Where Do Pelicans Play in Myrtle Beach? Top Spots & Tips

If you love watching pelicans glide over the ocean or dive for fish, Myrtle Beach is a great place to see these beautiful birds. The area’s beaches, marshes, and waterways provide perfect spots for pelicans to play and feed. Whether you are a nature lover or just curious, you can find pelicans in several key locations around Myrtle Beach.

In this article, we will explore the best places to watch pelicans in Myrtle Beach. We will also share tips on when to visit, what to bring, and how to enjoy your time safely while respecting the wildlife. Let’s dive into the world of pelicans and discover where they like to hang out in this popular coastal city.

Understanding Pelicans and Their Habitat in Myrtle Beach

Pelicans are large water birds known for their long beaks and throat pouches. In Myrtle Beach, you mostly see the Brown Pelican, which is common along the Atlantic coast. These birds are skilled fishers and often fly low over the water or dive to catch their meals.

The natural habitats that attract pelicans include:

• Coastal beaches with shallow waters

• Salt marshes and estuaries

• Inlets and piers where fish gather

• Nearby islands and sandbars

Myrtle Beach offers all these environments, making it a perfect place for pelicans to feed, rest, and socialize. The birds often gather in groups, especially during feeding times or migration seasons.

Best Places to See Pelicans in Myrtle Beach

Here are some top spots where you can watch pelicans play and fish in Myrtle Beach:

• Myrtle Beach State Park: This park has a long pier and beach area where pelicans often fly close to shore. Early mornings and late afternoons are great times to spot them.

• Cherry Grove Pier: Located at the northern end of Myrtle Beach, this pier is a favorite for pelicans diving for fish. You can watch from the pier or nearby beach.

• Huntington Beach State Park: Just south of Myrtle Beach, this park offers salt marshes and tidal creeks where pelicans feed. The park has observation areas perfect for birdwatching.

• Murrells Inlet Marshwalk: This scenic boardwalk along the marsh is a great place to see pelicans flying low or resting on pilings near the water.

• Winyah Bay: Located a bit north of Myrtle Beach, this estuary attracts many pelicans during migration seasons.

Each of these locations offers a unique view of pelicans in their natural setting. You can combine your pelican watching with other activities like fishing, walking, or photography.

When Is the Best Time to See Pelicans in Myrtle Beach?

Pelicans are present year-round in Myrtle Beach, but some times are better for watching them play and feed:

• Spring and Fall: These are migration periods when pelicans travel along the coast. You may see larger groups flying together or resting in the area.

• Early Morning and Late Afternoon: Pelicans tend to feed during these cooler times of the day. The light is also better for photography.

• After Storms or High Tides: Fish are often closer to shore, attracting pelicans to feed near piers and beaches.

Visiting during these times increases your chances of seeing active pelican behavior like diving and flying in groups.

Tips for Watching Pelicans Responsibly in Myrtle Beach

When you go to see pelicans, it’s important to respect their space and the environment. Here are some tips to enjoy your visit responsibly:

• Keep a safe distance from the birds to avoid disturbing them.

• Use binoculars or a zoom lens for close-up views without getting too close.

• Do not feed pelicans or any wildlife, as it can harm their health.

• Stay on marked paths and avoid trampling vegetation in marsh areas.

• Dispose of trash properly to keep the habitat clean and safe for wildlife.

Following these simple rules helps protect pelicans and other animals while allowing you to enjoy their natural behavior.

Other Wildlife to Spot Alongside Pelicans in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is home to many other birds and animals that share the coastal habitat with pelicans. While you watch pelicans, keep an eye out for:

• Seagulls and terns flying nearby

• Ospreys and eagles hunting fish

• Herons and egrets standing in shallow waters

• Dolphins swimming close to shore

• Sea turtles occasionally seen near the beach

These animals add to the rich wildlife experience you can enjoy in Myrtle Beach. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will find plenty to see and photograph.

Where to Stay for Easy Access to Pelican Watching

Choosing the right place to stay can make your pelican watching trip easier and more enjoyable. Consider these hotel options near popular pelican spots:

• Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: Located near the Intracoastal Waterway, this hotel offers easy access to water and birdwatching areas.

• Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort: Situated on the beach near Cherry Grove, it’s perfect for early morning pelican watching from the shore.

• Hampton Inn Myrtle Beach-Broadway at the Beach: A convenient base to explore multiple pelican spots and other attractions.

• Ocean Reef Resort: Close to Myrtle Beach State Park, this resort offers beachfront views and quick access to the pier.

Booking a hotel near these areas lets you spend more time outdoors and less time traveling to pelican hotspots.

How to Plan Your Pelican Watching Trip in Myrtle Beach

Here are some steps to plan a successful pelican watching trip:

• Check the weather forecast and tide schedules for the best viewing conditions.

• Bring binoculars, a camera with zoom, sunscreen, and water.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on sand or boardwalks.

• Visit multiple locations to see different pelican behaviors and habitats.

• Combine pelican watching with other activities like fishing, hiking, or dining at waterfront restaurants.

Planning ahead helps you make the most of your time and enjoy the natural beauty of Myrtle Beach.

Conclusion

Pelicans are a wonderful part of the Myrtle Beach coastal experience. You can see them flying, diving, and resting in several beautiful spots around the city. Myrtle Beach State Park, Cherry Grove Pier, and Huntington Beach State Park are some of the best places to watch these birds in action.

By visiting during the right times and following simple guidelines, you can enjoy pelican watching safely and responsibly. Whether you stay near the beach or explore the marshes, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and see pelicans play.

FAQs

Where do pelicans usually gather in Myrtle Beach?

Pelicans often gather near piers, beaches, and marshes such as Myrtle Beach State Park, Cherry Grove Pier, and Huntington Beach State Park. These areas provide good fishing spots and safe resting places.

What is the best time of day to see pelicans in Myrtle Beach?

Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to see pelicans feeding and flying. The light is good, and the birds tend to be more active during these cooler parts of the day.

Are pelicans in Myrtle Beach present year-round?

Yes, Brown Pelicans live in Myrtle Beach all year. However, you may see larger groups during spring and fall migration seasons when they travel along the coast.

Can I feed pelicans at Myrtle Beach?

No, feeding pelicans or any wildlife is discouraged. It can harm their health and disrupt natural behaviors. It’s best to watch them from a distance without interfering.

What other wildlife can I see with pelicans in Myrtle Beach?

You can spot seagulls, ospreys, herons, dolphins, and sometimes sea turtles near pelican habitats. Myrtle Beach offers a rich variety of coastal wildlife to enjoy alongside pelican watching.