Photo courtesy of Jim Whitney
Pawleys Island is known as the oldest seaside resort in South Carolina. The island itself is less than 4 miles long, located 70 miles North of Charleston and 25 miles South of Myrtle Beach. The Town of Pawleys Island is actually JUST the actual island, which is connected to the mainland by two bridges, the North Causeway and the South Causeway. But, locals generalize Pawleys Island as all areas included in the 29585 zip code.
Pawleys Island was first developed as a summer resort in the early 1700s by the families of local rice planters who owned plantations on the nearby rivers. Although people were not yet fully aware of what malaria was, they were conscious of the mosquitoes and illness that swarmed around the rivers in summer. So, they moved their families to the seaside on Pawleys Island from May to November. The leisurely existence that became a tradition in those times has carried on to Pawleys Island's current, "arrogantly shabby", laid-back, and carefree lifestyle.
The historical district maintains 12 residences from the 1700s to the mid-1800s, including the Liberty Lodge and the Pelican Inn. Historical markers are set up along the Myrtle Avenue on the Island telling the story of each home. There are a few popular local ghost stories linked to some of these properties, including the legend of the Gray Man.
The beaches are the most obvious feature that Pawleys has to offer, but not the only one. Some visitors and locals are more into the pluff mud of the marsh. Separating the island from the mainland, the marsh provides for fantastic fishing, crabbing, shrimping, and bird watching. The Great Blue Heron and White Egret are common marsh birds.
Photos by Bill Gobbel
One more amazing sight for nature lovers in Pawleys Island is the loggerhead sea turtle. This endangered species of sea turtle is fiercely protected by locals. The mothers come up on the beach to lay their eggs, and conservationists watch over the nests. A miracle of nature indeed...
Then, we have the unique shopping and dining found in Pawleys Island. Yesterday, someone said to me "You don't have a Zaxby's in Pawleys? Where do ya'll eat down there?" I had to laugh. If I want good fried chicken or BBQ, I head to Hog Heaven. For the best burger in town, I go to the Pawleys Island Tavern, a favorite local hang hidden back behind the Island Shops. For fine dining, there are an array of options, including, but not limited to: The Chive Blossom, Bistro 217, Pastaria 811, and Frank's.
The shopping style in Pawleys Island continues on in our laid back style. The Hammock Shops are an "arrogantly shabby" collection of 20 specialty shops and restaurants nestled amongst live oaks and azaleas. Benches and hammocks are available for shoppers to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. The Island Shops are located across the street and down a ways, giving you the same chilled out vibe and a quaint duck pond. Pick up a joggling board while you are here, a low country tradition...
I could go on and on about the surfing, kayaking, golf, spas, and people of Pawleys Island, but I have to get ready to meet with someone who is ready to buy a home here and join our way of life. Come see for yourself...book a vacation in Pawleys Island and experience what we are all about. I can help you find your own piece of paradise. But, keep in mind "Pawleys Island likes people who like Pawleys Island", so slow down, kick your shoes off, and ENJOY!
Happy House Hunting!
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