unwind and beat the heat on your holiday, Myrtle Beach stands out as a premier destination. Revel in over 60 miles of pristine beachfront stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, where you can capture the essence of a tranquil morning walk or a joyous afternoon of constructing sandcastles with your family.
Unlike other coastal areas, Myrtle Beach offers extensive public access to its beaches. The entire expanse from the waterline to the dunes is open for public enjoyment, making it easy for everyone to find their perfect spot under the sun. The city boasts numerous access points across the Grand Strand, ensuring that whether you’re near the iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, the family-friendly Surfside Beach, or the picturesque Garden City, you’ll always find a welcoming entrance to the sandy shores. Plus, with the addition of state parks like Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park, visitors have even more opportunities to explore and enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities available in the area.
The Best Beaches
Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove, tucked away in the northernmost tip of Myrtle Beach, offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. This charming locale is renowned for its pristine beaches, enveloped by the natural beauty of South Carolina’s coastline. A serene paradise for beach lovers, Cherry Grove is an idyllic spot for those seeking peaceful beach days, with miles of soft, golden sands inviting visitors to relax, sunbathe, or dive into the refreshing Atlantic waters. The area’s rich biodiversity, including the nearby Heritage Shores Nature Preserve, provides a unique opportunity for nature enthusiasts to explore the local flora and fauna, adding a touch of adventure to the serene beach experience.
Moreover, Cherry Grove is celebrated for its iconic fishing pier, extending gracefully into the ocean and offering unparalleled opportunities for fishing or simply enjoying panoramic views of the vast, blue horizon. The neighborhood around the pier buzzes with life, featuring quaint shops, local eateries, and charming beachside accommodations, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere for visitors and locals alike. Whether it’s indulging in the fresh catch of the day, exploring the scenic waterways by kayak, or capturing the breathtaking sunrises, Cherry Grove encapsulates the essence of a laid-back coastal lifestyle, making it a beloved destination within the Myrtle Beach area.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach, nestled within the heart of North Myrtle Beach, is a cherished gem along the Grand Strand known for its picturesque, family-friendly coastline. This quieter section of the Myrtle Beach area offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe, making it an ideal retreat for vacationers seeking to escape the more crowded spots at Myrtle.
The area is characterized by its fine, golden sands and inviting waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying leisurely walks along the beach. Crescent Beach offers a unique blend of tranquility and convenience, with easy access to a variety of local shops, eateries, and attractions. Its reputation as a peaceful haven, coupled with the proximity to all the amenities and entertainment options of North Myrtle Beach, makes Crescent Beach a must-visit spot for those looking to experience the best of the South Carolina coast in a more serene setting.
Windy Hill Beach
Windy Hill Beach, with its convenient access at 33rd Street, directly across from popular condo accommodations, stands out as a family-friendly destination in the Myrtle Beach area.
Visitors praise its stunning beauty, highlighting the soft, malleable sand ideal for sandcastle building, and the delightful tidal pools that emerge at low tide, providing a perfect, safe playground for younger children. Surf enthusiasts, particularly, rave about the excellent wave conditions in the mornings, making it a prime spot for surfing adventures. The combination of easy beach access, ideal conditions for a variety of beach activities, and the natural beauty of the area makes Windy Hill Beach a highly recommended destination for families and surfers alike, promising memorable experiences and drawing visitors back time and again.
Ocean Drive Beach
Ocean Drive Beach stands as a must-visit highlight within North Myrtle Beach, nestled conveniently close to the area’s renowned golf courses and inviting vacation rentals. This vibrant section of the beach offers a blend of safety and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for those eager to be just steps away from a variety of dining and shopping options. With ample drive-up parking available, visitors can enjoy hassle-free access to the beach, making it ideal for those looking to maximize their time soaking up the sun and surf.
Visitors often find the mornings to be the best time to visit Ocean Drive Beach, enjoying the quieter atmosphere before the crowds arrive in the afternoon. Despite its popularity, the beach remains spacious enough to comfortably accommodate visitors throughout the day. The waters here are invitingly warm, featuring waves that strike the perfect balance between calm and playful, ideal for family swimming. Adding to the convenience is North Myrtle Beach’s umbrella rental service, ensuring that visitors can easily find shade when they need a break from the sun. This combination of accessibility, amenities, and the welcoming, family-friendly environment makes Ocean Drive Beach a top choice for both relaxation and beachside fun.
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach, though compact at merely four blocks, holds a significant place in Myrtle Beach’s history as a vibrant center of African-American heritage.
Established in the early 1930s as a seaside retreat for Black families and entrepreneurs, it has deep roots in the Gullah Geechee culture, with many residents tracing their lineage back to ancestors who were enslaved peoples from West Africa. Known affectionately as the “Black Pearl,” it sits nestled between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, embodying a rich legacy of resilience and cultural preservation.
This beach is celebrated as the birthplace of “beach music,” having been a crucial venue for African-American musicians, and playing a pivotal role in the emergence of dances like the Shag, South Carolina’s state dance.