The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You South Carolina’s Coast Like Never Before
You’d think that with all the tourism the Palmetto State attracts annually that all of the best beaches in South Carolina would be filled with people shoulder-to-shoulder all season long. But there are some beaches that are off the beaten path, or simply aren’t suitable for swimming due to strong currents. Those beaches are less known – and less traveled.
Are you ready to discover some of the Palmetto State’s hidden beaches? Gather up the gang, pack the sunscreen and let’s hit the highway for the ultimate hidden beaches road trip in South Carolina.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
We've strung together six of these hidden gems for you to visit. Who knows? You must just discover your new secret hideaway along the coast. Here's a link to the Google Map that'll take you to all of them. We've also included individual beach links under their photos. So, "water" you waiting for? Let's go!
Get away from the hotels and developments on HHI at this secluded beach. You'll pay to park and there are few spots, so start your day early. The reward will be a quiet beach with plenty of ocean breezes and if you're lucky - a nap. That blue walkway in the photo above is an accessibility mat, but it also makes that sand less hot to walk on with bare feet. Google Map link.
Address: 55 Starfish Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
Locals and frequent visitors to Hilton Head Island have this one under wraps. But you'll want to make the short hike from the parking area to this stunning beach on the island. It has one of the best sandy beaches in South Carolina and swimming here definitely belongs on your bucket list. Google Map link.
Address: 60 Burkes Beach Road, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
There's no shortage of sand at this hidden beach - even after Hurricane Matthew. It's a perfect place to get away from the crowds. But if you want to go here, you'll need to know how to find it. Head to Mitchelville Park on Hilton Head Island and then take the path to the ocean to discover one of the best beaches in South Carolina. Google Maps link.
Address: 124 Mitchellville Road, Hilton Head Island, SC, 29926
Talk a short walk on a sandy path and end up on this beautiful remote beach overlooking the Morris Island Lighthouse. There's also a lot of "sea trees," a.k.a. driftwood, anchored in the sand. This beach is a fantastic place for a picnic and photo opportunities. Google Map link.
Address: 1746 East Ashley Avenue, Folly Beach, SC, 29439
This little known beach on Sullivan's Island only has enough room to park approximately 15 cars. Also, you can't swim here due to strong currents in the shipping channel from the Charleston Harbor. But it's a gorgeous beach for watching the sunset! Google Maps link.
Anyone who's been to Myrtle Beach on a holiday weekend knows you just don't see this much open real estate on the sand over Memorial Day Weekend. Crescent Beach may not be "hidden" in the literal sense, but this neighborhood in North Myrtle Beach just may have the least crowded beach around. Google Maps link.
Address: 17th Avenue South & South Ocean Boulevard, North Myrtle Beach, SC, 29582
Believe it or not, some of the best beaches in South Carolina are actually hiding in plain sight! So, are you ready to discover some hidden beaches that maybe you didn’t know about in the Palmetto State? We’d love to know in our comments!
If you love finding new and fun places in South Carolina, then you’ll love this roadside attraction in the Upstate.
We love all of South Carolina’s beaches; however, the most beautiful beaches are those that have less development along the shoreline. Beaches without development are most accessible via South Carolina’s four state parks that are located right on the beach. The first one, Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, showcases a beautiful beach with a historic castle upon the shore. Next, Myrtle Beach State Park features a long, wooden pier and a mile of undeveloped oceanfront real estate. Hunting Island State Park near Beaufort features a beach bordered by a gorgeous maritime forest, a historic lighthouse, and a campground for overnight visitors. And finally, Edisto Beach State Park offers a low-key atmosphere via Edisto Island that many beach enthusiasts prefer over the many more lively and busy beaches in the state.
What are the best beach towns in South Carolina?
South Carolina’s beach towns are few and varied. From the busy towns of Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach and those in between along the Grand Strand, all the way south to the state’s most laid-back beach town of Edisto Island, visitors can find just the sort of atmosphere that best fits their expectations. In the Charleston area, the best beach towns are Sullivans Island and Folly Beach.
What beaches have the clearest water in South Carolina?
The beach with the clearest water in South Carolina can be found on Edisto Island. The beach at Botany Bay, is one of the most pristine and remote beaches in the state.
Robin Jarvis is a travel and entertainment writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. She spent more than two decades living on the coast in South Carolina and currently lives in the mountains of North Carolina - although she still makes it back to see family in South Carolina quite often. When she's not working, she loves to hike, kayak, and check out new adventures. Get in touch at [email protected]
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