Short Day Trips from Myrtle Beach for Stunning Photos: Discover Scenic Spots Beyond the Beach
Looking to bring home some stunning shots from your trip to Myrtle Beach? While the beach itself is amazing, there’s a world of photo-worthy spots just a short drive away! From marshy sunsets in Murrells Inlet to the floral and sculpture wonders at Brookgreen Gardens, these day trips are packed with scenery perfect for your wall art collection. Here are a few spots where you’ll want to stop, snap, and soak up the Lowcountry vibes.
1. Murrells Inlet: Marshy Views & Sunset Magic
About a 30-minute drive south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is your go-to for dreamy marshes and sunset views that make for gorgeous photos. Known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina,” it’s also a fantastic spot for waterfront dining and a bit of local culture.
Walk along the MarshWalk—a wooden boardwalk lined with colorful waterfront restaurants and boats bobbing on the water. Early evening is prime time here: you’ll find pelicans, herons, and egrets dotting the skies, and the setting sun casts a warm glow over the marsh that’s absolutely photo-worthy. Be sure to check out Belin Memorial United Methodist Church nearby; its historic charm makes for a lovely, classic South Carolina shot.
2. Brookgreen Gardens: A Botanical & Sculptural Wonderland
Just 20 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens is a must if you’re into flowers, sculptures, and everything green and peaceful. This place is filled with meticulously curated gardens, massive live oak trees with Spanish moss, and over 2,000 sculptures.
The Live Oak Allee is breathtaking, with oaks that were planted in the 1700s—perfect for those misty morning or late-afternoon shots. Brookgreen also has a Lowcountry Zoo where you can capture native wildlife like otters, alligators, and eagles. Plus, the butterfly garden offers a colorful spot for close-ups if you want to bring home some vibrant floral and fauna photos.
3. Little River: Nautical Charm & Coastal Quiet
About 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach, Little River is a quaint fishing village with big photographic potential. The Little River Waterfront is a photographer’s dream, where you’ll find colorful boats, fishing piers, and reflections on the water that add a peaceful vibe to any shot.
If you’re around in spring, check out the Blue Crab Festival for festive scenes and a chance to capture the area’s local culture in action. Little River’s quiet coastal charm and scenic marina make it a hidden gem, ideal if you’re looking for that serene, “small-town on the water” feel.
4. Huntington Beach State Park: Wildlife & Waves Galore
Just 25 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach State Park is where nature lovers and beachgoers unite. Here you’ll find an untouched stretch of beach, marshes teeming with birds, and even the historic Atalaya Castle for a touch of unique architecture.
Bring your zoom lens because the salt marshes are packed with egrets, herons, and sometimes alligators! You’ll get some stunning wildlife shots here, and if you’re patient, you might even catch a pelican diving or a sunrise over the ocean. Atalaya Castle’s Spanish-style architecture adds a distinctive, historic flair to the scenery that you won’t find anywhere else on the coast.
5. Conway: Riverside Strolls & Historic Charm
For a blend of riverside beauty and historic charm, Conway is the spot. Just a 25-minute drive inland, this little town feels like a step back in time with its historic downtown, gorgeous storefronts, and the scenic Conway Riverwalk.
Wandering along the Riverwalk, you’ll find towering oaks draped in Spanish moss, creating a stunning, Southern Gothic vibe. There are also beautiful views along the Waccamaw River, where the reflections and natural light make for breathtaking photography. If you’re into capturing history, head to the Horry County Courthouse, built in 1824—its grand architecture adds a timeless touch to your shots.
With these spots just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, you can capture everything from historic buildings and oak-draped parks to marshes and river views. Each of these destinations offers its own vibe and beauty, and with a camera (and maybe a picnic), you’re all set for an inspiring day trip! Whether you’re into wildlife, flowers, ocean views, or just finding new perspectives, these photo spots are perfect for turning memories into art.