Any time you can head to Pawleys Island in the name of vacation, you’re in for a scenic treat! Here, a highlight for many visitors is making the most of their time soaking up the sunshine from a cozy place on the sand. The good news is that Pawleys Island is set up so visitors can conveniently get to the beaches they’re excited to explore just about any time they’d like. Whether you’re looking forward to building sandcastles with the kids or working on your well-deserved summer tan, knowing where to find the prime public beach access points is a must when you head this way. Start planning your Pawleys Island trip today, and download our Vacation Guide! Inside, you’ll find all of the top must-do activities. From restaurants to hidden gems, we have it all!
Pawleys Island Public Beach Access
Pawleys Island Public Beach Access Rules to Keep in Mind
No matter what public beach access point you choose to enjoy a day on the sand, you’ll want to keep in mind that parking is prohibited in these areas between 11:00 pm and 6:00 am daily. When you arrive, having your beach chair, umbrellas, and tent frames in hand makes it a comfortable day by the water, but it’s important to remember to take everything with you when you leave. Pawleys Island officials also ask beachgoers to fill in any large holes their beach gear may leave behind, which can cause issues for sea turtle nesting season. You’re more than welcome to surf at public beaches across Pawleys Island in any season, with the only restriction being you need to stay at least 100 yards out from piers and must avoid surfing between sunset and sunrise.
Enjoy Access from the South End Lot
The largest free public beach access lot on Pawleys Island and in all of Georgetown County is found on the South end. This is a spacious place to park your car for the day and enjoy time on the sand alongside family and friends. If, for any reason, you find you’ve arrived late enough in the day that parking is an issue, street parking is allowed in nearby designated areas within 500 feet of this public beach access point. If you’re arriving with a canine companion in tow, you’ll find this beach access has convenient collection bags and trash receptacles. The South End public beach access point is located off Springs Avenue and provides visitors with a place to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean and Pawleys Creek, where swimming is an option when the waters are calm and in good condition.
Other Public Beach Access Points to Explore
While the South End access point is a popular choice, guests to Pawleys Island have eight other beach access destinations to choose from in town. Pick and choose from the First, Second, or Third Street beach access areas with parking options on-site. Public beach access points are at Pritchard Street, Hazard Street, and Shell Road. Visitors can also travel to the sand via the Davis Drive beach access point or the Pearce Street beach access. Still, it’s good to remember that these are strictly access-only destinations and don’t have parking options available.
Litchfield Beach Public Beach Access
In addition to the fantastic options at Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach offers visitors ample opportunities to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf with a variety of public beach access points. Litchfield Beach is located just a short drive north of Pawleys Island and is known for its serene, family-friendly atmosphere and pristine shores. Specifically, there are 15 public beach accesses in North Litchfield and 7 in South Litchfield that are available for public parking. It’s important to note that parking in public beach accesses is prohibited between 11:00 pm and 6:00 am.
Litchfield Beach Access Points
North Litchfield Beach access points are strategically located to provide easy entry to the beach. Access points include Parker Drive, Windover Street, Fairfield Street, Seaview Loop, and Loggerhead Street. South Litchfield Beach also offers convenient access points such as Norris Drive, Sundial Drive, Albert Lane, Mason Lane, Chesterfield Lane, and Lyman Lane. Each of these access points provides a gateway to the stunning beaches of Litchfield Beach, ensuring a day of fun and relaxation by the water.
Enjoy Your Trip to Pawleys Island!
Now that you’re familiar with public beach access, you’ll need the perfect place to stay! The Dunes Beach Home Rentals team can help you get settled in beautiful accommodations to elevate your experience further. Whether you’re looking for a large rental home for the entire family or a cozy condo rental steps from the sand, we have the perfect property waiting for you! Browse all of our rental options and find the ideal home for you! We’ll see you at the beach soon!