Personal Injury Attorneyin Murrels Inlet, SC.

Benjie Andrew eagerly points to the many displays that line the walls of his new general store in Murrells Inlet.

It’s early May and Andrew is working to get the hundreds of items tagged and placed before Seaside Market is set to open the week before Memorial Day.

The store will offer a variety of things, including fresh produce, baked goods, clothing, decor, wine and craft beer and soft-serve ice cream. But the main focus will be on produce and products from local farmers and South Carolina businesses.

“I love South Carolina-grown things,” Andrew said.

The 56-year-old has been a member of the state Agricultural Commission for the last 13 years, so it’s important for him to focus on state-grown products, featuring items that come from all over South Carolina.

He also wanted to celebrate Murrells Inlet, the place he and his wife have called home for the last five years. Andrew’s plans were to open a store that would meet the needs of the residents in that area.

Seaside Market, at 3908 Highway 17 Business, is located in the former Booty’s Outdoor, which was a family-owned clothing, marine and tackle shop.

It is in walking distance of the MarshWalk, where most of the businesses are restaurants and bars, Andrew said. So having a store in that location will be a convenience for the local people, he said.

“They can come by there and get fresh homemade cake and coffee,” Andrew said. Or grab a fresh-made sandwich and take it on the boat or fishing on the pier, he said.

He’s also used his family’s history of tobacco farming to give the business an authenticity of an old-time general store.

Originally from Aynor, Andrew used the tin off the roof of his father’s tobacco barn for one of the displays. Lumber from trees in Horry and Georgetown counties line the walls. There’s even an old fishing boat inside the store that will be used for pecans and other produce.

In paying tribute to Murrells Inlet, coffee blends sport the names of community favorites such as North Jetty, Marsh Walk Cuban and Goat Island Sunrise Blend.

Andrew created a Murrells Inlet clothing line called MIVibe that includes hats and shirts.

He’s also tapped into the talents of local residents, partnering with a woman who will make homemade pies and prep meals, such as lasagna and quiche, that will be available in the cafe.

And there will be a place for local artists to display their paintings and artwork.

“We really push that,” Andrew said of his focus on local items. The more he can carry in his store, the more it will be a benefit to the area, he said.

MURRELLS INLET — The effects of sea level rise have already been seen as South Carolina’s barrier islands experience more frequent flooding. Salt marshes are feeling the heat, as well, according to coastal researchers.

During a recent Murrells Inlet’s Community Creek Talk event, a packed crowd listened as researchers laid out the present and future of the inlet’s natural geography that gives it one of the most iconic views in South Carolina.

“I wish I could give you a more uplifting report, but there is no question that estuaries are being stressed both by changes in environmental conditions and by human activities,” said Dennis Allen, research professor emeritus at the University of South Carolina and resident director of the Baruch Marine Field Lab near Georgetown.

Effects of sea level rise have already been seen in South Carolina with more frequent flooding of barrier islands and the stress on trees from saltwater encroachment, Allen said. Salt marshes like those of Murrells Inlet have generally not been able to keep up with current rates of sea level rise, as they must acquire sedimentation at a similar rate to rising waters.

Allen told the crowd at Murrells Inlet Community Center that the key to the future of South Carolina’s coastal salt marshes is expansion to the west onto higher land. There has been indication that the salt marshes have been able to do this on the South Carolina coast, Allen said, except in places where the higher land has already been taken over by development.

USC research associate professor Erik Smith, also of the Baruch Marine Field Laboratory, said during the talk that Murrells Inlet has significant water quality concerns, especially with fecal bacteria contamination from pets and wildlife.

“Some of the shellfish beds have been closed for quite some time,” Smith said. “For much of the open water portion of the bay, have at it, it’s fine. But for a good bit of the north, the south, and right along the inner coast, those areas are closed. And those areas are closed entirely due to the potential for microbial pollution.”

Katie Finegan of the S.C. Sea Grant Consortium and Maeve Snyder of the North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve told the audience what can be done to improve the inlet’s health, including reducing polluted runoff, recycling and the use of non-toxic products.

Finegan also noted that the consortium received a $500,000 grant to conduct a four-year study of “thin layer placement,” in which sediment removed during dredging is sprayed over existing marsh instead of being removed offshore or placed on a beach.

“What this technique is doing is helping them keep up with sea level rise artificially by introducing sediment into the system, so they’re not drowned out,” Finegan said.

The technique has not been tried in South Carolina, but has been the subject of experimentation in North Carolina, Finegan said.

