Pawleys Island was established in the 1700s as a resort town for nearby rice planters fleeing their malaria-ridden plantations. Today, the Georgetown County community remains a popular vacation spot, offering a calmer environment than Myrtle Beach, about 25 miles north. “We don’t have high-rises, rollercoasters or restaurants directly on the beach,” says Christy Whitlock, a Realtor with ERA Wilder Realty who has lived on Pawleys Island for most of her life. “We’re best known for having a really classic Lowcountry lifestyle.” Locals often spend their days relaxing on beaches framed by sand dunes and boating across cordgrass-covered marshland. Even during tourist season, it’s easy to find peaceful pockets away from crowds. “Full-time residents always have their own secret beaches and fishing spots where they never see anybody else,” Whitlock says. “That sense of quiet is hard to find in the Grand Strand area.”
Enjoy waterfront living at Heritage Plantation along the scenic Waccamaw River.
Hagley Estates features homes with spacious porches and shaded yards.
1/2
Some houses sit on the water, and others back up to golf courses
Pawleys Island has a lot of Lowcountry homes, bungalows and New Traditionals. Houses that sit along the beach, the Waccamaw River or marshland often feature docks and boat slips. Some properties back up to golf courses, with places like Tradition Golf Club and True Blue Golf Club on the mainland. The median sale price is around $530,000, which is higher than Myrtle Beach’s median of about $330,000. Smaller Inland homes can start at $250,000 and reach $550,000, while larger ones often range from $600,000 to $900,000. Houses near the water usually sell for between $1 million and $3 million. The area also has condos and townhouses, with inland units ranging from $150,000 to $500,000 and waterfront units costing between $700,000 and $1.3 million.
Surfing and watching sea turtles are popular on Pawleys Island
Nine public access points dot the island’s beach, where people often hunt for seashells, go surfing and watch the sunset. Some access points have small parking lots, but they fill up quickly. “Most locals will walk or bike to the beach if they can, or they take golf carts because it’s easier to fit those into small parking spots,” Whitlock says. Between May and October, the beach is an active nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles. A volunteer group monitors these eggs and announces when they’re about to hatch on their Facebook page. “It’s a big deal if you get a chance to see that,” Whitlock says. “Some people who have lived here their whole lives haven’t been able to witness it because you have to be at the beach at just the right time.” Pawleys Island offers several boat launches for easy access to the water. As boaters cruise along winding salt marshes, they often drop crab pots, spot herons roosting and try to reel in redfish or flounder. Brookgreen Gardens, about 6 miles north, is home to a zoo and the country’s largest sculpture garden. Huntington Beach State Park, less than 8 miles in the same direction, offers more oceanfront access.
Pawleys Island residents enjoy boating and water sports on the Waccamaw River.
Hagleys Landing is the perfect place to watch sunsets in Pawley Island.
Pawleys Plantation Golf and Country Club features a Jack Nicklaus signature design course.
Heritage Plantation offers pickleball courts for active residents in the community.
1/4
Flooding is a concern on Pawleys Island
King tides, heavy rain and tropical storms frequently impact Pawleys Island, putting most homes at high risk of flooding. These conditions sometimes cause road closures. “After a big storm, I’ll make a turn and come across a street that’s completely underwater,” Whitlock says. “It’s inconvenient, but the town is working on making it less of a problem.” The island’s flood mitigation project plans to dredge creeks and build berms to prevent these issues.
Kids go to school on the mainland
Georgetown County School District serves Pawleys Island. Kids can attend Waccamaw Elementary School, which Niche grades an A-minus. Students may continue to Waccamaw Intermediate School, Waccamaw Middle School and Waccamaw High School, all of which get B-pluses. The high school offers Career and Technical Education pathways in fields like biomedical sciences and engineering. Each public school is on the mainland, along with private options like A-graded Lowcountry Preparatory School.
Waccamaw Elementary School offers quality education to Pawleys Island families.
Waccamaw Middle School offers quality education for Pawleys Island teens.
Waccamaw High School offers college-prep programs for Pawleys Island students in grades 9–12.
Students in grades 9 through 12 attend Waccamaw High School near Pawleys Island.
Waccamaw High School provides strong academics and athletics for local families.
1/3
Ocean Highway has seafood spots, tourist shops and grocery stores
The barrier island section of the community is home to a few inns, a chapel and the town hall, while most restaurants and shops are on the mainland along U.S. Route 17, also known as Ocean Highway. Frank’s is an upscale steakhouse and seafood spot with outdoor dining. Dollar bills cover the walls at Pawleys Island Tavern, a dive bar that regularly has live music. Souvenir shops, seafood markets and grocery stores, like Aldi and Publix, also line the street. Georgetown, about 13 miles south, has more grocery stores and the closest the hospital.
