Huntington Beach State Park: Adventure Awaits in Murrells Inlet
Huntington Beach State Park, located along the Atlantic coast in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, is a picturesque destination that offers visitors a perfect blend of history, nature, and recreation. Stretching across 2,500 acres, the park is celebrated for its pristine beaches, salt marshes teeming with wildlife, and the fascinating legacy of its founders. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or a history buff, Huntington Beach State Park has something special for everyone.
Huntington Beach State Park is the perfect spot to soak up the sun, spot amazing wildlife, and explore a bit of history—all in one beautiful, laid-back place.
Huntington Beach State Park owes its origins to Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington, a philanthropic couple who fell in love with the Lowcountry’s beauty in the early 20th century. Archer, a wealthy industrialist, and Anna, a renowned sculptor, purchased the land in the 1930s to serve as a retreat and a hub for Anna’s artistic endeavors. They built Atalaya Castle, a stunning Moorish-style mansion, as their winter home. Today, Atalaya Castle is one of the park’s most prominent attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into the couple’s fascinating lives and the artistic vision that shaped the estate.
The park is an ecological treasure trove, featuring a diverse array of habitats, including salt marshes, freshwater lagoons, maritime forests, and sandy beaches. This variety supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it perfect for nature lovers and conservationists.
Birdwatchers flock to Huntington Beach State Park, as it is widely regarded as one of the premier birding destinations on the East Coast. Over 300 species of birds have been documented here, including herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, and ospreys. During migration seasons, visitors may even spot painted buntings and peregrine falcons. The park also provides opportunities to see alligators basking in the sun near the causeway and loggerhead sea turtles nesting on its shores during the summer.
The maritime forest is dotted with ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, while palmettos and wax myrtles thrive throughout the park. Salt marshes are home to vibrant cordgrass, which sways gently in the coastal breeze, while seasonal wildflowers add bursts of color to the landscape. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, making it an excellent spot for nature photography.
Huntington Beach State Park offers an array of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind in nature. There are several hiking trails, and cycling enthusiasts will find the park equally inviting. Its flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it easy to explore on two wheels. The trails are a great way to enjoy the park at a leisurely pace, whether you’re riding along the marsh or heading toward the beach.
Speaking of beaches, Huntington Beach State Park boasts wide, uncrowded stretches of sand that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. The gentle surf makes it an ideal spot for families, and beachcombers can often discover shells and other treasures, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Fishing is another popular activity, with opportunities available from the beach, the jetties, and the causeway. Anglers frequently catch flounder, red drum, and bluefish, making it a rewarding experience for beginners and seasoned fishermen alike. For those who prefer to explore the park’s waterways, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a peaceful way to navigate the marshes and lagoons while enjoying the surrounding beauty.
No visit to Huntington Beach State Park is complete without a tour of Atalaya Castle. Declared a National Historic Landmark, the castle’s unique architecture reflects Anna Hyatt Huntington’s artistic flair and Archer Huntington’s love for Moorish design. The structure features a central courtyard, 30 rooms, and an open-air design that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
For those looking to extend their stay, the park features a well-equipped campground with over 130 sites, many of which offer water and electric hookups. The campground is nestled in a shady area near the beach, providing a peaceful retreat with modern amenities such as restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Huntington Beach State Park is a beautiful coastal destination—it’s a place where history, culture, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re wandering through Atalaya Castle, spotting rare birds in the salt marsh, or simply enjoying the sound of waves crashing on the shore, this park promises a memorable experience. So pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and discover the magic of Huntington Beach State Park, a true highlight of South Carolina’s coast.
Huntington Beach State Park Trails
For hikers, the park’s trails provide a chance to immerse yourself in its diverse ecosystems. The Huntington Beach State Park Trail, stretching 2.9 miles, winds through scenic woodlands and coastal habitats, offering opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The 3.5-mile Huntington Beach Jetty Trail leads visitors toward the iconic jetty, where stunning ocean views and seabirds abound. For a shorter, more accessible experience, the 0.4-mile Huntington Beach Marsh Boardwalk takes you directly into the heart of the salt marsh, where interpretive signs provide insights into this vital ecosystem.
What’s Nearby Huntington Beach State Park
Atalaya Castle, located within Huntington Beach State Park, is a Moorish-style mansion offering a glimpse into the artistic legacy of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Visitors can explore its unique architecture and enjoy events like the annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival. Nearby, Myrtle Beach State Park features a mile of pristine beachfront, perfect for swimming, fishing, and picnicking.
For history lovers, Hampton Plantation State Historic Site showcases an 18th-century rice plantation with tours that delve into the region’s past. Nature enthusiasts can visit Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge for kayaking and birdwatching or explore the rare Carolina bay ecosystem at Woods Bay State Park, where trails and blackwater paddling adventures await.
Huntington Beach State Park Parking Information
Getting to Huntington Beach State Park is easy. It is located just off U.S. Highway 17, about 15 miles south of Myrtle Beach. The park has ample parking, with spaces available near the beach, the visitor center, and Atalaya Castle.
Further Reading
Huntington Beach State Park Address & Directions