Winter in North Jersey can get quite dreary. At some point, most of us are sick of the snow and looking for a place to escape the cold, at least for a few days. Nestled just under a half-hour south of Myrtle Beach lies Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. This town is the perfect coastal getaway for someone who would rather have a calmer vibe with still lots to do. Loaded with delicious Southern eateries, local shops, beaches, nature destinations, and waterfront restaurants with bands and dancing, this destination is a fun, easy-going getaway for any time of the year. Read on to learn more about Murrells Inlet and to plan your weekend there.

About the Town

Murrells Inlet is one of the oldest coastal communities in the state. It’s located on the Southern part of the “Grand Strand,” a 60-mile stretch of the Carolina coast running from Brunswick County to Georgetown County. Murrells Inlet is known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, and the seafood-and fishing-centric way of life here dates back to 1731, when it was founded by English colonist John Morrall, who historians believe is the town’s namesake. At the time, this convenient coastal location made it a go-to port for transporting various products to the Northern Colonies and Britain.

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The location was also known to be a place for visiting pirates, where Blackbeard, Drunken Jack, and others stopped by from time to time. As the years went on and the land became more developed, this area blossomed from a small village to the fun destination it is today. Aside from being a historic fishing village, Murrells Inlet is known for its ghost stories, delectable hush puppies served with every meal, coastal vibes, abundant golf courses, Carolina Palmetto trees, and friendly neighbors.

There’s always something to do here and the winter months are mild. A visit during the shoulder seasons means guests can enjoy all there is to do without the Southern humidity. Murrells Inlet is about a half-hour’s drive from the Myrtle Beach airport. A direct flight to Myrtle Beach from Newark is about 90 minutes. The drive from North Jersey to Murrells Inlet is about 10 hours.

What to Do

Brookgreen Gardens has much to offer: botanical gardens, sculptures, a small zoo, and it’s listed as a National Historic Landmark in addition to being on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s known as a cultural center for the community, with new events and exhibits for each season. The vibes are amazing here and the variety of Southern florals is beautiful.

Garden City is the closest beach to Murrells Inlet, with five miles of white sandy beaches. The beachfront is lined with colorful, coastal homes and the beaches are full of shells. Animal lovers can bring their dogs for a walk on the beach. Aside from the beach itself, the area surrounding the pier has several local places to grab coffee, boardwalk-style food, souvenirs, and more. Upstairs on the pier, visitors will find a large arcade to get out of the sun for a bit, and there is the option to walk to the end and take in the Atlantic Ocean views outside.

Another beach option is Huntington Beach State Park, which is also a campsite and a National Historic Landmark. There are three miles of beach and over 2,500 acres of land to explore at this state park, with tons of wildlife to see. Many species of bird frequent the beach here, along with alligators, turtles, and other species native to the area. The views of South Carolina nature here will not disappoint.

If there’s one thing Murrells Inlet isn’t short of, it’s golf courses, and that includes mini-golf. At Gilligan’s Island, located at 3215 US-17 Business, golfers can pick from two different 18-hole courses and are surrounded by bright blue water and palm trees. Inlet Adventure, located at 3009 South US-17 Business, is another tropical paradise and has an ice cream shop on-site for the ultimate beachy treat.

The Marshwalk is the highlight of Murrells Inlet, for good reason. There are nine waterfront dining options to choose from here, all with a view of the marsh that leads into the bay. Fun fact: In the spring and summer, there’s an island right off the marsh that has goats on it, the locals call it “Goat Island.”

There is always something to do here, with a boardwalk to connect it all. During the day, choose from brunch on the water and shopping the local eateries’ branded apparel during the day, At night, visitors can dance to local bands, eat dinner al fresco, and more.

The Marshwalk is also the starting point for several excursions, including a beer boat, jet skis, fishing charters, and more.

What to Eat

Costa is an Italian eatery with a coastal twist (hence the name). The place has a casual vibe that can be romantic as well, making it a good spot for all occasions. The menu consists of coastal Italian fusion, with plates like crab cakes, calamari, and clams for starters. The main courses have options like chicken or veal saltimbocca on the land side, and pan-seared diver scallops on the sea side of the menu.

Dead Dog is a typical Southern comfort food spot that’s known for its bar and live music. The outdoor patio has great views of the marshwalk, in addition to the plentiful indoor seating. On the menu, patrons will find pub food favorites like mac and cheese bites, wings, and cheesesteak minis along with rotating beers on tap and signature cocktails.

Almost all of the bars and restaurants in Murrells Inlet host live music, and Hot Fish Club is no exception. Formerly called the ​​Hot and Hot Fish Club, this restaurant dates back to the 1700s, making it the oldest in the area. The menu here is huge and full of seafood – blue crab dip, lobster pot pie, a hot fish platter, and seafood steampots to name a few.

