myrtle beach safari wildlife preserve in south carolina

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Myrtle Beach Safari is not planning to cancel any tours. We are also following the CDC guidelines and taking all necessary health precautions. Should you need to reschedule your tour for a later date, please contact us via email or phone.

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Wild Encounters Tour - Day Safari

Wild encounters tour day safari.

• Starts at $389 per person
• Located at our 50 acre wildlife preserve in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Spend your day with an array of wildlife
• Meet the world's largest big cat - the liger
• Hug Bubbles the African elephant
• Interact with exotic cats and wolves
• Get up close to the fastest land animal - the cheetah
• Bucket list interactions with baby chimps & monkeys
• Experience a 500lb bengal tiger run at full speed below your feet
• Play fun games with the chimp brothers
• Animals vary and cannot be guaranteed

This experience is a fully-guided walking tour

• Starts at 9 am sharp and is over at approximately 1:30 pm
• Reservations are required
• Prices higher on peak dates
• Photographers will be with you all day | Digital copy of all photos included
• No personal cell phones, cameras or video cameras allowed
• Price is the same for adults and children
• Amazing encounter rain or shine
• Complimentary snacks and pizza lunch
• Not wheelchair or scooter accessible
• E-mail confirmation with additional details will be sent after purchase

Preview Wild Encounters Tour

Cancellation Policy:

• After 24 hours of purchase your reservation becomes non-refundable. You will be able to reschedule your reservation for up to one year after your original date of purchase. After 12 months tickets expire permanently.
• Any and all changes to your reservation will incur an additional fee. Rescheduling fees vary from $50-$300 per person.

Still Have Questions? >>>

Let's keep in touch, animals you may see:.

Our Fans Go Wild

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Save The Tigers!

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Myrtle Beach Safari is not planning to cancel any tours. We are also following the CDC guidelines and taking all necessary health precautions. Should you need to reschedule your tour for a later date, please contact us via email or phone.

witness the wild

By signing up, you agree to receive emails with news, special promotions, and messages tailored to your interests. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Safari Lodge Photo Encounters

Experience the wildside of myrtle beach.

Meet our Animal Ambassadors

Still have questions >>>.

• Starts at $200 for one person
• Located at our 50 acre wildlife preserve in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• Brief photo encounter with 3 animals
• Meet a chimpanzee, an african-cat and more!
• Animals vary and cannot be guaranteed

This experience is not a tour of our facility

• Photo encounters last for approximately 3-5 minutes
• Reservations are required
• Photographers will be with you during your encounter | Digital copy of all photos included
• No personal cell phones, cameras or video cameras allowed
• All ages can attend
• Price is the same for adults and children
• Amazing encounter rain or shine
• Chips, Soda and Ice cream included
• Accommodations may be made for wheelchair or scooter; please contact us
• E-mail confirmation with additional details will be sent after purchase

Cancellation Policy: After 24 hours of purchase your reservation becomes non-refundable. You will be able to reschedule your reservation for up to one year after your original date of purchase. After 12 months tickets expire permanently.

Any and all changes to your reservation will incur an additional fee. Rescheduling fees vary from $25-50 per person depending on the new date selected.

Animals You May See:

Our Fans Go Wild

Get a daily dose of what's going on at T.I.G.E.R.S. preserve! Tag your photos with #myrtlebeachsafari and share your experiences with our online community!

•   Facebook
•   Twitter
•   Pinterest
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Save The Tigers!

Myrtle Beach Safari

• See all photos

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Myrtle Beach Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Myrtle Beach Safari is not planning to cancel any tours. We are also following the CDC guidelines and taking all necessary health precautions. Should you need to reschedule your tour for a later date, please contact us via email or phone.

witness the wild

By signing up, you agree to receive emails with news, special promotions, and messages tailored to your interests. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Wild Encounters Tour - Night Safari

Wild encounters tour night safari.

