Need a coastal escape with Lowcountry charm? Head to Murrells Inlet! Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” Murrells Inlet blends natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and incredible cuisine. From serene salt marshes to vibrant waterfront dining, it’s a laid-back destination perfect for couples, families, and nature lovers alike.
Murrells Inlet, SC Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Kayak the salt marshes – Paddle through scenic tidal creeks rich with birdlife and serene views.
- For History Buffs: Stroll through Brookgreen Gardens – Explore sculpture gardens, live oaks, historic rice plantations, and a zoo.
- For Shoppers: Browse the MarshWalk and local boutiques – Discover handmade crafts, coastal gifts, and art with a waterfront breeze.
- For Couples: Enjoy sunset cocktails on the MarshWalk – Dine alfresco with live music and marsh views as the sun sets.
- For Families: Visit Huntington Beach State Park – Build sandcastles, watch wildlife, or explore the historic Atalaya Castle.
Best Time to Visit Murrells Inlet, SC
The best time to visit Murrells Inlet is from April through October. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer is lively with festivals, boating, and beachgoing.
How to Get to Murrells Inlet, SC
- If you are traveling by car: Located off U.S. Highway 17, Murrells Inlet is about 20 minutes south of Myrtle Beach and easily accessible by car.
- By Plane: Fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), then drive or take a rideshare south along the Grand Strand.
- By Bus: Intercity buses and shuttles serve the Myrtle Beach area, with rental cars available nearby.
Where to Stay in Murrells Inlet, SC
- The Inlet Sports Lodge – Elegant boutique stay with coastal charm, ideal for golfers, boaters, and seafood lovers.
- Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East – Family-friendly resort with spacious suites, golf access, and pool amenities.
- Brookwood Inn – Cozy, budget-friendly option just minutes from waterfront dining and local attractions.
Best Things to Do in Murrells Inlet, SC
1. Brookgreen Gardens
I like:
"Admire sculpture-lined paths and discover blooming sights on a romantic spring trip."
- What is Brookgreen Gardens?
- Brookgreen Gardens has been named as one of the United States' top 10 public gardens by TripAdvisor, opened to the public in 1932 on the site of four former rice plantations.
- What historical recognitions has Brookgreen Gardens received?
- The lovely Myrtle Beach gardens were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1992.
- What historical sites can visitors see at Brookgreen Gardens?
- Today, they preserve sites connected to early American historical figures, including a memorial gravesite honoring Theodosia Burr Alston, the daughter of Vice President Aaron Burr.
- How large is Brookgreen Gardens, and what can visitors explore?
- Visitors can explore the beautiful 9,100-acre gardens throughout the week and see over 1,400 sculpture works placed throughout its grounds, including pieces by sculptor Hyatt Huntington.
- What educational experiences are available at Brookgreen Gardens?
- An award-winning Lowcountry Trail details the region's plantation and slavery history, while the Lowcountry Zoo offers animal exhibits and exploration expeditions to archaeological areas on site.
- What is the contact information for Brookgreen Gardens?
- 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-235-6000
2. Huntington Beach State Park
I recommend:
"Walk sandy trails and see coastal wildlife on an exciting family outing."
- What is Huntington Beach State Park?
- Huntington Beach State Park is a gorgeous National Register of Historic Places-listed state park known for its dense marine life populations, home to lovely regional sea turtle, alligator, and bird species.
- Where is Huntington Beach State Park located?
- The park is located along South Carolina's beautiful Atlantic Ocean beachfront on the former property of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington.
- What historic landmarks are within Huntington Beach State Park?
- Its beautiful Atalaya Castle estate is designated as a National Historic Landmark along with neighboring Brookgreen Gardens.
- Can visitors tour Atalaya Castle?
- Today, visitors can explore the castle as part of guided tours overseen by the Friends of Huntington Beach State Park organization, detailing the home's construction and the couple's lives and legacy.
- What outdoor activities are available at Huntington Beach State Park?
- The Kerrigan Nature Trail is home to a lagoon-front boardwalk, which serves as one of the area's top birding spots. Nature trails abound, along with overnight camping areas and a pond viewing deck.
