Huntington Beach State Park
A South Carolina gem offering a pristine beach, historic castle, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Huntington Beach State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A South Carolina gem offering a pristine beach, historic castle, and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and families.
"This is my favorite beach in SC. Love that it also has camping, nature trails and the path to see wild birds and alligators."
📚 Library Parking Pass
California residents: check your local library for free state park parking passes!
🐊 Respect Wildlife
Observe alligators and birds from a safe distance. Never feed them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Atalaya Castle
Within the park
Explore the historic Moorish-style mansion, a romantic seaside home built in the 1930s.
Pristine Beach
Oceanfront
Enjoy a beautiful, clean, and spacious beach with soft white sand and gentle waves.
Wildlife Viewing
Marsh and causeway
Spot alligators, diverse bird species like pink spoonbills, and other fascinating creatures.
Nature Trails
Throughout the park
Wander scenic trails, including the unique Octopus Tree, perfect for nature lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entry & Fees
Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Library Parking Pass
California residents: check your local library for free state park parking passes!
🐊 Respect Wildlife
Observe alligators and birds from a safe distance. Never feed them.
🏰 Castle Tour Value
Don't miss the Atalaya Castle tour; it's incredibly affordable at $2 per person.
🍦 Delicious Ice Cream
Spoonbill's ice cream shop offers surprisingly well-priced and delicious treats.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Library Parking Pass
California residents: check your local library for free state park parking passes!
🐊 Respect Wildlife
Observe alligators and birds from a safe distance. Never feed them.
🏰 Castle Tour Value
Don't miss the Atalaya Castle tour; it's incredibly affordable at $2 per person.
🍦 Delicious Ice Cream
Spoonbill's ice cream shop offers surprisingly well-priced and delicious treats.
👟 Beach Ready
Utilize the outdoor showers for feet and body to rinse off sand before leaving.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Huntington Beach State Park, highlighting its beautiful, clean beach, abundant wildlife, and the unique Atalaya Castle. Many appreciate the well-maintained facilities, affordable castle tours, and the overall value for a day trip or camping experience. Some minor drawbacks include occasional event reservations impacting parking availability.
"There's an $8 per adult charge to enter and for a family of 4 ( 2 adults, a 1 year old and a 4 year old) it was $16, so not too bad. Very beautiful and well maintained place. The parking foe the beach access was very spacious. There's a large playground area near the beach access as well for the kids. A very nice clean beach here as well. We will probably use this area again in the future when we are in the area."
Travis Clevinger
"This is my favorite beach in SC. Love that it also has camping, nature trails and the path to see wild birds and alligators. Also has a great ice cream shop and a terrific gift shop. Oh, and I can't forget to recommend the tour of Atalaya's castle! So much to do here! Make sure you make time to relax on the beach!"
T S
"This place is so beautiful. The sites are gorgeous and the one we got was very private (125). It is a little pricey but it is worth it; the staff are so friendly, the sites are well maintained and flat . The beach was gorgeous; there is a double red flag for swimming due to the offshore hurricane but the views were really pretty and so were the waves. The sand is so soft and white. We will definitely be returning."
Caley Walker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Huntington Beach State Park is located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, about 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach. It's easily accessible from Highway 17.
Yes, there is spacious parking available for beach access. However, be aware that parking lots can sometimes be reserved for special events.
If you are a California resident, your local public library may offer free parking passes for California State Parks.
The causeway and marsh areas are prime spots for wildlife viewing, especially for alligators and various bird species.
Yes, the park offers picnic areas, some with shelters, which are useful for breaks or during inclement weather.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The park charges an entrance fee, typically around $8 per adult. Family rates are available, making it an affordable option for a day trip.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the low cost of the Atalaya Castle tour ($2 per person) offers great value.
The park is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official South Carolina State Parks website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Tours for Atalaya Castle are typically available on-site and are very affordable, so advance booking is usually not necessary.
The entrance fee covers access to the beach, trails, and general park amenities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax on the beach, explore nature trails, go fishing on the jetty, tour Atalaya Castle, and observe wildlife.
Absolutely! It features a well-kept playground, clean bathrooms, and gentle waves suitable for children.
The park is known for its alligators, various bird species (including pink spoonbills), and other coastal wildlife.
Yes, the park offers clean restrooms and convenient outdoor showers for rinsing off sand.
Yes, the Octopus Tree is a live oak that visitors can climb on. It's located near the North End Beach.
🍽️ 🍦 Food & Dining
Yes, there's an ice cream shop called Spoonbill's near the playground, offering delicious ice cream at reasonable prices.
The primary food offering within the park is ice cream. You can also find some RV supplies and souvenirs at the camp store.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics in the designated areas.
The park is located in Murrells Inlet, which has various dining options. You can also find more choices in nearby Myrtle Beach.
Spoonbill's serves Wholly Cow ice cream, which is highly recommended for its delicious taste and generous portions.
📸 📸 Photography
Atalaya Castle offers stunning architectural shots, while the beach and marsh provide beautiful natural landscapes. The Octopus Tree is also a unique photo opportunity.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting, perfect for capturing the park's scenery. Sunsets over the ocean are also spectacular.
Yes, the park is a fantastic place for wildlife photography, especially for birds and alligators. Bring a zoom lens for better shots.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits, so check park regulations.
Its Spanish-style architecture, courtyards, and historical ambiance make it a fairytale-like subject for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏕️ Campers
📸 Photographers
The natural landscapes, from the marsh teeming with wildlife to the expansive beach, offer endless opportunities. Aim for late afternoons for the best light, especially during sunset. Wildlife photography is particularly rewarding here, so bring a good zoom lens. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Atalaya Castle
The sprawling, Moorish-style mansion is a National Historic Landmark, featuring unique architecture, serene courtyards, and over 30 rooms. Visitors can take guided tours, which are incredibly affordable at just $2 per person, offering a glimpse into the lives of its artistic former residents. Walking through Atalaya feels like stepping back in time. The thick walls, open-air courtyards, and the remnants of its artistic past create a captivating atmosphere. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture its intricate details and romantic ambiance.
It's a testament to the couple's vision and a significant piece of South Carolina's history, offering a different perspective from the typical beach experience. Wildlife Encounters and Nature Trails
Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian species, including the vibrant pink spoonbills, which are a particular highlight. The park encourages respectful observation, reminding visitors to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife. The park offers several scenic nature trails, catering to different levels of exploration. The famous Octopus Tree, a massive live oak with sprawling branches, is a unique attraction that visitors can climb on, offering a fun and memorable experience.
These trails wind through diverse habitats, providing opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful stroll, the trails offer a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature. Beach Experience and Amenities
Beyond the sand and surf, the park provides excellent amenities to enhance the beach day experience. There are convenient outdoor showers for rinsing off sand from both feet and bodies, as well as well-maintained bathrooms that are noted as being among the best beach facilities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit