South Carolina Beaches: The Perfect Coastal Escapes

A breathtaking view of a sea with turquoise waters and sandy shores during the evening.
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South Carolina beaches offer pretty coastlines, warm waters, and diverse attractions perfect for relaxing or adventure-filled holidays. From unique destinations like Myrtle Beach with its bustling boardwalk to the pristine shores of Hunting Island, South Carolina has something for every type of beachgoer. These beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring nearby nature trails, providing visitors with lively activities and peaceful escapes. South Carolina’s coastal charm and warm weather make it a popular beach destination in the United States.

Top 10 South Carolina beaches

The top 10 best in South Carolina beaches offer a mix of charming vision, outdoor activities, and coastal charm, perfect for every traveller.

1. Myrtle Beach

Delightful sunrise over the ocean at one of the secluded beaches in South Carolina.

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Myrtle Beach is one of the best beaches in South Carolina, attracting millions of visitors each year. Known for its lively boardwalk, amusement parks, and vast sandy shores, it’s an excellent spot for families and groups. With endless activities like shopping, dining, and live entertainment, Myrtle Beach provides a dynamic experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bustling beach with a festive atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for fun and enjoyment along the Atlantic coast. Myrtle Beach offers a lively atmosphere with endless shopping, dining, and nightlife along its attractive coastline.

Things To Do: Water sports, amusement parks, shopping, nightlife
Location: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible via Myrtle Beach International Airport; accessible by car and bus, with plenty of parking near the beach

2. Hilton Head Island

Idyllic lagoon with a boat near one of the famous beaches in South Carolina at sunset.

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Hilton Head Island, nestled on South Carolina’s Atlantic coast, is a charming retreat renowned for its pristine beaches, abundant golf courses, and rich natural vision. The island offers visitors luxury and amusement with elegant resorts, upscale dining, and delightful views along miles of charming coastline. Hilton Head is also home to diverse wildlife, inviting nature enthusiasts to explore its protected parks and wetlands. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s an ideal destination for adventure and leisure.

Things To Do: Golf, cycling, nature trails, eco-tours
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
How To Reach: Reachable by road from nearby cities; Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is the closest airport, with taxi and shuttle services available

3. Folly Beach

Tropical beach with palm trees and clear water, featuring beaches in South Carolina.

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Folly Beach Charleston is beloved for its laid-back atmosphere and incredible natural scenery. Known as “The Edge of America,” it offers a charming expanse of beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Folly Beach Pier, ideal for fishing or sunset views, while the nearby Morris Island Lighthouse adds a touch of history. With diverse marine life, vibrant local eateries, and welcoming beachside cottages, Folly Beach is a perfect blend of refreshment and charm, appealing to nature lovers and beachgoers.

Things To Do: Surfing, fishing, beachside dining, live music
Location: Folly Beach, near Charleston, South Carolina
How To Reach: Easily accessible by road from Charleston; public buses and taxis run regularly from downtown Charleston to Folly Beach

4. Edisto Beach

Cyclist riding along the shore at sunset on one of the famous beaches in South Carolina.

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Edisto Beach is a famous beach in South Carolina known for its quiet and unspoiled natural charm. This famous beach in South Carolina is ideal for those looking for a more relaxing setting with fewer crowds. Visitors to Edisto Beach can enjoy beachcombing, shelling, and picnicking by the shore or explore the nearby Edisto Island State Park. As a famous beach in South Carolina, Edisto offers attractive views, calm surroundings, and a chance to connect with nature, making it a favorite for a relaxing coastal getaway.

Things To Do: Beachcombing, picnics, exploring Edisto Island State Park
Location: Edisto Beach, South Carolina
How To Reach: Reachable by car from Charleston via US-17 and SC-174

5. Isle of Palms

The ocean view of one of the best beaches in South Carolina, ideal for exploration.

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Isle of Palms, a barrier island near Charleston, offers a calm retreat with wide, soft, sandy beaches and gentle waves ideal for calming oneself. Known for its upscale beach houses and resorts, this island provides luxury and leisure, featuring golf courses, tennis courts, and a welcoming marina for boating enthusiasts. Visitors can explore local wildlife, enjoy fresh seafood at coastal restaurants, or ride along the shore. With its blend of natural vision and refined amenities, Isle of Palms makes for a genuinely idyllic seaside escape.

Things To Do: Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking
Location: Isle of Palms, South Carolina
How To Reach: Easily reachable by car from Charleston; public transport options, including buses and taxis, are available for travel

6. Kiawah Island

Image of a Misty mountain lake view showcasing calm landscapes in south carolina

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Kiawah Island is renowned for its private beach and world-class golf resort, It features the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, offering luxurious villas, pristine beaches, and acclaimed golf courses. As of the 2010 census, the island’s population was 1,626, up from 1,163 in 2000. Name variants include “Kiawa,” “Kittiwar,” and “Kittiwah,” which are featured in notable literature and opera works. Kiawah’s natural vision, relief atmosphere, and exclusive amenities make it a perfect destination for those seeking composure amidst pristine coastal landscapes.

