6 Ways to Explore North Myrtle Beach’s Natural Beauty

Take the family to North Myrtle Beach this summer to enjoy its expansive beaches, flora and fauna, and marshes. Not sure where to start? Here are six ways to best enjoy this scenic destination.

Cherry Grove Salt Marsh Kayak Tour

Paddle through winding marshways and inlet habitats to see herons, bottlenose dolphins and egrets. You can even opt for a tour deep into the wild swamps up Waccamaw River, part of the National Wildlife Refuge.

© Destination North Myrtle Beach

Heritage Shores Nature Preserve

One of the most unique parks in North Myrtle Beach, this preserve sits on an island that extends into Cherry Grove Marsh. Accessible via a series of elevated boardwalks and observation decks, this 1-mile interpretive trail loop traverses through 7 acres of land with viewing stations and signage describing the animals and plants that can be seen. Look out for blue herons, white tail deer, crabs, pelicans and ospreys.

Ingram Dunes Natural Area

This 7.24-acre nature preserve was originally slated to be a 30-plus home development. Thanks to concerned citizens who understood its ecological importance, the site was made into a natural area where animals and visitors can enjoy its trails and views of the mature maritime forest.

© Destination North Myrtle Beach

Kayak Crabbing Adventure with J&L Kayaks

Hit the waters along Cherry Grove to Hog Inlet to experience the traditional local method for catching blue crab while also learning about the history and habitat of the area. If you catch a crab, you also get to keep it!

Waites Island

This 1,000-acre barrier island is undeveloped and sits at the northernmost point of South Carolina. The island can only be reached by land on horseback or by sea by small boat, kayak or paddleboard from the marshes of Cherry Grove Beach. Take part in a dedicated tour with Great Escapes Kayak Expeditions, a three-hour excursion led by an expert guide, to learn about the island’s surrounding region.

© Destination North Myrtle Beach

Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve

Created in 2004 and named after a former city councilman dedicated to preservation and maintenance of the marsh, this preserve features paved parking and foot access to the scenic inlet. A boardwalk lets visitors immerse themselves within Cherry Grove Marsh. Crabbing and fishing are also allowed from ground level.