Beaches · South Carolina
Best beaches in South Carolina
South Carolina’s coast runs the full range — we’ve mapped 16 of its best beaches, from wild, family, surf, scenic shores. Find the vibe you want, then build the trip around it.
Beachwalker Park (Kiawah)Wildthe public access to Kiawah’s wide, pristine resort beach.Cherry Grove BeachFamilya North Myrtle Beach stretch known for wide sand, fishing, and family rentals.Daufuskie IslandWilda ferry-accessed Sea Island beach with Gullah history and quiet shorelines.Edisto BeachWildan unhurried, family-owned island beach rich in fossils and shells.Folly BeachSurfCharleston’s laid-back surf town, "the Edge of America".Fripp IslandWilda quiet Lowcountry barrier island with deer, marsh, and Atlantic beach paths.Garden City BeachFamilya pier-centered beach where inlet marsh, restaurants, and surf meet.Hilton Head IslandFamilyfirm, bikeable Lowcountry sand at a polished resort island.Hunting Island State ParkWilda wild, maritime-forest beach with a climbable lighthouse and boneyard trees.Isle of PalmsFamilya wide, family-friendly barrier-island beach near Charleston.Litchfield BeachFamilywide, low-key Grand Strand sand between Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island.Myrtle BeachFamilythe Grand Strand’s 60 miles of sand, boardwalk, and amusements.Pawleys IslandFamilya quiet Hammock Coast island of creekside cottages, dunes, and easygoing sand.Seabrook IslandScenicprivate-feeling barrier-island sand with maritime forest and sunset creeks.Sullivan’s IslandScenica quiet, upscale beach near Charleston with a historic lighthouse.Surfside BeachFamilya family-first Grand Strand beach town just south of Myrtle Beach.
Check local conditions, parking, and seasonal fees before you go — and always heed posted flags, rip-current warnings, and lifeguard guidance.