Pawleys Island Travel Guide

Plan your next vacation with our complete travel guide to Pawleys Island, including the best of outdoor adventures, local culture, food, and more.


Introduction to Pawleys Island

Welcome to Pawleys Island! Known for its relaxed beach vibes, this small South Carolina town located in the Grand Strand is a perfect destination for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With beautiful beaches, charming shops and restaurants, and a rich culture, Pawleys Island offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Pawleys Island

Check out our list of the top places to visit during your time in Pawleys Island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kaminski House Museum: This historic home-turned-museum offers a glimpse into the life of the wealthy families who vacationed in Pawleys Island during the early 20th century.
  • Hobcaw Barony: This historic property was once a summer retreat for wealthy families and was later acquired by Bernard Baruch. Take a guided tour to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.
  • Pawleys Island Chapel: This quaint white chapel dates back to 1945 and is a popular spot for weddings and events.

Natural Attractions of Pawleys Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pawleys Island Beach: Relax on the beautiful, wide beaches of Pawleys Island.
  • Pawleys Island Nature Park: This park offers a serene escape from the beach crowds with hiking trails, a fishing dock, and a butterfly garden.
  • Brookgreen Gardens: These stunning gardens offer a mix of art and nature with sculptures and beautiful blooming flowers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pawleys Island

For outdoor enthusiasts, Pawleys Island offers a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore. Check out:

  • Huntington Beach State Park: This park boasts over three miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate.
  • Pawleys Island Nature Park: This park offers a 1.8-mile hiking trail that winds through the woods and along the marsh.

Best Things to Do in Pawleys Island: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Pawleys Island. Consider these activities:

  • Kayak Tours: Explore the local marshes and creeks with a guided kayak tour.
  • Paddleboard Rentals: Rent paddleboards and explore the ocean and marshes surrounding Pawleys Island.
  • Fishing Charters: Enjoy a day on the water with a chartered fishing trip.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pawleys Island

If you have a week to spend in Pawleys Island, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Relax on the beach and get settled in.
  • Day 2: Explore the Kaminski House Museum and Pawleys Island Nature Park.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Brookgreen Gardens and Murrells Inlet.
  • Day 4: Enjoy a kayaking tour of the local marshes and creeks.
  • Day 5: Explore the history and nature of Hobcaw Barony.
  • Day 6: Rent paddleboards and explore the ocean and marshes surrounding Pawleys Island.
  • Day 7: Take a fishing charter trip and enjoy fresh seafood in the evening.

Food and Drink Scene of Pawleys Island

Pawleys Island offers a delicious and unique food and drink scene. Try these must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Frogmore Stew: This one-pot meal contains shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
  • Crab Cakes: Fresh crabmeat and seasonings come together to create this Southern delicacy.
  • She Crab Soup: A creamy soup made with crab roe and sherry.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A staple in the South, this drink is the perfect sweet and refreshing accompaniment to any meal.
  • Palmetto Brewing Company Beer: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers to choose from.
  • SweeTango Wine: This local winery offers a variety of wines to sample, with a tasting room conveniently located in Pawleys Island.

Where to Stay in Pawleys Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For a comfortable and convenient stay in Pawleys Island, consider these lodging options:

  • The Pelican Inn: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Pawleys Island.
  • Hampton Inn Pawleys Island: A popular hotel located just a short drive from the beach and other attractions.
  • Airbnb Rentals: Enjoy the comforts of home with rentals ranging from private rooms to entire homes.

What to Buy in Pawleys Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of Pawleys Island with unique local products and souvenirs:

  • Sweetgrass Baskets: These beautifully crafted baskets are a traditional Gullah art form made using locally harvested materials.
  • Pawleys Island Rope Hammocks: A popular souvenir, these handmade hammocks are a comfortable and stylish addition to any backyard.
  • Lowcountry Gift Baskets: Filled with locally made products like hot sauce and sweet treats, these baskets make a great gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Pawleys Island

Get to know the local culture and customs of Pawleys Island:

  • Gullah Tradition: The Gullah people are descendants of West African slaves and have a rich cultural heritage with unique art, music and traditions.
  • Southern Hospitality: Experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the South. Don’t be surprised if locals strike up a conversation.

Best Time to Visit Pawleys Island

The best time to visit Pawleys Island is from April to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, crowds and prices tend to peak in the summer months, so consider visiting in the quieter shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pawleys Island

Do:

  • Do Enjoy the Beach: Pawleys Island is known for its beautiful beaches, so take advantage of them!
  • Do Check Out the Local Cuisine: From seafood to Southern barbecue, Pawleys Island offers a delicious culinary scene.
  • Do Respect the Local Community: Treat the locals with kindness and respect, and make sure to follow beach rules and regulations.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Litter: Keep Pawleys Island beautiful by disposing of trash in designated areas.
  • Don’t Forget Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat.
  • Don’t Drive on the Beach: Driving on the beach is prohibited in Pawleys Island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pawleys Island

Overall, Pawleys Island is a safe destination. However, take precautions like locking valuables in your car and not leaving them unattended on the beach.

Health in Pawleys Island

Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, as the South Carolina sun can be intense. In case of emergency, there are several medical facilities nearby.

Getting to Pawleys Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pawleys Island

The nearest airport to Pawleys Island is Myrtle Beach International Airport, located about 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Pawleys Island

Greyhound offers bus service to nearby Georgetown, South Carolina, located about 8 miles from Pawleys Island.

Other Options

For those driving, Pawleys Island is located off of US-17, offering convenient access to the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Pawleys Island

To get around Pawleys Island, a car is recommended. However, there are also several bike rental companies to explore the area by bike.

Where to Go Next from Pawleys Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore further, consider these nearby destinations:

  • Myrtle Beach: Check out the bustling beach scene and popular golf courses.
  • Charleston: Explore the historic city of Charleston, located about 70 miles south of Pawleys Island.
  • Hilton Head Island: This popular beach destination is located about 100 miles south of Pawleys Island.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan your visit to Pawleys Island. Whether you’re looking for relaxation on the beach or outdoor adventure, Pawleys Island has it all.