The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Huntington Beach State Park
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Family friendly hiking trails in Huntington Beach State Park traverse a diverse landscape characterized by salt marshes, maritime forests, freshwater lagoons, and pristine sandy beaches. The park spans 2,500 acres along the Atlantic Ocean, offering a blend of coastal and forested environments. Hikers can expect generally flat terrain with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Huntington Beach State Park
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Huntington Beach State Park – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 27 minutes to complete. This easy route offers stunning coastal and marsh views, with parts that are paved and an elevated boardwalk.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Causeway Marsh Boardwalk – Jetty Drive Boardwalk loop from Huntington Beach State Park, a moderate 6.9 miles (11.1 km) path. This loop provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along the causeway and boardwalks.
- Local hikers also love the Huntington Beach State Park Trail, a 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail leading through diverse coastal habitats, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking in Huntington Beach State Park is defined by pristine beaches, expansive salt marshes, and ancient maritime forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate loops.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 70 hikers have used komoot to explore Huntington Beach State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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The Huntington Beach State Park Trail offers a delightful journey through South Carolina's diverse coastal ecosystems, blending pristine beaches with expansive salt marshes and maritime forests. You'll find yourself on sandy paths, elevated boardwalks like the Huntington Beach State Park Marsh Boardwalk, and even sections with raised roots, all while enjoying stunning ocean views and the chance to spot abundant wildlife.
This easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hike, with a minimal 25 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes. It's a fantastic option for beginners or families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure. Remember to bring bug spray, especially during warmer months, and be aware of park entry fees.
Huntington Beach State Park is renowned as one of the East Coast's top birding destinations, with over 300 species documented, including herons, egrets, and roseate spoonbills. Keep an eye out for alligators near the causeway and dolphins swimming near the jetty, making it a true ecological treasure trove.
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The Huntington Beach Jetty Trail offers a unique coastal experience, blending sandy stretches with paved and rocky sections as you head towards the ocean. You'll be treated to expansive views of the Atlantic and the salt marsh, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, from diverse bird species like herons and ospreys to dolphins swimming near the jetty. It's a gentle, easy stroll, perfect for a relaxing outing.
To hike this trail, you'll need to pay the entrance fee for Huntington Beach State Park, with parking typically found at the north end of the park, requiring a short walk along the beach to reach the jetty. Be mindful of potentially high winds and uneven surfaces near the jetty, and consider an early morning visit for spectacular sunrise views. This trail is family-friendly and accessible for most.
This route is a hotspot for nature lovers, especially birdwatchers, with over 300 species documented in the park. Beyond the birds, you might spot loggerhead sea turtles during nesting season or even alligators basking in the sun near the causeway. The iconic jetty itself provides a peaceful spot to enjoy the crashing waves and offers distant glimpses of Myrtle Beach.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Enjoy a moderate 10.9-mile (17.5 km) hike along the coast from Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach, passing piers and ocean views.
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Popular around Huntington Beach State Park
Other adventures in Huntington Beach State Park
Tips from the Community
At Love's a Beach, there’s no boardwalk, so you can enjoy walking directly on the golden sand. The beach is flanked by homes, and just inland, you’ll find a marsh.
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The Pier at Garden City is a family-friendly fishing spot that offers free entry. It has a tackle shop, an arcade, and a café. While hiking on the beach, you can pass right underneath the pier, making for a nice photo opportunity.
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Surfside Beach, known as "The Family Beach," has a pier and golden sandy beaches. Rules prohibit surfing within 300 feet of its fishing pier. The Surfside Beach Pier, originally destroyed by Hurricane Matthew in 2016, was replaced with a brand new pier in 2023.
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The Jetty presents a beautifully paved path that leads you out into the water, providing breathtaking views of the coast and Huntington Beach State Park. The sunset here is particularly spectacular, casting vibrant colors across the water and enhancing the experience.
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Huntington Beach State Park offers picturesque trails that wind through diverse coastal ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and beaches. Keep an eye out for the opportunity to see the abundant wildlife, from a wide variety of bird to alligators, amidst the park's natural beauty.
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The Surfside Beach Pier was destroyed by Hurricane Matthew in 2016. This year the brand new pier opens up to the public, and they are finalizing the build this month. The new fishing pier is built on big concrete poles and will definitely give a different vibe from the old-school wooden pier that once stood in its place.
