15 Jan All About the Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach Ecosystem

All About the Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach Ecosystem

If you’re planning a vacation to the Myrtle Beach area, you’re probably wondering, “What are some fun things to do near me while I’m in town?” Though there are tons of incredible attractions in Myrtle Beach itself, you should definitely take the time to drive about 25 minutes down the coastline to the small town of Murrells Inlet. Here, you’ll find tons of beautiful nature and a fascinating ecosystem. Before you head down to the shore, check out this guide to the species you might see and how we can protect them!

Native Animal Species

Murrells Inlet is located in Georgetown County, which is known as one of the most ecologically diverse counties in all of South Carolina. Visitors can admire a huge number of animals here, from fish and other marine life to birds and land animals.

Many people find themselves in this area because they want to embark on an ecotour in Myrtle Beach or head off on a fishing charter. Spending time in the water can allow you to see huge oysters, clams, and other shellfish, as well as abundant fish species like redfish, flounder, amberjack, spadefish, barracuda, and many others.

One of the most majestic animals you’ll see in the area is the Loggerhead Turtle. These incredible creatures are actually the state reptile of South Carolina, so you definitely don’t want to miss the chance to spot one! You can find Loggerhead Turtles out in the open ocean or closer to the coastlines of Murrells Inlet.

Besides marine life, Murrells Inlet is full of incredible land animals as well. There’s quite a few game species present in this area, like gray squirrels, eastern cottontail rabbits, and white-tailed deer. However, one of the biggest draws to the area is the abundance of bird species. You’ll find everything from mourning doves and bobwhite quail to varieties of sparrows, finches, crows, wrens, and more!

Conservation Efforts

While you’re enjoying admiring the wildlife in Myrtle Beach and Murrells Inlet, there are a few things to be aware of. Learning more about the area’s animals and their habitats can help us make sure we keep these creatures safe and happy for years to come.

The Murrells Inlet community has put an emphasis on improving the local water quality and maintaining protected habitats for the safety of oyster reefs in particular. Since oysters and shellfish are vital to having a healthy ecosystem overall, it’s important to protect the creatures that make up the foundation of the habitat! Public outreach initiatives like the Spring Tide Cleanup and the “Litter Makes Us Crabby” campaign have been incredibly helpful in not only cleaning up the waters but also in educating the community on the importance of these efforts.

In general, it’s best to keep your distance from any animal you might see while you’re on your travels. Many species in the area, such as the Loggerhead Turtle, are endangered, so it’s especially important that we take care of the nature around us. It is their home and we’re just visiting, after all! Just bring your binoculars and you can see the animals just fine. Additionally, be sure to pick up after yourself on any trip so no litter remains in the natural habitats of the wildlife.

One of the best ways to enjoy nature while treating it right is by embarking on an ecotour in Myrtle Beach or Murrells Inlet. Your experienced guide can show you all the area’s most amazing wildlife in a manner that’s safe for humans and animals alike, and you’ll get a built-in lesson along the way! Blue Wave Adventures in Murrells Inlet offers exciting dolphin watches that are the perfect way to see wildlife and enjoy nature with your family. Contact us today to learn more!