July 16, 2010
Huntington Beach State Park
South Carolina’s Huntington Beach State park is 2,500 acres of coastal preserve nestled just south of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet. Comprised of beaches, marshland, Atalaya Castle and an Educational Center, Huntington Beach State Park is ideal for spending a day away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Named after Archer M. Huntington, the park is home to Atalaya Castle where the Huntingtons spent the winter months. Atalaya, meaning “watchtower” in Spanish, is named for the 40 foot tall brick water 
tower inside the courtyard that dominates the 30 room property. The castle, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built during the Great Depression using only local construction workers and is designed after Moorish architecture. Huntington, a noted scholar and philanthropist, donated the castle and land to the state after his death. Every September for the past 35 years Atalaya has been host to the prestigious Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival which boasts over 100 artists.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Educational Center, featuring a saltwater touch tank with loggerhead turtles,
a baby alligator and many other aquatic species. The center was built to help educate visitors on the importance of human interaction with the critical ecosystems that are found along the coastal area. An array of programs are also available at the center such as Birding, a class that teaches beginners the basics of the hobby. With more than 300 recorded species the park is considered one of the top spots on the East Coast for birding. Another favorite program is Feeding Frenzy, which provides visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a sting ray and other sea creatures.
Huntington Beach State Park also has 3 miles of private beach access that are perfect for sun bathing, swimming, fishing and a leisurely stroll. The beach is typically not as crowded as the public beaches north in Myrtle Beach giving visitors a chance to truly relax. In addition the the beach hikers can also enjoy a 2 mile trail around Sandpiper Pond where alligators are regularly spotted. Picnic tables and grills are also located on the grounds.
Huntington Beach State Park is open Saturday – Thursday 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. There are varying admission charges for the park, castle and different programs. For information call (843) 237-4440 or visit online. For lodging check out Festiva Hospitality’s resort, Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation in Murrells Inlet. Guests staying at Ellington receive free passes to Huntington Beach State Park.
