A Guide to the South Strand: Your Coastal South Carolina Getaway

If you’re familiar with South Carolina, you’ve probably heard of “The Grand Strand,” the northeastern stretch of the state’s coastline that runs from Myrtle Beach to Georgetown. However, I prefer to spend time in the "South Strand". This area encompasses Murrells Inlet, Litchfield, Pawley’s Island, and Georgetown, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, exciting activities, and delicious food. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip, here’s a guide to my favorite spots and activities in the South Strand!

Things to do in the South Strand

Beach Day

• North Litchfield Beach: A quieter option for those looking to escape the crowds.

• Pawley’s Island Beach: Known for its charming, laid-back atmosphere.

• Garden City Beach: Great for families with its pier and nearby arcades.

• Surfside Beach: A favorite spot for locals, often called “The Family Beach.”

Boat Day

• The Inlet (Saltwater): Launch from the Murrells Inlet Public Ramp at the Marshwalk (US 17 Business & Belin Drive). You can boat to “the point” to beach your boat, swim in the creeks, or head to the Jetties for fishing, tubing, or floating.

• The River (Brackish Water): Head to the Wacca Wache Public Boat Ramp (1950 Wachesaw Road, Murrells Inlet). The Waccamaw River offers a peaceful, scenic boat ride with plenty of opportunities to explore.

Water Sports & Rentals

• Inlet Rentals:

  • Express Watersports

  • Beach House Boat Rentals

  • Crazy Sister Marina

  • Cruisin' Tikis

• River Rentals:

  • Beach House Boat Rentals

  • Wacca Wache Marina

Cruises

• Pie-Eyed Parrot

• Myrtle Beach Pirates

• Murrells Inlet Sunset Cruises

  
  

Brookgreen Gardens

A trip to the South Strand isn’t complete without a visit to Brookgreen Gardens. This beautiful location is home to botanical gardens, a zoo, and some of the best seasonal events in the area.

Fun and Games

For a day of indoor entertainment, check out these spots:

• Market Common Movie Theatre

• 810 Bowling offers bowling, games, and more.

• Go-karts and arcade games for the whole family.

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Breweries

No trip is complete without sampling the local brews. Here are some of the best:

• Southern Hops Brewery

• Murrells Inlet location

• Check them out here

Where to Eat in the South Strand

Murrells Inlet

• Marshwalk Restaurants:

  • Dead Dog Saloon

  • Neptune’s

  • Wicked Tuna

  • Happy Hour at Tuna Shak

• Other Must-Try Spots:

  • Neal’s Creekhouse

  • Hot Fish Club

  • Russell’s

  • The Goat

  • On the Half-Shell

  • Graham’s Landing

  • River City Café

  • Smooth Seas

  • Brown Fox Coffee

Surfside/Garden City

• The Quay Grille

• Neal and Pam’s

• Gulfstream Cafe

• Chimichanga Llama

•  Pizza Hyena

•  Gracious Pig

Litchfield/Pawley’s Island

• Perrone’s

• Frank’s and Outback

• Chive Blossom

• Pawley’s Island Tavern

• Gio’s

• Rustic Table

• Local’s

• Habanero's

• Parlor Doughnut's

Georgetown

• Rolling Local

• Groucho’s

• Franks on Front

• The Independent

• Between the Antlers

Sweet Treats

• Stella’s Ice Cream

• Paradice Ice

• Drippy’s Ice Cream

Bar Hopping & Happy Hour Spots

• Hot Fish Club

• Dead Dog Saloon

• Wahoo’s Fish House

• Neal and Pam’s

• Pawley’s Island Tavern