Things To Do
in Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet sits along the South Carolina coast, famed for its tidal marshes and seafood heritage. The heart of the town is the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, a waterfront promenade lined with seafood shacks and sunset views. Nearby, Brookgreen Gardens and Huntington Beach State Park offer sculptures, wildlife, and coastal trails.
The area draws families, retirees, and seasonal visitors seeking easy beach access, nature, and Southern hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Murrells Inlet and settle into your chosen accommodation, soaking in the inviting coastal atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh seafood dishes that the area is famous for. Spend some time strolling along the waterfront, breathing in the salt air and taking in the serene views of the inlet.
Tentatively explore the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, a picturesque boardwalk lined with charming shops and restaurants. Stop for a lunch break at one of the waterfront restaurants, indulging in the local cuisine. As you continue walking, keep an eye out for local wildlife including herons and dolphins basking in the sun.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a captivating sunset view from the Marsh Walk, the sky painted with brilliant hues. Choose from a selection of restaurants for dinner, perhaps trying some famous Southern-style barbecue or fresh seafood. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, listening to live music from nearby venues.
Start your day with a visit to Brookgreen Gardens, a stunning sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk through the beautifully landscaped gardens, filled with diverse plant life and artistic installations. Don't miss the chance to visit the Lowcountry Zoo housed within the property.
After a morning filled with art and nature, relax at the garden café with a light lunch. You can spend your afternoon wandering through the various trails and exhibitions, appreciating the tranquil ambiance and artwork. Take a moment to pause by the numerous water features that dot the landscape.
Return to your accommodation to freshen up before embarking on a culinary adventure. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant known for its fresh, local catch and Southern hospitality. Cap off the evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, mingling with the locals and savoring the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏡Rent for 1 bedroom apartment (city center) | $900-1,500 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly) | $250-450 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Casual, family-friendly atmosphere
- Excellent seafood and marshland scenery
- Seasonal crowds and limited off-season attractions
- Higher summer traffic on US-17
Places to Visit in Murrells Inlet
Visit one of these nice places.
Wooden boardwalk with water reflections, boats, and sunset silhouettes—ideal for golden-hour photography.
Lush gardens, waterways, and sculpture all set against natural light—great for landscape and detail shots.
Historic castle with marsh and beach backdrops, offering architectural and coastal photography opportunities.
Food in Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a savory sauce; a quintessential Lowcountry favorite.
Must-Try!
A creamy, sherried soup loaded with crab meat and old-school Southern comfort.
A communal boil of shrimp, corn, sausage, and potatoes; perfect for sharing among friends.
Crispy fried shrimp served with fries and slaw—classic seafood shack fare.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local seafood, produce, and prepared foods along the inlet.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Embody Southern hospitality: a warm hello, please, and thank you go a long way.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife and posted protected areas; respect quiet zones near residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Murrells Inlet
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in the U.S. at 15–20% for full-service restaurants; $1–$2 per drink at bars; consider a higher tip for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for smaller venues; mobile payments are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms. Pack sun protection, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Mild temperatures and blooming marsh flora; excellent for nature walks and outdoor exploration.
Pleasant weather and thinner crowds; ideal for coastal hikes, photography, and seafood dining.
Milder coastal winter with cooler evenings; some seasonal venues may have reduced hours, but outdoor activities remain possible on clear days.
Murrells Inlet at Night
Hiking in Murrells Inlet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive nature trails through sculpture gardens and wildlife habitat near Pawleys Island.
Coastal park trails offering marsh and beach scenery, birdwatching, and coastal landscapes.
Partial coastal segments connecting to longer hikes through Horry County for longer day trips.
Airports
How to reach Murrells Inlet by plane.
Primary airport serving Murrells Inlet; about 15-30 miles north depending on route; frequent flights to major hubs.
Smaller regional airport; about 60-80 miles northwest; useful for some travelers.
Major hub about 90-110 miles south; add-on option for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit during the summer and weekends for kid-friendly beaches and calm water activities.
Seasonal and year-round residents from the Northeast and Midwest seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
A steady stream of visitors during spring and summer peaks the local economy and activity options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Grand Strand region is known for its plentiful golf courses and year-round play.
Inlets, creeks, and the Atlantic offer charter boats, pier fishing, and shoreline angling.
Boat tours, kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet-skiing opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murrells Inlet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose salads, veggie sides, grilled vegetables, and non-meat entrees; ask for seafood-free preparations and broth-free soups where needed.