Best Beach Access in North Myrtle Beach: Your Complete Guide to Sun, Sand, and Convenience

Best Beach Access Points in North Myrtle Beach

Growing up at the beach, I spent a lot of time in North Myrtle Beach, where driving on the beach was still allowed. This made for some interesting stories, which I will not share here 😊. But if you can remember, back in high school, throwing in the beach and kids with cars—well, enough said.

Family time with Karen and Bradley
Family time with Karen and Bradley Ocean Drive Beach Crescent

Fast forward to today, and North Myrtle Beach offers 13.5 miles of stunning coastline, which is perfect for a beach day with family and friends. But with so many access points, how do you find the best one? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re looking for convenient parking, nearby bathrooms, or just the best spot to relax, this post to the best beach access in North Myrtle Beach has everything you need.

When it comes to enjoying the beach in North Myrtle Beach, location matters. Here are the top spots for the beaches in north myrtle beach complete with parking and bathroom details.

1. Cherry Grove Beach Access

Located at the northernmost end of North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove is a local favorite for its wide, sandy shores and calm waters. Cherry Grove Beach Access at 54th Avenue North offers convenient parking right next to the beach, so you won’t have to walk far with your gear.

  • Parking: Paid parking is available right at the access point, which has plenty of spots.
  • Bathrooms: Public restrooms are located near the Cherry Grove Pier, making it a convenient choice for families.
  • Insider Tip: Cherry Grove is perfect for fishing off the pier or exploring the nearby inlet. You can also walk to the iconic Cherry Grove Pier for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.

2. Main Street/Ocean Drive Beach Access

Ocean Drive right off Main Street, is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of North Myrtle Beach. This beach access is ideal if you’re looking for more than just sand and surf. You’ll be close to restaurants, shops, and entertainment on Main Street, making it easy to grab a bite or shop for souvenirs.

  • Parking: There’s a large paid parking lot at the end of Main Street, just steps from the beach.
  • Bathrooms: Public restrooms are located in the Horseshoe area, right near the beach access, making this spot super convenient.
  • Insider Tip: Ocean Drive Beach is also home to the famous shag dance, so if you visit during the right time, you might catch a festival or live music performance.

3. Windy Hill Beach Access

Windy Hill is the southernmost section of North Myrtle Beach, known for its quieter atmosphere. If you’re looking for a peaceful day by the ocean, Windy Hill Beach Access at 46th Avenue South is a perfect choice. This spot is great for families who prefer a laid-back beach day without the crowds.

  • Parking: There are several public parking lots in Windy Hill, including one at 46th Avenue South. Be sure to arrive early during peak season to grab a spot!
  • Bathrooms: Public restrooms can be found near the entrance of the beach access point.
  • Insider Tip: Windy Hill Beach is less crowded than some of the more central access points, making it ideal for a relaxing day. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Barefoot Landing for dining and shopping after your beach visit.

Other Notable Beach Access Points in North Myrtle Beach

While the above spots are some of the best, here are a few additional access points worth exploring:

  • Crescent Beach Access: Located between Ocean Drive and Windy Hill, Crescent Beach offers several public access points with metered parking and nearby bathrooms.
  • Tilghman Beach Access: Just north of Cherry Grove, Tilghman Beach is a quieter spot with easy parking and public restrooms. It’s a hidden gem for those who want to escape the busier beaches.

Parking Tips for North Myrtle Beach

Parking is crucial when choosing your beach access. Here are a few tips to ensure a hassle-free experience:

  • Arrive Early: During peak season, North Myrtle Beach can get crowded, so plan to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot close to the beach access.
  • Paid Parking: Most public beach access points offer paid parking, either by meter or through parking apps like ParkMobile. Be sure to check signs for rates and restrictions.
  • Free Parking: Some areas, especially around Crescent Beach and Windy Hill, have free street parking if you’re willing to walk a bit to the beach.

The Best Beach Access in North Myrtle Beach

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, North Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone. From the bustling Main Street access to the serene shores of Windy Hill, finding the best beach access comes down to what kind of beach day you’re planning.

Complete List of Public Beach Access Points in The Area

In addition to the list below, you can find all area public beach access points on this interactive map. Click here.

Here is a quick list of the area’s Public Beach Access Points from South to North. An asterisk (*) indicates beach access ramps only.  

  • 29th Avenue South (fully accessible)
  • 28th Avenue South
  • 27th Avenue South  *
  • 26th Avenue South
  • 25th Avenue South
  • 24th Avenue South *
  • William Street
  • 21st Avenue South
  • Hurl Rock Park at 20th Avenue South (fully accessible)
  • 19th Avenue South
  • 1809 South Ocean Boulevard *
  • 1703 South Ocean Boulevard (fully accessible)
  • 16th Avenue South *
  • 15th Avenue South *
  • 13th Avenue South
  • 12th Avenue South *
  • 11th Avenue South
  • 10th Avenue South *
  • 9th Avenue South *
  • 8th Avenue South
  • 7th Avenue South
  • 6th Avenue South
  • Withers Swash at 451 South Ocean Boulevard
  • 3rd Avenue South (fully accessible)
  • 2nd Avenue South
  • 1st Avenue South

Beach Access Transitioning North

  • 1st Avenue North *
  • 2nd Avenue North (fully accessible)
  • 3rd Avenue North
  • 4th Avenue North *
  • 5th Avenue North
  • 6th Avenue North
  • 7th Avenue North *
  • 8th Avenue North
  • 9th Avenue North
  • Plyler Park *
  • 12th Avenue North
  • 13th Avenue North *
  • 14th Avenue North
  • 15th Avenue North
  • 16th Avenue North *
  • 17th Avenue North
  • 1708 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 1800 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 1802 North Ocean Boulevard *
  • 1804 North Ocean Boulevard
  • Anderson Park *
  • 20th Avenue North
  • 21st Avenue North
  • 2104 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2106 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2108 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2204 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2206 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 23rd Avenue North
  • 2310 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 24th Avenue North
  • 25th Avenue North *
  • 2502 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 26th Avenue North
  • 2604 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2606 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2608 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 27th Avenue North
  • 28th Avenue North
  • 2802 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 2804 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 29th Avenue North
  • 30th Avenue North
  • 31st Avenue North *
  • 34th Avenue North
  • 37th Avenue North
  • 38th Avenue North (fully accessible)
  • 39th Avenue North
  • 40th Avenue North
  • 41st Avenue North (fully accessible)
  • 42nd Avenue North
  • 43rd Avenue North
  • 44th Avenue North *
  • 45th Avenue North
  • 46th Avenue North
  • 47th Avenue North
  • 48th Avenue North 
  • 49th Avenue North
  • 50th Avenue North
  • 51st Avenue North
  • 52nd Avenue North
  • 53rd Avenue North 
  • Gardens by the Sea, 5400 North Ocean Boulevard (fully accessible)
  • Beach Place
  • Seaside Place *
  • Haskell Circle
  • Highland Way
  • 63rd Avenue North
  • 64th Avenue North (fully accessible)
  • 65th Avenue North
  • 66th Avenue North
  • 67th Avenue North
  • 69th Avenue North *
  • 70th Avenue North *
  • 71st Avenue North
  • 72nd Avenue North
  • 73rd Avenue North
  • 74th Avenue North
  • 75th Avenue North
  • 76th Avenue North
  • 77th Avenue North
  • 78th Avenue North
  • 79th Avenue North
  • 80th Avenue North
  • 81st Avenue North
  • 82nd Avenue North
  • 8702 North Ocean Boulevard
  • 8926 North Ocean Boulevard