sun coming up over the pier
1 / 10

Surfside Beach Pier

4.5
·2k reviews·Surfside Beach, United States

A newly rebuilt pier offering free ocean access, fishing, and stunning views. A less crowded alternative to busy boardwalks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

For serene sunrises & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
sun coming up over the pier

Surfside Beach Pier

Best Time

Early mornings

For serene sunrises & fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A newly rebuilt pier offering free ocean access, fishing, and stunning views. A less crowded alternative to busy boardwalks.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"It's free to walk out on the pier if you're not fishing. I'm so happy to see this pier rebuilt!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Free to Walk On

Enjoy the pier's views without fishing fees! Perfect for a scenic stroll.

🎣 Bait Shop On-Site

Get your fishing gear and bait right at the pier for a convenient fishing trip.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oceanfront Stroll

Oceanfront Stroll

Surfside Beach Pier

Enjoy a leisurely walk with stunning ocean vistas and the refreshing sea breeze. Free for all to enjoy!

InstagramReddit
Fishing Action

Fishing Action

Surfside Beach Pier

Watch anglers reel in catches, from jack crevalle to potential sharks. A bait shop is available for enthusiasts.

TikTokReddit+1
Sunrise Spectacle

Sunrise Spectacle

Surfside Beach Pier

Witness breathtaking sunrises painting the sky over the Atlantic. A peaceful start to the day.

Instagram+1
Drippy's Ice Cream

Drippy's Ice Cream

Surfside Beach Pier

Cool off with a sweet treat from the popular Drippy's ice cream shop located on the pier.

InstagramReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Pier Access & Hours

The Surfside Beach Pier is generally free to walk on, offering great ocean views. Fishing may have separate fees. Check local listings for the most current operating hours, especially during off-season or after events. Instagram+1

Fishing & Dining

Anglers can find a bait shop on-site for supplies. While some restaurants are nearby, a future restaurant is planned for the pier itself. Ice cream from Drippy's is a popular treat! InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
For serene sunrises & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Pleasant breeze & sunset views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Surfside at its finest 👅. #fyp #fishing #texas #galveston #gulfcoastfishing #fishtok #jetty #surfside #jacks #jackcrevalle #jettyfishing #kingmackerel
@zzzamboo
10.6K likes • 234.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Free to Walk On

Enjoy the pier's views without fishing fees! Perfect for a scenic stroll. InstagramReddit

🎣 Bait Shop On-Site

Get your fishing gear and bait right at the pier for a convenient fishing trip. Reddit

Surfside Jetty fishing experience. Come fish with me as I test live shrimp and cut bait for surf fishing for sharks and other fish. #fishing #fishingtips #surffishing #jettyfishing #surfsidebeach
@juran.adventures
6.5K likes • 123.2K views
SURFSIDE BEACH PIER IS OPEN 🙌 Hurricane Matthew destroyed the former pier in Oct 2016. The new pier, originally scheduled for completion in 2022 has finally been unveiled. This $20 million dollar project is funded partially by FEMA ($9.5m) and the remainder by the town. WHAT TO KNOW 👉 Walking on the pier is FREE! 👉 4 businesses will be on the pier but only @drippys.homemadeicecream is currently...
moms_of_myrtle
411 likes • 14.6K views

🍦 Popular Ice Cream Spot

Be prepared for a line at Drippy's, but the ice cream is worth the wait! InstagramReddit

🅿️ Parking Availability

Hourly parking is available nearby. Public restrooms are clean and accessible. Reddit

The new Surfside Beach Pier and we wanted to go check it out. It isn’t open for fishing just yet but folks are welcome to come take a stroll for right now. 😊. Hope all of you have a fantastic day! #surfsidebeach #beachlife #walk #peace #Love #goodvibes #sunshine #ocean #myrtlebeach #vacation
myrtlebeachgrandstrandlife
130 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Free to Walk On

