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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Zane Meadors,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Pawleys Island, SC sell after 81 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Pawleys Island, SC over the last 12 months is $554,250, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your ideal coastal retreat at 170 Lumbee Circle, Unit 14 in the heart of Pawleys Island. Thoughtfully designed, this two-story townhome features three spacious bedrooms and three full baths—well-suited for full-time living or a relaxing getaway. The entry level offers a welcoming foyer, private guest bedroom, laundry area, and direct access to the two-car garage. Upstairs, the main
The Jamie Beard TeamThe Litchfield Company Real Estate
Welcome to carefree coastal living in this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhome located in the desirable True Blue Golf community of Pawleys Island. This beautifully maintained single-level home offers a 2-car garage and a thoughtful floor plan designed for both comfort and convenience. Step inside to find an inviting living space featuring hardwood flooring throughout the kitchen, dining, and
Charming and efficient, this lovely 3-bedroom, 2-bath Mingo condo offers affordable easy living near the beach. Additional features to love include the modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, open concept split-bedroom floor plan, beautiful wood and tile floors, ceiling fans throughout, and screened porch with pond view. Finishing touches include plantation shutters, custom slider door
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
Welcome to 280 Oatland Lake Road in prestigious Willbrook Plantation, where refined coastal living meets effortless comfort. Perfectly positioned along the 3rd fairway of the Dan Maples-designed golf course, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 2 full bath, 2 half bath residence offers timeless elegance, thoughtful updates, and a truly enviable Pawleys Island lifestyle. From the inviting front porch, step
What a great opportunity to own a wonderful 3 bed property so close with Beach and Golf on the doorstep, the property has been used exclusively as a second home, Being offered fully furnished save a few personal items.Situated in the heart of Pawleys island close to all restaurants, Grocery stores and all amenities. The property allows short term rental, so easy to enhance your income . Just 30
Take a tour in Marshland Park where you will find 39 Lazy Hammock Trail. A spacious Raised Beach Custom Home with 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. This home is loaded with upgrades from the custom cabinetry, appliances, tile throughout the bathrooms, lighting fixtures and more. Plus let's not forget the outdoor space that is offered 3 different areas to enjoy, whether to sip on your morning coffee or
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
Welcome to this beautifully renovated Marsh Heron villa located inside the coveted, guard-gated oceanfront resort community of Litchfield by the Sea in Pawleys Island. This desirable second-row villa offers ocean views and exceptional updates throughout. This 2-bedroom villa features a small private office off the owner’s suite, perfect for remote work or a quiet retreat. The thoughtfully
Welcome to 410 Old Plantation Drive, a nearly new home in Hagley Estates, one of Pawleys Island’s most convenient and established neighborhoods. Located near the public boat ramp with easy access to the Waccamaw River and Intracoastal Waterway, this home offers a great blend of coastal living, neighborhood charm, and everyday comfort. The home features an open floor plan with a bright main living
Nestled in the sought-after Salt Marsh Cove community in South Litchfield, this inviting second-floor condo offers a serene coastal retreat with a relaxed, beachy vibe. Enjoy fresh air and marsh breezes from your private balcony, perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach. Inside, this move-in-ready home features an open and airy floor plan filled with natural light, along with two spacious
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath two-story home located on a desirable corner lot in the highly sought-after Tradition community of Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Offering a perfect blend of comfort, space, and Lowcountry charm, this home is ideal for those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle just minutes from the beach. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the
Welcome to True Blue 29E, a beautifully positioned 3-bedroom, 3-bath golf course condo in the heart of Pawleys Island, South Carolina—offering the ideal combination of primary living, vacation retreat, and income-producing investment. Updated Kitchen and bathrooms. Offered furnished and ready to enjoy. Stainless Steel appliances, updated flooring and much more! This is a must see unit. What makes
Located just off the S Causeway in the heart of Pawleys Island, this exceptional oceanfront compound offers breathtaking Atlantic views and a versatile layout ideal for multi-generational living, private retreats, or high-performing vacation rental investment. The main residence features four bedrooms and four baths, thoughtfully designed for comfort and coastal living. An updated kitchen opens
Welcome to Marsh Point, where timeless coastal charm meets a truly peaceful, stress-free lifestyle in the heart of Pawleys Island. This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and breathtaking natural surroundings?highlighted by serene marsh and wetlands views that create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for everyday living. Situated on 1.05 acres
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: 3 bedroom 2 bath - 1,852 total
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 $13,903/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 8, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $4,256/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 2, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $8,666/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of October 25, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $3,904/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 2, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $4,272/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 4, 2026.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
New Quartz Countertops, New Stainless Appliances, New LVP flooring, New Vanities and fixtures, New Paint and Cabinetry Paint. ... This inviting property is nestled in a charming True Blue Golf Course Community offering a perfect blend of comfort and relaxation with convenience and excellent amenities. With its spacious layout, you’ll find ample room to relax and enjoy all that True Blue and
The advertised rate of $18,394/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 20, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $7,326/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of August 3, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $3,795/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 1, 2026.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
The advertised rate of $3,822/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 2, 2026.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
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