• Starts at $389 per person
• Located at our 50 acre wildlife preserve in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
• An unforgettable experience in the night of the jungle
• Meet a dazzling array of adult Bengal Tigers
• Feed a 500lb tiger a meaty treat
• Hang out with Bubbles the adult African elephant
• Get up-close and personal with amazing monkeys
• Photo opportunities with playful wild-cats
• Learn about our amazing cheetahs
• Roast marshmallows with the Chimp Brothers
• Animals vary and cannot be guaranteed

This experience is located in one central location

• Starts at 6 pm and is over at approximately 9:30 pm (7 pm - 10:30 pm summer months)
• Reservations are required
• Prices higher on peak dates
• Photographers will be with you all day | Digital copy of all photos included
• No personal cell phones, cameras or video cameras allowed
• All ages can attend
• Price is the same for adults and children
• Amazing encounter rain or shine
• Complimentary dinner and dessert bar
• Not wheelchair or scooter accessible
• E-mail confirmation with additional details will be sent after purchase

Cancellation Policy:

• After 24 hours of purchase your reservation becomes non-refundable. You will be able to reschedule your reservation for up to one year after your original date of purchase. After 12 months tickets expire permanently.
• Any and all changes to your reservation will incur an additional fee. Rescheduling fees vary from $50-$300 per person depending on the new date selected.

Still Have Questions? >>>

Let’s keep in touch, animals you may see:.

Our Fans Go Wild

Get a daily dose of what's going on at T.I.G.E.R.S. preserve! Tag your photos with #myrtlebeachsafari and share your experiences with our online community!

•   Facebook
•   Twitter
•   Pinterest
•   YouTube

Save The Tigers!

Myrtle Beach Safari

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Myrtle Beach Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Myrtle Beach Safari Facts | Frequently Asked Questions

Myrtle beach safari, frequently asked questions.

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We provide guests with inspiring, up-close wildlife encounters.

We educate visitors and encourage their participation in conservation efforts.

We fund wildlife projects worldwide, provide on-site training, and support programs of genetic diversity.

THE MYRTLE BEACH SAFARI (MBS) was founded in 1982 and has grown to be one of the most respected private preserves in the world. That year was pivotal for wildlife conservation. For the first time, thanks to passage of amendments to the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the status of species would be made on the basis of biological importance rather than economic impact. The 1982 ESA amendments created hope of survival for many of the most endangered species.

It soon became evident, however, that traditional zoos had neither the space nor funds to sustain the effort on their own. Private preserves such as the Myrtle Beach Safari (known then as the TIGERS Preserve) stepped in to help. Since its founding, the MBS’s preservation efforts have been instrumental in saving many rare and endangered species from extinction. These include tigers, lions, cheetahs, orangutans, chimpanzees, gibbons, and gorillas.

Explore our Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the caretakers, bhagavan “doc” antle, founder.

Bhagavan “Doc” Antle is the founder and director of the Myrtle Beach Safari, a world-renowned 55-acre wildlife preserve in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina that receives more than three million visitors each year. Doc credits his love of animals to his upbringing on a cattle ranch in Arizona. In his twenties he traveled the globe, settling in China long enough to earn a doctorate in traditional medicine. Today, he is among the most noted animal trainers in the world. His organization sponsors outstanding in-situ conservation programs worldwide, with emphasis on educational initiatives in South America, Africa and Thailand. Doc has worked on more than 500 films, documentaries, TV shows and advertisements promoting best wildlife conservation practices, He is a frequent wildlife expert for networks such as the National Geographic Channel, BBC, Discovery Channel and CNN.

Robert Johnson

Rob earned his Ph.D. in the field of wildlife conservation and has been with the Safari since 1994. He divides his time between teaching Apex Predators class at Coastal Carolina University, managing the Safari property, and directing educational programs. “We’ve hosted thousands of guests here every season,” he says, “and it is inspiring to see visitors transformed by their up-close encounters with wildlife. It’s a hard job, but those kinds of rewards are beyond description.”

Assistant Director

Rajani ferrante.

Rajani earned her degrees in history and anthropology and has served on staff since 1998. She is responsible for managing the Myrtle Beach Safari facilities and is the primary caregiver for all of the Safari’s feline and canine babies. Her interests include history, sports and travel.

General Manager

Moksha bybee.

Moksha grew up in Utah surrounded by farm animals and the wide outdoors. She has been with the Safari since 2001 and goes by the moniker “Monkey Mama,” since she raises all the baby monkeys and apes. She is an avid sportswoman and one of the Safari’s top tour guides.

Kody grew up working with the animals at the preserve. When he was younger he helped his father, Doc Antle, train the smaller cats. Now he is the facility’s main trainer and travels to Asia and Africa to help train staff at other wildlife facilities. Evenings, he sometimes shares his Virtual Reality goggles with the gibbons and chimps before they go to bed.