- What is the contact information for Huntington Beach State Park?
- 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-237-4440
3. The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
I love:
"Stroll the boardwalk and enjoy summer seafood sights on an easy weekend."
- What is the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk?
- The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a charming waterfront boardwalk traversing through Murrells Inlet's lovely estuary habitats, located within the heart of the fishing village's downtown district.
- Where is the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk located?
- The half-mile boardwalk forms the heart of the city's downtown district, home to some of the city's top waterfront dining destinations.
- What dining options are available at the MarshWalk?
- Lowcountry cuisine options abound at restaurants offering nightly al fresco seating and live music performances.
- Dining destinations include the Dead Dog Saloon, which showcases performances by area bands, and Drunken Jack's, named in honor of an infamous area pirate from the 17th century.
- Are there activities beyond dining at the MarshWalk?
- Opportunities for watersports and sightseeing are offered by a number of touring and rental companies that line the boardwalk's shores.
- What is the contact information for the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk?
- 4025 Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 704-609-7535
Where to Eat:
4. Drunken Jack's Restaurant and Lounge
I enjoy:
"Savor fresh catches and look at inlet views on a couples night out."
- What is Drunken Jack's Restaurant and Lounge?
- Drunken Jack's Restaurant and Lounge is a lovely Murrells Inlet waterfront seafood restaurant, located along the city's gorgeous MarshWalk riverfront boardwalk.
- Why is Drunken Jack's a popular dining destination?
- The restaurant is known as one of the city's prime destinations for seafood and live entertainment, showcasing performances by area bands throughout the week directly on the waterfront.
- What is the history behind the name "Drunken Jack's"?
- It is named in honor of an infamous area pirate legend from the 17th century, when a deceased pirate from notorious Blackbeard's crew washed ashore after a shipwreck with a scattering of empty rum bottles.
- What kind of food is served at Drunken Jack's?
- Full lunch, dinner, and bar menus are served up each day, showcasing delicious fish and seafood platters and house specialties like steak Neptune and baked stuffed flounder.
- What drinks are available at Drunken Jack's?
- A full bar serves up craft beer, fine wines, and frozen and specialty drinks.
Drunken Jack's Restaurant and Lounge, 4031 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-651-2044
5. Murrells Inlet Seafood
I like:
"Shop local seafood and enjoy affordable, fresh stuff on a quick trip."
- What is Murrells Inlet Seafood?
- Murrells Inlet Seafood was opened in 1967 by area resident Rick Baumann and has become the oldest business still under original ownership in Murrells Inlet today.
- What awards and recognition has Murrells Inlet Seafood received?
- The award-winning restaurant has been voted as the region's top seafood restaurant and store by three area publications.
- What type of seafood does Murrells Inlet Seafood offer?
- It is known for its local day-boat seafood catches and imported Alaskan specialties.
- What is special about the Daily Soup Bar at Murrells Inlet Seafood?
- The store's Daily Soup Bar showcases seafood chowders and bisques that have won awards at the city's annual Murrells Inlet Soup Cookoff.
- Who is the chef at Murrells Inlet Seafood?
- Its master kitchen serves up health-conscious fare crafted by Austrian chef Detlev Martitsch Kreiner.
- What fresh seafood options are available for purchase?
- Live local blue crabs are sold throughout the day, along with world-famous crab cakes and a variety of daily catch offerings.
4886 South, US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-651-9309
6. Inlet Provision Company
I Recommend:
"Taste coastal dishes and admire marsh views on a relaxing retirement lunch."
- What is Inlet Provision Company?
- Inlet Provision Company is a unique new restaurant offering opened in 2019 adjacent to the Hot Fish Club, owned and operated by the same restaurant company as its neighbor.
- Why is Inlet Provision Company a popular dining destination?
- The restaurant is one of Murrells Inlet's most affordable dining destinations, with most items available for under $15.
- What is the atmosphere like at Inlet Provision Company?
- Rustic decor creates an intimate bar feel inside, while a spacious waterfront deck offers panoramic shoreline views outside.
