5 Amazing Things To Do On South Carolina’s Hammock Coast
If you’re searching for your next great vacation destination in the States, then be sure to check out South Carolina’s gorgeous Hammock Coast. Nestled in Georgetown County between Charleston and the popular Myrtle Beach, the Hammock Coast is home to the most stunning beaches in Palmetto State. As well as pristine beaches, South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is steeped in history. The quaint town of Georgetown was recently awarded the title of “America’s Best Small Coastal Town” and is a must-see on any trip to the hammock coast.
With quaint towns, incredible beaches, stellar dining experiences, and plenty of wildlife, you will never be bored on the Hammock Coast.
To give you some inspiration, we’ve compiled a list of 5 amazing activities to do on your next getaway to South Carolina’s Hammock Coast.
Top 5 Ways to Spend a Vacation on the Hammock Coast
1. Visit the Hammock Coast’s Pristine Beaches
South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is packed full of stunning beaches where you can sunbathe, enjoy a nice cocktail, bathe in the ocean, or do some beach sports with the family. There’s a beach for every taste.
One of the most popular beaches, especially among hippie and bohemian vacationers, is Pawleys Island Beach. Since it was settled by rice planters in the 18th century, Pawley Island has enjoyed a rich history and prosperous economy. It’s the perfect destination for vacationers looking for a relaxed vibe. Expect to see barefoot locals and friendly faces.
Aside from the laid-back atmosphere, Pawleys Island is also one of the best beaches in South Carolina to find some beautiful seashells. Pawleys Island beach sees far fewer tourists than other beaches in the area, such as Myrtle Beach, making it a haven for vacationers looking for a peaceful vacation.
South Carolina beaches are perfect for bathing in the ocean. The waters travel up from the warmer south, making it perfect swimming temperature right through to mid-October.
2. Reconnect with nature in Huntington Beach State Park
No trip to South Carolina’s Hammock Coast would be complete without visiting the impressive Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet. This coastal nature preserve spans 2,500 acres and boasts a wide range of activities for all ages. In the preserve, you will find camping facilities, a relaxed beach that is rarely overcrowded, the Atalaya Castle, gorgeous gardens, and over 300 species of birds.
For a fun camping trip, there are over 170 campsites located within the park. You can choose a campings plot with all the luxuries of home, such as running water, electricity, and bathroom facilities. Or, if you fancy a more rustic experience, there are plots for tents. Be sure to take plenty of food with you and make use of the picnic shelters available for use.
During your stay in the park, you can take a self-guided or guided tour of Atalaya Castle and get to know the unique history behind this national landmark.
The park is the perfect place to do some hiking. There are trails for all fitness levels and you will find trails perfectly designed for serious hikers, bird watchers, or nature enthusiasts. Bring comfortable footwear and plenty of water.
Entrance to the park is free for kids under five, $4 for children aged six to fifteen, and prices range between $5 and $8 dollars for adults.
3. Learn about Local Wildlife Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect place to visit if you are a wildlife enthusiast. The refuge stretches over 23, 000 acres of wetlands and upland forests located along the Pee Dee River and the Waccamaw River. Since it was established in 1997, the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge has made it its mission to protect the habitats of wildlife on the coastal river ecosystem. By protecting the homes of endangered species such as fish, forest wildlife, and migratory birds, the refuge aims to create a space where people can enjoy the surrounding nature without harming the local wildlife in the area.
There is no shortage of things to do at the refuge. You can go hiking, fishing, observe wildlife, do watersports such as kayaking in the rivers, and enjoy one of the many environmental-education programs on offer.
The refuge is a place to connect with nature, so any type of animal feeding, littering, camping, or disturbing of the flora and fauna is prohibited.
4. Dine on the Waterfront on Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is an idyllic wooden boardwalk. You can find the Marshwalk in the heart of Murrells Inlet, a charming fishing village with plenty of history. The Marshwalk stretches half a mile and takes visitors along a natural saltwater estuary.
The Marshwalk is truly the beating heart of the area. You can enjoy a unique dining experience overlooking the waterfront in one of the world-class restaurants while listening to live music. The perfect way to cap off the day.
There are plenty of activities to do along the waterfront such as shopping, sightseeing tours, fishing trips, and water sports. The MarshWalk hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including a Fourth of July fireworks display, food fairs, and Halloween costume contests.
5. Play a Round of Golf in this Premier Golf Destination
The Hammock Coast is touted as the premier golf destination in the States. The Hammock Coast boasts a whopping twelve public golf courses, three of which have been ranked in Golf Digest’s list of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses”.
No matter what your golfing level is, there is a golf course for you on the Hammock Coast. Enjoy your golf with stunning views of salt marshes, and oak trees that are over a century old (be sure to take a ride down Oak Alley at Caledonia for some incredible sights).
South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is the perfect spot for a golf vacation with a twist.
Final Thoughts
The Hammock Coast is a jewel on South Carolina’s Coast. It boasts exceptional beaches, great weather, and plenty of activities for every type of vacationer. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation, a honeymoon, or a golf trip with your buddies. The abundance of pristine beaches means there’s a beach destination for all budgets. By avoiding the meccas of Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head Island, you will find plenty of purse-friendly destinations on the Hammock Coast to enjoy the magic of the area and recharge your batteries.