One of Myrtle Beach’s most magical experiences is watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple. While the Grand Strand faces east toward the Atlantic Ocean, the surrounding areas offer spectacular sunset viewing opportunities over marshlands, rivers, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Whether you prefer a quiet natural setting or a lively waterfront atmosphere, these locations provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening.
Sunset Cruises
For an immersive sunset experience, nothing beats watching the day end from the water itself. Several charter companies offer dedicated sunset cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway and surrounding waters, providing unobstructed views and cooling evening breezes.
These cruises typically last two to three hours, departing in the late afternoon and returning after dark. As you glide past marshlands, maritime forests, and waterfront homes, dolphins often make appearances, playing in the boat’s wake. The gradually changing light creates perfect photography opportunities, and many cruises offer beverages and light refreshments.
Sunset cruises range from intimate sailboat charters to larger party boats with music and entertainment. Some even include dinner service, combining gourmet cuisine with spectacular views. The gentle rocking of the boat, the salt air, and the panoramic sunset create a romantic and memorable experience that’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful evening on the water.
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
The MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet stands as one of the most popular and accessible sunset destinations in the Myrtle Beach area. This half-mile wooden boardwalk winds along the scenic salt marsh, connecting waterfront restaurants and bars that overlook the tidal creeks and Intracoastal Waterway.
As the sun sets over the marsh, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors reflected in the calm waters below. Herons and egrets wade through the shallows, adding to the peaceful ambiance. You can enjoy the view while dining at one of the many seafood restaurants lining the walk, sipping cocktails on outdoor decks, or simply strolling along the boardwalk with your camera ready. The combination of natural beauty, delicious food, and lively atmosphere makes the MarshWalk a quintessential Myrtle Beach sunset experience.
Local favorites like Wicked Tuna, Drunken Jack’s, and Dead Dog Saloon offer prime waterfront seating where you can watch the sunset while enjoying fresh local seafood and live entertainment.
Waties Island
For adventurous sunset seekers willing to venture off the beaten path, Waties Island offers one of the most pristine and secluded viewing experiences on the Grand Strand. This undeveloped barrier island, accessible only by boat or kayak, provides a wild, untouched setting for watching the day’s end.
While the island itself faces the Atlantic Ocean to the east, the western shore along the Intracoastal Waterway offers stunning sunset views across the marsh. The remote location means you’ll likely have the beach largely to yourself, creating an intimate connection with nature as the sky ignites in brilliant colors.
Visiting Waties Island requires planning—you’ll need to arrange boat transportation or rent kayaks to paddle across from the mainland. Many visitors make an afternoon of it, exploring the island’s beaches and maritime forest before settling in for the sunset. The effort is rewarded with an unforgettable experience far from crowds and commercialization, where the only sounds are lapping waves and calling shorebirds.
Huntington Beach State Park
Located south of Murrells Inlet, Huntington Beach State Park offers another excellent sunset location. The park’s freshwater lagoon and boardwalk provide elevated views over the marsh, where spectacular sunsets paint the wetlands in golden light. The park stays open until sunset during summer months, and the natural setting attracts photographers and nature lovers seeking tranquil evening moments.
Whether you choose the lively atmosphere of Murrells Inlet, the romance of a sunset cruise, or the solitude of Waties Island, Myrtle Beach’s surrounding waters create perfect conditions for ending your day with natural beauty and coastal charm.