Springmaid Pier / South Carolina / United States

This is another decent spot off Myrtle Beach. Conditions here mean it is suitable for everyone, beginners upwards, although those with a lot of experience won’t find it much of a challenge. It tends to be a spot where tourists meet locals, and can have a relaxed, friendly feel to it when everyone takes the time to just wait their turn and enjoy it.

Long sandy beach here. It is public access and only a short walk from the parking to the shore. To find it, head off Highway 17, down South Ocean Boulevard and park up round Springmaid Boulevard.

The swell here is typically from a northwest or northeast direction. It starts working at less than 21m and holds up to 2m and bigger. It is a beach break, and the waves aren’t particularly powerful or exciting, it’s just a nice spot to surf. There is a second spot about 100m north of the pier where the waves are also good. It is pretty quiet in the week, but can get very crowded very quickly if there is a decent swell at weekend.

It’s on Myrtle Beach, so there are plenty of facilities for everyone. It is set up as a tourist destination, so accommodation is plentiful and has a decent range of hotels and bed and breakfasts, and you can take your pick of places to eat.

There are sometimes shark sightings in the area, and though they aren’t known to cause trouble it is best not to push it. Other than, don’t play rough by dropping in on the locals who have an affinity for the spot.