Cherry Grove Beach
Free
FamilyHistoryKayakingNatureSecluded & Uncrowded
Overview
Cherry Grove Beach is a tranquil, incredibly scenic coastal neighborhood situated at the northernmost end of North Myrtle Beach, highly celebrated for its laid-back family atmosphere and unique coastal topography. Nestled where the beautiful Atlantic Ocean meets a dynamic network of serene saltwater tidal creeks, this beach is a paradise for kayakers, paddleboarders, and shell collectors. The wide shoreline is lined with classic colorful beach homes and offers a peaceful, less commercial alternative to the bustling south side, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing seaside holiday deeply connected to the natural rhythms of the Lowcountry.
Practical Info
Suggested Duration0.5-1 day
Best TimeSummer through early autumn from 5:45 AM to 7:30 AM yields the finest photographic rewards. Facing due east on the Atlantic at the northernmost point of Cherry Grove, trekking to the tidal inlet before dawn unveils an incredible sunrise perfectly silhouetted against miles of pristine, dynamic shallow white sand spits.
Getting ThereCommanding the extreme northernmost barrier tip of North Myrtle Beach along Sea Mountain Highway. Driving a personal vehicle is recommended: travel north from the city center via US-17 N, turn right onto Sea Mountain Highway, and follow it straight east to the shoreline dunes. Parallel curbside city slots encircle the access walk lanes.
Travel Tips
- High tides drastically reduce walkable sand; never park golf carts below the high-water mark, as rising surf can trap vehicles and cause severe structural damage.
- Residential street stalls enforce strict daytime permit codes; non-residents should utilize paid parking at Boulineaus off 53rd Avenue to bypass aggressive city towing.
- The proximity to salt marshes brings dense swarms of biting midges and mosquitoes at dusk; standard sprays fail, use a high-concentration Picaridin-based repellent.
Reviews
Positive
- The most charming pristine beach in North Myrtle Beach! The sand is powdery-fine, and the iconic Cherry Grove Pier jutting into the sea offers peerless sunset views.
- Far from the noisy hustle and dense crowds of South Myrtle, it preserves a serene, peaceful coastal vibe, serving as an uncommercialized holiday sanctuary.
- Excellent for walking with kids at low tide to find sand dollars, seashells, and tiny crabs. Natural merit is high, and access points feature clean rinse stalls.
- The beach is completely free, bordered by quaint oceanfront rental cottages. Both locals and tourists are warm, and the general safety and order are great.
Heads up
- The public parking lots are relatively small, and free street spaces are rare. Hunting for a paid spot during mid-summer daytime peaks is exhausting.
- Since heavy hurricane damage years ago, the iconic pier is partially rebuilt but charges a walk-on fee, and certain end-sections remain closed for maintenance.
- The beachfront is a purely natural residential stripe, lacking public restrooms, trash cans, or shade kiosks on the sand, making bathroom runs highly inconvenient.
- During summer evenings, being near inlet channels means sand flies and no-see-ums are dense, leaving exposed skin bitten with itchy red welts.