Enjoy the pier's views without fishing fees! Perfect for a scenic stroll. InstagramReddit

🎣 Bait Shop On-Site

Get your fishing gear and bait right at the pier for a convenient fishing trip. Reddit

🍦 Popular Ice Cream Spot

Be prepared for a line at Drippy's, but the ice cream is worth the wait! InstagramReddit

🅿️ Parking Availability

Hourly parking is available nearby. Public restrooms are clean and accessible. Reddit

🌅 Sunrise Photography

Capture stunning sunrise photos over the ocean from the pier. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the newly rebuilt Surfside Beach Pier, highlighting its free access for walking, great ocean views, and family-friendly atmosphere. The popular ice cream shop and convenient amenities like clean restrooms and an elevator are frequently praised. While fishing is a draw, the pier's appeal extends to anyone seeking a pleasant coastal experience without the crowds.

"The pier is set up well for fishing enthusiasts. The ice cream shop is quite popular so be prepared to stand in line a bit. Plenty of good restaurants near the pier."

Kimberly Kinsley

"It’s free to walk out on the pier if you’re not fishing. I’m so happy to see this pier rebuilt and done so substantially! Great views of the ocean and beach. 🏝️"

Nikki Stine

"Great place for any age! Parking available at an hourly rate, very clean public restrooms next to the ice cream place on the way to the fishing pier. Didn't have to pay to walk the pier like you have to pay at Myrtle Beach! The kids enjoyed the walk. Clean beach and places to sit! Next door to restaurants! Just the perfect location! We visited twice! Thanks to whomever who figured out a place was needed like this for families!"

Amy (FieldofDandelions)

What People Like

Free to walk on
Great ocean views
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Potential lines for ice cream

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Surfside Beach Pier is located in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, with hourly parking available nearby. Many visitors find it a convenient spot to visit from Myrtle Beach. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is hourly parking available near the pier. It's a good idea to have some change or be prepared to pay by card for parking. Reddit

Absolutely! Surfside Beach is just south of Myrtle Beach, making the pier an easy and less crowded alternative for a beach experience. Instagram

From Myrtle Beach, head south on US-17 S. Take the exit for SC-544 W towards Surfside Beach. Turn left onto Business US-17 S, then right onto Surfside Drive. The pier will be visible from the beach access points. Instagram

The pier has an elevator and stairs, making it accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility concerns. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Walking on the Surfside Beach Pier is free! This makes it a great, budget-friendly option for enjoying the ocean views. InstagramReddit

While walking is free, there may be a fee for fishing. It's best to check with the pier's bait shop or local listings for current fishing permit costs. Reddit

The pier is generally open, but hours can vary. It's recommended to check local listings or the pier's official channels for the most up-to-date operating hours, especially for fishing. Instagram+1

Tickets are not typically required for walking on the pier, as it's free. If there are special events, advance booking might be necessary, but for general access, it's usually first-come, first-served. Instagram

The pier is generally open year-round, but hours might be reduced during the off-season. It's always a good idea to confirm current operating status before your visit. Instagram

🎫 🎣 Fishing & Activities

Anglers often catch species like jack crevalle, king mackerel, and sometimes even sharks. The bait shop can provide insights into current catches. TikTokReddit+1

In South Carolina, a fishing license is generally required for individuals fishing from piers. It's advisable to check the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website for the latest regulations. Reddit

Yes, there is a bait shop on the pier that offers fishing supplies and bait for anglers. Reddit

Besides fishing, visitors can enjoy scenic walks, photography, watching the sunrise/sunset, and grabbing ice cream from Drippy's. InstagramReddit+1

While there isn't a full-service restaurant currently on the pier, there is a popular ice cream shop (Drippy's), and restaurants are planned for the future. Many dining options are also available nearby. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful lighting. The pier itself provides a great foreground for ocean and beach shots. Instagram+1

