Updated on January 30, 2026
This guide covers the best places for hiking in Myrtle Beach and nearby areas along the Grand Strand. Expect mostly easy nature trails, boardwalks, and state park walks, plus a few longer options nearby. You’ll find great picks in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Murrells Inlet, with marsh views, shady maritime forests, and plenty of “how is this this close to the beach?” moments.
Before You Go: Local Tips for Grand Strand Hiking
Coastal trails are fun, but they come with sun, humidity, and the occasional mosquito pep rally. A little prep keeps your hike comfortable.
- Heat, humidity, and sun exposure: Summer can feel intense even on short walks. Pack water, wear sunscreen, and assume shade is a bonus.
- Best seasons and time of day (all four seasons):
- Spring: Mild temps, active wildlife, and fewer crowds. Late morning is a sweet spot.
- Summer: Start early, stick to shadier trails when possible, and plan breaks.
- Fall: Prime season for comfortable hiking and clearer skies.
- Winter: Sunny days can be excellent, but coastal breezes call for a light layer.
- Spring: Mild temps, active wildlife, and fewer crowds. Late morning is a sweet spot.
- Bugs and marsh conditions: After rain and around marsh edges, bugs are more active. Bring repellent and consider lightweight long sleeves.
- Water, footwear, and shade expectations: Bring more water than you think you’ll need, wear supportive shoes with grip, and expect some sandy or damp spots.
- Fees and entry rules: Some parks and preserves may have entry fees, hours, and trail rules. A quick check before you go helps.
Best Places for hiking in Myrtle Beach, SC
These are the best “quick escape” options when you want nature without a long drive, especially if you’re looking for easy hikes in Myrtle Beach.
Sculptured Oak Nature Trail (Myrtle Beach State Park)
- Location: Myrtle Beach, inside Myrtle Beach State Park, near the beach access and pier area
- Distance: About 0.5 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Packed dirt with roots and occasional sandy patches
- Highlights: Mossy live oaks, coastal pines, shade, and small wildlife sightings
- Good for: Families, quick walks, birdwatching, and a low-effort nature break
This is one of the most approachable Myrtle Beach State Park trails, and it delivers that classic coastal-forest feel fast. You can be back on the beach before your ice cream melts.
Best State Park Trails Near Myrtle Beach
If your idea of a perfect day includes salt air, marsh views, and lots of birds doing bird things, these nature trails in Myrtle Beach SC are hard to beat.
Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail (Huntington Beach State Park)
- Location: Murrells Inlet area, Huntington Beach State Park, near the nature center and marsh overlooks
- Distance: Just over 2 miles (loop)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (mostly due to length and sun exposure)
- Surface/Terrain: Mixed boardwalk, packed path, and sandy sections
- Highlights: Marsh vistas, lagoons, wading birds, and photo-worthy overlooks
- Good for: Birdwatching, nature lovers, and longer easy walks
This is one of the best hiking trails in Myrtle Beach if you want variety. You’ll move through multiple habitats, and you’ll probably stop a lot, because the views keep stealing your attention.
Kerrigan Nature Trail (Huntington Beach State Park)
- Location: Murrells Inlet area, Huntington Beach State Park, near marsh viewing areas
- Distance: Short and flexible (easy out-and-back)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Flat path with boardwalk features and marsh-side sections
- Highlights: Breezy marsh scenery, quick scenic payoff, and great golden-hour light
- Good for: Families, quick walks, and pairing with a beach stroll
If you want a shorter option at the same park, this one is a solid add-on. It’s the kind of trail that makes you say, “Okay, one more photo,” about twelve times.
North Myrtle Beach Hiking Trails
For quieter paths and more local vibes, these North Myrtle Beach hiking trails are perfect when you want space to breathe.
North Myrtle Beach Nature Trail
- Location: North Myrtle Beach, tucked away near residential areas and wetlands
- Distance: Varies by route (short loops and out-and-backs)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Mixed packed dirt, grass, and occasional boardwalk sections
- Highlights: Maritime forest, salt marsh edges, peaceful scenery, and fewer crowds
- Good for: Solo walkers, families, and a calm, unhurried pace
This is a quiet favorite for anyone who wants “nature first, noise later.” It’s a great option when you’re aiming for Grand Strand hiking without the busy trailhead feel.
Vereen Memorial Gardens
- Location: Near Little River, close to the North Carolina border, near the Intracoastal Waterway
- Distance: Short to moderate (multiple connected paths and boardwalks)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Boardwalks and flat walking paths
- Highlights: Salt marsh boardwalks, historic points of interest, and water views
- Good for: Families, strollers, history fans, and relaxed nature walks
You get marsh scenery and a little local history in one easy outing. It’s a nice change of pace from the main beach loop.
Heritage Shores Nature Preserve (Cherry Grove area)
- Location: North Myrtle Beach, near Cherry Grove Marsh and coastal waterways
- Distance: Short trails across the preserve (quick outing)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Boardwalks and footpaths
- Highlights: Marsh overlooks, birds, and excellent sunrise and sunset views
- Good for: Birdwatching, photography, and low-key exploring
This one feels like a well-kept secret, and it’s perfect when you want a quick trail that still feels scenic.
Murrells Inlet Trails and Nature Walks
Murrells Inlet is a great base for hiking near Myrtle Beach, especially if you’re chasing marsh views and easy coastal strolls. If you’re collecting Murrells Inlet hiking trails for your itinerary, start here.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
- Location: Murrells Inlet, along the waterfront near the main restaurant row and marina areas
- Distance: Flexible (stroll as far as you want)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Surface/Terrain: Paved and boardwalk-style walkway
- Highlights: Waterfront views, salt-marsh scenery, boats, and sunset vibes
- Good for: Families, casual walkers, post-dinner strolls, and accessible scenic time
This isn’t a “backwoods hike,” and that’s the point. It’s a breezy nature-forward walk that fits perfectly into a Murrells Inlet day.
Longer Options for Hiking Near Myrtle Beach
If you want something more remote, wilder, or just a bit more adventurous, these longer options deliver.
Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge
- Location: Inland from Myrtle Beach, along the Waccamaw River system and surrounding wetlands
- Distance: Varies by access point (options range from short walks to longer day routes)
- Difficulty: Moderate (conditions can vary with weather and season)
- Surface/Terrain: Natural surfaces through forest and wetland areas, sometimes muddy
- Highlights: River scenery, cypress landscapes, and bigger wildlife potential
- Good for: Experienced hikers, nature photographers, and anyone craving solitude
This one feels like you stepped into a quieter, wilder Carolina. Bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and the kind of snack you’ll actually be excited to eat halfway in.
Tips for Hiking in Myrtle Beach Weather
The coast keeps things interesting, so plan for comfort and you’ll have a better time on every trail.
Pack smart:
- Water (more than you think you’ll need)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Bug repellent for marshy areas
- Supportive shoes with grip
- Snacks for anything longer than a quick loop
Trail etiquette that keeps it beautiful:
- Stay on marked paths to protect dunes, marsh plants, and nesting areas
- Pack out all trash, including food scraps
- Watch wildlife from a distance, and never feed animals
- Keep voices lower on boardwalks so everyone can enjoy the peace
Take Your Myrtle Beach Experience Beyond the Shoreline
If you’re ready for more than sand and souvenir shops, hiking in Myrtle Beach is the easiest way to find the area’s quieter side, from shady state park loops to marsh boardwalks that feel a world away. Want to keep your trail picks, food stops, and can’t-miss views organized? MobileBrochure makes it simple to save, customize, and share your favorites so your trip plans stay tidy and your days stay fun.