Atalaya Castle
Explore Atalaya Castle, a stunning Moorish-style winter home with a romantic history, set within Huntington Beach State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Atalaya Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Atalaya Castle, a stunning Moorish-style winter home with a romantic history, set within Huntington Beach State Park.
"A unique blend of Spanish and Moorish architectural styles, worth walking through for only $2."
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Expect a low entry fee for the castle, around $2, plus park admission. A great value!
🏖️ Beach Access Nearby
Bring your swimsuit! The beach is just a short walk from the castle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moorish Architecture
Throughout the castle
Wander through the unique Spanish Mediterranean-inspired design, a true architectural marvel.
Sculpture Garden & Courtyards
Castle grounds
Explore serene courtyards and imagine the artistic endeavors of Anna Hyatt Huntington.
Romantic History
Castle interior
Discover the love story behind this winter home, built for sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly Castle Exploration
Combine with Beach Day Bliss
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Expect a low entry fee for the castle, around $2, plus park admission. A great value!
🏖️ Beach Access Nearby
Bring your swimsuit! The beach is just a short walk from the castle.
🚶♂️ Explore at Your Pace
Wander through the 30+ rooms and courtyards; allow about an hour.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture stunning shots of the unique architecture and ocean views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Affordable Entry Fee
Expect a low entry fee for the castle, around $2, plus park admission. A great value!
🏖️ Beach Access Nearby
Bring your swimsuit! The beach is just a short walk from the castle.
🚶♂️ Explore at Your Pace
Wander through the 30+ rooms and courtyards; allow about an hour.
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture stunning shots of the unique architecture and ocean views.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bottled water is available at the small gift shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Atalaya Castle for its unique architecture, rich history, and incredibly affordable admission fee. Many highlight the joy of exploring the castle and then heading to the adjacent beach, making it a perfect family outing. Some reviewers noted that certain rooms might be closed for restoration, and clarity on combined park and castle fees could be improved on the website.
"Very nice piece of history you can walk through. Both times we visited there was an occasional room you couldn't enter because they were repairing or restoring but you can still look inside. Each room has a plaque describing what the room was and how it was used along with other bits of facts and info along the way. Really clean and kept. Wasn't busy either time we visited, pretty much had the place to ourselves. There is a small gift shop with maps, shirts, toys and bottled water."
Kevin Grant
"A vacation home constructed between 1931 and 1933. The architecture is very odd and worth walking through. It's only $2 or something to enter so it's worth while." A unique blend of Spanish and Moorish architectural styles""
Brian Albury
"Absolutely Love this place!!! I've been going since I was a kid in the 90s and now I take my family and young son! Always fun! Cheap entry fee ($2 each)
Would definitely recommend for a quick hour walk. There is also a really nice beach only a few hundred feet from the castle!"
Leo The Fourth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Atalaya Castle is located within Huntington Beach State Park, south of Myrtle Beach, SC. You'll need to pay the park entrance fee, which covers access to the castle.
Yes, Atalaya Castle is conveniently located just a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Huntington Beach State Park. Ample parking is available within the park.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is recommended for easier access.
Navigate to Huntington Beach State Park, Murrells Inlet, SC. The castle is a prominent feature within the park grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Atalaya Castle is very affordable, typically around $2 per person, in addition to the Huntington Beach State Park entrance fee.
Tickets for Atalaya Castle can usually be purchased upon arrival at the park. It's advisable to check the official park website for any specific booking requirements.
Atalaya Castle hours generally align with Huntington Beach State Park hours. It's best to check the park's official website for the most up-to-date operating times.
Yes, the nominal admission fee for Atalaya Castle is typically per person, in addition to the park entrance fee.
While specific discounts may vary, the already low admission price makes it accessible. Check with the park for any potential group or seasonal offers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Atalaya Castle offers a unique glimpse into the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, featuring Moorish-inspired architecture, courtyards, and over 30 rooms. 
Yes, you can tour the interior of Atalaya Castle, exploring its rooms and learning about its history. Some rooms may be closed for restoration.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy exploring the castle's unique architecture and the adjacent beach and playground.
Built between 1931 and 1933, Atalaya Castle was the winter residence of philanthropist Archer Huntington and his wife, sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington.
While self-guided exploration is common, guided tours may be available. Check with the park staff upon arrival for current offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyards, archways, and exterior walls offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The late afternoon light is particularly beautiful.
Photography is generally allowed inside Atalaya Castle, but be mindful of any posted restrictions and avoid flash photography that could damage artifacts.
A versatile camera, whether a DSLR or a smartphone, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. Check park regulations before flying.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while morning provides softer light and fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with time at the adjacent beach for a full day of fun. The park also features a large playground, ensuring that younger visitors have plenty of space to play and burn off energy. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, though a small gift shop is available.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Golden hour in the late afternoon bathes the castle in warm light, creating dramatic shadows and highlights. The courtyards and ocean views add further depth to your shots. Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan on aerial photography.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the distinctive design, a rare example of its kind in the region. The blend of historical context and architectural uniqueness makes Atalaya Castle a must-visit for those interested in the past and its tangible remnants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem of Atalaya Castle
+1The structure itself is a testament to the era's building techniques, with a focus on durability and aesthetic appeal. The courtyards offer a sense of tranquility, inviting visitors to imagine the lives of the Huntingtons. Many rooms still contain plaques detailing their original purpose, adding an educational layer to the exploration.
It's important to note that some areas of the castle may be closed for ongoing restoration efforts, as the park works to preserve this National Historic Landmark for future generations. However, even with occasional closures, the majority of the castle remains accessible and offers a captivating experience.
A Love Story Etched in Stone
+1 Anna Hyatt Huntington was a renowned artist, and the castle was designed to provide her with a conducive environment for her creative work, especially after a bout of tuberculosis. The castle's design, with its spacious rooms and courtyards, was intended to inspire and accommodate her artistic endeavors. Visitors can still feel the artistic spirit that permeated the home. The connection between the couple and their unique seaside residence is a central part of the Atalaya Castle experience, making it more than just a historical site but a monument to their shared life and passions.
The castle's designation as a National Historic Landmark underscores its significance not only as a personal residence but as a piece of American history and a tribute to the arts. It serves as a reminder of a bygone era and the enduring legacy of its creators.
Beyond the Castle Walls: Huntington Beach State Park
Visitors can easily transition from exploring the castle to enjoying the Atlantic coastline. The beach is just a short walk from Atalaya, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with various habitats supporting a rich array of avian species.
The park's amenities include a visitor center, restrooms, and outdoor showers, making it convenient for a full day of exploration. The combination of historical intrigue at Atalaya Castle and the natural beauty of Huntington Beach State Park provides a well-rounded and memorable experience for all visitors.
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