The Top 7 Beaches in South Carolina

Life feels so much brighter with sand between your toes, a touch of salt in the breeze, and endless water stretching out before you. South Carolina's 2,876 miles of coastline offer just that, with beaches and charming towns that seem straight out of a summer romantic comedy.

The coastal region is a key part of South Carolina's identity—it is, after all, the Palmetto State. From the family-friendly atmosphere of Myrtle Beach to the rich colonial history of Sullivan’s Island, each beach offers a distinctive experience and a chance to learn something new.

Here are seven of the finest beaches in South Carolina to consider for your upcoming getaway.

1. Edisto Beach

Edisto Island, South Carolina

Ideal for: a laid-back, uncommercialized beach vibe

Located just south of Kiawah, Edisto Beach is not your typical tourist destination filled with large hotels and fast-casual dining. Instead, this tranquil area emphasizes nature-focused activities, such as those found at Edisto Beach State Park.

Spanning 1,255 acres, the park features seven hiking and biking trails, four of which are ADA-accessible, guiding you through maritime forests once inhabited by Native Americans long before European explorers arrived. You'll even find a Native American shell mound here that dates back to 2000 B.C.E. Fishing has evolved since those times, yet it remains a favorite pastime in the region. Try your luck at catching flounders or even juvenile sand sharks (rest assured, the larger varieties are found much further out).

Accommodation suggestion: Edisto Beach State Park

Edisto Beach State Park features seven cozy cabins and two campgrounds for those looking to extend their stay—and you definitely should, to enjoy the stargazing along the beach. Each campground is equipped with restrooms and hot showers, with some sites available for RVs.

Getting to Edisto Beach

The most convenient way to reach Edisto Island is via Charleston airport, which has good connections nationwide (even Alaska Airlines offers a direct flight from Seattle). From the airport, take a 40-minute drive west on Highway 17 until you reach Highway 147 at Osborn. This 30-minute stretch will lead you directly to Edisto Beach.

2. Folly Beach

Folly Island, South Carolina

What to enjoy: Balancing beach time with city adventures

It’s true that spotting surfers riding the waves in South Carolina is a rare sight. The Atlantic tends to caress the shore rather than deliver the powerful surf found on the Pacific coast. However, this doesn’t mean surfing is absent. One of the top spots for catching some waves is Folly Beach, a six-mile stretch famous for its surf, especially at places like the Washout, which became a competition-ready surfing spot after Hurricane Hugo reshaped the area in 1989.

When the waves aren’t perfect for your taste, paddle back and venture about 10 miles inland to Charleston. Established in 1670, this city is rich in history and hidden gems, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers seeking the best local boutiques, museums, and must-try dishes.

Recommended accommodation: Beachside Boutique Inn

The charm of Beachside Boutique Inn lies in its embrace of beachy kitsch, featuring playful decor like stone-adorned bathtubs and vibrant beach-themed accents. Don’t worry too much about picking between a “Wooden Castle” room, a “Quirky Cottage” room, or a stand-alone cottage. Each room boasts plenty of natural light and colorful walls, giving off the vibe of a quirky relative’s home (with an interesting style).

Getting to Folly Beach

The quickest route to Folly Beach is to fly into Charleston International Airport. From there, it’s just a 25-minute drive along Folly Beach Road. If you’re traveling during a holiday, be ready for some congestion—this is the sole road in and out of Folly Island.

3. Cherry Grove Beach

Cherry Grove, South Carolina

What to enjoy: A tranquil escape from Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach stands as South Carolina’s most frequented beach, attracting around 19 million visitors each year (complete with its own airport). For families seeking excitement, the amusement parks and shopping centers in Central and South Myrtle Beach offer endless entertainment. Head north of Highway 22, and the atmosphere becomes much more serene. This area comprises four communities—Cherry Grove, Windy Hill, Ocean Drive, and Crescent Beach—ideal for those desiring a getaway focused solely on relaxation.

You can't go wrong anywhere in North Myrtle Beach, but Cherry Grove (the northernmost part) is a particularly delightful two-mile stretch. While it may lack a massive Ferris wheel on the sand, its 985-foot pier attracts anglers by day and night. Although the pier is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian, its manager assures that they plan to construct a larger and improved pier.

Accommodations in Cherry Grove: The Towers at North Myrtle Beach

At the Towers at North Myrtle Beach, nothing can obstruct your access to the beach, thanks to its prime oceanfront location. Before heading out to the waves, be sure to check out the water amenities, including a rooftop pool, children's pool, hot tubs, and a lazy river. With room options ranging from studios to three-bedroom suites, there's something for every type of traveler visiting Cherry Grove.

Getting to Cherry Grove

Myrtle Beach Airport offers nonstop flights from over 50 cities across the country, with services from budget airlines like Allegiant and Avelo, as well as major carriers such as Delta and American. From the airport, you can reach Cherry Grove by driving 45 minutes north on Highway 17.

