1. Pawleys Island Chapel
Pawleys Island is famous for its tranquil beaches, but locals know the real sunset magic happens on the creek side. The Pawleys Island Chapel offers a perfect place to pull off and watch the sun melt into the marshes. Bring a chair or simply park and take in the show—no hiking required. There is also a bird sanctuary right next to it. If you’re lucky, you might get to also view some wildlife.
Best time to visit: Around 7:30–8:00 PM in summer, 6:30–7:00 PM in early fall.
Parking: Street-side parking available.
Photography tip: Face toward the marsh with your camera slightly angled upward to catch the dramatic cloud color.
2. The MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet
Just north of Pawleys, the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a popular choice for a reason. This half-mile wooden boardwalk stretches along a natural saltwater estuary and is surrounded by great seafood restaurants and live music. But it's the panoramic marsh views at sunset that truly steal the show.
Best time to visit: Right before dinner for sunset and a post-viewing meal.
Parking: Plenty of parking in the Marshwalk lot or street parking nearby.
Why it's special: You can catch dolphins in the inlet and birds flying home as the sun sets.
3. Samworth Wildlife Management Area – Georgetown
Looking for a quieter, lesser-known spot? Head to Samworth WMA, a scenic and spacious wetland preserve just outside Georgetown. The combination of unspoiled nature, wildlife, and sweeping sky makes this one of the most peaceful sunset spots on the coast. Take a small 2.80 mile easy loop to experience all the views.
Best time to visit: Midweek evenings for solitude.
Parking: Designated gravel lot at the entrance.
Ideal for: Photographers and nature lovers wanting a reflective experience.
4. DeBordieu Beach
This private coastal community offers some of the most breathtaking sunsets in South Carolina—especially from the DeBordieu beachand creek areas. If you’re staying in DeBordieu or booking a Tidelifeproperty nearby, you’ll have easy access to this view.
Best time to visit: 7:00–8:00 PM, especially during a low tide for best reflections.
Parking: Private lot access (for residents and guests).
What makes it unique: secluded and unspoiled beach
5. Georgetown Harborwalk
The Georgetown Harborwalk offers a mix of Southern charm and waterfront beauty, with sunset views over the Sampit River and historic buildings in the background. It’s ideal for a romantic stroll or casual evening outing.
Best time to visit: Just before golden hour for great people-watching and light.
Parking: Public lots nearby and ample street parking.
Local tip: Grab an ice cream or cocktail at one of the nearby shops and watch from the benches along the dock.
Sunset Photography Tips
Use portrait mode for marsh scenes with foreground texture (like seagrass or piers).
Set your phone or camera to HDR mode to capture the sky's dynamic color range.
Sunset times shift throughout the season—use an app like “Golden Hour” to time it right.
Stay Close to the Sunset with Tidelife
What’s better than watching the sunset on vacation? Watching it just steps from your own porch. Tidelife Vacation Rentals offers a wide range of properties in Pawleys Island, DeBordieu, Georgetown, and beyond—perfectly located to soak in every last drop of golden light.
Whether you want a waterfront deck view, a short walk to a marsh landing, or a peaceful hammock with ocean views, our portfolio puts you in the heart of Hammock Coast sunset country.
Ready to experience the magic in person?
Browse our sunset-friendly rentals at TideLife Vacation Rentals and start planning your golden hour escape.
