When the day winds down, the real show begins above. Stargazing in North Myrtle Beach is an awe-inspiring experience for families, couples, and anyone who loves admiring the beauty of the night sky.
Whether you’re counting shooting stars from peaceful parks or soaking in the moonlight from the water, there are plenty of ways to spend an evening stargazing along the South Carolina coast. Here are some of our top picks.
Stargazing in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Thanks to its coastal location and open skies, North Myrtle Beach is a great place for stargazing in South Carolina. On clear nights, especially when you’re away from the city lights, it’s possible to see planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and even Saturn with the naked eye.
Late summer and early fall are great times to marvel at the Milky Way, while winter skies offer ample glimpses of bright constellations like Orion, Taurus, and Gemini. If you’re looking to spend an evening counting stars or spotting meteor showers, North Myrtle Beach is the place to be. Wide-open views over the Atlantic minimize light pollution for a darker, clearer backdrop.
If you plan your stargazing adventure around a major meteor shower, like the Perseids in August or the Geminids in December, you’ll be treated to a dazzling show. For the night owls who love a good sunrise but would rather sleep in, consider making your way to the shore to catch the moon rising over the ocean. It’s just as magical, but without the early wake-up call.
Beaches for Stargazing
Most of the beaches around North Myrtle Beach offer a captivating stargazing experience, but The Point in Cherry Grove is a real treat. This stretch of sand, located at the northernmost tip of the Cherry Grove Beach area, is quiet and secluded with unobstructed views of the night sky. Set apart from the glow of city lights, The Point provides an ideal setting for spotting constellations, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way on particularly clear nights.
The gentle sound of the surf and the wide, open horizon create a calming backdrop, making it a favorite spot for both amateur astronomers and anyone simply looking to unwind under a blanket of stars.
Stargazing on the Water
For an even more memorable night under the stars, book an evening or late-night boat charter. Some local companies offer private cruises that take you into darker waters, where the sky feels bigger and the stars seem even closer. There’s nothing quite like stargazing from a gently swaying boat deck with the salty ocean breeze all around you.
Need some stargazing tips? When you get onto the water, give your eyes around 20 minutes to adjust before searching for stars — you’ll be able to take in more constellations, planets, and possibly some meteor trails. And if you want to pair your stargazing adventure with wildlife sightings, some night tours also provide a chance to see dolphins splashing in the moonlight.
Whether you’re chasing shooting stars or enjoying the quiet beauty of the coastal night sky, stargazing in North Myrtle Beach is an experience to remember.
