The Palmetto State is blessed with 187 miles of coastline, 10.5 miles of which is occupied by four oceanfront state parks. A little-known secret among the locals living in those state park towns is that state park beaches aren't as crowded as other public beaches where you don't have to pay a park admission to gain direct access.
Among the four beachfront state parks (Myrtle, Huntington Beach, Hunting Island, and Edisto) there's one that's much more underrated than the others.
The beachfront at Edisto Island State Park is 1.5 miles of prime (uncrowded) sandy bliss, with everything you're seeking from a memorable day at the beach.
At low tide, the beach is wide, flanked only by the maritime forest that creates a privacy treeline on the horizon.
Up close, that treeline is picture perfect. What photographer wouldn't want palmetto trees, the sand, and the ocean all in one shot?
Recreation-wise, Edisto Beach State Park offers America's top vacation actvity: swimming in the ocean! Additionally, the state park offers fishing, boating and hiking.
Another unofficial activity involves sifting through the piles and piles of shells that are exposed at the high tide mark after the tide goes back out. How many shark teeth will you find?
Love it here so much that you don't want to leave?
The state park has two campgrounds (more than 100 campsites, including spaces that accommodate RVs) plus seven cabins that are fully furnished (including air conditioning/heating).
Spend the night and you'll be guaranteed to be here early enough to be greeted by one of these.
If you're a native South Carolinian, have you ever visited Edisto Beach State Park? We'd love to know!
Edisto Beach State Park is located at 8377 State Cabin Rd., Edisto Island, SC 29438. The park is open year-round. Day use hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (extended to a later closing time during Daylight Saving Time). Restroom facilities and picnic areas are available. Day use admission fees are: $5/adult; $3.25 SC seniors; $3/ child age 6-15; free for children 5 and younger. Learn more on the official website for South Carolina State Parks.
For a not-so-underrated state park in the South Carolina mountains, check out this park with the clearest lake in the state.
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