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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
South Carolina
Georgetown County

Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach Walk

Moderate

4.5

(3940)

8,279

hikers

Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach Walk

04:23

17.5km

10m

Hiking

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.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Get Directions

1

1.09 km

Love's a Beach

Highlight • Beach

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.

Tip by

2

4.68 km

The Pier at Garden City

Highlight • Structure

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.

Tip by

3

8.75 km

Surfside Beach

Highlight • Beach

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. …

Tip by

B

17.5 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

17.2 km

180 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

17.2 km

180 m

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Sunday 24 May

28°C

22°C

92 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park for the Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach Walk?

Parking is generally available at public beach access points along Ocean Boulevard in both Surfside Beach and Garden City. Many resorts and restaurants also offer parking, though some may be for patrons only. It's advisable to look for designated public parking areas near the beach accesses.

Is this walk suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, this walk is generally considered easy and suitable for all skill levels, including families. The terrain is flat, whether you choose to walk directly on the beach or use the paved Ocean Boulevard. Surfside Beach is known as 'The Family Beach' and is autism-friendly, making it a welcoming environment.

What is the terrain like on this walk?

The terrain is predominantly flat. If you walk directly on the beach, you'll experience soft sand underfoot with continuous ocean views. Alternatively, Ocean Boulevard, which runs parallel to the beach, offers a paved surface. The scenery includes resorts, hotels, and public beach accesses.

What notable landmarks or sights will I see along the way?

You'll encounter prominent coastal landmarks such as the Surfside Beach area and The Pier at Garden City. The route also passes by Love's a Beach. The continuous ocean views and the relaxed atmosphere of both towns are key features.

Does this route connect with other trails?

Yes, this route partially overlaps with sections of the East Coast Greenway (SC). It also passes by the Cypress Ave Beach Access and Magnolia Ave Beach Access points.

Is the Surfside Beach to Garden City Beach Walk dog-friendly?

Regulations regarding dogs on the beach can vary by season and specific town ordinances in Surfside Beach and Garden City. It's best to check current local rules before bringing your dog, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What is the best time of year to walk this route?

The spring and fall months typically offer the most pleasant weather for this walk, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer season. Early mornings or late afternoons can also provide a more serene experience and beautiful light.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for this walk?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to walk along the beach or Ocean Boulevard between Surfside Beach and Garden City.

Are there other hiking opportunities nearby?

Yes, just south of Garden City, Murrells Inlet offers more traditional hiking experiences. Options include the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, Huntington Beach State Park (with trails like Sandpiper Pond Nature Trail and Kerrigan Nature Trail), and the extensive trails at Brookgreen Gardens.

What should I wear or bring for this beach walk?

For a beach walk, comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential. If walking on the sand, consider going barefoot. Bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as there's little shade. Water is also recommended, especially on warmer days.

Are there restaurants or cafes near the walk?

Yes, both Surfside Beach and Garden City Beach have numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops located along Ocean Boulevard and in their respective town centers, offering plenty of options for refreshments and meals before, during, or after your walk.

Nearby routes

Easy

3

Murrells Inlet Marshwalk and Veterans Pier

00:12h

794m

0m

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