Myrtle Beach is a haven of scenic beauty and coastal allure, where the potential for fun is practically unlimited. With so much to see and do among the assorted attractions and amusements of the Grand Strand, it can be easy to simply overlook the more natural treasures of the area. From simple thoughtful spots for quiet reflection and natural appreciation to state-of-the-art recreation facilities, some of your best Myrtle Beach memories are easier to reach than you may realize!
State Parks
Myrtle Beach State Park
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4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575 Myrtle Beach State Park is located on the southern end of Myrtle Beach among the maritime forests of the Grand Strand coastline. The 312-acre preserve is largely undeveloped and pristine, with modern elements that encourage natural discovery, including a campground, playground, nature center and Myrtle Beach State Park Fishing Pier, which is a popular spot for reeling in mackerel, whiting, trout, spot, flounder, and more. Additional park features include oceanfront picnic shelters, hiking trails, beach access points, and options for viewing native wildlife like alligators, crabs, grey squirrels, and dolphins. Cabins and camp sites are available for onsite stays.
Huntington Beach State Park
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16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 Murrells Inlet’s Huntington Beach State Park boasts the finest surf fishing in the State of South Carolina as well as bird-watching opportunities unmatched along the East Coast. More than 300 species of birds have been spotted within the park! The 2,500-acre park and its three miles of pristine beaches are home to loggerhead turtles and other endangered plant and animal species, as well as alligators dwelling in the park’s freshwater lake. Those with a passion for the arts will appreciate the annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival, at the site of Atalaya, a former artist’s retreat and summer home. Huntington Beach State Park also includes hiking trails, 173 campsites, six rustic tent sites, and three picnic shelters.
Leisure Parks
North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex
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150 Citizens Circle, Little River, South Carolina 29566 Less than five miles from the beach, the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex plays host to an array of sports tournaments and community events. Multipurpose, state-of-the-art sports fields welcome teams from across the nation in baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer, quidditch, and flag football. The Sandhills Bank Amphitheater sets the stage for seasonal live music events and festivals. Additional park features include biking and walking trails, picnic shelters, three playgrounds, and the 3-acre Waggin’ Tails Dog Park – all situated around a 10-acre meadow and 25-acre lake.
Savannah’s Playground at Grand Park
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3600-3640 Emmens Ave, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 The newest addition to the Grand Park complex at The Market Common, Savannah’s Playground is an enabling play area featuring ADA-approved playground equipment designed to encourage social interaction and engagement among children of all abilities. Park features include a musical park, pond overlook, splash pad, fishing pier, paddleboats on the lake, and a ropes course with zip-lining. Guests are also encouraged to check out The Grand Park Athletic Complex featuring seven large multipurpose fields, two youth fields, and six-tunnel batting cage.
McLean Park
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93 Oak Dr, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 This 10-acre facility is situated on a 2-acre lake in the heart of North Myrtle Beach. Park features include two age-appropriated playgrounds, two lighted tennis courts, picnic shelters, a paved walking path with half-mile fitness trail, youth baseball field, and meditation garden. McLean Park hosts many of the Parks and Recreation Department’s special events and activities throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and a summertime movie series.
Palmetto Adventure Land
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2250 Carolina Forest Boulevard Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 Located in Carolina Forest, Palmetto Adventure Land is a community-oriented playground adjacent to the Carolina Forest Library and Carolina Forest Recreation Center, which has a full-size public gym, rock climbing wall, and fitness center. The youth-oriented Adventure Land features swings, slides, monkey bars, games, a boat and submarine, and picnic shelters.
East Bay Park/Morgan Park
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East Bay St, Georgetown, SC 29440 East Bay Park and Morgan Park in Georgetown feature sports facilities, picnic tables and shelters, wooded boardwalks, coastal walking paths, and a large playground. The parks are located adjacent to The Bobby Alford Recreation Center and the East Bay Street Landing, with a public boat ramp onto the Sampit River and Winyah Bay. The Morgan Park portion is less developed, and perfect for rustic beach exploration.
Morse Park Landing
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4939 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576 Morse Park Landing is a small, unadulterated park in Murrells Inlet noted for the “Lost at Sea” memorial honoring Johnny W. Brown and other souls lost to the sea. A public boat ramp provides a launch source to explore the area’s creeks and wetlands. This simple, natural spot also includes picnic tables, prime fishing spots, and access to the East Coast Greenway trail.
Pawleys Island Nature Park
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Pawleys Island, SC 29585 A whimsical nod to Mother Nature’s vibrant canvas, Pawleys Island Nature Park is an often overlooked hidden gem on the North Causeway. For the ultimate in serenity and natural enchantment, explore the nature park’s thoughfully landscaped gardens, marsh views. This is a fantastic spot for photos that perfectly summarize Carolina appeal. Regardless of where you choose to do your exploring, your experience is open to whatever wonders you wish to discover. The Myrtle Beach area is rich in natural features that you won’t find anywhere else, and after all – these are the aspects that make our region your favorite vacation destination. Isn’t it time to you get to know it a little bit better?