Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” Murrells Inlet serves over 2 million pounds of fresh seafood annually, making it a paradise for food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This charming fishing village offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and Southern hospitality that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Murrells Inlet is located along the Grand Strand of South Carolina, approximately 15 miles south of Myrtle Beach. Most visitors arrive by car via Highway 17, which runs directly through the heart of this coastal community.
Travel Options
- Fly into Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), located about 20 minutes north
- Drive from major cities: 2 hours from Charleston, 3 hours from Charlotte
- Regional bus services connect from nearby cities
Planning Essentials
- Book accommodations in advance during peak season (May-September)
- Consider staying in nearby Pawleys Island or Garden City for more options
- Rental car recommended for exploring the area’s attractions
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Murrells Inlet enjoys a mild coastal climate with distinct seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors.
Spring (March-May)
Temperatures range from 60-80°F with blooming flowers and fewer crowds. Perfect for outdoor activities and exploring nature preserves.
Summer (June-August)
Hot and humid with temperatures between 75-90°F. Peak tourist season with lively atmosphere and all attractions operating at full capacity.
Fall (September-November)
Pleasant 65-80°F temperatures with reduced humidity. Fewer tourists and excellent fishing conditions make this a local favorite.
Weather Tip
Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk in August and September. Always check weather forecasts before your trip and consider travel insurance during these months.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating Murrells Inlet is relatively straightforward, but having your own transportation provides the most flexibility for exploring all the area has to offer.
Transportation Options
- Personal or rental car (recommended for maximum flexibility)
- Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area
- Bicycle rentals available for exploring the MarshWalk and nearby areas
- Golf cart rentals – a fun way to explore the immediate vicinity
Local Navigation Tips
- Highway 17 Business runs through the heart of Murrells Inlet
- The MarshWalk area can get congested during peak dining hours
- Free parking available at most restaurants and attractions
- Many attractions are within a 15-minute drive of each other
Where to Stay
Murrells Inlet offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets, from waterfront rentals to cozy inns.
Vacation Rentals
Numerous waterfront homes and condos available through VRBO and Airbnb, many with dock access and stunning views of the marsh.
Hotels & Inns
Limited options in Murrells Inlet proper, but several quality hotels and B&Bs in nearby Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island.
Campgrounds
Huntington Beach State Park offers beautiful oceanfront camping with full hookups, hot showers, and easy access to nature trails.
Dining & Local Cuisine
As the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” Murrells Inlet is renowned for its fresh seafood and waterfront dining experiences. The famous MarshWalk features multiple restaurants with stunning views of the salt marsh.
Must-Try Restaurants
Drunken Jack’s
A Murrells Inlet institution serving classic seafood dishes with beautiful marsh views. Don’t miss their famous hushpuppies with honey butter.
Wicked Tuna
Upscale dining featuring “hook to plate” fresh fish and sushi with an extensive wine list and spectacular sunset views from the deck.
Dead Dog Saloon
Casual waterfront spot with live music, great burgers, and seafood. Their deck is perfect for people-watching along the MarshWalk.
Learn More
Local Specialties to Try
- She-Crab Soup – Rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat and crab roe
- Lowcountry Boil – One-pot feast with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes
- Fresh Oysters – Locally harvested and served raw, steamed, or roasted
- Shrimp and Grits – Classic Southern dish with a coastal twist
- Hushpuppies – Fried cornmeal fritters traditionally served with seafood
Attractions & Things To Do in Murrells Inlet
From natural wonders to cultural experiences, Murrells Inlet offers diverse activities for every type of traveler.
The Famous MarshWalk
This half-mile wooden boardwalk is the heart of Murrells Inlet, featuring seven waterfront restaurants, live music venues, and spectacular views of the natural salt marsh.
Stroll along the MarshWalk at sunset for breathtaking views, or visit during one of the many festivals held throughout the year. Keep an eye out for dolphins, herons, and other wildlife in the marsh.
