You won’t find private beaches in the Myrtle Beach area, as most beachfront along the Grand Strand is public.

However, there are some gated communities, as well as oceanfront hotels and resorts, that give exclusive beach access to those living or staying there.

These places, such as Grande Dunes in Myrtle Beach or Debordieu Beach, located south of Pawleys Island and Myrtle Beach, require a pass to use its private beach access.

And while the public can still get to these areas, it may take a little bit of walking or biking to enjoy these more secluded beach locations.

Here are some of the more quiet corners along the Grand Strand that offer a chance to get away from the crowds.

Beach Drive in Myrtle Beach

This residential street running parallel to the ocean is away from the resorts and main tourist activity, offering a more relaxed beach day without the crowd.

The area gives a more nostalgic beach vibe because of its scenic, oceanfront view.

There are public beach access lots, but they have limited parking spaces, guaranteeing more solitude as you sun by the sea.

Briarcliffe Acres beach

The Town of Briarcliffe Acres is located in between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach along U.S. 17. There are no businesses in this residential community that sits along the ocean.

One of the amenities of the residents is private access to an almost mile-long beach. But it’s not totally inaccessible to outsiders.

There are no parking spots near the beach, and you will get a ticket if you park your vehicle and walk to the beach. So the best way to get there is to park elsewhere and bike or walk in to enjoy the secluded spot.

Cherry Grove Point

One of North Myrtle Beach’s less traveled spots, Cherry Grove Point is where the inlet meets the ocean.

No roads go all the way to the point, so to get there you have to park at the public access parking on 53rd or 52nd avenues North and then walk to the point.

However, the walk is worth it with beautiful sand, less crowds and tidal pools to search and soak in.

Garden City Point

Expect to walk about a quarter to a half mile to get to the point as this narrow peninsula is walk-in access only.

It’s located beyond the jetties at the southernmost tip of Garden City beach, but truly, the walk is worth it.

Expect to navigate a few sea walls with narrow entrances as you make your way to the point.

The best way to get to the point is to park near one of the public beach accesses – either Beach Access 43 or 44 is the closest – and begin your trek. That’s the farthest you can drive along South Waccamaw Drive before you hit a private, gated community.

Pawleys Island Point

This secluded spot is only accessible by walking from the nearest public access, using the public access on the south end of Pawleys Island.

The drive to get to the point is just as beautiful as it is once you get there.

You won’t find any high-rise hotels at this location either, which means fewer people and more elbow room.