4. Kiawah Beachwalker Park

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Go for: seclusion and world-class golf courses

If the image of noisy children splashing in the waves makes you cringe, Kiawah Island might be your ideal escape for some well-deserved relaxation. This largely private island offers abundant tranquility, and visitors are happy to pay a premium for it—thanks to luxurious accommodations like The Sanctuary and Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

Kiawah's peaceful environment also makes it a fantastic place for golf, having hosted the PGA Championships multiple times, most recently in 2021. If a lavish weekend getaway isn't in your plans, Kiawah Beachwalker Park provides access to the same beautiful sands as the island's sole public beach. Just keep in mind there is a car fee ranging from $5 to $20 depending on the time of year.

Where to stay: The Sanctuary

The Sanctuary embodies the pinnacle of island luxury, featuring rich wood furnishings and complimentary shoe shines. Staying in one of its 255 rooms feels like a personal retreat, complete with marble floors, spacious vanities, and private balconies that overlook the coastline. Guests also enjoy exclusive access to amenities like the adults-only pool, spa services, and all five golf courses on Kiawah Island, including the renowned 'Ocean Course.'

How to reach Kiawah Island

Located just south of Folly Island, the best way to access Kiawah Island is by driving from Charleston's airport. The drive takes about an hour heading south. If your destination is Kiawah Beachwalker Park, turn right onto Beachwalker Drive from Kiawah Island Parkway. Otherwise, be ready to show a hotel or restaurant reservation at the guard gate when entering the island community.

5. Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Go for: a classic beach town that remains unchanged through the years

While many areas along South Carolina's coast flaunt their upscale glamour, Pawleys Island stays true to its simple origins. Its four-mile stretch of beach was originally settled by rice planters in the 1700s and has drawn summer visitors since the 1800s—many seeking refuge from malaria—making it one of the earliest summer getaways on the East Coast. The island’s historic residences create a quaint district right by the beach.

Pawleys Island is unique for its relaxed vibe, where modern conveniences like grocery stores and gas stations have no place. The presence of charming bed-and-breakfasts like the Pelican Inn and Sea View Inn reflects its atmosphere, encouraging visitors to unwind and let the island embrace them.

Where to stay: Sea View Inn

Each of the Sea View Inn’s 20 rooms features a private half bath, a single bed, a double bed, and picturesque views of the ocean or marsh. Breakfast is offered at $15 per person, along with midday and evening dining options.

How to reach Pawleys Island

The nearest airport to Pawleys Island is Myrtle Beach International Airport, which offers flights from 50 nonstop destinations. From there, it’s a scenic 45-minute drive south on Highway 17 to reach the island. Charleston International Airport is also relatively close; you can reach Pawleys Island by driving north for about 90 minutes.

6. Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Go for: a feast of coastal adventures

Coligny Beach Park on Hilton Head Island offers a prime five-mile stretch perfect for lounging in the sun (with complimentary Wi-Fi to boot). However, don’t limit your experience to just the beach. Explore South Carolina’s Lowcountry, a region renowned for its marshes and coastal waterways, home to a diverse ecosystem filled with alligators, herons, and more. Visit the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge to observe these swamp creatures up close, nestled between Hilton Head and the mainland.

The Lowcountry of Hilton Head is also enriched by the cultural heritage of the Gullah people, descendants of enslaved West Africans who have maintained traditions like sweetgrass basket weaving, quilting, and net making. You can explore their history at the Gullah Museum, or learn more about the island’s past at the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum and the Coastal Discovery Museum. Additionally, Savannah is just an hour away by car or boat ride, inviting further exploration of the South.

Where to stay: The Inn & Club at Harbour Town

The Inn & Club at Harbour Town, situated within the Sea Pines Resort, is a 60-room hotel located at the southern tip of the island; it serves as a luxurious retreat for your Hilton Head adventures. With three golf courses and a tennis program crafted by former U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion Stan Smith, this hotel provides a comfortable haven to relax and enhance your skills.

How to reach Hilton Head Island

You can fly directly to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport from nearly 40 locations, including a recent route from New Haven via Avelo. Located just outside of Savannah, the drive to Hilton Head Island will take about an hour.

7. Boneyard Beach

Bulls Island, South Carolina

Go for: observing wildlife

Don’t worry, you won’t encounter animal remains scattered across this beach. The eerie name of Bull Island comes from the bleached tree trunks of pines and myrtles that dominate the landscape due to the high tides.

Despite its name and tree-covered shores, this beach is vibrant with life and is the main attraction for visitors. It is part of the expansive 66,000-acre Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1932 as a sanctuary for migratory birds. Over 300 species of birds have been documented here, making it a haven for bird-watchers hoping to see nesting pelicans or American oystercatchers.

Where to stay: The Sweetgrass Inn

Though Boneyard Beach offers an exciting day trip, overnight camping isn’t permitted. Instead, consider the variety of accommodations available on the nearby Isle of Palms, such as the Sweetgrass Inn. Part of the Wild Dunes Resort and Hyatt Destination Hotels network, this inn is roughly 20 miles from the Garris Landing dock, combining minimalist design with vibrant coastal-themed decor.

How to access Boneyard Beach

To reach Bulls Island, home of Boneyard Beach, you can't simply drive there. First, head to Garris Landing in Awendaw, which is approximately a 40-minute drive from Charleston International Airport. From Garris Landing, board the Bulls Island Ferry for a 30-minute journey. Once you arrive at the dock on Bulls Island, you'll need to walk about 1.5 miles to reach the beach.