Cherry Grove, nestled at the northernmost tip of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers a laid-back coastal escape with classic Carolina charm. This beach neighborhood features charming cottages on stilts, expansive views of the salt marsh, and the iconic Cherry Grove Pier, which has withstood decades of coastal storms.
The neighborhood’s unique setting combines oceanfront beaches — Atlantic Beach, Crescent Beach, Windy Hill Beach, and Cherry Grove Beach — with tidal salt marshes and Intracoastal Waterways, providing ample opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and leisurely strolls.
Plan your perfect beach vacation with Sea House Villas, where you can enjoy spacious, comfortable accommodations just minutes from the Cherry Grove Pier! Read on below for everything there is to know about visiting Cherry Grove.
About the Cherry Grove Area
Cherry Grove occupies the northernmost tip of North Myrtle Beach, positioned where the Atlantic Ocean meets an intricate network of tidal salt marshes and the Intracoastal Waterway. This geography creates a unique landscape where visitors can walk along the ocean in the morning, then kayak through quiet creeks behind Sea Mountain Highway in the afternoon.
The beach here shares nearly nine miles of accessible coastline with the other sections of North Myrtle Beach. Cherry Grove’s position at the far north end means the crowds thin out considerably. The Cherry Grove Pier is a big draw, extending over 900 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, drawing fishing enthusiasts and sunset watchers alike.
Nearby nature preserves such as Heritage Shores and Russell Burgess offer tranquil trails and wildlife viewing, making Cherry Grove a perfect destination for families and outdoor lovers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast.
In short, the area does not disappoint with attractions and hidden natural gems.
History of Cherry Grove & the Pier
Cherry Grove blossomed into a beloved beach community in the mid-20th century, when improved roads made the South Carolina coast an easy getaway for families seeking sun, sand, and surf. Over time, summer cottages and cozy motels sprang up, welcoming visitors to this charming coastal spot.
In 1968, Cherry Grove Beach joined with Windy Hill, Ocean Drive, and Crescent Beach to form the City of North Myrtle Beach, blending services while keeping each neighborhood’s unique character.
At the heart of Cherry Grove is its iconic pier, built in the early 1950s and standing strong through storms like Hurricane Hazel in 1954. After a major update following Hurricane Floyd in 1999, the pier continues to be a favorite gathering spot for anglers and families alike.
Whether casting a line for king mackerel or simply enjoying the ocean breeze, locals and visitors share stories and create memories here, making the pier a true symbol of Cherry Grove’s warm, welcoming spirit.
Things To Do Around Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove offers easy access to a mix of things to do, from classic beach activities and outdoor nature experiences to major attractions scattered across North Myrtle Beach.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun on the water or prefer leisurely strolls through preserved marshland, this neighborhood has options that don’t require fighting traffic, and crowds are kept to a minimum.
Go Fishing & Take Pier Walks
The Cherry Grove Pier stretches over 900 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, making it one of the longest fishing piers along the South Carolina coast. Surf fishing from the pier requires only basic gear—a rod, bait, and a bucket for your catch—and the pier house sells and rents everything you need.
Beyond fishing, the pier offers wonderful views and a prime spot to photograph the sunrise over the waves or simply enjoy the sea breeze with an ice cream cone. During the summer months, the pier buzzes with activity from early morning into the evening.
Check Out the Nature Preserves & Marsh Views
For a quiet park alternative to beach time, visit Heritage Shores Nature Preserve, located on House Creek near the northern end of Cherry Grove. Heritage Shores Nature Preserve features boardwalks that wind through salt marsh, educational signage explaining the ecosystem, and views of tidal inlets and the jetty area.
It’s a small preserve, but it delivers big on natural beauty, especially during golden hour, when the marsh grasses glow.
Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve offers another nearby option for nature-focused visitors, with marsh overlooks ideal for birdwatching and sunrise or sunset photography.
Both preserves make excellent destinations for families with kids who need a break from the sand, as well as for nature enthusiasts alike.
Dabble in Local Watersports
Water recreation takes many forms in the channels and creeks behind Cherry Grove’s residential streets. Kayaking through the marsh lets you explore areas inaccessible by foot, often spotting herons, egrets, and the occasional dolphin.
Paddleboarding is another great option in the calmer channels, especially in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. Several nearby marinas offer boat rentals and dolphin-watching excursions if you prefer someone else at the helm.
Explore Family Attractions Nearby
Mini golf courses and arcades line Sea Mountain Highway and the Grand Strand, providing evening entertainment after the sun goes down. Barefoot Landing is also a short drive south and offers shopping, dining, and entertainment, including the House of Blues and the Alabama Theatre.
Where to Stay in Cherry Grove: Sea House Villas
For an exceptional stay in Cherry Grove, Sea House Villas offers spacious and comfortable oceanfront vacation rentals just minutes from the iconic Cherry Grove Pier. The villas provide a variety of beautifully appointed condos designed to make your beach getaway memorable, whether you’re planning a family reunion, a group trip, or a relaxing retreat.