Traffic may get congested around summer holidays
Two causeways connect the island with the mainland, and Ocean Highway offers a direct route to Myrtle Beach and its international airport. The area experiences heavy traffic during peak tourist seasons. “There’s a bit of congestion during all the big summer holidays, but the bulk of those people are going up to Myrtle Beach, rather than staying on Pawleys Island,” Whitlock says.
Written By
Meghan Baker
Photography Contributed By
Jon Puckett
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Pamela Principe,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Pawleys Island, SC sell after 76 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Pawleys Island, SC over the last 12 months is $554,970, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Are you searching for the perfect place to call home or a coastal retreat in Pawleys Island with golf course views? This beautifully updated end-unit in the gated River Club community offers a rare opportunity to own in one of the area’s most desirable neighborhoods—where properties are tightly held and seldom come available. Picturesque golf course views straight looking out at the 10th green of
Lakefront, end-unit villa living in Huntington Lake at The Reserve in Pawleys Island — with 2,788 heated square feet, a first-floor primary suite, separate home office, two-car garage and the space and storage for comfortable year-round living. A cathedral ceiling and clerestory windows bring volume and light to the great room, while the marble fireplace, detailed mantel and custom built-ins give
Convenient, Fully Furnished First-Floor Condo in True Blue Golf & Racquet Resort! Welcome to easy coastal living in this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath first-floor condo, perfectly positioned to overlook peaceful, secluded wooded views for added privacy and relaxation. Beautifully decorated and fully furnished, this move-in-ready home includes everything you need—from linens to dishes and
Welcome to Litchfield Breezes, a gated community where coastal charm, natural beauty, and everyday comfort come together in this beautifully maintained home offering marsh and ocean views, along with two expansive front porches designed to enjoy the refreshing sea breezes. Designed for both everyday comfort and effortless entertaining, this meticulously kept five-bedroom, three-bathroom residence
Less than one mile from the beach, this fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bath raised-style beach home offers an easy way to enjoy the Pawleys Island lifestyle. Nestled within Crooked Oak Cottages, a quiet community of just 21 residential units, this home is well suited for full-time living or use as a second home at the beach. The ground level features a large screened-in porch that creates an
PRICE REDUCED! Experience ultimate Lowcountry luxury at 292 Portrush Loop. To provide absolute peace of mind, the motivated seller is offering a generous credit to buyer for roof replacement and a 1-year premium home warranty with an acceptable offer! Enjoy sweeping marsh and marina views with zero upcoming maintenance worries. Welcome to 292 Portrush Loop, a remarkable custom-built waterfront
Tucked away on a quiet street in the heart of Pawleys Island, 231 Watson Way is a custom-built 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath raised beach home offering privacy, flexibility, and thoughtful design throughout. As you enter the main living level, you’re welcomed into a bright, open-concept space with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light. The kitchen, dining, and living areas flow seamlessly together,
Wake up to peaceful marsh views and enjoy the easy coastal lifestyle you've been looking for at The Enclave in Pawleys Island. Built in 2021, this elevated home offers the perfect combination of modern finishes, low-maintenance living and a prime location just minutes from beaches, golf, dining and everything that makes the South Carolina coast so special. The open-concept floor plan is designed
Welcome to Litchfield Country Club — where luxury, comfort, and modern coastal style come together in this beautifully updated 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home. Designed for both entertaining and everyday living, this home features a private theater room complete with a projection system and Sonos surround sound. Step outside to your own backyard retreat featuring an in-ground pool, expansive
Welcome to this beautifully furnished 3-bedroom, 3-bath villa, thoughtfully updated and move-in ready. Ideally situated along the 9th hole of the prestigious Jack Nicklaus-designed Pawleys Plantation Golf & Country Club, this exceptional property is perfect as a primary residence, vacation retreat, or investment opportunity. The inviting interior features a formal dining room, a cozy fireplace,
Tucked inside the gated, tree-lined entrance of Pawleys Plantation—where live oaks draped in Spanish moss welcome you home—this well-cared-for first-floor end-unit condo offers relaxed Lowcountry living filled with natural light from its corner location. LVT flooring flows throughout the home, complemented by an upgraded vanity in the primary bath, while the galley-style kitchen opens seamlessly
Nestled East of Hwy 17 and across from Huntington Beach State Park, this well-maintained home is just over one-half mile from the beautiful beaches of North Litchfield and offers easy access to the Waccamaw Neck Bikeway. The split-floor plan features an open-concept main level with granite countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring, a screened porch with gas grill, and a spacious primary suite with