Director, Miami Facility

China runs the Miami facility. She grew up in Pensacola, Florida and recalls working at Domino’s Pizza at age 17, where her biggest concern was getting enough sauce on each slice. “The time came to live my dream of working with big cats,” she says, “and now I direct our overseas safaris, which include tours to Africa and Thailand. I couldn’t ask for a better life.”

Tawny Sky Antle

Doc’s daughter was born and raised at the preserve and calls her life a dream come true. “Visiting Africa, going with my father on photo shoots, and best of all helping preserve and protect the most beautiful creatures in the world—I wouldn’t trade this life for anything,” she says.

Amy was working at a zoo in Virginia when her sister, China, offered her a job at the preserve. “If she had told me I’d be sleeping with a gibbon in my bed every night,” she says, “I don’t think I would have believed her. But over the last several years, working with these amazing animals has become my life’s passion.”

Chris Heiden

Chris is a professional animal trainer who has been working with exotic animals for more than 20 years. At the preserve, he serves on the development committee for educational programs, conservation efforts, and public outreach.

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The Director of T.I.G.E.R.S. Bhagavan Antle

Mahamayavi Bhagavan "Doc" Antle is the founder and director of the Institute for Greatly Endangered and Rare Species (TIGERS), a worldrenowned wildlife preserve located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA. He is also the founder of the Rare Species Fund, a grassroots organization that supports wildlife conservation projects in situ around the globe.

Doc credits his great love for wild and exotic animals to his upbringing on a vast cattle ranch in Arizona where he spent his formative years. From a very young age he began raising and caring for every animal he could get his hands on. As a young man he had the opportunity to travel and explore the world and spent a significant amount of time in Asia where he received a doctorate degree in medicine. Today, Doc is widely recognized as one of the foremost animal trainers in the world, having worked with thousands of animals and traveled the globe promoting the education and conservation of some of our planet's rarest and most endangered species.

In 1983 Doc founded TIGERS as a wildlife education organization dedicated to promoting global conservation education through entertaining, interactive programs. He pioneered the use of animal ambassador programs to help visitors reconnect with the natural world and to promote special connections with wildlife that could drive a global conservation message and agenda. The animal ambassadors at TIGERS are living examples of current worldwide environmental issues and are the best possible surrogates to help promote the importance of wildlife conservation and global biodiversity. The TIGERS preserve and its sister project in Miami, Florida, receive more than three million visitors annually. The preserve has raised and trained more than four hundred big cats since its inception and is considered one of the premier private wildlife facilities in the world.

The Rare Species Fund (RSF) also established in 1983, is a grassroots organization that provides financial support and practical training to wildlife conservation initiatives in situ. While the Fund does not limit its geographic footprint, its support has primarily focused on projects in South America, Africa, and Thailand. The direct-to-end-user approach employed by the RSF places it among the world's most effective conservation advocates and ensures the greatest value for every dollar spent. RSF also works closely with state, federal, and international bodies to develop and support sound wildlife policies and to secure sustained funding for longterm research and conservation initiatives. RSF projects optimize the prospects for preserving endangered species; for releasing captive animals into suitable, protected habitats; and for expanding awareness of the ties between humans and the natural world. To date, the RSF has contributed more than $1 million USD to wildlife initiatives around the globe.

Doc has worked on over 500 films, documentaries, TV shows and advertisements of all kinds. His credits include films like Ace Ventura, Dr. Dolittle, Mighty Joe Young, Disney's Jungle Book and many, many more. Doc is often consulted and appears as an on-screen wildlife expert for networks like the National Geographic Channel, BBC, Discovery Channel and CNN.

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Myrtle Beach Safari: A Fun Family-Friendly Activity At Myrtle Beach!

Where else can you experience the thrill of a jungle excursion at the beach? The Myrtle Beach Safari attraction enables visitors to tick off several items off of their bucket lists. From up-close encounters with ligers, eagles, and wolves, the animals at Myrtle Beach Safari are sure to keep those of all ages engaged and entertained . Keep reading to learn more about this 50-acre wildlife preserve in South Myrtle Beach.

Table of Contents

Even tigers enjoy the pool!

Who Should Visit Myrtle Beach Safari?

