Murrells Inlet: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Murrells Inlet? Read on for the best things to do in Murrells Inlet, Murrells Inlet restaurants, and more.
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Atalaya Castle is the Huntington’s winter retreat located inside of Huntington Beach State Park.
Nestled in the shadow of Myrtle Beach’s blaring neon lights, enormous chomping shark facades, and over-the-top mini golf courses lies a lovely little stretch of shoreline called Murrells Inlet.
Murrells Inlet can be easy to miss as you cruise along Highway 17 (watch out for speed traps!), but this small coastal community offers a unique blend of colorful restaurants, water excursions, renowned sculpture gardens, and local history, making it a great spot for a day trip or beach vacation with the family.
We live within an easy drive of Murrells Inlet, so I’ve structured this blog post as a day trip itinerary to help you hit all the unique spots in the area.
However, if you’re going to be in the area for more than one day, you’ll find a more comprehensive list of things to do in Murrells Inlet at the bottom of this post. Bon voyage!
The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk is known for lively restaurants with waterfront views.
The Vibe:
It’s impossible to be close to Myrtle Beach and totally escape that over-the-top garishness that defines that place, but Murrells Inlet melds the vibrant signage and tourist attractions most visitors crave with authenticity and the rich local history of a colonial fishing village in the Lowcountry.
The (Wildly Abbreviated) History of Murrells Inlet:
The settlement of what’s now known as Murrells Inlet dates back thousands of years, as evidenced by archaeological evidence of indigenous shell mounds and burial grounds. When the European settlers arrived and began documenting the history of the area, the inhabitants included the Waccamaw people.
The English doled out colonial land grants, which were eventually subdivided to form long, narrow plantations ranging from 500 to 1,500 acres. Prior to the Civil War, the plantations grew indigo and rice, and you can learn a lot about this time period and the lives and legacy of the enslaved people at Brookgreen Gardens (see below).
A series of hurricanes devastated the coast in the wake of the Civil War. Murrells Inlet saw a resurgence in the 1920s and 30s, however, when Julius Mood and the Huntingtons became enamored of the area. Today, the coastal fishing village has become a popular tourist and retirement destination due to its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and proximity to Myrtle Beach.
One-Day Itinerary: Murrells Inlet
The breakfast burrito at Dead Dog Saloon is a delicious, hearty meal to power you through the day ahead.
Get up early and grab breakfast at Dead Dog Saloon.
You’ll want to hit the ground running to make the most of your time in Murrells Inlet and beat the crowds at Huntington Beach State Park, so set that alarm bright and early, y’all.
Head to the Dead Dog Saloon, a funky spot on the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, for a tasty, hearty breakfast and some coffee. Named to honor a mythical pup named Dudley that allegedly haunts the property, this waterfront eatery serves up substantial portions with beautiful views, and you’re bound to be drawn into the framed dog photos donated by patrons that line the walls.
Order the breakfast burrito. This big, honking burrito is a no-frills meal of home fries, crunchy bacon, eggs, cheese, and delicious green chile sauce that will power you through your busy day of sightseeing.
Dead Dog Saloon
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Keep an eye out on the nature walks, and you’re sure to spot some alligators sunning in the marsh.
Head to Huntington Beach State Park before the crowds.
Huntington Beach State Park is one of the favorite things to do in Murrells Inlet for several reasons: 1) the beaches are gorgeous, 2) you’re bound to see birds, alligators, and other wildlife, 3) the hikes are pretty, and 4) it’s where the Atalaya castle is located.
Here are some things you need to know before you go to Huntington Beach State Park:
Because parking is limited and the park is very popular, expect and plan to arrive around frequent temporary park closures on weekends and holidays from March through September. The park advises that park hours are between 10am - 2pm, and you may want to call ahead to see if you can get in if you plan to visit during that time.
Dogs are only allowed on the southern side of the park, but that does not include Atalaya.
There is an additional entrance fee to enter Atalaya.
Huntington Beach State Park offers an EV charging station.
The campsites are popular, so book yours well in advance.
You absolutely need to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and a reusable water bottle, especially if you’re visiting during the summer months. You also may really enjoy bringing your binoculars to get a closer look at the abundant wildlife.
Huntington Beach State Park
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Did you know there’s a Moorish-style castle nestled in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina?
Check out Atalaya Castle inside the park.
A castle in South Carolina? Hey, why not! Archer and Anna Huntington built a gorgeous, Moorish-style castle in Murrells Inlet in the 1930s to serve as a winter retreat and art studio for Anna, a renowned sculptor. Though most of the furnishings were sent to New York after Mr. Huntington’s death in 1955, the sweeping courtyard and interlocking rooms remain open to the public.
You can tour and learn about this truly unique structure during your visit to Huntington Beach State Park, and you’ll definitely want to bring your camera for this one. The informational exhibit on Atalaya Castle is worth a wander as well, and one of the highlights is a display of Mr. Huntington’s poetry.
Atalaya Castle
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
The We Be Jammin’ chicken burger packs a lot of flavor.
Tuck into a tasty burger or sandwich at River City Cafe.
Do you ever get so hangry you want to throw things? Well, head to River City Cafe; not only do they boast an expansive menu of giant, delicious burgers and sandwiches, but you're encouraged to throw peanut shells on the floor.
This brightly-hued burger joint is part of a beloved local chain, and you're sure to love the license plate and graffiti-lined walls, bright lights, and laid-back welcoming vibe.
Refuel with a burger or my pick, the We Be Jammin' Chicken Burger with a side of coleslaw.
River City Cafe
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Every corner of Brookgreen Gardens offers a beautiful view.
Visit Brookgreen Gardens.
