; Skip to Content

Affordable Beach Towns in South Carolina 5 Budget Friendly Escapes

Are you looking for an escape to the beach without breaking the bank? South Carolina has some hidden gems when it comes to affordable beach towns. From the bustling Myrtle Beach to the tranquil Pawleys Island, you can find a budget-friendly option that suits your style.

First up is Myrtle Beach, known for its lively boardwalk and amusement park. But did you know that there are also quieter areas of the beach that offer a more peaceful retreat?

Folly Beach is another option for those looking for a laid-back atmosphere, with its charming shops and restaurants. And if you’re looking for a bit of luxury, Hilton Head Island has plenty of upscale options, but also offers affordable accommodations for those on a budget.

Edisto Beach is perfect for those seeking a secluded getaway, while Garden City Beach and Surfside Beach offer a mix of relaxation and entertainment. No matter what your preference, you can find a budget-friendly escape to the beach in South Carolina.

Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking for a classic vacation spot with plenty of entertainment options, Myrtle Beach should definitely be on your list. With its wide, sandy beaches and boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

For the adventurous, check out Banana Boat rides or Jet Ski rentals, while calmer activities like fishing or dolphin watching might be more your speed. If you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Broadway at the Beach, an outdoor entertainment complex with rides, attractions, and restaurants.

One of the best things about Myrtle Beach is the abundance of activities and attractions. Golf enthusiasts can hit up one of the many championship courses, while families can enjoy mini-golf or the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city. If you’re interested in history, check out the Myrtle Beach State Park which has a nature center and offers guided tours.

And of course, no trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without visiting the iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade.

When it comes to dining and nightlife, Myrtle Beach has plenty of options. For seafood lovers, check out Sea Captain’s House or Hook & Barrel. If you’re looking for something more casual, River City Cafe offers burgers and fries in a fun, beachy atmosphere. For drinks, there’s plenty of bars along the boardwalk, but head to The Bowery for live music and a laid-back vibe.

No matter where you go in Myrtle Beach, you’re sure to find great food and a fun atmosphere.

So, whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Myrtle Beach is the perfect spot. With so many activities and attractions, you’ll never be bored. And with top-rated restaurants and bars, you’re sure to have a great time.

So pack your bags and head to Myrtle Beach for the ultimate beach vacation.

Folly Beach

You’ll love Folly Beach – it’s got the perfect mix of laid-back vibes and fun activities to keep you entertained. This small beach town is located just 15 minutes from downtown Charleston, making it a great option for those who want to experience the city but also want to relax by the ocean.

Here are four things you can do in Folly Beach:

1. Soak up the sun on the beach: With six miles of white sand and warm water, Folly Beach is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the sun.

2. Try local seafood restaurants: Folly Beach has a great selection of seafood restaurants that offer fresh, locally caught fish. Whether you’re in the mood for oysters or shrimp and grits, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Explore the Folly Beach Pier: The Folly Beach Pier is a great spot to take a stroll and enjoy the ocean views. You can also try your hand at fishing or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants located on the pier.

4. Take a surf lesson: Folly Beach is a popular spot for surfing, and there are several surf schools that offer lessons for all skill levels. So why not try something new and catch some waves?

When it comes to accommodations, Folly Beach has plenty of options to choose from. You can find everything from beachfront hotels to vacation rentals, so you can pick the perfect spot to suit your budget and preferences.

With its laid-back atmosphere and fun activities, Folly Beach is definitely worth checking out on your next trip to South Carolina.

Hilton Head Island

Looking for a luxurious island getaway? Look no further than Hilton Head Island! This stunning destination boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, hit the waves, or simply explore the island’s natural beauty, there’s something for everyone on Hilton Head Island. When it comes to top activities, there’s no shortage of options. From kayaking and paddleboarding to golfing and biking, there’s always something new and exciting to try.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, be sure to check out the island’s many art galleries and museums, or take a stroll through one of the many parks and nature reserves. Of course, no trip to Hilton Head Island would be complete without indulging in some of the area’s best restaurants. From fresh seafood and local cuisine to international flavors and upscale dining, there’s something for every taste and budget.

So why wait? Book your trip to Hilton Head Island today and experience all the island has to offer!