The safari can be a great destination for a wide range of visitors who are interested in wildlife, conservation, and interactive experiences. Here are some groups of people who may particularly enjoy a visit to Myrtle Beach Safari:

• Families with children : Myrtle Beach Safari offers a variety of family-friendly experiences, such as the Safari Tour and Elephant Experience, that can be educational and fun for kids of all ages .
• Animal lovers : If you have a passion for animals, particularly big cats, primates, and elephants, you may enjoy the chance to get up close and personal with these animals at Myrtle Beach Safari.
• Nature enthusiasts : Myrtle Beach Safari is located in a 50-acre wildlife preserve with natural habitats that can be a great destination for nature lovers. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see animals in a natural setting.
• Adventure seekers : If you're looking for an exciting and unique experience , some of the interactive animal encounters, such as the Tiger Encounter and Chimpanzee Encounter, may be a thrilling adventure.
• Education and conservation advocates : Myrtle Beach Safari is committed to educating visitors about wildlife conservation and efforts to protect endangered species. If you're interested in learning about these issues and supporting conservation efforts, a visit to Myrtle Beach Safari can be a great way to get involved.

Catch a glimpse of this gorgeous white tiger at the Myrtle Beach Safari.

What Can You Do At Myrtle Beach Safari?

This attraction offers a variety of experiences where visitors can interact with and learn about wildlife. Here are some of the things you can do:

• Safari Tour – The Safari Tour is a guided tour through the 50-acre wildlife preserve. You'll get to see a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, wolves, and apes.
• Tiger Encounter – During the Tiger Encounter, you'll get up close and personal with a tiger. You'll be able to pet and take photos with the tiger, while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.
• Elephant Experience – The Elephant Experience is a behind-the-scenes tour of the elephant habitat. You'll get to meet and interact with the elephants, as well as learn about their care and behavior.
• Chimpanzee Encounter – The Chimpanzee Encounter is a chance to meet and interact with chimpanzees. You'll get to watch them play and learn about their behavior and social dynamics.
• Private Tours – Private tours are available for groups who want a more personalized experience. You can choose which animals you want to see and how long you want the tour to last.
• Night Safari – The Night Safari is a special tour that takes place after dark. You'll get to see nocturnal animals like owls, bats, and alligators.

Known for their nocturnal behavior, a child stalks a cub at night at the Myrtle Beach Safari…

When Is The Best Time To Visit?

Located at 851 Folly Ranch Lane in Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach Safari is open to the public from 9 AM to 7 PM daily. The best time to visit Myrtle Beach Safari depends on your preferences and what you want to experience, but it’s safe to say that any time of the year is a great time to visit the attraction. Here are some factors to consider:

• Weather : Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. If you prefer cooler temperatures, you may want to visit in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable.
• Crowds : Myrtle Beach can get very crowded during the peak summer season, which runs from June through August. If you prefer fewer crowds, you may want to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring or fall when there are fewer tourists.
• Animal activity : Some of the animal encounters and experiences at Myrtle Beach Safari may be more active or available during certain times of the year. For example, the tigers may be more active during cooler weather or early morning hours.
• Special events : Myrtle Beach Safari may host special events or experiences throughout the year, such as holiday-themed tours or special animal encounters. You may want to check their website or social media channels to see if any events are happening during your preferred travel dates.

How To Reserve A Day at Myrtle Beach Safari

To book a day at Myrtle Beach Safari, you can follow these easy steps:

• Visit the Myrtle Beach Safari website at myrtlebeachsafari.com and click on “BOOK NOW” in the top right menu.
• Browse the available experiences and select the one(s) you are interested in.
• Choose the date and time you would like to visit, and select the number of people in your group.
• Enter your contact information and any additional details requested.
• Review your booking information, agree to the terms and conditions, and complete the payment process.
• Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your visit, including directions, what to bring, and any other important information

Please note that some experiences may have age and height restrictions and require advance booking. Myrtle Beach Safari is constantly advertising new exciting encounters on a regular basis  – it's always a good idea to check the Myrtle Beach Safari website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information and to ensure availability for your preferred dates. If you're looking for other fun things to do with kids in Myrtle Beach, consider checking out Pirate's Voyage or all the attractions at Broadway at the Beach !

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Doc Antle, Owner of Myrtle Beach Safari, Pleads Guilty to Federal Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering Charges

WASHINGTON – Bhagavan “Doc” Antle, 63, of Myrtle Beach, S.C., pleaded guilty today to a conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and a conspiracy to launder money.

Antle is the owner and operator of The Institute for Greatly Endangered and Rare Species (T.I.G.E.R.S.), also known as the Myrtle Beach Safari. The Myrtle Beach Safari is a 50-acre wildlife tropical preserve that offers tours and private encounters with exotic wildlife. Antle is also the Director of the Rare Species Fund, a nonprofit organization registered in South Carolina.