Peters has an all-around good menu. The meal starts off with honey-butter croissants delivered to the table. The salads that come with the entrees are delicious, topped with egg, bacon bits, and more. Consider trying the blackened chicken alfredo with broccoli, tomatoes, and shredded Parmesan cheese for a non-seafood option, or seafood dishes like fried flounder or fresh Atlantic Salmon.

Luna is a casual eatery that’s off the busier Marshwalk area. The eclectic decor matches the vibe and the menu includes typical Mexican dishes. The chips with various salsas are a good starter, and entrees include fajitas, enchiladas, tacos, carne asada, and more. The guacamole is made table-side, and the bartenders have perfected the margarita, made by hand with fresh-squeezed lime juice.

This casual restaurant is a part of the golf course TPC Myrtle Beach, and it’s a great place for breakfast, lunch, and happy hour. Guests can enjoy Margarita Mondays, Wine Wednesdays, and a sports game on multiple TVs. The pub overlooks the 18th hole of the golf course, making it a pub with a view. The Pub is open to guests, with or without a tee time on the course.

Wahoo’s menu highlights fresh-caught South Carolina seafood, which patrons can enjoy as a sit-down dinner while watching local bands play. In addition to featured fresh catch selections, there’s also fried shrimp, Bourbon BBQ Mahi, shrimp and grits, and more to choose from. The drink menu is endless, from specialty cocktails like Wahoo’s Lemonade and Strawberry Lemon Drop, to make-your-own mules, daiquiris, beer, and wine.

Where to Shop

Inlet Square Mall is comprised of many local shops. It’s good for a shopping day if the weather’s iffy or for if you forgot your bathing suit. Choose from stores like Captain Murrells Antiques and Uniques, Moon Beach Studio, Ally’s Art House, and more.

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Jaws’ name doesn’t just come from anywhere. Shoppers can see live baby sharks here while browsing souvenirs, and the selection is endless. Shop for apparel, drinkware, keychains, and literally anything else you can think of here.

Lazy Gator is a popular local spot, and it’s the only place that carries exclusively Murrells Inlet-branded merchandise. It has an upscale vibe, with an entire section of coastal decor, gifts, art, and garden accessories. The store carries jewelry, mugs and cups, apparel, Christmas decorations, stickers, shells, fudge, and lots more.

Southern Splendor is a quaint local shop with a coastal ambiance. The store carries charming Southern merchandise, including home decor. Here, shoppers can find gifts branded with various names of South Carolina towns, including Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island, along with candles, kitchenware, pillows, and more.

The Bookworm is a locally-owned used bookstore that is a favorite of the Myrtle Beach area. The books are offered at 50% – 75% off the original cover price. The store carries over 25,0000 books and offers store credit for bringing your used books in. Some of the fun aspects of this spot include a $1 book section, a customer and staff recommendations shelf, a “Blind Date With a Book” section, and book-themed gifts.

Every May, right around Mother’s Day, a roar echoes through the town of Murrells Inlet. It’s that time of year again when Harley Davidson bikers roll in for their annual tradition – Harley Davidson Bike Week. This week-long event attracts motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country to Myrtle Beach and neighboring towns, especially Murrells Inlet. The town comes alive with music, food, drinks, and fun as thousands gather to celebrate their love for bikes and camaraderie. Let’s take a closer look at this long-standing tradition that has become an icon of American biker culture.

What is Harley Davidson?

Harley Davidson is a legendary American motorcycle manufacturer that has been around for over a century. The company was founded in 1903 by William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson, with the first factory located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Over the years, Harley Davidson has become more than just a motorcycle brand – it’s a lifestyle. The iconic motorcycles are known for their distinctive rumble and classic design that never goes out of style.

Harley Davidson offers an extensive range of models to suit riders of all levels, from touring bikes to sportsters and even custom builds that let you create your dream ride.

But owning a Harley isn’t just about riding – it’s about being part of a tight-knit community of like-minded enthusiasts who share your passion for the open road and the freedom it brings.

Whether you’re cruising down Route 66 or tearing up dirt tracks on your off-road Hog, there’s no denying the thrill that comes with owning one of these iconic machines.

What is Murrells Inlet?

Murrells Inlet is a charming fishing village located in the heart of South Carolina’s Grand Strand. It is known for its natural beauty, breathtaking marsh views and fresh seafood restaurants. The inlet has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was first settled by rice planters.

Even though the event is called Myrtle Beach Bike Week, the riders largely avoid the city of Myrtle Beach. “It’s just too ghetto,” said Paul Daniels of Philadelphia, PA. “I don’t want to see any of that.”

