Top 10 Best South Carolina Beach Towns (Updated 2023)

As the Southeastern United States continues to draw more and more attention, it’s no surprise that South Carolina is quickly becoming a hot spot for real estate. And rightfully so – with reasonable home prices, delicious cuisine, and that beloved gentle, slow Southern lifestyle, what’s not to love? Plus, if you’re a beach lover, there are plenty of fantastic places to call home along South Carolina’s beautiful coastline.

South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, attracting tourists from all over the country. With such breathtaking views and serene surroundings, it’s easy to understand why anyone would want to call a beach town in South Carolina their permanent home. The state boasts of several beach towns, but there are a few that stand out as the absolute best.

10 Best Beach Towns in South Carolina

Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking for the perfect place to live in South Carolina near the beach, Myrtle Beach is an excellent option. This town is renowned as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Southeast, and it’s not hard to understand why. Myrtle Beach is home to a plethora of fantastic restaurants, and the views of the ocean are simply breathtaking. Additionally, if you’re a fan of biking, this is the perfect place for you, as it’s a popular sport in the area.

Myrtle Beach is a surprisingly safe city, especially considering its size. Additionally, the schools in the area are quite impressive. It’s no wonder that living in Myrtle Beach has become a source of pride for many.

Hilton Head

For years, Hilton Head has been the favorite destination of the affluent and high society. Its upscale and refined reputation is well-known, making it difficult to mention that you reside in Hilton Head without coming across as boastful, even if that is not your intention.

If you choose to reside in Hilton Head, you will have access to high-end beaches, lively clubs, museums, and secure residential areas. For those who love nature, there is a vast wildlife sanctuary nearby that boasts exceptional biodiversity, and it’s just a short walk away from your home.

Isle of Palms

The mere mention of Isle of Palms exudes luxury and sophistication. This small stretch of land serves as a perfect combination of a resort and a residential area, nestled right by the ocean. It’s an ideal destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and all that it has to offer.

During your visit, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this resort town. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, have a delightful picnic, catch some waves while surfing, or play a round of golf. For those who prefer to be on the water, renting a boat is also an option. Even during the off-season, the town’s serene charm captivates visitors. Great schools and stunning homes add to its allure. It’s easy to fall in love with this place.

Sullivan’s Island

If you’re looking for a cozy, small-town vibe, Sullivan’s Island might just be the perfect place for you. Situated within Charleston County, this resort-style beach town offers a unique blend of beachside living and a plethora of other amenities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, Sullivan’s Island has something for everyone.

If you’re someone who values a sense of community, Sullivan’s Island is the perfect beach town for you. Not only does it offer top-notch restaurants, popular resorts, and quality schools, but it also has a strong sense of close-knit camaraderie among its residents. Living in Sullivan’s Island means getting to know your neighbors by name and being part of a welcoming community that values strong relationships.

Surfside Beach

If you’re searching for a delightful and secure South Carolina beach town to settle down and raise your family, then Surfside Beach is an excellent choice. The town is affectionately referred to as the “Family Beach,” thanks to its abundance of child-friendly attractions and events.

If you’re looking for some fun, this place has got you covered! From unique shops to a crafter’s paradise and plenty of parks to explore, there’s something for everyone. Not only is it a great place to visit, but it’s also an excellent place to call home with safe streets and strong support for students. And if you’re looking for some adult entertainment, be sure to check out the exciting restaurant and nightlife scene.

As an experienced beach goer, it’s hard not to get frustrated with the influx of summer tourists. No one enjoys the added traffic and noise that comes with the season. Wouldn’t it be a dream come true to have a tranquil and secluded beach community all to yourself?

Seabrook Island

Seabrook Island is undoubtedly one of the most desirable beach towns to live in, and it’s easy to see why. This community operates as a town in its own right, complete with gated access. In other words, this is a place for locals, not tourists. So, if you’re looking for a beach town where you can feel like a true resident, Seabrook Island should be at the top of your list.

Folly Beach

If you’re looking for a stunning location to invest in real estate, Folly Beach should be at the top of your list. This charming town, located near Charleston, offers a plethora of benefits for its residents. While many tourists are drawn to the iconic Folly Pier and the beautiful boardwalk that stretches 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, locals know that there’s so much more to love about this place.

While the Pier is a popular spot, Folly Beach has more to offer in its downtown district. It’s a mix of city and surf, giving off a cosmopolitan and elegant vibe. This unique blend is what draws residents to live here year-round, as it truly embodies the spirit of Folly Beach.

Pawley’s Island

If you’re a history enthusiast, then you must have heard about South Carolina’s love affair with the Victorian era. However, Pawley’s Island takes it up a notch with its stunning collection of 18th and 19th-century homes, boasting exquisite Moorish architecture and traditional Victorian stylings. This charming beach town is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the past.

Pawley’s is a hidden gem for those who love nature. With its stunning gardens and quaint zoo, it offers a serene environment for those seeking an outdoor lifestyle. However, finding a home in this almost untouched town can be quite challenging due to its small population of only 100 residents.

Kiawah Island

If you’re looking for a place to live in South Carolina that’s close to the beach, Kiawah Island is definitely worth considering. This town has a tropical resort feel, but it’s still very much a part of South Carolina. With crystal-clear waters, plenty of docks for fishing and sightseeing, and lots of winding roads for fun drives, it’s no wonder that people flock to Kiawah Island year after year.

Kiawah Island is a breathtaking destination that offers an irresistible appeal to anyone who visits. The quality of life here is exceptional, and families can enjoy it at an affordable price without compromising on luxury. It’s no wonder that once people settle in Kiawah Island, they rarely leave.

Murrells Inlet

Murrells Island stands out as a charming coastal town in South Carolina, a true hidden treasure renowned for its delectable, locally sourced seafood. Often referred to as the seafood haven of South Carolina, Murrells Inlet offers culinary delights on par with those found in Baton Rouge.

Moreover, the stunning vistas and abundant fishing prospects in the vicinity rank among the finest in the nation. If your heart beats for both oceanfront living and savoring the freshest catches from the sea, choosing to call this place home is an unequivocal choice.

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