Things To Do: Golf, wildlife observation, beach walks, cycling
Location: Kiawah Island, South Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Charleston; Charleston International Airport is about 30 miles away, with shuttle and taxi services available

7. Hunting Island

Outstanding coastline view of one of the best beaches in South Carolina with waves.

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Hunting Island, located near Beaufort, is a famous beach in South Carolina’s most attractive state parks, known for its maritime forest, lighthouse, and rich wildlife. The beach is famous for camping, hiking, and exploring, with visitors often climbing the Hunting Island Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views. Hunting Island provides a distinct and refreshing retreat for those who enjoy a wild, untouched landscape over a busy beach scene. Hunting Island is an attractive paradise known for its abundant forests, wildlife, and iconic lighthouse.

Things To Do: Hiking, lighthouse climbing, beach camping, wildlife watching
Location: Hunting Island, near Beaufort, South Carolina
How To Reach: Reachable by road from Beaufort; best accessed by car, as limited public transport options are available

8. Seabrook Island

Calm view of one of the secluded beaches in South Carolina, with tranquil ocean waters.

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Seabrook Island, a private coastal haven near Charleston, offers a relaxing escape surrounded by natural vision and pristine beaches. Known for its commitment to conservation, this island is home to charming marshlands, maritime forests, and quiet, expansive beaches that provide sanctuary for local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from horseback riding along the shore to golfing on championship courses and kayaking through tidal creeks. With its elegant resort amenities, relaxed pace, and untouched landscapes, Seabrook Island offers an idyllic retreat for nature lovers and those seeking calm seaside fun.

Things To Do: Horseback riding, kayaking, golfing, beach pleasure
Location: Seabrook Island, South Carolina
How To Reach: Accessible by road from Charleston; private access, so driving is the best way to reach this beach

9. Surfside Beach

Relaxing seascape view of one of the secluded beaches in South Carolina at sunset.

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Surfside Beach, affectionately known as “The Family Beach,” is a charming seaside town along South Carolina’s Grand Strand. Its gentle waves, sandy shores, and welcoming atmosphere are ideal for families and beachgoers seeking a relaxed coastal experience. The town features a delightful pier, an inviting boardwalk, and plenty of family-friendly parks, playgrounds, and picnic spots. Surfside Beach is also known for its eco-friendly practices and community spirit, with plenty of local eateries and shops that give it a warm, small-town feel, perfect for a laid-back beach holiday.

Things To Do: Watersports, Fishing, Jetski, Surf
Location: Seabrook Island, South Carolina
How To Reach: The nearest major airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), which is located about 15 miles from Surfside Beach

10. Cherry Grove Beach

Delightful sunset over the ocean at one of the famous beaches in South Carolina.

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Cherry Grove Beach is one of the sleepy neighbourhoods of North Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. It stretches along South Carolina Highways 9 and 65 and is notable for its venerable Cherry Grove Pier, one of the legendary landmarks that dates back to the 1950s. It stood through several hurricanes and was rebuilt and extended in 1999 after Hurricane Floyd. The city of North Myrtle Beach was formed by the merger of Windy Hill Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, Crescent Beach, and Cherry Grove Beach in 1968.

Things To Do: Fishing, kayaking, walking the pier, sunbathing
Location: Cherry Grove Beach, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
How To Reach: Reachable by car from North Myrtle Beach; public transport options include buses and taxis from nearby areas

The famous South Carolina beaches offer something for every type of traveller, from lively boardwalks and water sports to calm retreats surrounded by a natural charmer. Whether you are looking for adventure or mental repose, these beaches provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable coastal experiences. Plan a trip with TripXL to indulge in the diverse activities, and welcoming atmospheres.

Cover Photo: Sean Oulashin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, most beaches in South Carolina are open year-round. However, some services may be seasonal, with peak tourist seasons typically during summer.
Yes, most South Carolina beaches are ideal for swimming, with warm waters in the summer months. Always check for any beach advisories before entering the water.
Some beaches, like Folly Beach and Isle of Palms, allow pets in specific areas or during certain hours. Always check local regulations for pet policies before visiting.
South Carolina beaches are perfect for water sports such as surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing, with many beaches offering rentals and lessons.
Yes, most South Carolina beaches offer parking, though it can be limited or chargeable, especially during peak seasons. Many beaches also have public parking lots and metered parking options nearby.

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