Counting the waves…
Counting the waves…
Cherry Grove Beach unfolds along a residential stretch of North Myrtle Beach where weathered pier pilings and low-rise motels outnumber the high-rise condos that dominate the coastline to the south. The namesake pier—one of the oldest on the Grand Strand—draws anglers who bait lines for spot and pompano while you spread towels on sand that slopes gently into surf calm enough for toddlers. Salt air mingles with the scent of vinegar-dressed slaw from the pier-end grill, and the rhythmic slap of waves against barnacled pilings becomes the afternoon soundtrack. Morning low tides reveal firm-packed sand perfect for bicycling, and you'll pass joggers, metal-detector enthusiasts, and families hauling canopies and coolers toward their staked-out territories. The beach lacks the manicured resort feel of neighboring strands; dune grasses grow wild, and lifeguard stands appear seasonally rather than year-round. It's this unpolished quality that keeps multi-generational vacationers returning, their week booked at the same cottage before the previous summer ended. By late afternoon, the fishing pier casts a long shadow across the water. You'll find retirees in folding chairs watching pelicans dive, teenagers dangling legs off the pier rail, and parents wading knee-deep as the tide shifts. The beach empties earlier than its busier neighbors, leaving you room to walk the waterline as the sun sinks behind the Intracoastal Waterway and porch lights blink on in the pastel-painted beach houses.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Cherry Grove Beach.
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Cherry Grove Beach is generally safe for swimming and very family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day). The beach has gentle waves and a gradual slope, making it ideal for children. However, always check daily beach condition flags and be aware of occasional rip currents. The area is well-patrolled and has a relaxed, residential atmosphere. Swimming is safest near lifeguard stations, typically positioned at main access points. The beach is also known for its clean sand and relatively calm waters compared to other Myrtle Beach locations.
Cherry Grove Beach is enjoyable year-round, but peak season runs June through August with warm water temperatures (75-82°F) and full amenities. For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, visit May or September when temperatures remain comfortable (70s-80s) and water is still swimmable. Spring (April-May) offers mild weather perfect for beach walks and fishing. Winter months are quieter with cooler temperatures but still attract visitors for fishing and scenic strolls. Summer brings occasional afternoon thunderstorms, so plan indoor activities as backup. Hurricane season runs June through November, though direct hits are relatively rare.
Cherry Grove Beach is located at the northern end of North Myrtle Beach, accessible via Highway 17. Free public parking is available at the Cherry Grove Pier (3500 North Ocean Boulevard) and at the public beach access on 51st Avenue North. Additional metered and free street parking can be found along side streets near beach accesses. Parking fills quickly during summer, so arrive early (before 10am) on weekends. The area is easily navigable, and most visitors drive as public transportation is limited. Many beachfront rentals offer dedicated parking for guests.
Cherry Grove offers numerous dining options within walking distance, including the famous Sea Captain's House restaurant, Duffy Street Seafood Shack, and various casual eateries near the pier. The Cherry Grove Pier has a restaurant, tackle shop, and arcade. Several beach supply shops, convenience stores, and ice cream parlors line Ocean Boulevard. For accommodations, you'll find beachfront hotels, condos, and vacation rentals ranging from budget to upscale. Grocery stores like Food Lion are about a mile inland. The area maintains a quieter, family-oriented atmosphere compared to central Myrtle Beach's more commercial strip.
Cherry Grove Point, located at the far north end of Cherry Grove Beach, is where the Atlantic Ocean meets Hog Inlet, creating a unique natural feature. This picturesque spot offers excellent shelling, birdwatching, and fishing opportunities as tidal currents bring in diverse marine life. The inlet forms the boundary between North Myrtle Beach and the uninhabited Waites Island. At low tide, you can often walk along exposed sandbars, but be cautious of changing tides and currents. It's a popular photography location and provides a more natural, undeveloped beach experience compared to the main Cherry Grove area.
