13 Reasons South Carolina Has the Best Beaches in the U.S.

South Carolina is a wonderful place to live in and visit. Adored for its gorgeous coastlines and warm, subtropical climate, the state is rich in history, boasts popular coastal towns, and features diverse wildlife. In fact, many believe South Carolina has the best beaches in all of the U.S. 

With over 2,800 miles of coastline, the state has a beach for every type of person and activity. Here are 13 reasons South Carolina’s beaches trump all others in the country. 

1. Many Have White Sand

Many of South Carolina’s beaches feature beautiful white sand, giving it a tropical feel. These clean, soft-sanded shorelines are perfect for walking, jogging, picnicking, lounging, and playing. 

Some of the most popular white-sand beaches across the state include Hunting Island State Park Beach, Huntington Beach State Park, Folly Island, Fripp Island Beach, Myrtle Beach State Park, Fish Haul Beach Park, and Dungeness Beach. 

2. Their Ocean Water Is Clear Blue

South Carolina features clear blue ocean water that’s reminiscent of the Caribbean. In fact, many people have been reporting that the water has been even more striking this summer (2023). The exceptionally-clear water is likely due to the state’s mild weather, which prevents the presence of dirt, sand, and sediment.

South Carolina’s beach-goers are experiencing clear blue, almost turquoise, water, as the minerals that are typically present in its waves have had the chance to sink to the bottom of the ocean. Myrtle Beach, one of the most common tourist destinations in the state, especially features stunning ocean water. 

3. They Feature Beautiful Sunrises

As a state positioned on the southeast coast of the U.S., South Carolina reaps the benefit of beautiful sunrises over the water. You can enjoy bright reds, yellows, and oranges as the sun rises above the water during the early morning hours, nesting in the soft sand on the shore.

4. They’re Family-Friendly

South Carolina beaches are some of the best family-friendly beaches in the country. In fact, many families will plan annual trips to coastal cities like Myrtle Beach and Charlestown. South Carolina’s beaches offer various kid-friendly activities, from open play areas to extensive boardwalks for walking. 

Additionally, many of the beaches have a relatively short walk from their entrance to the water. This means your little ones or elderly loved ones won’t have to travel too far to enjoy the ocean. And we know parenting often comes with dragging countless chairs, toys, and beach equipment along the hot sand; thankfully, you won’t have to struggle in the hot sun for too long. 

5. They Offer Many Tourist Attractions

South Carolina has many tourist attractions that bring in people from all over the country. There are various beach parks, boardwalks, piers, amusement parks, and coastal downtowns along the shore.

In fact, Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular family vacation destinations on the East Coast. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade expand for 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, offering gorgeous views for walkers, bikers, and joggers. 

As for the beaches specifically, many offer visitors great fishing opportunities. In fact, fishermen will travel long and far for the opportunity to fish along South Carolina’s shores for fish like flounder, black drum, pompano, and fighting redfish. And, of course, you can simply enjoy the state’s natural beauty — which is enough of an attraction itself. 

6. They Have a Warm Sea Temperature

South Carolina’s ocean temperatures range throughout the year, but they get relatively high for ocean water on the East Coast. The average annual water temperature in Myrtle Beach is 71 degrees Fahrenheit. For reference, that’s 10 degrees Fahrenheit higher than Maine’s maximum July water temperature (which is equal to Myrtle’s winter sea temp).

During each season, the average temperatures are as follows:

• Winter: 61 degrees Fahrenheit
• Spring: 67 degrees Fahrenheit
• Summer: 81 degrees Fahrenheit
• Autumn: 76 degrees Fahrenheit

7. They’re Situated in a Subtropical Climate

South Carolina has a subtropical climate, making it the perfect location for beach visits. The state is a great place to visit year-round, with hot, humid summers and cold, mild winters.

Many people plan beach getaways during colder months to escape to a warmer environment. While it does still get cold in South Carolina, it’s much warmer than in northern states, and its beaches offer natural beauty and serene escapes all year long — even in the snow.

8. They Feature Expansive Boardwalks

There are many piers and boardwalks along South Carolina’s popular beaches, featuring breathtaking views and the opportunity to get some exercise or explore. You can immerse yourself in the coastal lifestyle by stopping to read historical placards, viewing different wildlife, fishing off the pier, and simply strolling along the shore. 

9. Variety of Beaches

Another reason South Carolina features the best beaches in the country is because of their diversity. Some beaches are great for socializing, some are perfect for fishing, some are ideal for water sports, some are more kid-friendly, and others make for a quiet, peaceful escape from the rest of the world. For whatever vibe you’re looking to find, the state is bound to have a beach that matches it. 

10. They’re Home to Diverse Wildlife

South Carolina’s beaches feature a variety of wildlife species. In the ocean, you can find various types of fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. In fact, while most are found in coastal marshes, state parks, and retention ponds, alligators might (rarely) roam the beaches.

The state’s beaches are also home to many bird species, including the American herring gull, great egret, and horned grebe, among countless others.

11. They Boast Beachfront Hotels, Resorts, and Rentals

As a popular tourist attraction, South Carolina’s beaches are lined with oceanside resorts, hotels, and house rentals. Many of its options are affordable and family-friendly, featuring beachfront views of the ocean. In fact, if you wake up early enough and your room is facing in the right direction, you can likely catch a sunrise right over the water from the comfort of your own rental. 

12. There Are Many Dog-Friendly Beaches in the State

What better way to enjoy your beach visit than to bring your beloved pup? Thankfully, there are many dog-friendly beaches across the state of South Carolina where your dog can run freely, splash in the shallow water, and frolic in the sand. 

If you’re looking to take your pet for a stroll along the water, here are some of the state’s dog-friendly beaches to visit: Burkes Beach, Hunting Island State Park, Myrtle Beach State Park, Myrtle Beach public beaches, Alder Lane Beach Access, Fish Haul Beach Park, Isle of Palms Beaches, Morris Island, Hilton Head Island beaches, and many more. 

13. They’re Located in Friendly Communities

South Carolina, as a whole, is known to be one of the friendliest places in the country, and its coastal communities are no different. When you visit the gorgeous beaches across the state, you’ll likely encounter kind residents and perhaps even make a friend or two.

There are many reasons to plan your trip to South Carolina this summer (or during any season, really!) Its beaches make the perfect getaway for friends and family alike.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com