The Lacey Act prohibits trafficking of illegally taken wildlife, fish or plants, including animals protected under the Endangered Species Act. Antle conspired to violate the Lacey Act between Sept. 2018 and May 2020 by directing the sale or purchase of two cheetah cubs, two lion cubs, two tigers and one juvenile chimpanzee – all of which are protected under the Endangered Species Act. Antle used bulk cash payments to hide the transactions and falsified paperwork to show non-commercial transfers entirely within one state. Antle also requested that payments for endangered species be made to his nonprofit so they could appear as “donations.”

The investigation also uncovered evidence of money laundering between Feb. and April 2022, when Antle and a coconspirator conducted financial transactions with cash they believed was obtained from transporting and harboring illegal aliens. To conceal and disguise the nature of the illegal cash, Antle and his coconspirator would take the cash they received and deposit it into bank accounts they controlled. They would then write a check to the individual that had provided the cash after taking a 15% fee per transaction.

“The defendant held himself out as a conservationist, yet repeatedly violated laws protecting endangered animals and then tried to cover up those violations,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “This prosecution demonstrates our commitment to combatting illegal trafficking, which threatens the survival of endangered animals.”

“The defendant’s guilty plea is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the FBI and our law enforcement partners in combating illegal financial activities,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to upholding the integrity of our financial systems and ensuring justice is served.”

“Wildlife crime is often connected with other criminal activity, including money-laundering," said Assistant Director Edward Grace of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement. “This investigation revealed a pattern of illicit wildlife transactions orchestrated by the defendant under the guise of donations and false paperwork. The Service and our partners will continue to hold accountable those involved in wildlife trafficking and other related crimes to ensure the future of all federally protected species. The Service will continue to bring to justice individuals who profit from the illegal trafficking of big cats and endangered species.”  

“This plea is the product of exemplary collaboration between our law enforcement partners,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “I commend our team for their work on this case who worked countless hours to unravel Antle’s sophisticated web of financial crimes and interstate wildlife trafficking. Our office remains committed to protecting endangered animals from those who would exploit them for profit.”

For each count, Antle faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 and three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Joseph Dawson III for the District of South Carolina accepted Antle’s guilty plea. He will sentence Antle after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

The FBI and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are investigating the case. Senior Trial Attorney Patrick M. Duggan of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Bower for the District of South Carolina are prosecuting the case.

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7 Scenic Beach Towns In South Carolina That Are Great Alternatives To Myrtle Beach

• Discover serene coastal gems in South Carolina beyond Myrtle Beach for a quieter, more enriching beach experience.
• Kiawah Island offers upscale luxury, pristine beaches, and world-class golf for a laid-back coastal retreat.
• From Pawleys Island to Port Royal, explore historic towns, unspoiled beaches, and tranquil escapes along the coast.

South Carolina's coastline extends far beyond the bustling expanse of Myrtle Beach , offering something different for those yearning for quieter shores and charm. Along the state's coast, you'll find hidden gems, promising discerning travelers an alternative haven to unwind and explore.

While Myrtle Beach boasts popularity among sun-seekers , lesser-known coastal towns in South Carolina each bear their own allure, from the dunes of Kiawah Island to the storied streets of Beaufort. These towns offer pristine beaches, historic downtowns, and boundless coastal adventures beckoning travelers to embrace a more nuanced and enriching beach experience beyond the clamor of Myrtle Beach.

10 Scenic South Carolina Road Trips That Should Be On Your Bucket List

Kiawah island, pristine shores, rich biodiversity, and exclusive resorts provide a quieter, more upscale coastal experience.

Tucked along South Carolina's coastline, Kiawah Island stands as a serene alternative to the bustling crowds of Myrtle Beach. This private oasis has 10 miles of pristine, untouched beaches teeming with diverse wildlife. Visitors can partake in world-class golf at the island's renowned courses, kayak through waterways, or simply unwind amid the island's natural splendor.

Unlike the commercialized atmosphere of Myrtle Beach, Kiawah Island offers a luxurious yet laid-back retreat, where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Lowcountry. With its exclusive resorts, upscale dining, and abundance of outdoor activities, Kiawah Island promises a truly rejuvenating coastal getaway.

Sullivan's Island

Boasting a rich history, a charming small-town atmosphere, and stunning views of the iconic sullivan's island lighthouse.