Today, Murrells Inlet is home to several festivals and events throughout the year including Harley Davidson Bike Week and Myrtle Beach Bike Week. During these events, thousands of bikers flock to this small town to celebrate their love for motorcycles.

Aside from biking events, Murrells Inlet also offers various outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing charters and nature trails where visitors can experience the beauty of Lowcountry flora and fauna up close. Visitors can also take a stroll along the Marsh Walk which features stunning views of saltmarshes while enjoying some local cuisine.

Murrells Inlet may be a small town but it packs a big punch with its rich culture, scenic landscapes and vibrant community spirit that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

The History of Harley Davidson Bikers and Murrels Inlet

Murrells Inlet, a small fishing village in South Carolina, has been the host to one of the largest biker events in America since 1940. The first Harley Davidson bikers arrived here in search of adventure and fun during their spring break.

The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, Suck Bang Blow, the Beaver Bar and a host of other venues are popular hangouts for the bikers during this week long event.

As more and more riders began to make their way to Murrells Inlet each year, the event quickly became known as “Harley Week.” It was a time when bikers from all over came together to share their love for motorcycles and enjoy good company.

Although it started out as a relatively small gathering, today’s Harley Week attracts thousands of people from all over the world. From custom bike shows to live music performances and everything in between, there is something for everyone at this iconic event.

Over the years, Harley Week has evolved into much more than just a bike rally. It’s now an opportunity for enthusiasts to celebrate their passion for riding while also enjoying some of the best food and entertainment that South Carolina has to offer.

Despite its growth and popularity over the years, Harley Week remains true to its roots – it’s still about having fun on two wheels with like-minded individuals who share your passion for motorcycles.

The annual tradition today

Today, the annual tradition of Harley Davidson bikers flocking to Murrells Inlet is still going strong. The event has evolved over the years into a week-long celebration known as Harley Davidson Bike Week, which is now one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world.

During this week-long event, riders from all over come together to celebrate their love for motorcycles and everything that comes with it. From live music performances to bike shows and contests, there’s always something exciting happening at Bike Week.

One of the highlights of Bike Week is undoubtedly the ride down Ocean Boulevard in Myrtle Beach. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of the ocean while riders cruise along on their bikes.

In addition to all these activities, there are also vendors selling various products related to biking such as apparel, accessories and even new motorcycles. It’s an excellent opportunity for enthusiasts to upgrade or add new items to their collection.

Despite its growth and modernization over time, Harley Davidson Bike Week remains true to its roots – offering a sense of camaraderie among fellow bikers who share a passion for riding motorcycles.

Conclusion

The Harley Davidson Bike Week and Myrtle Beach Bike Week events have become iconic annual traditions that draw thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world. But it’s important to remember that Murrells Inlet is also an integral part of these events. From its scenic waterfront views to its lively bars and restaurants, this small coastal town has been a welcoming host for bikers for decades.

As we look forward to future bike weeks, let’s not forget about the history and tradition that brought us here. Whether you’re a hardcore biker or just a casual fan, there’s something special about being a part of this community and experiencing the thrill of riding on two wheels. So next time you’re in Murrells Inlet during bike week, take some time to appreciate everything this unique town has to offer. You might just discover something new!

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Got a hankerin’ or a craving for seafood?

If so, you’re certainly in the right spot.

Offshore fishing and shrimping provide many a meal of shrimp and grits, fish of all sorts, oysters and other seafood delights to thousands of people each year.

The fishing village of Murrells Inlet calls itself the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.”

Creek boys from yesteryear would gather oysters in the marsh of Murrells Inlet for many of the restaurants and fishing houses. Seine nets would help bring in fish and crab for the table and plenty of skilled cooks and chefs would please the palate and fill the belly with deliciousness.

Those cravings continue to be satisfied in plenty, though the methods of harvesting the bounty of the sea have changed.

Murrells Inlet is in the northern part of Georgetown County, and there are plenty of restaurants along US Highway 17 Business in the Murrells Inlet area.

Many dining places are on the Marshwalk, which is a boardwalk along the edges of the marsh in Murrells Inlet.

Seafood and wide varieties of other food items are often accompanied by music on scheduled nights that you can enjoy during or after your seafood dinner. DJs and bands are features in many of the restaurants.

“Goat Island” along the Marshwalk by Drunken Jack’s Restaurant has had its own special attraction for years. That’s changed now, though.

Since 2006, the owners have brought in goats to live on the island from early spring through the summer. In the fall of 2022, Hurricane Ian caused extensive erosion to the small island. A shed or shelter for the goats was lost in the storm.