Capture the expansive ocean views, the pier's structure, anglers in action, and the vibrant colors of sunrise and sunset. Drone shots can offer unique perspectives. Instagram+2

Generally, tripods are allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing pathways, especially during busy times. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the ocean and pier. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing fishing action. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water. TikTok

There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Surfside Beach Pier is a fantastic destination for families. It's free to walk on, making it an affordable outing. Kids will enjoy the novelty of being over the ocean, watching the waves, and perhaps spotting some marine life. Reddit The ice cream shop is a guaranteed hit, and the clean restrooms add to the convenience. Reddit

It's a great spot for a leisurely walk without the overwhelming crowds often found at larger boardwalks. The pier's accessibility with an elevator also makes it easy for families with strollers or those with mobility challenges. InstagramReddit

🎣 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Surfside Beach Pier is ideal. Walking on the pier is completely free, offering stunning ocean views without any cost. InstagramReddit You can pack your own snacks and drinks to enjoy while taking in the scenery, saving money on food expenses. Reddit

While fishing might incur a fee, simply enjoying the atmosphere, taking photos, and perhaps indulging in an affordable ice cream cone from Drippy's makes for a memorable and inexpensive experience. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find the Surfside Beach Pier a rewarding location. The expansive ocean views and the pier's structure offer numerous composition opportunities. Instagram+1 Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times, providing dramatic lighting and vibrant colors for stunning shots. Instagram+1

Capture the action of anglers, the texture of the waves, and the overall coastal ambiance. Drone photography can also provide unique aerial perspectives of the pier and its surroundings. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rebirth of Surfside Beach Pier

The Surfside Beach Pier has a significant history, having been destroyed by Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. The community rallied, and after a substantial $20 million reconstruction project, partially funded by FEMA, the new pier was unveiled. Instagram This rebirth signifies resilience and a commitment to providing a beloved community and tourist attraction. The new structure is built to be robust and offers a modern, enjoyable experience for all visitors. Instagram

This reconstruction has brought renewed excitement to Surfside Beach. The pier is not just a fishing spot but a central hub for recreation and enjoyment. Its opening was a significant event, celebrated by locals and visitors alike, marking a return to normalcy and a symbol of progress for the area. Instagram+1

Visitors can now experience the pier's enhanced features, from its sturdy construction to its welcoming atmosphere. The pier's presence has revitalized the beachfront, offering a focal point for activities and a picturesque addition to the South Carolina coastline. Instagram

Fishing at Surfside Beach Pier

Surfside Beach Pier is a prime spot for surf fishing enthusiasts. Anglers can expect to reel in a variety of species, including popular catches like jack crevalle and king mackerel. Some visitors have even reported sightings of larger marine life, such as hammerhead sharks, adding an element of thrill to the fishing experience. TikTokReddit+1

For those new to pier fishing, the on-site bait shop is invaluable. It provides essential fishing gear, live bait, and local knowledge to help you make the most of your outing. Remember to check South Carolina's fishing regulations regarding licenses and any specific rules for pier fishing before you cast your line. Reddit

Even if you're not an avid angler, watching the fishermen and their catches can be quite entertaining. The pier offers a fantastic vantage point to observe the local fishing culture and the bounty of the Atlantic Ocean. Reddit

Beyond Fishing: Pier Activities & Amenities

While fishing is a major draw, the Surfside Beach Pier offers more for every visitor. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the vast ocean. The pier is also a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the sky puts on a spectacular show. Instagram+1

For those looking to cool down, Drippy's ice cream shop on the pier is a must-visit. Be prepared for a potential line, as it's a local favorite, but the delicious treats are well worth the wait. InstagramReddit The pier is also equipped with clean public restrooms and an elevator, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all guests. Reddit

With nearby restaurants and plans for future dining establishments on the pier, it serves as a central point for a complete beach day experience. It's a place where families can gather, friends can relax, and everyone can enjoy the coastal charm of Surfside Beach. InstagramReddit

You may also like

1 of 2