Brookgreen Gardens
This 9,100-acre property combines art, history, and nature with the world’s largest collection of American figurative sculpture displayed in stunning garden settings.
Explore multiple themed gardens, a small zoo featuring native wildlife, a Lowcountry History exhibit, and seasonal events like the popular Nights of a Thousand Candles during the holiday season.
Huntington Beach State Park
This 2,500-acre coastal preserve features one of South Carolina’s most pristine beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests. The park is renowned for exceptional bird watching with over 300 species documented.
Visit Atalaya Castle, the unique Moorish-style winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, explore nature trails, or simply enjoy the uncrowded beach.
Learn More
Fishing Charters & Water Activities
Murrells Inlet offers excellent fishing opportunities, from deep-sea excursions to inshore adventures in the creeks and marshes.
Fishing Charters
Numerous experienced captains offer half-day and full-day fishing trips targeting everything from redfish in the creeks to mahi-mahi offshore.
Book Now
Dolphin Tours
Experience the local dolphin population up close with guided tours through the inlet and along the coastline.
Watersports
Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis to explore the inlet’s waterways at your own pace.
Learn More
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Atalaya Castle
Located within Huntington Beach State Park, this unique Moorish-style winter home of philanthropist Archer Huntington and sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history.
The annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival in September features over 100 artists and craftspeople displaying their work in this historic setting.
Annual Events & Festivals
- Blessing of the Inlet (May) – Traditional ceremony celebrating the inlet’s bounty
- 4th of July Boat Parade – Colorful procession of decorated boats through the inlet
- Murrells Inlet Oyster Roast (Fall) – Community celebration of oyster season
- Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival (September) – Premier juried art show
- Nights of a Thousand Candles (December) at Brookgreen Gardens – Spectacular holiday light display
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Golf Courses
The Murrells Inlet area is home to several championship golf courses, making it a popular destination for golf enthusiasts.
TPC Myrtle Beach
Tournament Players Club course designed by Tom Fazio, offering a challenging layout in a beautiful natural setting.
Heritage Club
Built on former rice plantations with ancient oak trees and scenic marsh views.
Wachesaw Plantation East
Clyde Johnston design featuring rolling terrain and strategically placed bunkers.
Nature Trails & Wildlife Viewing
Murrells Inlet offers excellent opportunities for nature lovers to explore diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Huntington Beach State Park Causeway – Prime spot for alligator viewing and birding
- Waccamaw Neck Bikeway – 12-mile paved trail perfect for cycling and walking
- Wacca Wache Marina – Launch point for kayaking the scenic Waccamaw River
- Morse Park Landing – Observation deck with excellent views of the inlet
Practical Travel Tips
Local Etiquette & Customs
- Southern hospitality is alive and well – expect friendly greetings
- Casual dress is acceptable at most restaurants, though some upscale venues may require smart casual attire
- Tipping 15-20% is customary for restaurant service
- Respect wildlife and natural areas – no feeding alligators or disturbing nesting birds
Safety Tips
- Apply sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days
- Stay hydrated, especially during summer months
- Be aware of rip currents when swimming at beaches
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife, particularly alligators
- Check weather forecasts during hurricane season (June-November)
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for lower accommodation rates
- Many attractions offer discounted admission after 3 PM
- Take advantage of early bird dinner specials at MarshWalk restaurants
- Brookgreen Gardens tickets are valid for seven consecutive days
- Bring your own gear for fishing from public areas rather than booking charters
Experience the Charm of Murrells Inlet
With its perfect blend of natural beauty, fresh seafood, outdoor adventures, and Southern charm, Murrells Inlet offers an authentic coastal experience that keeps visitors returning year after year. Whether you’re casting a line from the MarshWalk, exploring the sculptures at Brookgreen Gardens, or simply enjoying the sunset over the salt marsh, this hidden gem of South Carolina’s coast promises memories that will last a lifetime.
0 Comments