Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet, SC

This remarkably well-preserved beach features a freshwater lagoon, a salt marsh, a maritime forest, and, of course, three miles of beautiful beaches that make it one of the most unique and comprehensive natural areas along the Carolina coast.

The park also features the historic Atalaya Castle, a home designed in the Moorish architecture of the Mediterranean that served as winter home of American sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. At the Education Center located along the marsh boardwalk, visitors can explore a saltwater touch tank, a live baby alligator exhibit, and more. More than 300 bird species call Huntington Beach State Park home, so bird enthusiasts from around the country flock to the beach to explore the natural habitat.