The goats — and later peacocks — have been an attraction in their own right. The goats helped to keep vegetation from getting too high on their marsh island.

Al Hitchcock, owner of Drunken Jack’s and of the goats, made a decision in the early part of the year that it wouldn’t be good for the goats to come back to the small remnant of the marsh island this year.

Lots of patrons were disappointed to learn the goats wouldn’t be there this year, but many shared kind words and offered their thanks that Hitchcock was putting the health and safety of the goats ahead of their use as an attraction.

If anyone has ideas for ways to mitigate or lessen the erosion and build it back so the boats could return in the future, Hitchcock would like to hear them. Contact him through Drunken Jack’s Restaurant.

Among the other top-notch attractions in the area are many boating and fishing opportunities. If you have your own boat, of course, you can put it in at Morse Landing Park at 4925 U.S. 17 Business in Murrells Inlet. There are also commercial marinas in Murrells Inlet and Garden City Beach that people may use.

Personal watercraft and paddle-boarding are also popular.

Georgetown County maintains a number of public beach access points along its part of the Garden City Beach/Murrells Inlet area. Just inside Horry County is the Garden City Beach pier that people are welcome to visit and enjoy some fishing.

Several marinas offer fishing trips and boat tours. You may rent watercraft, paddleboards, or take a fishing charter inshore or offshore. There are tour boats, cruises, head boats and party boats and parasailing.

A little south of the Murrells Inlet area are two major attractions not only for Georgetown County but for South Carolina. One is Brookgreen Gardens that was established in 1931 by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington.

The other is Huntington Beach State Park.

The couple set up a private not-for-profit corporation to operate Brookgreen Gardens that the couple had established. Altogether, Brookgreen Gardens encompasses about 9,100 acres. That figure includes Huntington Beach State Park. That oceanside park takes in 2,500 acres.

“For me, the magic of Huntington Beach is in the saltmarsh,” Park Manager Brenda Magers said. “I love the long-range views, the seasonal changes, and of course, the birds!”

Plenty of activities and amenities are available — oceanfront swimming, three miles of beach, campsites for RVs, campers and tents, a park store and what many people call Atalaya Castle.

While it’s not really a castle, Atalaya — which means Watch Tower — was the home and the studio for the Huntingtons. Anna Hyatt Huntington was a well-known sculptor. Parts of Atalaya were used for her studios. They also had areas where animals could be housed so they were available as models for her art works.

Currently, Huntington is the only state park in Georgetown County. Programs and events include birding, tours and info on turtles, snakes and reptiles, kayaking and gators.

Much more information about Huntington Beach State Park and Atalaya is available on the park’s website: southcarolinaparks.com/huntington-beach.

There are plans in the works to add one or two more state parks to serve Georgetown and Williamsburg counties and surrounding areas. See the separate article in this issue of Tidelands for more information.

Across U.S. Highway 17 is the bulk of Brookgreen Gardens. At the entrance is a large sculpture of the fighting stallions. It has long been one of the most photographed objects in South Carolina.

Brookgreen Gardens contains what may be the world’s largest collection of outdoor statuary. Not only are many of Anna Hyatt Huntington’s sculptures on display, but also works by many other artists.

There are multiple areas of the gardens. Sculptures, fountains, plenty of flowers, shrubs and trees, walking paths and the Lowcountry Trail provide views of natural and man-made beauty.

The Lowcountry Zoo and Lowcountry Center tell much about the area’s history and culture, including the Gullah Geechee culture of the slaves and former slaves and their descendants who lived and worked in coastal South Carolina.

Other displays provide beauty and showcase talent by a variety of artists and help people to learn more about the flora and fauna of Lowcountry South Carolina.

There is a Lowcountry Education Center with many programs. Among the programs, there are regular series about the Gullah Geechee culture of the descendants of enslaved Africans who provided the skill and the labor that made Georgetown County the wealthiest county in the United States in the years before the Civil War.

The website for Brookgreen Gardens has much information about admission fees, memberships, programs and the many exhibits that are on display. More information: brookgreen.org.

Bordering on parts of Brookgreen Gardens along the Waccamaw River, and on the western side, the Great Pee Dee River, is the 12,000-acre Sandy Island.

About 9,000 acres of the island are part of the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. The land is owned by The Nature Conservancy and managed by the Waccamaw NWR.

Towards the southern end of Sandy Island is a community of between 50 and 100 people who are generations-long residents of Sandy Island. They are descendants of the formerly enslaved people who first bought some of the land in the years immediately following the end of the Civil War.

There is no bridge to Sandy Island. Residents and visitors must arrive by boat.

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