Surfside Beach
Surfside Beach, SC offers pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters, a peaceful family-friendly escape away from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Surfside Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Surfside Beach, SC offers pristine white sands and clear turquoise waters, a peaceful family-friendly escape away from the crowds.
"The natural beauty is undeniable and makes for a picturesque setting."
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay for parking via app/text ($2/hr). Arrive by 5:30 PM for best spots during peak season.
🦟 Mosquito Defense
Bring effective mosquito spray, especially for evening visits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sands
The main beach area
Experience soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters that rival more famous destinations.
Surfside Pier
Eastern end of the beach
A classic coastal landmark perfect for a stroll, fishing, or enjoying ocean views. Grab a bite at Pizza Hyena!
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Throughout Surfside Beach
Enjoy a peaceful, relaxed vibe ideal for families seeking a quieter beach experience away from the party scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for the Coast
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay for parking via app/text ($2/hr). Arrive by 5:30 PM for best spots during peak season.
🦟 Mosquito Defense
Bring effective mosquito spray, especially for evening visits.
🧺 Pack Your Own
Bring food, drinks, chairs, and blankets as amenities are limited.
🌊 Seaweed Savvy
Some seaweed is common. If it bothers you, check conditions before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Pay for parking via app/text ($2/hr). Arrive by 5:30 PM for best spots during peak season.
🦟 Mosquito Defense
Bring effective mosquito spray, especially for evening visits.
🧺 Pack Your Own
Bring food, drinks, chairs, and blankets as amenities are limited.
🌊 Seaweed Savvy
Some seaweed is common. If it bothers you, check conditions before you go.
🍹 Drink Options
Surfside is generally more laid-back than party spots like Sun Cruiser.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Surfside Beach, SC, is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, creating a picturesque setting. Visitors appreciate its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a peaceful escape. However, some find the presence of seaweed in the water and on the shore can detract from the swimming experience, and beach chair rentals are not publicly available.
"Surfside Beach offers breathtaking water with crystal-clear colors, soft white sand, and a stunning backdrop of the South Beach hotel skyline. The natural beauty is undeniable and makes for a picturesque setting. However, the atmosphere can sometimes be less than ideal, as the crowd tends to bring a spring-break vibe year-round. Still, for the scenery alone, it’s a fantastic spot worth visiting."
Madelyn Arion
"It was absolutely breathtaking! Water so blue and aqua. The sand was so soft and white. Hardly anyone there when we went on a Monday around 11am-2pm. Even met some iguanas on our way back to the parking lot. Highly recommend this place!"
Megan Minyon
"Surfside Beach is a great spot if you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly beach away from the party scene of South Beach. It’s peaceful, relaxed, and perfect for kids - definitely more of a local vibe.
But the seaweed… There was quite a lot of it both on the shore and in the water, which made swimming less enjoyable.
Showers are available (a big plus), but keep in mind that sunbeds are only for hotel guests or residents, no rentals for the public, so plan accordingly.
Still, if you’re looking for calm surroundings and don’t mind a bit of seaweed, it’s a nice escape from the crowds."
Nusrat A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Surfside Beach, South Carolina is easily accessible by car via US-17. If flying, the closest major airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about a 30-minute drive away. Many visitors drive from surrounding states, making it a popular road trip destination.
Parking is available at beach access points and costs $2 per hour, payable via app or text. Arriving by 5:30 PM is recommended for securing a good spot, especially during busy periods.
Public transportation directly to Surfside Beach is limited. Most visitors arrive by car. If you are staying in a nearby town like Myrtle Beach, ride-sharing services or local taxis are options, though they can be costly for frequent trips.
Yes, Surfside Beach is generally easy to navigate. The main beach area is straightforward, and there are walking and bike trails along the coast. The Surfside Pier is a prominent landmark.
Surfside Beach, SC is located south of Myrtle Beach and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Surfside Beach, NC is a different location further north, often associated with Oak Island. Ensure you are looking at information for the correct state.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee to access the beach itself. However, parking fees apply at designated beach access points.
Surfside Beach is generally accessible year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Specific amenities like restrooms and showers may have limited hours.
Yes, booking accommodations in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Options range from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals. Popular searches include 'Surfside Beach hotels' and 'Surfside Beach houses for rent'.
While the main Surfside Beach does not require a permit, adjacent beaches to the east may require one. It's always best to check local signage for any specific regulations.
