Enjoy the ocean rhythms and coastal traditions in this South Carolina beach town
PAWLEYS ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA–AUGUST 2019–Pawleys Island, South Carolina, is an original. It became one of the first beach resorts on the Atlantic coast and it remains a one-of-a-kind destination today.
Situated 70 miles north of Charleston and 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach, the Town of Pawleys Island is a breath of fresh air on the southeastern seaboard. This town is actually a nearly four-mile-long, one-quarter mile-wide island and spending time here is truly a refreshing escape.
On Pawleys you can step away from devices, but it is, nevertheless, a place to re-connect and recharge your body and soul. You can escape long lines and huddle with your favorite people. Life is laid back on this tiny island. There are no ringing cash registers, not even any stores. There are no neon lights, only porch lights. There is no to-do-list; there is only time to create lasting memories.
The best memories here come from experiencing the authentic Pawleys that has made this a popular beach getaway for decades. Here are the top ways to enjoy your time and take home those authentic Pawleys memories:
Make Yourself at Home
The landscape on Pawleys is dotted with beach houses, many standing for generations. Available for vacation rentals, these offer one-of-a-kind lodging options. Whether oceanfront or with access to the salt marsh, each offers a place to make yourself at home. Large or small, rustic or well-appointed, there are choices for every group. There are also two historic inns open seasonally on the island. Visitors can choose from the historic The Pelican Inn (506 Myrtle Ave., Pawleys Island, SC 29585) and the 1930s-era Sea View Inn (414 Myrtle Ave., Pawleys Island, SC 29585) bed and breakfast.
Find the Shell
Finding a Pawleys Island Shell, the Imperial Venus Clam, is a rite of passage here and is considered a blessing. Locals have claimed the search for this shell as a trademark activity, but there are plenty other shells to find along the way, while strolling these beautiful beaches. The Lettered Olive is South Carolina’s designated State Shell and is another favored treasure.
Explore the Waters
The ocean is just the beginning of waters to be explored on Pawleys. The inland waterways are a wonderland for canoeing and kayaking. The distinct habitats and coastal wildlife are on display, no matter the season. Some visitors bring their own gear, but nearby rental companies offer equipment, as well.
Catch a Meal
Enjoying time on Pawleys may even include fishing for your food. Crabbing and fishing are favorite pastimes for many, and the rewards can be tasty! Opportunities change with the seasons. Whether casting into the surf, luring your catch from the marsh or dropping a basket beneath a pier, a feast of fish and crabs is the classic family meal on Pawleys.
Nap in a Pawleys Island Hammock
Porch time is prime time on Pawleys Island, not only because of the sea breezes and coastal views. It’s also a natural here because this is home to the famous Pawleys Island rope hammock. Still handmade nearby, hammocks are shipped worldwide but are still a staple on the porches and decks of Pawleys. What better place to relax and enjoy one?
Dine at the Sea View Inn
Locals and folks staying elsewhere on the island can enjoy the goodness of a meal at the Sea View Inn. For generations, the inn’s staff has been welcoming visitors to delight in the low-country cuisine, Southern hospitality and charming atmosphere here. Reservations are required to ensure everyone gets their fill of the classic dishes from the fixed menus served at breakfast, lunch and supper.
Choosing from these classic activities is a great way to start, but there are many ways to enjoy a stay on Pawleys Island. That’s part of the magic of a visit here. Whether your crew is one to enjoy a quiet retreat or is more likely to be active from dawn to dusk, the beaches of Pawleys Island are the ideal setting. This is the place for that perfect getaway, that authentic beach vacation, those lasting memories. Only Pawleys.
If you go
Ask your rental company about what gear–for fishing, crabbing, kayaking, etc.–is available at your property. There are also local rental companies who rent (some with delivery) kayaks and other water accessories. Two options are:
Pawleys Kayaks Kayak rental reservations via phone only, at 843-315-4567.
Surf the Earth (47 Da Gullah Way, Pawleys Island, SC 29585) Kayak, paddle board and surfboard rentals and lessons.
Sidebar: Celebrate the Holidays in Pawleys IslandThe Hammock Shops of Pawleys Island holds the annual Christmas Tree Lighting from 3-6 p.m. on November 23. There are 22 unique shops and eateries peddling gifts, clothing, jewelry, art and more. Spend some time meandering through the garden-like grounds and give your holiday shopping a boost. Also, in Georgetown, the holiday season is bursting with things to do including a Christmas concert at the Winyah Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. on December 6; Kaminski House Museum Designer Showcase Candlelight Tours as part of their 250th Birthday Celebration (from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursdays, December 5 and 12, with family night from 4-6 p.m.on December 21);the Christmas Parade at 11 a.m. on December 7 along Front Street in downtown Georgetown; Kringle Krawl also on the 7th at 5 p.m. and a great opportunity to try out local restaurants and businesses; Christmas Boat Parade and Tree Lighting (at 6 p.m., December 7); the Singing Christmas Tree at First Baptist Church of Georgetown December 13-16 with a 75-voice choir singing in a 23-foot tree accompanied by a live instrumental ensemble; and the Yuletide Tour of Homes a fundraising event for the library with a self-guided tour of festive mantels, staircases, trees, lights, candles and doors of historic homes and local places of worship. www.OnlyPawleys.com, www.HammockCoastSC.com