8 Nostalgic Beach Traditions to Enjoy on the Hammock Coast

Lowcountry Boil

When people think of Hammock Coast traditions, a Lowcountry boil has to top the list. Of course, you can dine out to enjoy the delicious combination of shrimp, potatoes, corn, sausage, lemons, and seasonings. Pawleys Raw Bar puts crab in its Lowcountry pots. The Dead Dog Saloon at Murrells Inlet MarshWalk serves steam pots with a choice of crab or shrimp. 

Take It Home

If you prefer to enjoy a Lowcountry boil at your vacation property, order and pick up from Get Carried Away Southern Takeout. Its succulent low country boil includes shrimp, sausage, potatoes, corn, onions, garlic, other seasonings, and, of course, cocktail sauce. 

Go Crabbing

Try your luck at old-fashioned crabbing. All you need is some string, a swing net, and a chicken leg or two. Drop the line from one of the local piers, and prepare to swoop your net to catch some crabs.

Seine for Shrimp

Use a seine net as another way to catch your dinner during your Hammock Coast stay. The region’s tidal creeks teem with shrimp. Use a small, hand-held seine net or cast net, and don’t keep small shrimp. Throw them back to get bigger! Take note: A Saltwater Recreational Fishing License is required. 

Pluff Mud

Don’t be afraid to get mud between your toes. It’s a South Carolina coast tradition. The pluff, or plough, mud represents a nutrient-rich ecosystem. Harvesting oysters from these muddy has long been an activity enjoyed by Pawleys Island residents and visitors. “Enjoyed” might be too strong a word, but the gooey, vise-grip of the mud is standard for anyone who dares step into the marsh. One local says you can’t consider yourself a true local until you’ve lost a shoe to it.

Hammock Shops Village

Whether it’s swinging in an Original Pawleys Island Hammock or buying some of the local pimento cheese at Palmetto Cheese, these shops are a must-stop during your stay. After all, the Original Hammock Shop has been there since 1938, so generations have made it part of their Hammock Coast vacation. You’ll want to take home some of its famous fudge.

House of Worship

One of the most photographed spots in the area is Pawleys Island Chapel, which sits on the marsh side of the island. The Chapel dates to 1947 and has survived numerous hurricanes, including Hugo and Hazel. It has been restored and re-furnished over the years but still holds non-denomination services each Sunday during the summer.

Enjoy the Beach

The beaches and ocean at Pawleys Island and Litchfield Beach make it a national treasure. The wide beach and soft sand give it rave reviews. Spending time basking in the sun and enjoying the seclusion is all part of the attraction.