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Families Enjoy Vacationing at Surfside Beach

Allison Vile Allison Vile
Discover writers share all of the places, activities and adventure that South Carolina has to offer. Read more from some of South Carolina’s locals and discover what’s happening in the Palmetto State.
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Surfside Beach offers 36 beach access points, many of them with wheelchair accommodations.

Pack up the family, lather on the sunscreen and get those toes in the South Carolina sand. Nestled along the state's northern Atlantic coast is the small, seaside town of Surfside Beach, just a short drive from Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand. Surfside was incorporated in 1964 and bills itself as both the family beach of the Grand Strand and the first autism-friendly travel destination. Yes, we’re talking first in the world! The town of Surfside Beach welcomes and accommodates all families with children diagnosed with autism, autism spectrum disorder or any other disability.

Unlike the popular, high-rise filled resort areas, Surfside Beach has more of a residential vibe and a family-friendly atmosphere. This beach town is not just a seasonal vacation spot filled with visitors during the prime beach season. Surfside Beach has year-round residents who thoroughly enjoy the town's many amenities, including parks, lakes and attractions. There are 36 different access points to visit the beach and many of them provide wheelchair accommodations or special beach wheelchairs upon request, making the pristine beaches available to all visitors.

For those looking for a different kind of water experience, there's Shoreline Watersports offering parasailing and banana boat rides. 

Along Surfside's lovely beachfront, you'll find beach houses, hotels and a popular fishing pier.

Located at the intersection of Surfside Drive and Ocean Boulevard is the Surfside Pier, representing the geographic and social headquarters of the town. Many restaurants have flocked to the area because of its ideal location. River City Cafe and Bubba's Fish Shack are just a couple of the restaurants offering Southern hospitality, delectable food and entertainment for all ages.

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is just a short drive from Surfside Beach.

With Surfside in close proximity to the Grand Strand, visitors will also enjoy walking the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or visiting The Market Common, offering free outdoor events and shopping. To appreciate South Carolina’s nature, history and art, head over to Brookgreen Gardens for a wide variety of tours, programs and exhibits, or to simply stroll through the breathtaking gardens on your own. There are many unique adventures and opportunities for all age groups.

This South Strand vacation destination will be a family favorite for generations.

Allison Vile
Discover writers share all of the places, activities and adventure that South Carolina has to offer. Read more from some of South Carolina’s locals and discover what’s happening in the Palmetto State.