7 Best Places To Paddle Board In Myrtle Beach

Abi Leach
2023-05-25T14:45:47-07:00

Discover Myrtle Beach from the water by SUP

Myrtle Beach, with its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and endless sunshine, is a stand up paddle board paradise. With an uninterrupted 60 miles of coastline, Myrtle Beach offers a great opportunity to explore the lapping waters of the great Atlantic Ocean. Whether you are an experienced paddle boarder or just starting out, there are plenty of spots to explore and enjoy the beauty of this coast.

Of course, paddle boarding is just one of the many cool things you can do in Myrtle Beach. This place is great for anyone wanting to soak up some sunshine, enjoy a splash in the water, or explore the diverse Boardwalk restaurants and bars.

From tranquil inlets to thrilling ocean waves, we have rounded up the 7 best places to paddle board in Myrtle Beach. So grab your travel friendly inflatable stand up paddle board and let's dive right in!

Table of Contents

North Myrtle Beach

Huntington Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park

Surfside Beach

Cherry Grove

Waccamaw River

Murrells Inlet

Interactive Map

FAQs

North Myrtle Beach

First up we have got North Myrtle Beach. This is one of the best places to paddle board in Myrtle Beach and offers beginners perfectly calm waters to learn how to paddle board. Even on windy days, the water remains relatively calm, making navigating easier than in other locations while you find your sea legs.

From these waters, you can see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and several bird species. The coastline is stunning as well. From a paddle board, you get unique views of the iconic Cherry Grove Pier and the picturesque marshes. North Myrtle Beach offers numerous public access points to the water, making it super easy to launch and enjoy your paddle board excursion.

Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is a great place for cruising and touring paddle boards to explore the area. The park is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline and has a saltwater lagoon and marsh that you can paddle. The lagoon is calm and shallow, making it a great spot for beginners to get their feet wet and practise their skills. The park also offers rental kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for those who do not have their own equipment.

Additionally, paddle boarding at Huntington Beach State Park offers the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including egrets, herons, bald eagles, and osprey. You may even spot dolphins and sea turtles in the nearby ocean waters.

Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park offers variety to your paddle boarding, depending on your experience level and interests. You can enjoy the calm saltwater lagoon, perfect for beginners and those who want to take out a yoga paddle board in a peaceful environment. Paddle boards are available to rent from the park's rental facility or you can bring your own equipment.

Otherwise, maybe try heading out on the ocean. This spot is great for more experienced paddle boarders who want to try riding the waves and experience the thrill of surf paddle boards!

No matter what type of paddle boarding you choose to do at Myrtle Beach State Park, you will be surrounded by natural beauty, giving you that escape into nature. Just be sure to check the weather and water conditions before heading out.

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is another great place to paddle board in Myrtle Beach that escapes the crowds. The beach is located just south of Myrtle Beach and is often a quieter and less crowded environment. So if that sounds like your kind of vibe, pack up your inflatable paddle board and make the short drive down!

The water is typically calm and clear. But if conditions are right, then there is a gentle way for more experienced paddle boarders to enjoy playing on. You can rent paddle boards from several local rental shops or bring your own equipment. Additionally, there are a variety of nearby restaurants and shops to enjoy after a day on the water.

Cherry Grove

Paddle boarding Cherry Grove can be a fun and challenging experience. Located within the North Myrtle Beach area, this spot offers a unique environment for paddle boarding, with its marshes, channels, and tidal creeks. The area is known for its wildlife, including dolphins, birds, and various fish species, making it a great place for nature lovers as well.

The water conditions in Cherry Grove can vary depending on the tide and weather, so be sure to check the conditions before heading out. The channels can be narrow, and the water can be shallow, so beginners should be cautious. There are several local rental shops that offer paddle board rentals, and guided tours are also available for those who want to explore the area with an experienced guide.

Waccamaw River

This black water ecosystem is home to 16 public launch points.

Paddle boarding on the Waccamaw River in Myrtle Beach is a great experience for those looking to explore the area's natural beauty. The river is located in Conway, just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, and is known for its calm waters and diverse wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and birds.

The Waccamaw River has 16 public launch points and is suitable for all levels of paddle boarders, from beginners to experienced. The slow-moving river is surrounded by lush forests and scenic views, making it a peaceful and relaxing place to paddle board.

The river is also a popular spot for fishing. So why not cast your line from a fishing paddle board and see what you can reel in?

Murrells Inlet

Murrells Inlet is suitable for paddle boarders of all skill levels. Located south of Myrtle Beach, this spot is best known for its scenic views and calm waters. The inlet has several access points, including a public boat ramp and marina, where you can launch your inflatable or hard paddle boards. From here you can explore the inlet's many channels, coves, and creeks, enjoying a peaceful paddle.

It is important to be mindful of the weather and tides as the inlet can become more challenging in adverse conditions. Several local rental shops offer paddle board rentals, and guided tours are also available for those who want to explore the area with an experienced guide.

Interactive Map

FAQ’S

🏆 When is the best time to stand up paddle board in Myrtle Beach?

Summer months, from June to August, are the most popular time to paddle board in Myrtle Beach, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the water is calm and inviting. This is also the peak tourist season, so beaches and waterways can often get crowded.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) can also be great times to paddle board. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild and the water is less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful paddle boarding experience.

Always keep in mind that weather conditions can change quickly in Myrtle Beach. Check the weather forecast and tide charts before heading out to paddle board. Windy conditions make paddle boarding more challenging, while rain and thunderstorms can be dangerous.

👍 Where is the best place for beginners to try stand up paddle boarding in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach is perfect for beginners to learn how to paddle board. Some of the best spots for beginners to try first are North Myrtle Beach, Huntington State Park, and Murrells Inlet. These places all offer flatwater paddle boarding.

Once you have mastered the basics, then you can venture into the world of ocean paddle boarding. Surfside Beach is the quieter beach to head to. Otherwise you can have a more social paddle at Cherry Grove.

🏝️ Do I need to wear a life jacket to paddle board Myrtle Beach?

According to South Carolina state law, a personal flotation device or life jacket is required for each person on a paddle board in Myrtle Beach. It is not only a legal requirement but also a safety precaution, especially in case of unexpected weather changes or if you fall off your board. Even if you are an experienced paddle boarder, wearing a life jacket is always recommended.

Some paddle board rental companies in Myrtle Beach may provide life jackets with their rentals, but it is always a good idea to bring your own to ensure a proper fit.

❓ What is the best beach to surf in Myrtle Beach?

The best beach to surf in Myrtle Beach is around the area around 13th Avenue South, also known as "The Pier." This area has the most consistent waves suitable for both beginner and experienced surfers. It is also home to the Myrtle Beach Pier, which provides a good spot for surfing and people watching.

Other popular surfing spots in Myrtle Beach include Cherry Grove Beach, Surfside Beach, and Garden City Beach. However, it is always a good idea to check local surf reports and weather conditions before heading out to ensure the best possible surf session.

📦 What animals will I encounter paddle boarding in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach has a wide array of wildlife that you can discover while paddle boarding. Dolphin and turtle sightings are very common when exploring the coastline, along with various marine bird species. Head into the backcountry to explore the rivers and you could encounter more turtles, other birds, and even alligators!

📦 What type of paddle board is best for Myrtle Beach?

We advise a general all around paddle board when heading to Myrtle Beach. This will give you the versatility to explore both coastal waters and the marshlands, while also have manoueverability to handle the terrain. Opting for an inflatable paddle board opens up the space to explore further afield with easy to carry equipment.