- What are some popular entrees at Inlet Provision Company?
- Diners can enjoy delicious entree selections like Alaskan snow crab steampots, shrimp rolls, lobster grilled cheese, and pork belly banh mi sandwiches topped with kimchi and cucumbers.
- What other menu options are available?
- Specialty burgers, sandwiches, and seafood platters are also served, accompanied by Lowcountry side dishes and refreshing local craft beers.
4891 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-299-2444
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
7. Lee’s Farmers Market
I like:
"Explore local produce and savor gourmet bites on a cheap, fun stop."
- What is Lee’s Farmers Market?
- Located just a few minutes from Myrtle Beach, Lee’s Farmers Market is your one-stop shop for all things edible.
- How is Lee’s Farmers Market different from other farmers markets?
- Unlike other Farmers Markets, Lee’s goes beyond local fresh produce to include imported deli items and gourmet foods from near and far.
- What is a popular item at Lee’s Farmers Market?
- One example is their popular hot pastrami sandwiches, made from corned beef which comes all the way from New York’s Carnegie Deli.
- What types of products does Lee’s Farmers Market offer?
- They stock an excellent range of pasta, cheeses, and other Italian delicacies sourced from local and international suppliers, as well as local fresh and cured meats, fish, and seafood.
- What are the operating hours of Lee’s Farmers Market?
- The market is open from Monday to Saturday from 7 AM to 5 PM.
- What is the contact information for Lee’s Farmers Market?
- Lee’s Farmers Market, 4883 Hwy 17 Bypass North, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, Phone: 843-651-7398
If you are interested in local events:
- Murrells Inlet MarshWalk Masters (March–April) – A fun pub crawl and golf-themed party with prizes and food specials.
- Fourth of July Boat Parade – Decorated boats cruise the inlet, followed by fireworks over the water.
- Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival (September) – A juried show inside Huntington Beach State Park with artists, music, and food.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Murrells Inlet, SC:
- Myrtle Beach (25–30 min) – Visit the boardwalk, SkyWheel, shopping outlets, and beach attractions galore.
- Pawleys Island (15–20 min) – Stroll the beach, explore quaint shops, or relax in this laid-back, historic island town.
- Litchfield Beach (10–15 min) – Enjoy uncrowded sands and peaceful shoreline perfect for shell hunting and sunbathing.
- Georgetown (25–30 min) – South Carolina’s third-oldest city with charming harborfront shops, museums, and walking tours.
- Garden City Beach (10–15 min) – Family-friendly beach town with arcades, fishing pier, and live summer music.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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Where is Murrells Inlet located?
- Murrells Inlet is a charming community on the border of South Carolina's Georgetown and Horry Counties, located just a few miles south of Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand beachfront area.
-
What is the history of Murrells Inlet?
- Once a fishing village, Murrells Inlet has evolved into a major area tourist destination.
-
What attractions does Murrells Inlet offer?
- The town is home to a lively waterfront boardwalk district, featuring some of the region’s best seafood restaurants and live music bar venues.
-
What historic attractions can visitors explore in Murrells Inlet?
- Visitors can explore National Register of Historic Places-listed attractions, including:
- Brookgreen Gardens – Named one of the United States' top public garden facilities.
- Huntington Beach State Park – Preserves Atalaya Castle, the historic estate of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming gardens.
Brookwood Inn – A charming and quiet stay near the waterfront.
Explore Brookgreen Gardens – Visit one of the most beautiful sculpture gardens in the U.S.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for water activities.
Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East – A resort-style stay with golf and outdoor activities.
Enjoy fresh seafood on the MarshWalk – Dine with stunning waterfront views and live music.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and great fishing.
Hampton Inn Murrells Inlet – A comfortable stay close to major attractions.
Visit Huntington Beach State Park – Hike, fish, or relax on a quiet, scenic beach.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and peaceful with holiday charm.
The Inlet Sports Lodge – A cozy boutique hotel for a relaxing getaway.
Take a boat tour of the Inlet – Spot dolphins and learn about the area’s rich history.
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