You'd think that with all the tourism the Palmetto State attracts annually, all of the best South Carolina beaches 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 hidden beaches in South Carolina are less known - and less traveled.
Are you ready to discover some of the best hidden beaches in South Carolina? Gather up the gang, pack the sunscreen and let's hit the highway for the ultimate hidden beaches road trip in the Palmetto State.
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 the 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!
Folly Field Beach: Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
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.
Burkes Beach: Hilton Head Island, SC,
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 hidden beaches in South Carolina and swimming here definitely belongs on your bucket list.
Mitchelville Beach: Mitchelville Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926,
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.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve: W Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439
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.
Station 12 Street: Station 12 St, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482
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!
Crescent Beach: North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
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.
Believe it or not, some of the best summer spots are the South Carolina beaches that 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! And don't forget to check out our road-trip essentials packing guide before you hit the road.
If you love finding new and fun places in South Carolina, then you'll love this roadside attraction in the Upstate.
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