Key Highlights
Welcome to Huntington Beach State Park, a coastal treasure in South Carolina! Here’s a glimpse of what makes this park so special.
- Explore three miles of pristine beach along the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for relaxation and surf fishing.
- Discover Atalaya Castle, the historic Moorish-style winter home of the Huntington family.
- Enjoy some of the best bird watching on the East Coast, with over 300 species spotted.
- Stay overnight at one of the park’s numerous camping sites, from tent camping to full hookups.
- Visit the nature center to learn about local wildlife, including loggerhead turtles and alligators.
- Take advantage of picnic shelters and a wide variety of activities for the whole family.
Discovering Huntington Beach State Park’s Location & Entry Essentials
Are you ready to find this coastal gem? Huntington Beach State Park is conveniently located at 16148 Ocean Highway in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, just a short drive from the bustle of Myrtle Beach. The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with hours extending to 10 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time. Be aware that due to high visitation, the park entrance may experience temporary closures on weekends and holidays, so arriving outside of peak hours (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) is a great idea.
Getting into the park is simple and affordable. The entry fees are $8 for adults, $5 for South Carolina seniors, and $4 for youth ages 6-15, while children 5 and younger are free. Your first stop should be the park office or gift shop to grab a map and get oriented. While you’re there, don’t forget to get your South Carolina Ultimate Outsider stamp in the gift shop to commemorate your visit to this beautiful Huntington Beach State Park.
Exploring Coastal Habitats: Beaches, Trails, and Wildlife Viewing
Huntington Beach State Park is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a stunning variety of coastal habitats to explore. From its wide, sandy beach to its lush salt marshes, the park provides countless outdoor activities. You can walk along boardwalks over the marsh, fish from the jetty, or simply enjoy a picnic with an ocean view.
The park’s causeway offers a magical entrance with fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities before you even park your car. You might spot alligators sunning themselves or wading birds hunting for a meal. The Nature Center is another must-visit, featuring exhibits on loggerhead turtles and other live animals that call these unique coastal habitats home. Diving deeper into the park’s environment reveals even more natural wonders on its trails and birding hotspots.
Hiking and Nature Trails for All Levels
If you enjoy hiking, you’ll find that the nature trails at this beach state park cater to every skill level. These paths wind through diverse ecosystems, giving you an up-close look at the park’s natural beauty. Whether you want a short stroll or a longer walk, there’s a trail waiting for you.
You can start your adventure on several key trails. Each one offers a unique experience.
- Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail: A half-mile trail that loops around a brackish pond, perfect for a quick and easy walk.
- Kerrigan Nature Trail: This trail takes you through a beautiful maritime forest.
- The Causeway: While also a road, this two-mile path is a fantastic and accessible walkway for spotting wildlife.
- Geocaching: For a modern-day treasure hunt, search for geocaches hidden throughout the park. Check the official geocaching website for coordinates.
Before you set out, stop by the visitor center to pick up a trail map and a wildlife checklist. Exploring the nature trails is a fantastic way to see the park’s plants and animals, and you might even discover a few hidden geocaches along the way.
Coastal Wildlife and Birdwatching Hotspots
Huntington Beach State Park is renowned as a premier destination for viewing coastal wildlife. It is especially famous for bird watching, with over 300 different species recorded. From majestic eagles to colorful painted buntings, the wide variety of birds is sure to impress any nature enthusiast.
To make the most of your wildlife adventure, be sure to visit these key hotspots.
- The Causeway: This freshwater lake area is a reliable spot to see alligators, wading birds, and sometimes even mink.
- The Jetty: Extending into the Atlantic Ocean, the jetty is a prime location for watching seabirds and shorebirds.
- Saltmarsh Boardwalks: These elevated paths offer incredible views of egrets, herons, and the stunning Roseate Spoonbill.
- The Beach: Keep an eye out for nesting loggerhead turtles during the summer months (from a safe distance, of course).
Don’t forget your binoculars and camera! The park provides endless opportunities for amazing wildlife encounters. You can even share your best photos with park officials through the public uploader for a chance to be featured.
The Historic Atalaya Castle Experience
A visit to Huntington Beach State Park isn’t complete without a tour of Atalaya Castle. This incredible National Historic Landmark was the winter home of philanthropist Archer Huntington and his wife, the acclaimed sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. The sprawling, Moorish-style structure served as a creative refuge and is a fascinating piece of South Carolina history to explore. You can wander through its rooms, courtyards, and the studio where Anna Hyatt Huntington created her famous sculptures.
Atalaya is open for self-guided tours most of the year, though it also serves as a popular venue for large events like the annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival. Because of these special events, it’s always a good idea to check the schedule. For current information, please contact the park office.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Atalaya Hours | 9 a.m.–4 p.m., daily (extended to 5 p.m. during Daylight Saving Time) |
| Admission Fee | $2 per person (ages 6 and up); free for children 5 and under |
| Important Note | The castle may be closed in correspondence to large events. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at Huntington Beach State Park?
Yes, this state park is dog-friendly year-round! Pets are welcome in most outdoor areas, including the south end of the beach and campgrounds, as long as they are on a leash no longer than six feet. However, they are not permitted in buildings like Atalaya or on the north end of the beach.
Is Huntington Beach State Park good for birdwatching?
Absolutely! Huntington Beach State Park is considered one of the top destinations for bird watching on the entire East Coast. The park’s diverse habitats attract a wide variety of birds, with over 300 species documented. The causeway and jetty are particularly popular spots to see this incredible coastal wildlife.
Can I visit Atalaya Castle inside Huntington Beach State Park?
Yes, you can. The historic Atalaya Castle, former home of Anna Hyatt Huntington, is located within Huntington Beach State Park. A tour of Atalaya Castle is a highlight for many visitors. It is open for a small, separate admission fee, but be sure to check the Atalaya hours, as they may change for special events.
How much does it cost to enter Huntington Beach State Park?
The entry fees for this beach state park are quite reasonable. Admission costs $8 per adult, $5 for South Carolina seniors, and $4 for youth aged 6-15. Children aged 5 and under are admitted for free. This fee grants you access to the park’s beaches, trails, and picnic areas for the day.