Best State Park Beaches in South Carolina to Visit to Close Out Summer

We’ve still got a few more weeks of summer in South Carolina. Have you hit the beach yet? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best state park beaches in South Carolina to add to your bucket list so you can make a splash before summer ends. Keep in mind that most state parks in South Carolina have an admission fee. It’s typically between $2 and $6, but that can add up if you’re visiting multiple parks! Get the All Park Passport so you can have unlimited free entry to all South Carolina state parks for a year. 

Edisto Beach State Park

Edisto Beach State Park is one of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina. Located about 50 miles south of Charleston, Edisto Beach State Park offers 1.5 miles of beach to enjoy, plus two oceanfront picnic shelters. It’s a great place to find seashells, and there are also four miles of ADA-accessible trails to explore.

Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is one of my favorite state parks in South Carolina because it’s got a little bit of everything. Beach bums can enjoy three miles of beaches, and the park’s freshwater lake and salt marshes provide a unique ecosystem for wildlife to thrive. Bird nerds, rejoice! Huntington Beach State Park offers some of the best birdwatching on the East Coast. Not just birds, though. Loggerhead turtles, minks, and alligators are just a few of the animals you could see.

Myrtle Beach State Park

Nestled within an oceanfront maritime forest, Myrtle Beach State Park offers something for everyone. It’s known for having some of the best surf-fishing in South Carolina, though you might have better luck from the pier. There’s a mile of beach to enjoy, plus several cabins that are located very close to the beach!

Fun fact: Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park in South Carolina. It opened to the public in 1936!

Hunting Island State Park

As the most popular state park in South Carolina, you can expect crowds when you visit Hunting Island State Park. There are five miles of beaches here, so thankfully, you can sprawl out and find a little patch of sand without feeling on top of everyone. Be sure to visit the historic Hunting Island lighthouse while you’re here. Initially built in 1859 and then rebuilt in 1875 after it was destroyed during the Civil War, it’s one of the most unique lighthouses in the U.S. 

Table Rock State Park

Moving inland, Table Rock State Park has a lovely little swimming area that’s the perfect way to end summer. Before you jump in, consider hiking the famous Table Rock Trail so you can see that breathtaking view from the top of Table Rock! Trust me, it’ll make the swimming area feel even more refreshing than it already is. 

Devils Fork State Park

Scuba Divers and swimmers have enjoyed the crystal clear waters at Devils Fork State Park for years. There are three boat ramps for folks who want to spend the day on Lake Jocassee, and anglers will love the excellent trout fishing here. Even without a boat or a tackle box, you can have a fabulous day swimming at Devils Fork State Park. 

Which one of these state park beaches in South Carolina are you planning on visiting before summer ends? Share this article with someone you want to make one last beach trip with. For more outdoor adventure, check out our ultimate guide to state parks in South Carolina.