This Direct Oceanfront Villa Boasts a superior 4th Floor Location and commands Spectacular Beach Views. Professionally decorated and updated, to include a Fully-Remodeled Kitchen, NEW Cabinetry, Stainless Steel Appliances, Dishwasher, Quartz Countertops, Fully Tiled Shower Bath, and LVT Flooring throughout. The Casual Beach Decor offers a King Bed Master Bedroom and Comfortable Living Space to
A must-see, move-in-ready, beautifully designed home in Heritage Plantation! This exceptional home has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a 3/2024 roof, 12/2024 HVAC, two fireplaces, two private patios, and an oversized 2.5-car garage, a unique home combines quality construction, thoughtful design, comfort, and functionality. Enter through the foyer into an impressive open-concept living area featuring vaulted
From the moment you drive through the gates of Litchfield Plantation, you know you’ve arrived somewhere special. The beautiful live oaks lining the road into the plantation, dripping with Spanish moss, immediately set the tone for what makes this community so special. Litchfield Plantation is one of the most desired gated communities in Pawleys Island. This Lowcountry home with a welcoming front
The community is surrounded by multiple world class golf courses, great local cuisine options, and a variety of entertainment. A short walk to Tidelands HealthPoint Center for Health and Fitness. The surrounding communities and attractions of Pawleys Island and Litchfield make Wimbledon Village the perfect location for locals and visitors alike. Each unit includes: 2 bedroom 2 bath - roughly 1200
Seize your chance to live in one of the premier apartment communities in Pawleys Island, SC. Picture coming home every day to the warm embrace of meticulous landscaping, comfortable homes, and thoughtful amenities tailored to enhance your life. Located in Litchfield Beach, Pawleys Island, with easy access to Coastal HWY 17 and Transit Bus Lines, Litchfield Oaks Apartments is just minutes away
The advertised rate of $13,079/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 4, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
Escape the cold in the north and enjoy the beautiful South Carolina Coast for the winter months. Centrally located - a great getaway spot to golf, fish, shop, enjoy great restaurants or take walks on the beautiful beach. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood east of Highway 17 off of the South Causeway. A short golf cart ride or bike ride to the beach. Near great inlet fishing! 3 bedrooms &
Sat to Sat weekly vacation rentals only for $2500 Total (includes all) with owners & 1 cat living in subject house. 1-3 weeks max. Rental. We’re Sorry, our house is Not a monthly rental! Vacation weekly rentals from Sat to Sat only. Our HotelGrayman 3BR/2.5BA 2-story House is pet (1 cat and 1-2 dogs max.) friendly. 1-3 weeks rental max. At $2500 per week rental, plus valid drivers license to
Beautifully Renovated Condo in Historic Litchfield Plantation Experience luxury living in the prestigious gated community of Litchfield Plantation. This fully renovated 2-bedroom, 2.5-bath condominium offers a perfect blend of modern elegance and Lowcountry charm. The spacious floor plan features a large great room with an electric fireplace, a dining area that opens to a bright sunroom, and a
Immaculate first floor 2bd 2bth end unit is Move-In ready. Completely updated with new Flooring, Granite Counter Tops, Tiled Tub & Shower. Located east of Hwy 17 with outside storage, convenient for beach, golf or fishing items. Salt Marsh Cove has a large community pool. The community dock displays wonderful views of the marsh plus ideal for crabbing or fishing.
Now taking application an incredible Pawleys Island Cottage! EVERYTHING in these cottages are Brand Spankin' new and located within walk/bike/golf cart to the Beach, Starbucks, and much much more! The location and setting are super ideal for those looking for a quite and relaxing space with tons ofconvenience.2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with tiled showers Stainless steel appliances to include
Enjoy comfortable coastal living in this charming 2-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome in Pawleys Island! This thoughtfully designed floor plan offers plenty of privacy and functional living space, making it a great place to call home. The second-floor bedrooms each feature their own private bathroom, providing added convenience and privacy for residents or guests. The first floor offers an
This lovely first floor 2 bed/2 bath, furnished condo is located in the gated community of Pawleys Pavilion. Laminate wood flooring in living room and kitchen, tile in bathrooms, and carpet in bedrooms. Kitchen has brand new granite countertops and new appliances. The living area opens to the screened porch. There is a large park next to complex used by tenants and dogs. There is a community pool
Every day will be a sweet escape in this coastal oasis located in the Clambake Cove community in Pawley’s Island. This 3 bedroom 2 bath house Built in 2018, with its modern, sleek design, it takes coastal living to new, chic heights. The main living space is open concept with high ceilings and plenty of natural light streaming in. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, and plenty of
In the heart of Litchfield Country Club on a quiet cul-de-sac, this home is beautifully furnished and ready to move in! Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage, open living-dining area, Carolina room, screened porch and backyard patio with view out to the golf course. Light & airy with vaulted ceilings. Ceiling fans throughout. Split bedroom plan. Spacious kitchen with gas stove, breakfast
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