Edisto Beach

You can’t miss out on the charm and natural beauty of Edisto Beach, a hidden gem on the coast of South Carolina. This quaint beach town is perfect for budget-friendly escapes, offering a variety of beachfront rentals at affordable prices.

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing and the smell of salty sea air just steps away from your rental. With over 4 miles of pristine beachfront, Edisto Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.

Edisto Beach is also a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of local seafood restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh shrimp, oysters, or crab, you can find it all here. One of the most popular spots is Whaley’s, a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up delicious seafood for over 40 years. With its casual atmosphere and friendly staff, Whaley’s is the perfect place to enjoy a seafood feast after a day spent lounging on the beach.

Overall, Edisto Beach is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life without breaking the bank. With its charming atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and delicious seafood, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to visit this hidden gem on the coast of South Carolina.

So what are you waiting for? Book your beachfront rental and start exploring all that Edisto Beach has to offer!

Pawleys Island

If you’re in need of a luxurious and serene retreat, Pawleys Island is the perfect destination for you to indulge in the natural beauty of the Lowcountry.

The town’s pristine beaches are perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at one of the many beach activities available, like kayaking, paddleboarding, or even surfing.

And if you’re looking for a more relaxed pace, take a stroll along the beach and look for seashells, or simply watch the waves roll in.

Apart from the beach, Pawleys Island offers a unique culinary experience. The town is known for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants that serve up local delicacies like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fresh oysters. And there’s no shortage of sweet treats either – be sure to try the famous Pawleys Island Hammock Shop’s homemade ice cream.

After a day of sun, sand, and delicious cuisine, you’ll feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

In Pawleys Island, life moves at a slower pace, allowing you to fully unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Lowcountry. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, this affordable beach town is the perfect escape.

So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to experience the tranquility and charm of Pawleys Island.

Garden City Beach

Garden City Beach offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, from fishing and parasailing to kayaking and jet skiing. You can explore the ocean in a whole new way with a guided kayaking tour or soar above the waves on a parasailing adventure. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at jet skiing and feel the thrill of speeding across the water.

And for those who prefer a more relaxed pace, fishing is a great option. You can cast your line off the pier or join a charter for a day out on the water.

But the fun doesn’t stop at the beachfront activities. Garden City Beach is also home to some of the best local seafood restaurants in South Carolina. From classic seafood dishes like shrimp and grits to freshly caught fish prepared to perfection, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. And don’t forget to try the hushpuppies, a southern staple that no seafood meal is complete without.

Whether you’re looking for a day of adventure or a relaxing meal by the ocean, Garden City Beach has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head on down to this budget-friendly escape in South Carolina. You won’t regret it.

Surfside Beach

As you stroll along the pristine coastline of Surfside Beach, the gentle waves lapping at your toes, it’s easy to see why this hidden gem is often called the ‘jewel of the Grand Strand’.

This charming beach town is less crowded than the neighboring Myrtle Beach, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway.

The beachfront accommodations here are affordable and offer stunning views of the ocean, allowing you to wake up to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

When it’s time to indulge in some local cuisine, you won’t be disappointed with the seafood restaurants in Surfside Beach.

From the classic seafood platters to the fresh catch of the day, there’s something for every seafood lover. Gulfstream Cafe is a popular spot for its panoramic views of the ocean and delicious seafood dishes.

If you’re in the mood for some sushi, check out Bubba’s Fish Shack where you can feast on sushi rolls and other seafood delights.

As the sun sets on another perfect day in Surfside Beach, take a moment to reflect on the freedom this beautiful place has granted you.

The freedom to unwind, to explore, and to create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or enjoying some local seafood, this budget-friendly escape is the perfect destination for those seeking a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Conclusion

So there you have it – six affordable beach towns in South Carolina that won’t break the bank! Whether you’re looking to explore the bustling Myrtle Beach or relax on the serene shores of Edisto Beach, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget about the charming Garden City Beach or the laid-back Surfside Beach either!

Remember, the beach is a great escape from the stresses of everyday life. As the saying goes, “Life is better at the beach.” So go ahead and plan that budget-friendly getaway to one of these South Carolina beach towns. You won’t regret it!