Pawleys Island, for just the right fit
One size does not fit all. That’s true for fashion and for travel. Who says girlfriends’ getaway itineraries should all look the same? Not the folks who know Pawleys Island, South Carolina. That’s for sure. If your girls and your getaway time are special, Pawleys is the place for you. It’s special, too. This spot on the South Carolina coast has, for generations, been a popular destination for those looking to getaway, whether just to relax or to explore the Atlantic beaches and inland waters. Today, many are finding out that girls’ trips here can be relaxing or adventurous. But one thing is a given: they will be restorative. Time with friends in a setting like this? Ahhhh.
A special place
Located between Charleston and Myrtle Beach on the South Carolina coast, Pawleys is a convenient gathering place. Once you’re here, though, it’s easy to see it’s so much more than that. It’s not your typical beach destination. A visit to the island is like taking a step back to a simpler, quieter time. Here, the “sense of arrival” is characterized by well-worn welcome mats, porch swings and unobstructed views.
There are two small inns on the island, typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The Sea View Inn (414 Myrtle Avenue, Pawleys Island, SC), which has 20 private guest rooms, and the eight-bedroom Pelican Inn (506 Myrtle Avenue, Pawleys Island, SC) are the only businesses on the island, which is dotted with beach houses of all sizes, available for rent all year long. Visitors are immersed in a coastal culture that revolves around the tides and around time spent together.
By contrast, the nearby mainland offers excellent options for dining, shopping and more. So, visitors to Pawleys enjoy the seclusion of a private beach getaway with the convenience of nearby amenities. It’s the perfect place to build a getaway that’s just right for your tribe.
It’s a natural
Whether your idea of the perfect day with friends is never leaving the beach or heading out for adventure, you can enjoy one after another on Pawleys. Miles of beaches beckon and there are no distractions to disrupt your time enjoying them. The inland side of the island has a peaceful, coastal Carolina feel of its own to savor, as well. Marshlands, inlets and amazing sunsets are all just outside your back door.
Many take to kayaks and canoes to explore these waters. There are rental companies that deliver equipment to you or you can explore with the experts on one of Black River Outdoors’ popular guided eco-tours in the area.
If your crew isn’t into paddling, you can hop on a cruise from the harbor in nearby Georgetown. Aboard one of Cap’n Rod’s Lowcountry Tours (701 Front Street, Georgetown, SC), you can learn of lighthouses and barrier islands or rivers and plantations, all a part of the rich culture and history of this coastal region.
Pawleys has history
Pawleys has a history with strong women. Among the options for exploring the natural history and culture of the Carolina coast, two of them stand out. First, at Hobcaw Barony (22 Hobcaw Road, Georgetown, SC), you’ll meet Belle Baruch through the displays at the Discovery Center and tours of the once-bustling plantation. Hobcaw is now a center for research, education and conservation and is the site of Hobcaw House, home of Bernard Baruch, and Bellefield Plantation, the home and stables of daughter, Belle. Join in a regularly scheduled tour or one of the special seasonal programs ranging from cast net throwing, boat trips or beach walks or in-depth looks at the culture and economy of this thriving plantation in its heyday.
Brookgreen Gardens (1931 Brookgreen Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC) is the result of Anna Hyatt Huntington’s vision to display the best of sculpture from around the world. The gardens and grounds are a unique blend of art, nature and history. Founded in 1931, by Anna and her husband Archer Huntington, Brookgreen has become a cultural center for the region. It’s known for collecting, conserving and exhibiting figurative sculpture as well as the plants, animals and cultural artifacts of the low country. Stroll through the acres of Brookgreen, amid the 2,000 works of art in the botanical garden, the Wall Lowcountry Center and the Lowcountry Zoo.
Like the best of cherished friendships, Pawleys is exceptional. Whether your group wants a do-nothing-on-the-beach getaway or a combination of exploring, learning and experiencing, you’ll find unique options here. And you’ll have a blast! This is a natural place to enjoy time together, to strengthen those bonds and to make new memories. So, the next time you plan a girls’ getaway, don’t settle for one-size-fits-all options. Go for that special fit. Only Pawleys has it.
Where to eat
Rustic Table (10683 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC) The menu at Rustic Table features made-from-scratch traditional Southern food and low country specialties with an upscale flair. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, Rustic Table also has patio seating and a full bar.
Pawleys Island Tavern (10635 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC 29585) is known locally as The PIT and is a favorite among islanders. The atmosphere is a cross between a seafood shack and a juke joint featuring shrimp, crab cakes, beer and blues.
Bistro 217 (10707 Ocean Highway, Pawleys Island, SC 29585-7875) adds a fine dining option for your night on the town. Enjoy steaks, seafood, pasta and specialty desserts prepared by an award-winning chef in a quiet, comfortable setting.