Myrtle Beach, also known as the Grand Strand, is not just known for its beautiful beaches and wide range of cuisine options. One of the most iconic features of this picturesque coastal town is its piers. Whether you want to fish, relax, or grab a quick bite to eat, there’s a good chance you can find what you are looking for at one of the local piers.
We’re going to take you on a journey, from North to South, to explore our favorite piers on the Grand Strand (Hint: We Love Them All)!
1. Apache Pier
Not only is this pier listed first, it’s definitely on the top of our “must visit” piers. Apache Pier, which is the longest wooden pier on the East Coast, extending 1,206 feet into the ocean, this pier hosts live music events, boasts a restaurant, and is an ideal spot for fishing and enjoying panoramic views. You can bring your own rod or rent some from the pier for the day (fishing license included). They also have an arcade and a great little gift shop to buy your souvenir t-shirts or bumper stickers. They were voted the “Coolest Place in South Carolina” in 2015, and we’d have to say they are still holding that title today.
2. Pier 14
This pier, situated conveniently along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, is another pier that tops our personal list of coolest places around. Located at 14th Avenue N. and originally built in 1926, this pier has a fantastic restaurant (appropriately named Pier 14) , they also have live local music, a gift shop, and a daily fishing rate. It’s centrally located to everything “downtown myrtle beach.” When you finish cruising the pier and having lunch, you can stroll right out to the Boardwalk and be at the Skywheel in minutes. Did we mention they have some of the best hush puppies around?
3. Second Avenue Pier
Located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, the Second Avenue Pier was built in 1936 and is an iconic symbol of the city. This pier offers a wicked restaurant experience as well. The Wicked Tuna is a full service restaurant with a diverse menu that is sure to please any palette. This pier also offers daily fishing rates and plenty of photo ops. You might even see a shark!
4. Springmaid Pier:
Another gem in Myrtle Beach, Springmaid Pier stretches 1,060 feet into the Atlantic and offers a range of amenities. Located at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton, this pier is home to Southern Tides Bar & Grill that offers a variety of seafood dishes and an ocean view. Springmaid Pier also offers daily fishing rates and it’s right around the corner from the Art Museum and we highly recommend supporting the arts if you are nearby!
5. Myrtle Beach State Park Pier
While this pier is a little off the beaten path because it is situated within Myrtle Beach State Park, this pier offers a more serene experience compared to some of the busier piers. Before or after visiting the pier, you can take a leisurely walk or bring your binoculars for some bird-watching. The park’s natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation. You do have to pay for admission to the park. They have daily, weekly, and annual passports. For locals, your local library has a few passes annually that you can check out for a two week period for free! How cool is that? Want to be local? Click here!
6. Garden City Pier:
Last but definitely not least, while this pier is technically not in Myrtle Beach, the Pier at Garden City is just a little further South and definitely worth the drive. This family-friendly spot features an arcade, gift shop, and their very punny Pieradise Cafe that hosts live music and daily karaoke. Fishing enthusiasts will love this pier because you can fish all day and all night…literally.
We have to give two honorable mentions that didn’t make the list. The Cherry Grove Pier located in North Myrtle Beach and the Surfside Pier in Surfside Beach. While we love both of these locations, neither of these piers are currently open as of the writing of this blog (October 2023). We will keep our eyes on the situation and will update as soon as we know that you can go visit them!
Do you have a favorite pier that is on your “must visit” list when you come to visit? What about you, our local readers? What’s your favorite pier? Share in the Comments.