Posted on 6/20/2025 by The Dieter Company

Best Family Activities in Pawleys Island SC

Unforgettable Fun for All Ages on the South Carolina Coast

Pawleys Island may be known for its laid-back charm, beautiful beaches, and Lowcountry views—but it’s also full of activities that make it perfect for a family getaway. Whether your crew loves outdoor adventures, history, nature, or just good old-fashioned fun, there’s something for everyone.

Here are the best family-friendly activities in and around Pawleys Island:

1. Hit the Beach

Let’s start with the obvious!
Pawleys Island beaches are wide, peaceful, and perfect for:

Shell hunting and sandcastle building
Bodyboarding, surfing, and skimboarding
Long walks and beach games

With gentle waves and uncrowded stretches of sand, it’s an ideal spot for families with young kids or teens alike. Don’t forget the beach chairs, umbrella and a kite! Many of our rentals conveniently include a credit for beach gear items.

2. Brookgreen Gardens – Nature, Art & Animals

Just a short drive north, Brookgreen Gardens is a must-do.
This national historic landmark offers:

A children’s zoo with goats, birds, alligators, and more
Butterfly garden and Lowcountry nature trails
Outdoor sculptures and fountains to explore
Seasonal events, like Night of a Thousand Candles (a holiday favorite!)

Tip: Bring a stroller or wagon for little ones—there’s a lot to see and walk.

3. Go Crabbing or Fishing

Kids love trying their hand at crabbing off the causeways or fishing from the beach. All you need is a net, some string, and a bit of chicken for bait! Or rent gear and try:

Surf fishing on the beach
Kayak fishing in the marsh
Deep sea and nearshore charter boats for older kids and adventurous families

It’s hands-on fun with a dose of patience and surprise.

4. Pawleys Island Nature Park & Creek Access

The island’s salt marsh side is just as fun to explore as the beach. Take your family to the north causeway landing or one of the public access points to:

Watch blue crabs, herons, and jumping fish
Go kayaking or paddleboarding
Catch the sunset over the creek

Creekside exploration is quiet, scenic, and a great way to enjoy nature together.

5. Bike the Waccamaw Neck Trail

Pack the helmets and head to the Waccamaw Neck Bikeway, a scenic trail that runs through Pawleys Island and into Litchfield and Murrells Inlet.

Safe for families and perfect for a morning ride
Bring your own bikes or rent locally
Stop for ice cream or a picnic along the way!

6. Visit Huntington Beach State Park

Just a few miles away, this coastal park offers a full day of adventure:

Boardwalk trails over the salt marsh
Historic Atalaya Castle tour
Nature programs led by rangers
A peaceful, undeveloped beach with tide pools

It’s one of the best places to spot alligators, sea birds, and even dolphins.

7. Mini Golf, Ice Cream & Souvenirs

No beach trip is complete without:

A round of mini golf at nearby courses in Garden City or Murrells Inlet
A stop at Paradice Ice Cream or Gilbert’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop
Picking up a keepsake at the Original Hammock Shop Village—kids love watching the hammocks being made!

8. Rainy Day Ideas

If clouds roll in, try:

Lowcountry history museums like the Rice Museum in Georgetown
A movie night at your rental with board games and popcorn
Local art studios that offer paint-your-own pottery or crafts for kids

Final Thoughts: Simple Fun, Lasting Memories

One of the best things about a family vacation in Pawleys Island is how simple and natural the fun can be. From exploring tidal creeks to catching ghost crabs at night, it’s a place where families reconnect, slow down, and soak up South Carolina’s coastal charm.