A saltwater creek and marshland lie between Pawleys Island and the mainland. On the ocean-facing side, a wide white beach and sandy dunes stretch along the shore. Pawleys Island’s beach is quiet and unspoiled, and known for its surf.

Water, Trails and Beach Access

Surfing and bodyboarding are possible at the beach. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and wildlife watching are possible in Pawleys Island’s creek waters. For planning purposes, the distinction is clear: the surf is at the beach, while paddling and wildlife watching take place in the creek waters.

Two causeways connect Pawleys Island, on Waccamaw Neck, to the mainland. The island has three boat ramps for launching boats. A paved bike path runs along Ocean Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 17, north from Pawleys Island to Murrells Inlet. For orientation, note the distinction: the causeways connect the island to the mainland, while the bike path runs north to Murrells Inlet.

At the southern end is Georgetown County’s largest free public beach-access parking lot. There are also eight other public beach access points. At the southern beach access, the Town of Pawleys Island provides a beach wheelchair free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. The number and locations of access points, as well as parking rules, may change; check the latest information before your visit. You should also confirm the beach wheelchair’s availability and rules for use in advance.

Architecture, Craftsmanship and Events

In the Pawleys Island Historic District, signs provide a brief history of the antebellum homes. The district includes an interdenominational chapel, an inn and numerous older homes. The so-called “Pawleys Island Look” features steep roof pitches, dormers, wraparound ground-floor porches, exposed rafter tails and double-hung windows. The signs offer a brief historical overview; the listed architectural features draw attention to specific details of the homes. Dormers are structures that project from the roof surface; rafter tails are the visible ends of roof beams.

The Pawleys Island Chapel was dismantled, relocated and rebuilt on Pawleys Island.

Hammocks are also part of the local craft tradition. A riverboat captain designed a hammock made from cotton rope in 1889; the Original Hammock Shop was established in 1938. There are 49 years between the two dates. Hammock Shops Village comprises 21 independent shops.

Hammock Day has been celebrated every summer in Pawleys Island for years. In addition, Pawleys Island hosts three major festivals each year, as well as special events. Individual dates may change, so check the dates for your trip in advance. The Summer Kickoff featured live music, food and dancing outdoors.

Discover more destinations: Murrells Inlet, Georgetown.

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