Pawleys Island: Beach, History and Hammock Tradition

Pawleys Island is located on Waccamaw Neck; two causeways connect the island to the mainland. A saltwater creek and marshland lie between Pawleys Island and the mainland. On the ocean-facing side are a wide white beach and sandy dunes. The beach is quiet and unspoiled, while also being known for its surf. The coast and creek offer different experiences: the ocean shapes the beach side, while creek waters and marshland form part of the landscape between the island and mainland. When choosing a destination, the combination of architecture, craftsmanship and water activities is also a consideration alongside the beach.

Beach, Creek and Public Access Points

At the southern end of Pawleys Island is the largest free public beach access parking lot in Georgetown County. In addition to this lot, there are eight other public beach access points. Since parking regulations and the number and arrangement of access points can change, check the latest information from the Town of Pawleys Island before your visit.

At the southern beach access point, the Town of Pawleys Island provides a beach wheelchair free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Availability and usage rules may change; if you would like to use this service, check the current conditions in advance.

Surfing and bodyboarding are possible at the beach. You can kayak and stand-up paddle in the creek waters, where wildlife watching is also possible. There are three boat ramps on Pawleys Island for launching boats. This gives you a choice of activities in the surf as well as options on the creek when planning your trip.

Historic Homes and Hammock Tradition

The Pawleys Island Historic District includes an interdenominational chapel, an inn and numerous older homes. Signs in the Historic District provide brief information about the history of the historic antebellum homes. The “Pawleys Island Look” features steep roof pitches, dormers, wraparound ground-floor porches, exposed rafter tails and double-hung windows. The roof and window styles, along with the porches, make the term tangible through specific architectural features.

The Pawleys Island Chapel is also part of the local history: it was dismantled, relocated and rebuilt on Pawleys Island. The Original Hammock Shop, founded in 1938, is part of the local craftsmanship tradition. As early as 1889, a riverboat captain designed a hammock made from cotton rope. Hammock Shops Village comprises 21 independent shops. Pawleys Island thus brings together historic architecture and a distinct local craft tradition.

Bike Path and Events

A paved bike path runs along Ocean Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 17, from Pawleys Island north to Murrells Inlet. Pawleys Island hosts three major festivals and special events each year. Hammock Day has been celebrated every summer for years. If you want a festival or Hammock Day to determine your travel dates, check the relevant dates in advance.

When looking for a hotel in Pawleys Island, you can first decide whether you want to combine your trip with beach activities, architecture or an event.

Discover more destinations: Murrells Inlet, Georgetown.

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