Unlike the commercialized feel of Myrtle Beach, this quaint island that is closer to Charleston, offers a more authentic and intimate beach experience along South Carolina's shores.

Visitors can soak up the sun at its family-friendly beaches, explore the island's historic sites like the iconic Sullivan's Island Lighthouse and Fort Moultrie, or enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine at charming waterfront restaurants.

With its coastal cottages and picturesque views, Sullivan's Island invites travelers to unwind and savor the slower pace of coastal living, providing a unique respite from the crowds and development of Myrtle Beach.

Pawleys Island

A laid-back, low-key vibe characterized by centuries-old oak trees, quaint beachfront cottages, and historic hammock shops.

Located 70 miles south of Myrtle Beach and 25 miles north of Hilton Head, Pawleys Island offers a tranquil escape from the tourist crowds. Renowned for its laid-back vibe and unspoiled beaches, Pawleys Island exudes a timeless coastal charm that appeals to those seeking a more authentic and peaceful beach experience.

Pawleys Island invites visitors to stroll along its pristine shores, explore the charming Pawleys Island Historic District lined with 18th-century homes, or indulge in fresh seafood and local cuisine at quaint waterfront restaurants.

With its rich history, natural beauty, and slower pace of life, Pawleys Island provides a refreshing alternative for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a more relaxed characteristic of the Lowcountry, away from the crowds of more popular beach destinations.

Edisto Beach

Pristine marshlands, tranquil beaches, and historic estates provide a secluded and authentic coastal escape.

Situated along South Carolina's eastern coast, Edisto Beach offers a peaceful alternative to Myrtle Beach. Considered one of the few remaining family-oriented, gently developed beach towns on the eastern coastline of South Carolina, Edisto Beach promises a relaxing coastal retreat for travelers seeking a quieter escape.

With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Edisto Beach provides a unique coastal experience without the bustling development found at Myrtle Beach. Notably, there are no lifeguards along Edisto Beach, and it's truly an unspoiled stretch of South Carolina's coastline.

Antebellum architecture, rich Gullah culture, a vibrant arts scene, and historic landmarks

Steeped in a complex history rooted in the antebellum era, Beaufort offers a unique and enriching getaway away from the crowds of Myrtle Beach.

Filled with antebellum mansions, art galleries, and fine dining, Beaufort's downtown districts exude timeless Southern charm. Beyond its captivating architecture, the town is known for its excellent fishing ( comparable to that in Myrtle Beach ) and thriving golfing culture.

Visitors can explore Beaufort's storied past, admire its scenic waterfront, and savor the town's moderate climate with outdoor meals and park enjoyment year-round. By embracing both its storied past and vibrant present, Beaufort provides a refined coastal experience far from the bustle of more popular beach destinations.

10 Truly Underrated Towns In South Carolina That Deserve To Be Explored

Isle of palms, pristine sandy beaches, complemented by upscale amenities, championship golf courses, and proximity to the cape romain national wildlife refuge.

The Isle of Palms boasts pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. At just 7 miles long and 1 mile wide, this barrier island is known for its clean waters, abundant natural wildlife, and world-class resorts, spas, golf courses, and dining.

Visitors can soak up the sun on the island's family-friendly beaches, tee off at championship golf courses, or explore the natural beauty of nearby barrier islands. The Shem Creek Boardwalk, a popular dining and drinking district, also offers panoramic views of the marsh and Charleston Harbor.

Travelers might even spot local resident Bill Murray taking in the island's upscale, yet laid-back atmosphere. Located just 12 miles from Charleston and 90 miles from Savannah, Isle of Palms provides a serene coastal escape within easy reach of major cities.

Picturesque coastal charm, steeped in history as one of the oldest settlements in the New World

The town of Port Royal, located south of Beaufort and just north of Parris Island, offers a serene alternative to the busier coastal destinations of South Carolina. Part of the greater Hilton Head Island-Bluffton area, Port Royal is one of the most underrated towns in America, featuring a slightly slower pace than its popular neighbors Beaufort and Charleston.

While the town itself is relatively small, it boasts plenty of natural and cultural attractions for visitors to explore, including the Cypress Wetlands , a gorgeous coastal environment teeming with diverse birdlife, as well as Sands Beach, where amateur beachcombers can hunt for shark's teeth and other treasures along the lengthy wooden pier.

Myrtle Beach Safari

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Myrtle Beach Safari - Things You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)