Waites Island is an undeveloped barrier island of more than 1,000 acres at the northern tip of South Carolina, between Cherry Grove and Sunset Beach. There are no roads: visitors arrive by guided horseback ride, kayak or paddleboard through the salt marsh. Bald eagles, ospreys and herons live there, and dolphins and sea turtles are seen in summer.
- Address
- Cherry Grove, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
- Price
- Free
- Type
- Nature reserve
Hours
Guided trips by Inlet Point Plantation Stables and Great Escapes Kayak Expeditions; reservations required
Planning your visit
Waites Island is in North Myrtle Beach. North Myrtle Beach sits at the top of the Grand Strand, close to the North Carolina line. Parking, traffic and season are worth a look before you go: see getting around the Grand Strand and when to visit.
Hours and prices checked November 7, 2026 from explorenorthmyrtlebeach.com. They can change, so check before you go.
More nature & eco in North Myrtle Beach
- Alligator AdventureWildlife
- Great Escapes Kayaking ExpeditionsKayak / paddleboard
- Voyager Dolphin CruisesDolphin tour
Also in North Myrtle Beach
- OD Arcade & LoungeLive music
- K1 SpeedGo-karts
- Jack Axe ThrowingAxe throwing
- Barefoot Resort – Dye CourseResort course