Alcohol policies can vary. While some sources suggest Surfside is more laid-back than party spots, it's advisable to check local ordinances regarding alcohol consumption on the beach to avoid any issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the beautiful white sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. The Surfside Pier is a great spot for a walk or fishing. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it ideal for a peaceful beach day.
Yes, restrooms and showers are available at Surfside Beach, which is a significant convenience for beachgoers.
Families can enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, and relaxing on the soft sand. The calm waters and peaceful environment make it a great spot for children. Keep an eye out for iguanas near the parking areas!
Surfside Beach is generally less crowded than its neighbors, offering a more relaxed vibe. Weekday mornings are particularly quiet.
While the water is beautiful, some seaweed can be present both on the shore and in the water. It's usually not excessive and doesn't detract significantly from the experience for most visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For seafood lovers, Pirate's Table Calabash Seafood Buffet offers a wide variety of options. Pizza Hyena is a popular spot located right on the Surfside Pier. Many visitors also recommend bringing your own food and drinks due to limited onsite options.
While there aren't extensive dining options directly on the sand, the Surfside Pier has Pizza Hyena. For a wider selection, you'll find numerous restaurants along the nearby Highway 17.
Yes, picnics are a great idea for Surfside Beach. Bringing your own food and drinks is highly recommended as dining options directly on the beach are scarce.
Seafood is a major draw, with many restaurants offering fresh catches. Calabash-style seafood buffets are a local specialty.
While specific breakfast spots aren't highlighted in the provided content, many local diners and cafes can be found along the main roads. Checking local listings for 'breakfast Surfside Beach SC' will yield many results.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, especially during the golden hour of late afternoons. The Surfside Pier offers a classic coastal shot, and the South Beach hotel skyline provides a picturesque backdrop.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing serene beach scenes with fewer people.
Look for iguanas near the parking lots for a unique wildlife photo opportunity. The contrast between the natural beach and the distant hotel skyline can also create interesting compositions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your gear!
Drone regulations can vary by location and time of year. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Surfside Beach town hall for current rules and restrictions regarding drone usage before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Arrive early: Secure convenient parking and a good spot on the beach before the crowds arrive.
* Pack essentials: Bring plenty of snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and beach toys, as on-beach amenities are limited.
* Utilize facilities: Restrooms and showers are available, which are a lifesaver with kids.
* Keep an eye out: You might even spot some iguanas near the parking areas for a fun surprise!
🏖️ Budget Travelers
To save money on food, packing your own picnic is highly recommended, as dining out can add up quickly. Consider visiting during the off-season or on weekdays to find better deals on accommodations and experience fewer crowds. Look for vacation rentals or hotels slightly off the immediate beachfront for potentially lower rates. Many of the natural attractions, like the beach and pier, are free to enjoy once you've covered parking.
couples
The less crowded atmosphere compared to other Myrtle Beach area destinations allows for more intimate moments and relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the Surfside Pier at sunset, or simply relax on the sand with a good book. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy a private meal with ocean views. The peaceful ambiance makes it an ideal spot for couples looking to unwind and reconnect away from the hustle and bustle.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Surfside Beach, SC vs. NC
Surfside Beach, NC, on the other hand, is located further north and is often associated with the larger Oak Island area. While both offer coastal charm, their amenities, local vibe, and accessibility differ. When planning your trip or searching for accommodations and activities, always confirm you are looking at information for Surfside Beach, SC to ensure you arrive at the intended destination.
Beach Access and Parking
To ensure you get a good parking spot, especially during peak season or on weekends, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day. Many visitors suggest being there by 5:30 PM to secure a desirable location. While parking is available, it can fill up quickly during busy times, so planning ahead is key.
It's also worth noting that while the main Surfside Beach area is easily accessible, some adjacent beaches might have different regulations or require permits. Always pay attention to local signage to understand any specific rules for the area you are visiting.
Family-Friendly Focus
The beach itself features soft, white sand and generally calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming and playing. Parents appreciate the sense of safety and the local vibe that prioritizes a family-oriented experience. Beyond the beach, the town offers amenities like restrooms and showers, adding to the convenience for families.
While the natural beauty is a major draw, the lack of a constant party atmosphere is a significant plus for those seeking a tranquil getaway. This focus on a family-friendly environment is a key reason why many choose Surfside Beach for their coastal vacations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit