• Veterans Pier - Upon departing the MarshWalk, the Murrells Inlet Veterans Pier comes into view. This public fishing pier is situated on the historic grounds of a World War II U.S. Army Air Forces Crash Boat Station (circa 1943–1945). The station played a crucial role in supporting aerial gunnery training from the nearby Myrtle Beach Army Air Field and was instrumental in locating and recovering pilots and aircraft involved in training mishaps over the coastal waters and marsh.

The facility boasted a long marsh dock, storage buildings, and a radio shack for coordinating rescue operations. Local boat captains and volunteers frequently assisted military personnel in coastal patrol and recovery missions, making it a vital support site along the Grand Strand during the war.

Following WWII, the military vacated the station, and it was transformed into a public fishing pier. Over the years, storm damage, including the devastation from Hurricane Hugo in 1989, destroyed much of the original structure. The site was subsequently rebuilt and integrated into the MarshWalk area in the early 2000s.

• County Road S-22-600 - Continuing through Murrells Inlet, one passes Oyster Cove, a prestigious waterfront community known for its “million-dollar homes.” This neighborhood features private docks, expansive marsh views, and direct access to the inlet’s tidal creeks. It offers a glimpse into Lowcountry waterfront living, where boats are as common as cars, and every home overlooks the dynamic salt marsh.

• Garden City UFO House - Keep an eye on the shoreline for one of the area’s most unique landmarks — the “UFO House” in Garden City. Constructed in 1976, this round, elevated structure resembles something from a sci-fi film, earning its nickname.

However, this home is not just for show — it was designed as a hurricane-resistant structure, engineered to endure extreme coastal storms with its distinctive shape and elevated design.

Amidst traditional beach homes, the UFO House quickly became a local curiosity and has since become a must-see landmark along the Grand Strand. It has even withstood major hurricanes with minimal damage, proving its futuristic design was ahead of its time.

Still owned by the original family and used as a vacation home, the owners are typically seen only around the holidays. While sightings of the owners are rare, locals humorously suggest that the only regular residents are George, Jane, Judy, and Elroy.

• Huntington Beach State Park - As the journey continues towards the jetties, Huntington Beach State Park comes into view, one of South Carolina’s most significant protected coastal preserves. This undeveloped stretch of shoreline features wide, natural beaches, dunes, and maritime forests that remain largely untouched by development, offering a rare glimpse of the Grand Strand as it once was.

The park is part of a vital coastal ecosystem that supports a wide variety of wildlife, including shorebirds, sea turtles during nesting season, and frequent dolphin activity just offshore. Its estuaries and salt marshes are also part of the larger Murrells Inlet watershed, one of the most biologically rich tidal systems on the East Coast.

Huntington Beach State Park is widely recognized for its conservation efforts and natural beauty, making it a standout landmark along the South Carolina coast and a key example of preserved Lowcountry habitat.

• Drunken Jack Island - Sail past Drunken Jack Island, a serene and undeveloped barrier island surrounded by winding tidal creeks and salt marsh. According to local legend, the island is named after a pirate known as Drunken Jack, who was reportedly left behind by his crew after a night of revelry. The tale suggests they intended to return for him, but days turned into weeks and weeks into months. When they finally returned, all that remained was a weathered campsite marked by scattered bones and empty rum bottles — a haunting story that has become part of Murrells Inlet folklore.

• On-board restrooms

Discover the lively ecosystem of Murrells Inlet with an engaging Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour. This two-hour cruise provides a special chance for families and nature lovers to delve into the rich coastal scenery. Guided by a marine biologist on board, participants can watch local wildlife, engage in live demonstrations, and enjoy a shelling excursion on an exclusive beach accessible only by boat. The onboard journey features interactive touch tanks filled with marine creatures like blue crabs, sea urchins, starfish, oysters, and more, allowing guests to observe, hold, and explore, making it an educational experience for all ages. Ideal for families, seniors, and couples seeking to connect with nature and each other.

• Two-hour eco-cruise through the scenic saltwater marsh
• Expert naturalists lead the tour, offering insights into local wildlife and history
• Shelling excursion on a private beach
• Family-friendly adventure suitable for all ages, with onboard amenities

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.