The Palmetto State is full of wonderful staycation spots, and we're bringing you one each Friday in August. This week, we're taking the three-hour drive to the ocean and heading to Pawleys Island.

📍 Essential info

Drive time: ~3 hours

Year the town was established: 1985

Est. population: 133

🎟️ Experience

Explore Historic Pawleys Island

Walk or bike around the Island to explore the historic district with homes dating back to the 1800's.

Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy., Murrells Inlet

Try parking at the north beach access and walking 1.5 miles north to the jetty — you won’t find better views at sunrise and sunset.

Brookgreen Gardens, 1931 Brookgreen Dr., Murrells Inlet

Explore the botanical gardens, sculptures, history, and even a zoo. Pro Tip: Visit in December to experience Nights of a Thousand Candles. Did you know? The event is its largest annual fundraiser, which supports its programming and events.

Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, 4025 Hwy. 17 Business, Murrells Inlet

From seafood spots to live music and drinks (Don’t Miss: The Mullet Hut’s Rum-a-rita), plan to spend an afternoon or evening exploring the marsh views. Pro Tip: Visit during Taste of the Marshwalk for small plates and a Bloody Mary competition.

Join Parlor Perks and score a free doughnut during your birthday week. | Photo by GVLtoday

🍔 Eat

Frank’s Outback, 10434 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island

With greenery walls and strings of lights, you can’t miss this outdoor dining spot — reservations recommended.

Rustic Table, 10683 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island

Stop by for brunch, lunch, or supper to feast on scratch-made Southern dishes. Don’t forget to ask about the specials.

Pawleys Island Tavern, 10635 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island

Visitors and locals alike love a night at PIT, known for being “classically shabby” with pub food and live music.

Parlor Doughnuts, 11359 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island

Grab a dozen doughnuts to take to the beach, sip on a housemade cold brew, or grab a breakfast sandwich on an unglazed doughnut.

Gilbert’s Ice Cream, 10080 Ocean Hwy., #6, Pawleys Island

What’s a trip to the beach without an ice cream stop? You can’t beat Gilbert’s homemade ice cream sundaes with flavors that change as they run out.

🏨 Stay

Lemon LaBruce

This oceanfront and creekfront 6BR, 3BA home is one of the original Pawleys Island properties (read: built in the mid-1800s), filled with historical character and charm.

The Litchfield Inn

Enjoy a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast before walking down to the beach at this oceanfront hotel.

Pelican Inn

While you can stay at the Inn from Memorial Day to Labor Day, you can also rent the entire home in the off-season with private ocean access on a secluded stretch of Pawleys Island.

Wait a minute, COLA. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank.