Coastal Beauty at Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park, just outside Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, offers a refreshing coastal retreat along the Atlantic stretch. This protected park prides itself on its wide sandy beaches where loggerhead turtles often lay eggs, making it a rare and vital nesting ground on the East Coast. Beyond the shoreline, visitors encounter vast salt marshes and diverse birdlife, including herons, pelicans, and eagles, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities year-round. The park’s combination of natural habitats—beach, marsh, and maritime forest—provides a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

A standout feature here is Atalaya Castle, the former winter home of philanthropists Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Its Moorish-style architecture and surrounding art studios add a unique historical dimension rarely found in state parks. Built during the Great Depression, the castle served as a source of employment for local workers, adding to its cultural significance. Visitors will appreciate the blend of natural beauty and curated history, which elevates the park into a destination beyond just beach visits.

The park facilities include a well-maintained visitor center, a nature center with educational exhibits, ample parking, and amenities such as a gift shop and ice cream stand—ideal for families and casual outings. The quiet beaches, especially at low tide, reveal rich shelling spots and even occasional sea turtle sightings along the jetty. Whether spending a day walking boardwalks through salt marshes, touring the historic castle, or simply relaxing on the soft sand, Huntington Beach State Park offers a peaceful coastal experience with plenty to see and enjoy.

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Adventure Guide To Huntington Beach State Park

Atalaya Castle

• What Makes It Special: This historic Moorish-style estate was built during the 1930s and is unique to the region.
• Key Features: Courtyards, art studios, and guided tours showcasing local history.
• Local Insights: The castle construction provided jobs during the Great Depression, adding rich cultural value.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Best visited in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds.
  • Located inside the park with clear signage directing visitors.

Biking Trails

• What Makes It Special: Flat and easy to ride, perfect for families and casual cyclists.
• Key Features: Trails meander through coastal forest and marsh edges, offering frequent bird sightings.
• Local Insights: Bring binoculars to spot herons, egrets, and pelicans often perched along the trail.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Ideal to ride in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat.
  • Bring your own bike or arrange rental nearby.
  • Approximately a 20-minute drive from Murrells Inlet.

Salt Marsh Boardwalks

• What Makes It Special: Walkways through thriving marsh ecosystems offer close-up wildlife views.
• Key Features: Boardwalks are wheelchair-accessible and hover over tidal pools and reeds.
• Local Insights: Low tide brings out more animals such as crabs, alligators, and birds for observation.
• Visitor Tips:
  • Visit during low tide for best wildlife sightings.
  • Bring binoculars or a camera with zoom.
  • Located within the park, with signs for easy access.

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Visitor Essentials & Directions

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall provide pleasant weather; early mornings and late afternoons offer cooler conditions and active wildlife.
• What to bring: Sunscreen, insect repellent, water, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Directions: Huntington Beach State Park lies about 10 miles south of Myrtle Beach, roughly a 20-minute drive from Murrells Inlet off Highway 17 South. Follow signs for the park entrance, well marked on the route.

With its variety of habitats, historic landmarks, and easy access, Huntington Beach State Park offers a well-rounded adventure suitable for wildlife watchers, history lovers, and beachgoers alike.