Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has so many great things to see and do that you never have to look far to find fun. Between the beaches, golf courses and various attractions and entertainment options, it’s often easy to miss some of the more tucked-away treasures of the Grand Strand, many of which have been preserved for all to enjoy at area parks.
From state parks and national forests to municipal parks and private gardens, the 60-mile stretch of coast that surrounds Myrtle Beach is teeming with places to experience the natural beauty of the Grand Strand. For savvy travelers looking to take in as many parks as possible, Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort offers a plan to visit a half dozen in one perfect day:
Hurl Rock Park: Start your day by watching the sunrise at one of Myrtle Beach’s most iconic city parks. Located on the beach just two blocks south of Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort, Hurl Rock Park is only a short stroll down the beach. Named for an unusual outcropping of black rocks on the beach (time, erosion and beach renourishment have made them harder to spot over time), Hurl Rock Park also features a dedication to the Bertrum family as one of the area’s earliest settlers.
Myrtle Beach State Park: South Carolina’s oldest state park is still one of its best – and most convenient. Located just one mile south of Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort, Myrtle Beach State Park offers 312 acres of scenic oceanfront, maritime forest and plentiful amenities. Hike the Sculpted Oaks Trail through wetlands and woodlands all the way to the beach, or go fishing from the pier. The Nature Center offers programs about native wildlife and plantlife, including hands-on educational programs.
The Market Common: Time for a quick lunch and a chance to hit three parks in one trip. Located just across Kings Highway from Myrtle Beach State Park, The Market Common offers shopping, dining and park-hopping. Take a picnic lunch to Valor Park or Grand Park, which features a lake, hiking and biking trails and picnic tables. For kids, there are state of the art playgrounds, including the new Savannah’s Playground for special needs children. Also visit War Bird Park, a tribute to the airplanes stationed at the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, complete with life-sized models.
Huntington Beach State Park: Time to head south for a small slice of paradise. Explore more than 2,000 acres of pristine South Carolina coastline, including beautiful beaches, salt marshes and maritime forests. Enjoy hiking and biking trails, over-water walkways and a Nature Center that highlights the diverse flora and fauna native to the Lowcountry. Visit the historic Atalaya Castle, a Spanish-style manor overlooking the ocean, and the salt marsh pier for picturesque sunset photos. If you have time, Brookgreen Gardens, the oldest and largest botanical sculpture garden on the East Coast, is right across the street.
There are more parks and gardens you can visit during your Myrtle Beach vacation, including the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex and Vereen Gardens on the North Strand, the Lewis Ocean Bays Preserve and the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge farther inland, and Plyler Park and Chapin Park in the heart of Myrtle Beach’s downtown district.
Of course, spending the day at Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort is always an a relaxing option, as well. Our indoor and outdoor water attractions, including heated pools and water slides, and other fun-filled amenities make Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort the perfect place to stay. We look forward to helping you unwind during your next vacation.
