Garden City Beach

Garden City Beach sits just south of Surfside Beach and has the feel of an old-school South Carolina beach town — no high-rises, no chain hotels, just beach houses, a fishing pier, a few surf shops, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Garden City Pier is one of the most popular fishing spots on the Grand Strand, with king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and bluefish running past in season. The beach itself is wide and uncrowded compared to Myrtle Beach, and the water is clear and warm from June through September.

Important Information

Garden City Beach offers excellent kayaking opportunities, but conditions can change quickly. Always check the tides before launching, as low tide can expose oyster beds and shallow mud flats, especially around the marshes and Neil’s Inlet. If you’re paddling near the inlet or jetties, be prepared for stronger currents and increased boat traffic. Ocean conditions can also become rough due to wind, waves, and afternoon thunderstorms, so wear a life jacket, monitor the weather, and choose protected waterways if you’re new to kayaking.