Paddle Boarding Myrtle Beach: Top 5 Must-Visit Locations

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There’s nothing like a paddle boarding Myrtle Beach experience. The city is one of the best spots to stroke and feather in the Grand Strand.Families and beginners can enjoy the marshes, where the water is calm. Experienced paddle boarders looking for more adventurous thrills can tackle the ocean waves. It certainly offers the best of both worlds.

As you paddle board in Myrtle Beach, look for dolphins. They are attracted to the area's warmer water compared to other parts of the Atlantic coast.

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

Top 5 Spots for Paddle Boarding in Myrtle Beach

These five paddle boarding Myrtle Beach SC locations will not let you down, with their diverse waterways and landscapes.

1. Cherry Grove

This hidden gem is perfect for paddle boarding in Myrtle Beach. Its calm, flat waters and beautiful marshland scenery, which is described as a “laid-back vibe” by locals, provide a serene escape.

Photo by Tim Wilson on Unsplash

After you rest your paddle, rest your back sunbathing on its white, sandy beaches. The Cherry Grove Pier is also a popular spot for fishing and has a platform for visitors to walk out over the ocean.

• Water Type: Calm, flat water ideal for leisurely paddling.
• Access Point: The Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is a popular SUP launch spot with ample parking space.
• Unique Feature: Scenic marshlands and rich wildlife like herons and egrets.
• Amenities: Restrooms and picnic areas are available at the nature preserve.

2. Waccamaw River

For a more challenging paddle boarding Myrtle Beach experience, head to the Waccamaw River. This historic river flows through some parts of Myrtle Beach, blessing it with cypress forests, wetlands, and unique wildlife.

Paddle peacefully among towering trees draped in Spanish moss, and don’t forget to look out for the turtles, alligators, and native birds. The river’s gentle current makes it accessible for all skill levels.

• Water Type: A freshwater river with a gentle current.
• Access Point: 16 public launch points starting from Conway.
• Unique Feature: The cypress forest and black, tea-colored water.
• Amenities: Marina facilities include restrooms, a restaurant, and gear rentals.

3. North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach paddle boarding is a versatile experience with something for everyone. There is calm water for beginners and the near-shore Atlantic Ocean waves for challenge seekers.

Photo by Chase Castora on Unsplash

To feel the local beat after paddling, hit the Ocean Drive beach where there’s often live music and dancing. Just a short drive away, you can take a ride on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.

• Water Type: Flatwater with some waves near shore.
• Access Point: Cherry Grove Park and Boat Ramp are local favorites.
• Unique Feature: A mix of both calm marshes and choppy ocean waves for all preferences.
• Amenities: Plenty of public beach access points, local shops, restaurants, live events, and attractions.

4. Murrells Inlet

The most picturesque setting of all paddle boarding Myrtle Beach, SC locations is Murrells Inlet. The best time to launch your SUP board is early morning when the calm waters offer a great chance to see dolphins and sun-kissed creeks.

Photo by Liz Mitchell on Flickr

You can later glide along the Marsh Walk in the evening to enjoy the purplish sunset. Murrells Inlet is not just a paddle boarding Myrtle Beach spot. It’s a vibrant hub where nature, adventure, and local culture come together.

• Water Type: Saltwater inlet with tidal creeks.
• Access Point: Hot Fish Club, Morse Park Landing, and Oyster Landing are local favorites for avoiding crowded public boat launches, but you should always check for low tide before launching.
• Unique Feature: Abundant wildlife and colorful local beachfront activities.
• Amenities: Close to SC’s popular seafood restaurants and shops for post-paddling relaxation. There is also a wide range of rentals and maritime facilities.

5. Surfside Beach

It’s an amazing paddle boarding Myrtle Beach spot for those who are looking to escape the crowd. With accessible public beach launch points, you’ll get to enjoy the laid-back and peaceful atmosphere.

Photo by Chris Mauney from Pexels

The water is calm, and there’s plenty of room for water activities. It’s a lovely location for paddle boarders of all skills and families with little kids.

• Water Type: Ocean waters with calm waves.
• Access Point: 36 public access points with parking.
• Unique Feature: The beach is known as family-friendly and autism-friendly.
• Amenities: There are accommodations, SUP rentals, sports facilities, theaters, dining options, parks, zoos, parking spots, and wheelchair-friendly access points.

Paddle Boarding Myrtle Beach Regulations

When paddle boarding in Myrtle Beach, you have to adhere to local regulations to ensure safety and avoid travel hiccups.

According to the City of Myrtle Beach (2023), glass containers and bottles are not allowed on the beach, along with alcohol. So are animals larger than 6 feet; smaller ones are allowed from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and must be leashed at all times.

Following that, “thong” style bathing suits are also not allowed on family-friendly beaches. Any set-up, including umbrellas, must also stay behind established lines and adhere to the allotted time.

Photo by Alex Brinkman on Unsplash

For paddle boarding in North Myrtle Beach, swimming or boarding beyond 50 yards from the shore is not permitted (North Myrtle Beach Ocean Rescue, n.d.). Most public beach access points have designated parking spots, which may cost about $3/hour during the summer months.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s important to understand these rules for a truly enjoyable experience.

Where to Rent Paddle Board in Myrtle Beach?

Renting a paddle board in Myrtle Beach is easy off-season since there are plenty of rentals for all skill levels. Some popular Myrtle Beach paddle board rentals include Island Adventure Watersports, Kokopelli Surf Camp, and Express Watersports.

If you frequently go paddle boarding in Myrtle Beach or just want a more hassle-free paddle boarding Myrtle Beach experience, investing in your own paddle board is a much better option.

It's more cost-effective in the long run, allowing you to choose the SUP type that best suits your preferences and skill level. Plus, you won't have to worry about rental time limits or finding slots during peak season. Start your paddle boarding journey with iROCKER for a hassle-free experience on the water!

Unleash the Fun with iRocker in Myrtle Beach

Paddle boarding Myrtle Beach is a wonderful blend of adventures in nature and ultimate relaxation. In Myrtle Beach, where not every SUP launch point is car-accessible, an inflatable paddle board is a lifesaver. So check out iROCKER collection of inflatable SUPs now!

While soaking up the sun at Myrtle Beach, don’t miss out on the iROCKER Inflatable Floating Island—the ultimate adventure companion. Perfect for lounging, playing, or even hosting a floating picnic, these versatile docks add a splash of fun to your paddle board Myrtle Beach SC experience!

REFERENCES

City of Myrtle Beach. (2023, June 12). Follow rules for swimming, surfing, and parking this summer. City of Myrtle Beach. https://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/news_detail_T6_R462.php

North Myrtle Beach. (n.d.). North Myrtle Beach Ocean Rescue. City of North Myrtle Beach. Retrieved July 26, 2024, from https://www.nmb.us/233/North-Myrtle-Beach-Ocean-Rescue