All About the Intracoastal Waterway
If you’re planning a vacation to Myrtle Beach, you’re sure to spend a decent amount of time in the water. But if you think you’re restricted to just the waters of the Atlantic, think again! The city is situated right on the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway, offering plenty of opportunities for watersports near Myrtle Beach. Here’s everything you should know before you visit!
About the Intracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway is a beloved area in Myrtle Beach, but it extends far beyond our city limits. This shipping route begins in Massachusetts and travels all the way around Florida’s southern tip and around to its end in Brownsville, Texas. It covers a whopping 3,000 miles in total!
This inland waterway was officially completed in 1949, but plans for such a project were being discussed as early as the mid-1700s. It serves as a reliable and safe method for shipping and transporting goods without facing the hazards of the open sea.
Today, the Waterway is divided into three sections. The first two are jointly called the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway; while there were former plans to connect these two sections, those plans were halted due to environmental concerns. The third section is known as the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Myrtle Beach sits within the Atlantic portion, which runs from Key West, Florida, up to Portsmouth, Virginia.
Things to Do Near the Water
Myrtle Beach enjoys access to around 60 miles of the Intracoastal Waterway, providing tons of space for visitors and residents alike to enjoy the water. While there is some cargo traffic in the area, the Intracoastal Waterway around Myrtle Beach is largely used for recreation. You can spend your days relaxing on the banks and soaking up the sunshine, renting a paddle board or canoe, or simply wading in the water.
Of course, with beautiful water comes great seafood! There are several incredible restaurants near the Intracoastal Waterway offering delectable flavors and breathtaking views of the water. You might even see people crabbing and fishing during the day, gathering the seafood that will soon be served at a local restaurant. Try your hand at crabbing or fishing while you’re in the area!
Crazy Sister Marina is located in nearby Murrells Inlet and has great proximity to the Waterway. We’re proud to offer convenient and affordable Myrtle Beach boat rentals, letting you get on the water at your own pace and float the day away. Additionally, we offer fishing charters and excursions for the whole family, kayak and paddle board rentals, sunset cruises, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you have a blast on the Intracoastal Waterway!