Myrtle Beach State Park Guide — Fishing, Hiking, and More 

Myrtle Beach State Park is a haven for nature lovers, where you can explore the diverse ecosystem of the South Carolina coast, spot a variety of wildlife, and soak up the stunning scenery. Whether you want to hike the trails, picnic on the beach, or simply bask in the warm sunshine, Myrtle Beach State Park is the perfect destination for a memorable outdoor adventure.

How To Get to Myrtle Beach State Park

Where Is Myrtle Beach State Park?

Nestled along South Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach State Park is a true gem of South Carolina. This state park spans over 312 sprawling acres and consists of an oceanfront maritime forest, a white sandy beach, and towering trees that provide a lush canopy of greenery. The park is conveniently near the major cities of Conway and North Myrtle Beach, which are just a little under 20 miles away.

Myrtle Beach State Park Opening Hours and Seasons

This park is open year-round and has varying hours depending on the season. From March to November, the hours are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and from December to February, the hours are from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The facilities within the park, like the nature center or Pier Store, have different hours. Be sure to check the hours of the different facilities you plan to visit prior to starting your day at the park to ensure that they are all open.

Nearest Airports to Myrtle Beach State Park

The closest airport to this state park is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). This airport is less than 4 miles from the park and offers nonstop flights to over 50 destinations, including Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, and New York. Many popular airlines service this airport, including Allegiant, American, Avelo, Breeze, Delta, Frontier, and Southwest.

Driving to Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 17. This road is also known as South Kings Highway. There are several parking areas upon entering the park.

Taking the Train to Myrtle Beach State Park

There is no train service directly to Myrtle Beach State Park, but there is a way to get you close. Amtrak offers service to Florence, South Carolina. This is the closest train station to the park, and it takes about an hour and 45 minutes to get to the park from here.

Taking the Bus to Myrtle Beach State Park

Taking the bus can be a cost-effective and hassle-free option. With a Greyhound station just 4 miles away from the park, you can avoid the stress of driving in an unfamiliar city and dealing with traffic. This is a great way to save some money and enjoy the scenic route to the park.

Getting Around Myrtle Beach State Park

The best way to get around Myrtle Beach State Park is by parking your vehicle in the parking lot and exploring the park on foot. There are several access areas that can get you close to the beach. The hiking trails that wind through the park are an excellent way to explore the park’s flora and fauna.

What To See and Do in Myrtle Beach State Park

This state park offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation or adventure, making it the perfect beach destination.

Beach

Myrtle Beach State Park is known for its beautiful beach, which stretches for 1 mile and offers a variety of activities. Visitors can use boardwalks, outdoor showers, bathrooms, and changing rooms. The beach is also equipped with lifeguards from mid-May to mid-September.

While at the beach, visitors can enjoy activities like beachcombing, observing marine life like sea turtles and dolphins, sunbathing, and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

Birdwatching

Bird enthusiasts will be delighted to visit this park, as it is home to hundreds of different bird species throughout the year. The spring and fall seasons are the best times to go birdwatching, as this is when the migration period takes place. The nature center and the park’s website provide a comprehensive list of the types of birds that can be spotted here and the times when they are most commonly seen.

Hot Tip:

Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to get a better view of the birds that reside in this park.

Fishing

This park is an exceptional spot for surf fishing and pier fishing. The pier extends 300 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and is considered a prime fishing destination by anglers, with king mackerel, whiting, and flounder some of the most commonly caught fish. You need a valid South Carolina fishing license to fish here. In case you forget your fishing gear, you can rent equipment and purchase bait at the pier’s tackle shop.

Hiking

At Myrtle Beach State Park, there are 2 hiking trails and a nature trail that you can explore. These trails combine to make a 2.5-mile hike, which will take most people about 45 minutes to complete. All of the trails are easy and offer unparalleled views of the wildlife and plants found within the park. The trails are well-maintained, making them easily accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Nature Center

The nature center is an excellent place to explore while visiting the park, especially if you’re interested in learning about the park’s plants, animals, and history. This facility offers a wide range of programs all year-round that cater to visitors of all ages.

Some of the programs include seashell identification sessions, beach walks, birdwatching tours, and interactive discussions about the park’s wildlife. Additionally, there are plenty of hands-on exhibits, saltwater aquariums, and live reptiles to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem.

Pier

The pier is one of the best spots for fishing, and you can catch a variety of fish species here. It provides an excellent location for viewing marine life. You can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine creatures swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. The pier is also a great place to take photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset. The view of the ocean and the surrounding landscape is breathtaking and perfect for capturing memories.

Self-Led Activities

The park provides several self-led activities that allow visitors to learn about the different plants, animals, and habitats that exist there. Some of the activities offered include scavenger hunts, bird and beach bingo, and walking storyboards that provide information about the various areas and animals found in the park. These activities are enjoyable on their own, but they are even more fun when done with friends and family.

Best Times To Visit Myrtle Beach State Park

This park is a fantastic place to visit, no matter the time of year. There are times throughout the year that are better to plan a visit than others, especially if you hope to participate in a specific activity or program.

Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach State Park for Ideal Weather

Planning a vacation can be exciting, but it’s important to consider the weather to make the most out of your trip. The ideal time to visit is usually in April, when the temperatures are perfect, with a range from the low 50s to the low 70s. Additionally, there are only about 5 days of rain on average during this time, making it an excellent time to explore and enjoy the outdoors.

Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach State Park To Avoid the Crowds

If you prefer to travel when it’s less crowded, consider visiting the park in December. It’s the least busy month of the year, so you can explore the park without worrying about long lines or crowds. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the park’s beauty and peaceful atmosphere at your own pace.

Best Time To Visit Myrtle Beach State Park for Wildlife

Wildlife abounds at Myrtle Beach State Park. Many people hope to get a glimpse of the dolphins and other marine life when visiting. The best time to see the dolphins and other sea animals is in October. This is when they are the most active throughout the year. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars and camera for even better views and photos to last a lifetime.

Cheapest Time To Visit Myrtle Beach State Park

Saving money while traveling may seem impossible, but with a little research and planning, it can be a reality. The best time to plan an affordable trip to Myrtle Beach State Park is from early to mid-September. This is when lodging and flight rates are at their lowest throughout the year. A September visit can save you hundreds in traveling expenses.

Annual Events in Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park offers a variety of programs on a regular basis throughout the year. Some of the programs include wildlife talks, nature activities, and demonstrations. At this point, no annual events take place here.

Where To Stay in Myrtle Beach State Park

There are countless accommodation options when visiting Myrtle Beach State Park, both inside the park’s boundaries and nearby.

Inside the Park

Setting up camp for the night is the only way to stay overnight within the park’s boundaries. The park boasts a well-equipped campground with 140 sites that offer water and electric hookups. Most of the sites also have sewage hookups, making it convenient for RVs and tents.

The campground has clean bathhouses with hot showers and restrooms, along with nearby laundry mat facilities. Additionally, each site comes with complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you connected with the world. The beautiful campground is just 300 yards from the beach and offers a perfect blend of nature and comfort.

Towns Near Myrtle Beach State Park

There are many towns and communities within minutes of the park. No matter what type of base camp you are looking for, you are sure to find a perfect solution near Myrtle Beach State Park.

Conway, South Carolina

Conway is a little under 20 miles from Myrtle Beach State Park, and it has plenty to offer visitors seeking a home base near the park. This town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and historic Southern community. It is the perfect spot to settle when visiting this park, especially if you are seeking a mix of culture and outdoor recreation.

The town has a variety of lodging, including boutique hotels, private vacation rentals, and bed and breakfasts. The dining scene is divine, with an impressive selection of culinary delights, from Southern comfort foods to authentic international cuisine.

Hot Tip:

Fun and recreation abound in Conway, where opportunities to hike, bike, fish, and visit nearby wildlife reserves and parks abound. This lovely town will provide you with everything needed for a perfect stay.

North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

North Myrtle Beach is a popular city to stay in when visiting Myrtle Beach State Park. It is approximately 20 miles from the park and offers a variety of choices for accommodations, dining, and adventure. The lodging options in this city range from private beach rentals to luxury hotels and budget-friendly motels. You can find numerous restaurants in the city, ranging from beachfront grills to elegant dining rooms.

There is also a wide range of recreation and entertainment, including wineries, theaters, dance clubs, and water sports. North Myrtle Beach is a great choice for those who are looking for a home away from home while visiting Myrtle Beach State Park.

Where To Eat in Myrtle Beach State Park

There are no restaurants within the park’s boundaries, but you don’t have to worry about going hungry. You can find a variety of dining options just a few minutes away from the park.

Damon’s Grill

Damon’s Grill is a top-rated restaurant in the Myrtle Beach area, less than 2 miles away from the park. This restaurant is famous for its award-winning ribs and also serves chicken, juicy burgers, and seafood platters. You can enjoy the dining experience in the indoor dining room or on the open-air deck, where you can watch the sunset and waves splashing against the shore. In addition, there’s live music, which adds to the relaxing ambience.

Lobster House

Lobster House is a seafood restaurant conveniently next to the park. It offers its customers fresh, locally sourced seafood and steaks. The restaurant boasts an impressive wine and cocktail menu and serves an assortment of top-shelf liquors.

Myrtle Beach State Park Facts

1. A New State Park Established

Myrtle Beach State Park was the first state park to open in South Carolina. It opened on July 1, 1936.

2. Built by the CCC

The Civilian Conservation Corps built many of the structures and facilities within the park’s boundaries, playing a pivotal role in making Myrtle Beach State Park what it is today.

3. Original People of the Park

The first people to live in this area were the Waccamaw and Winyah peoples.

4. Discover Carolina Site

Myrtle Beach State Park is designated as a Discover Carolina Site. This means that the park provides curriculum-based science programs for the students of South Carolina.

5. Sea Turtle Sightings

This park has loggerhead sea turtle activity throughout the year. During your visit, you can learn how to positively impact the beach and learn how the park protects and manages the sea turtle nests.

Final Thoughts

Myrtle Beach State Park may be a small park, but it has so much to offer. From an incredible nature center to a white sand beach, and from interpretive programs to fishing from the pier, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. This park is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.