Everyone Always Goes to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina: Go Here Instead

Sometimes, the vibrant beach scene at Myrtle Beach is the answer. The nightlife, the entertainment, and the ease of access are all reasons to enjoy one of South Carolina’s most popular beaches. But other times, we want to search out the less crowded beaches. The ones where you might find yourself the only one around. Those are my favorite! One of the best hidden beaches in South Carolina is surprisingly close to Myrtle Beach, and it might just become your new favorite summer spot. 

Why Myrtle Beach Gets So Crowded

The short answer? Ease of access to amenities. Myrtle Beach is a very popular family vacation spot, and those with kids know all too well how important it is to have everything close together. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a perfectly walkable area with beachfront access, restaurants, shops, and unique attractions like the SkyWheel. Further inland, Broadway at the Beach offers even more restaurants, shopping, and outdoor entertainment. Plus, you’ve an endless range of accommodations in Myrtle Beach to choose from. Whether you want an oceanfront hotel with pool access or a secluded Airbnb in Myrtle Beach just off the beaten path, there’s truly an accommodation to match every budget. 

The Beach You Should Visit Instead

For those who want to take the path less traveled, Pawleys Island is the way to go. It’s one of the less crowded beaches in South Carolina, yet it’s only 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach. Since it’s so close, you can still spend a day or two exploring the popular Myrtle Beach and come back to enjoy the quieter side. 

While Myrtle Beach is known for its vibrant attractions, Pawleys Island is quite the opposite. Even though Pawleys Island is one of the oldest summer resort communities in America, it exudes a carefree, laid-back lifestyle—and far fewer crowds. Take a sunrise beach stroll, surf some waves, and enjoy a sunset from an authentic Pawleys Island Hammock. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, right? 

What Makes This Beach Better

Pawleys Island has the largest free public beach access lot in Georgetown County, plus there are eight other public beach access points peppered around the island. There’s a beach access map that the town provides to help you plan your day.

When you need a change of scenery, rent a bike and explore the island on two wheels! Be sure to ride through the historic areas, like the Sea View Inn and Pawleys Island Chapel. For a longer ride, consider taking the paved bike path along Ocean Highway that runs all the way to Murrells Inlet. Pawleys Island Beach Service offers bike rentals, beach gear, and water sports rentals like kayaks, so you can explore the island however you want.

Huntington Beach State Park is only eight miles away, and it also offers a quiet beach alternative. It’s not necessarily one of the less crowded beaches in South Carolina, but compared to Myrtle Beach, it’ll feel like it. The park has three miles of beaches, so you can certainly find a less crowded spot to enjoy. Huntington Beach State Park is a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching, and the hiking trails offer a spectacular view of both the coastal and marsh sides of the park.

Pawleys Island is one of those hidden beaches in South Carolina that’s hiding in plain sight. Whether you want a romantic getaway or just a quiet beach alternative to the “party beaches,” Pawleys Island is a slam dunk. Visit the official tourism website for Pawleys Island to start planning your next trip, and while you’re at it, check out some of our favorite hidden beaches in South Carolina and add them to your summer bucket list!