If youāve never visited Pawleys Island, youāre in for a peaceful, nature-filled experience. Just a short drive from Pawleys Island, the buzz of Myrtle Beach fades into the calm of this quiet Lowcountry town. Families love it here because itās a place to reconnect, slow down, and explore the areaās natural beauty without the crowds.
You wonāt find loud rides or packed boardwalks. Instead, there are pristine beaches, shaded trails, wildlife tours, and must-do activities that let kids explore and learn. Itās easy to fill your days with sunshine and smiles.
This guide will walk you through the top things to do in Pawleys, whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a full Pawleys Island vacation.
Brookgreen Gardens
š 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Brookgreen Gardens is one of the top attractions near Pawleys Island. Itās a large outdoor space where you can walk through beautiful gardens filled with flowers, fountains, and huge oak trees. All around, youāll see amazing sculptures made by American artists. There’s also a zoo where you can see otters, alligators, and birds that are native to South Carolina.
For families who enjoy learning, there are guided tours that teach you about the landās history, once home to old rice plantations. It’s one of the best places to enjoy nature, art, and animals all in one spot. If you enjoy history, there are guided tours that explain the stories behind the land, which was once part of old rice plantations. This is a great place to spend a few hours learning and enjoying nature.
Huntington Beach State Park
š 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Huntington Beach State Park is ideal for those who want to spend time outdoors. The beach here is wide and clean, with soft sand and calm waves. If you like watching wildlife, there are walking trails and boardwalks through marshes where you can spot birds and see an alligator from a safe distance. There’s also a historic home inside the park called Atalaya Castle. You can walk through its old rooms and learn about how people lived here nearly 100 years ago. This park offers a great blend of beach fun, nature, and history all in one spot.
True Blue Golf Club
If youāre a golfer or want your family to experience golf for the first time, donāt miss the True Blue Golf Club. Itās one of the top golf courses in the Myrtle Beach area, offering wide fairways, peaceful scenery, and a layout surrounded by native trees and creek views.
Thereās also a practice area and lessons available at the Steve Dresser Golf Academy. Whether youāre swinging for fun or aiming for par, itās a great place to relax and enjoy the charm of Pawleys.
Pawleys Island Guide Service Eco-Tours
Want to get out on the waterway? Try a kayak or boat ride with Pawleys Island Guide Service. These tours take you through the quiet inlet, where you might see a turtle, fish, or even a dolphin.Ā Book a tour with Pawleys Island Guide Service, where you can see birds, turtles, and fish in their natural habitat. The guides possess extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem, making it easy to learn while having a great time. They also offer fishing trips and seasonal hunting trips. If you enjoy nature and want to explore the coastline more actively, this tour provides a chance to see parts of the area that visitors often overlook.
Pawleys Island Chapel
š Reserve Marina, 20 Marina Dr, Pawleys Island, SC 29585
The Pawleys Island Chapel is a small wooden church situated directly along the marsh. It’s been part of the island for more than 75 years and still holds summer worship services every Sunday morning. The building is simple, but the view from inside is peaceful and beautiful, especially when the tide is high. People often visit to take in the scenery or attend a quiet service. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and special gatherings. Even if you’re not attending a service, walking around the area gives you a good feel for the peaceful side of Pawleys Island.
Hammock Shops Village
If you enjoy shopping or want to stroll through a relaxing spot, head over to Hammock Shops Village. This charming outdoor shopping area has been around since the 1930s. It’s filled with small shops that sell a wide range of items, from handmade hammocks to jewelry, clothing, and local art.
The walkways are lined with tall trees and brick paths, so it feels more like a cozy garden than a mall. It’s a great place to find souvenirs made in South Carolina. You can take your time, grab a snack, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon exploring something unique to Pawleys Island.
Night Heron Park at Litchfield
Just a short drive from the island, Night Heron Park is a quiet nature spot that feels like a hidden gem. It’s great if you want to go for a walk, ride bikes, or have a picnic. You might spot herons, egrets, or even turtles while walking through the peaceful paths. There are benches along the way where you can sit and listen to the birds. It’s not a major tourist destination, making it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds. Bring a book, pack a lunch, or go for a short stroll. This park gives you the quiet side of Pawleys Island that many visitors miss.
Where to Stay in Pawleys Island
If youāre bringing the family on a vacation to Pawleys Island, where you stay can make a big difference. Most places here are quiet, close to nature, and built for relaxingānot rushing. You wonāt find tall hotels or big chains, and honestly, thatās part of the charm.
The best way to stay in Pawleys is to rent a beach home or coastal cottage. It gives you room to spread out, cook meals together, and enjoy those peaceful Lowcountry mornings on the porch. If youāre not sure where to start, Sea Mountain Vacation Rentals is a trusted local provider offering a variety of cozy, family-friendly homes near the beach and marsh.
Top picks for this area include Rays of Glory, a charming cottage with a breezy porch perfect for morning coffee; Big Bear Coastal Cabin, ideal for larger families looking for extra space and a private pool; and Clodhopper, which blends rustic charm with modern comfort for a peaceful island escape.
Whether you need two bedrooms or six, there’s something for every crew and every stay comes with the kind of comfort and location that lets you truly slow down and enjoy Pawleys Island the way itās meant to be.