Did you know Brookgreen Gardens hosts one of the best Christmas light displays in the country? If you’re planning a trip to Murrells Inlet around the holidays, plan to grab tickets to Nights of 1,000 Candles.
Brookgreen Gardens is gorgeous during any season, however, and you should plan to spend at least an hour and a half wandering the gardens before heading to the zoo and Lowcountry history side.
The series of interlocking gardens features elegant landscaping, sweeping vistas, water features, and striking sculptures around every turn. Brookgreen Gardens also houses several sculpture galleries, and the collection contains more than 2,000 works by 430 artists.
Let's make the most of your day at Brookgreen Gardens with few things to know before you go:
You will be walking a LOT. Wear comfortable shoes.
There is a shuttle.
Pets, save for service animals, are not allowed on the property in any capacity, including in cars or campers.
Your ticket is good for 7 consecutive days, should you choose to come back or the weather takes a turn during your visit.
Bring sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and bug spray. You will be on the marsh.
Brookgreen Gardens offers several cafes and picnic areas.
There are several seasonal excursions available, and their ticket prices vary.
And, last but not least, my must-hit spots in the gardens are:
the Labyrinth at Brookgreen
the Brown Sculpture Garden
the Bleifield Gallery
the Chicho Engerera Installation.
Brookgreen Gardens
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Endangered red wolves are currently on exhibit at the Lowcountry Zoo inside Brookgreen Gardens.
Hit the Lowcountry Zoo before leaving Brookgreen Gardens.
Now, normally, I'm not much for a smaller local zoo. That being said, I had a blast touring the Lowcountry Zoo, and I'd recommend allowing at least an hour and a half to enjoy the zoo, farm animals, and Lowcountry history exhibits and artifacts.
You'll likely spend most of the time watching the otters splash and play and basically throw a tiny otter rave in their enclosure. I seriously think we should make mandatory otter therapy a thing. How can you be in a bad mood after watching otters? I digress.
Red wolves are the world's most endangered wolf, and the boardwalk around their habitat offers a unique look at these majestic creatures.
There are also crazy-looking ducks with blue beaks, foxes who like to chill in trees, and an adorable collection of owls.
Be sure to spend some contemplative time walking the Lowcountry history trail before you leave. You'll find informative signs that interpret the plantation ruins and honor the lives of the enslaved people who worked the land.
Brookgreen Gardens
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Lee’s Farmer’s Market has everything you need, from fresh tomatoes to a live lobster!
Do some shopping.
If you're still standing after getting 120,000 steps in touring Huntington Beach State Park and Brookgreen Gardens, be sure to hit a few local boutiques and shops.
My personal picks are Lee's Farmer's Market, Inlet Queens, and Inlet Culinary Garden. Firstly, these spots are all a few doors down from each other, so you won't have to dodge and weave through traffic trying to make a series of U-turns on Highway 17 - if you know, you know.
Secondly, they're all really interesting spots. Lee's Farmer's Market has a rustic farm stand exterior, but don't let it fool you: you can buy anything from fine wheels of cheese to live lobster to pierogies inside. If you're a foodie, planning an at-home date night, or just a fan of elevated snacking (hello, it's me), this is a great place to wander.
Inlet Queens is immediately down from Lee's Farmer's Market, and it's a beautifully curated collection of new and new-to-you gifts, apparel, and home decor. You'll find everything from quality vintage and ocean-inspired gifts to greeting cards and quirky yard art at this charming retail shop.
Last but certainly not least, home chefs and crazy plant ladies will love Inlet Culinary Garden, a neighboring plant store focusing on culinary herbs and edible landscaping. As someone who has always dreamed of living in a boho bungalow with an entirely edible front yard, this was my dream plant store.
Lee’s Farmer’s Market
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina
My husband lucked into one of the last available Girl Scout Cookie pairing flights.
Try a flight of locally made beer at Southern Hops Brewery.
A full day of sightseeing calls for a full pint glass, am I right? Head to Southern Hops Brewery for locally brewed craft beer and handcrafted food with a focus on quality South Carolina ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, the beer is cold, and the pizza is absolutely mouth-watering (they use their House Ale in the dough!).
My husband and I each got flights, and I loved Southern Hops’ Woooo-Tang Hard Seltzer, the Beach Peach, and the Deep Water Porter. My husband scored one of the last Girl Scout Cookie pairing flights of the season, so be sure to ask your bartender about any fun specials or goings-on.
Southern Hops Brewery
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
You’ll find colorful eateries, live music, and sweeping views along the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk.
Stroll the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk.
The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a hot spot for visitor and locals due to the sweeping views, expansive boardwalk, and vibrant bar and restaurant scene. Make time for a sunset stroll or waterfront cocktail before dinner.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
4025 Hwy 17 Business, 4065 US-17 BUS
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
There arrrrgh plenty of photo ops on the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk.
Grab dinner on the water and catch some live music.
If there’s a better way to end the day than fresh caught seafood at a waterfront restaurant, please tell me, but be sure to end your epic day of sightseeing with a hot meal and view of the inlet.
While the MarshWalk is the obvious go-to for visitors, you’ll find equally beautiful views at spots like Hot Fish Club and Inlet Prohibition Company.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
4025 Hwy 17 Business, 4065 US-17 BUS
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Are you in town for a while? Here are more fun things to do in Murrells Inlet, SC:
Do some fishing.
Rent a pontoon boat or kayak.
Book a dolphin-watching excursion.
Do a sunset or tiki cruise.
Rent jet skis.
Do a Segway tour of Huntington Beach State Park.
Pick up a new beach read at the Bookworm.
Play a round of golf at Wachesaw Plantation East.
Have you been to Murrells Inlet, SC? What were your favorite Murrells Inlet activities, restaurants, and spots to relax? Drop ‘em in the comments below!