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The Pier at Garden City is a business with a bar/grill, and offering an arcade and fishing, but entering the pier during your run is free. For beach runners, it's a fun feature to run underneath.
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Usually, the hardest part of a beach run is entering or leaving the beach through the soft sand. Luckily for us, they have made it a little bit easier because there are boardwalks everywhere to limit your time in the soft sand.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Huntington Beach State Park?
Huntington Beach State Park offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking opportunities. You'll find over 10 routes specifically curated for families, ranging from easy strolls to slightly longer adventures, ensuring there's something for every age and energy level.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Huntington Beach State Park?
The trails in Huntington Beach State Park feature diverse terrain, perfect for family exploration. You'll encounter sandy paths, boardwalks over marshes, paved sections, and natural forest floors with roots. Many trails are relatively flat, offering easy walking through maritime forests, along pristine beaches, and beside freshwater lagoons. Be aware that some natural trails can be muddy after rain or have sandy stretches.
Are there any stroller-friendly or accessible trails for families in the park?
Yes, Huntington Beach State Park has options for strollers and those needing accessible paths. The Huntington Beach State Park Trail includes paved sections and elevated boardwalks, making parts of it accessible. The Boardwalk Trail, a 0.1-mile accessible path across the saltwater marsh, is also excellent for easy walking and wildlife viewing. Additionally, Atalaya Road, a 0.5-mile paved road, offers an easy, accessible stroll.
Can we spot wildlife on these family-friendly trails?
Absolutely! Huntington Beach State Park is a haven for wildlife, making it an exciting experience for families. You can often spot alligators in Mullet Pond and along the Causeway, various wading birds like herons and egrets, and even roseate spoonbills. The park is a premier birdwatching destination, especially during migration seasons. Keep an eye out for fiddler crabs in the marshes and, if you're lucky, loggerhead sea turtles nesting on the beach during summer.
What are some interesting landmarks or points of interest for families to explore?
Beyond the natural beauty, families can explore the historic Atalaya Castle, a fascinating Moorish-style mansion that was once the winter home of the Huntingtons. The park also features a Nature Center with engaging exhibits on local wildlife, including live animals. The iconic Jetty at the end of the Huntington Beach Jetty Trail offers stunning ocean views and opportunities to see seabirds and even dolphins.
Are there any good loop options for families in Huntington Beach State Park?
For a family-friendly loop, consider the Causeway Marsh Boardwalk – Jetty Drive Boardwalk loop. This moderate 11 km route combines boardwalks and scenic views, offering a diverse experience. Another option is the Jetty Drive Boardwalk loop, which is shorter at about 5 km and rated easy, providing a pleasant walk with coastal scenery.
Is there parking available for families visiting the park?
Yes, Huntington Beach State Park offers ample parking for visitors. There are designated parking areas conveniently located near trailheads and popular attractions within the park, making it easy for families to access the trails and amenities. A park entrance fee is required.
What is the best time of year to visit Huntington Beach State Park with kids?
Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit Huntington Beach State Park with kids. The weather is milder, making for more comfortable hiking conditions. These seasons also offer excellent birdwatching opportunities as many migratory species pass through. Summer can be hot and humid, but it's also when loggerhead sea turtles nest, and the beaches are perfect for cooling off after a hike. Winter is cooler and less crowded, ideal for peaceful walks.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly trails in Huntington Beach State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Huntington Beach State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the park beautiful for everyone. Note that dogs are typically not allowed inside buildings or on the undeveloped beach areas during certain nesting seasons, so always check park regulations upon arrival.
What are some of the easier, shorter options for families with young children?
For families with young children, the Boardwalk Trail is a very short and accessible option over the marsh. The Huntington Beach Jetty Trail, at under 3 km, offers an easy walk to the jetty with ocean views. The Kerrigan Trail is a short 0.3-0.4 mile primitive trail through the forest to an observation deck, though it's not stroller-friendly due to roots. These trails provide great opportunities for little legs to explore without getting too tired.
Are there places to eat or amenities nearby after hiking?
While the park itself has limited food services, there are picnic areas available if you wish to bring your own snacks or lunch. For more dining options, the town of Murrells Inlet, just a short drive from the park, offers a variety of restaurants, including seafood establishments and family-friendly eateries, perfect for refueling after your hike.
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