The accommodations feature classic coastal architecture with elevated living spaces, private pools, and large decks or porches perfect for enjoying ocean breezes, along with modern amenities such as fully equipped kitchens and keyless entry.
Many properties offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean or the peaceful marsh channels, blending natural beauty with luxurious comfort.
Located conveniently near Sea Mountain Highway, Sea House Villas puts you within easy reach of Cherry Grove’s outdoor activities, including fishing, kayaking, and nature preserves like Heritage Shores and Russell Burgess.
You’ll appreciate the quieter, residential feel of Cherry Grove, combined with access to North Myrtle Beach’s shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Dining in and Around Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove offers a variety of dining experiences that perfectly complement its relaxed coastal vibe. From waterfront seafood spots to casual grills and upscale restaurants nearby, you’ll find delicious options to satisfy every craving during your stay.
Waterfront Dining
Waterfront spots along the Intracoastal Waterway deliver the quintessential lowcountry dining experience. Picture yourself on an outdoor deck as boats cruise past, live music drifts from the bar, and a platter arrives loaded with peel-and-eat shrimp, fried oysters, and a classic lowcountry boil with corn, potatoes, and sausage.
Oceanfront dining spots like Snooky’s or Driftwood Restaurant on the Cherry Grove Pier offer classic beach fare, including seafood platters, steamed crab legs, and Southern sides, with direct views of the pier and shoreline.
These restaurants are the busiest during summer evenings when the sun drops toward the marsh, and the deck fills with families still sandy from the beach.
Casual Dining
For casual meals, bar-and-grill spots serve burgers, baskets of fried shrimp, and cold drinks in settings designed for flip-flops and swimsuit cover-ups. These work perfectly after a long afternoon on the pier or a morning spent kayaking the marsh.
Kids gravitate toward ice cream stands and walk-up windows along Sea Mountain Highway, where cones and sundaes make for sweet endings to beach days.
Upscale Dining
When fine dining or more variety calls, the broader North Myrtle Beach food scene sits just a short drive away. Ocean Drive offers additional restaurants and bars, while Barefoot Landing expands choices to include national chains, upscale steakhouses, and live entertainment venues.
The proximity means Cherry Grove guests never need to sacrifice culinary options for their quieter location.
When to Visit Cherry Grove
While Cherry Grove is an excellent choice to explore year-round, there is a season for every pursuit, whether you are drawn to leisurely days on the beach or cooler days on the pier.
Summer (June–August)
Cherry Grove experiences warm, humid summers, with July the hottest and busiest month. High temperatures regularly climb into the upper 80s to low 100s°F. Afternoon thundershowers roll through frequently but usually clear within an hour, leaving behind slightly cooler air.
This peak-season atmosphere means maximum activity on the beach and Cherry Grove Pier, but also maximum crowds and the highest prices. Summer is perfect for visitors seeking full beach days, outdoor fun, and the lively atmosphere of North Myrtle Beach.
Spring (April–May)
Spring in Cherry Grove offers mild, pleasant weather, with temperatures warm enough for comfortable beach days, and the ocean is swimmable by late April. The crowds are lighter compared to summer, making it an ideal time for visitors who want to enjoy the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast without the busyness.
Spring is great for leisurely strolls, early-season fishing, and exploring nearby Heritage Shores Nature Preserve.
Fall (September–October)
Fall provides a beautiful shoulder season with warm temperatures and fewer visitors. The ocean remains swimmable through mid-October, and the summer crowds have mostly departed.
This season is excellent if you’re looking for a quieter experience with pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking in the Intracoastal Waterway or fishing off the Cherry Grove Pier.
Winter (November–March)
Winter in Cherry Grove is mild and much quieter, with daytime highs often landing in the 50s and 60s°F. As humidity drops, the beach and marsh areas take on a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere.
Visitors looking for off-season rates, quiet morning walks on empty beaches, and easy restaurant reservations find winter months especially appealing. Though water temperatures are a bit cool for swimming, the natural beauty of Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve and other outdoor sites is inviting for exploration and photography.
Book Your Stay at Sea House Villas
Ready to experience the charm and tranquility of Cherry Grove Beach? Sea House Villas offers spacious, beautifully appointed vacation rentals just minutes from the iconic Cherry Grove Pier.
Cherry Grove delivers exactly what travelers who come to the coast are looking for: a blend of classic Carolina beach atmosphere, marshside tranquility, and easy access to the entertainment and amenities scattered across the wider Grand Strand. Whether you’re planning a week in with your extended family or a long weekend escape with your partner, this quiet corner of Cherry Grove rewards those who find their way north.
Don’t miss out on your ideal beach vacation. Book your Sea House Villas stay today!