Myrtle Beach is best known for its sunny shores, vibrant nightlife, and family fun, but beyond the beaches and boardwalks lies a darker, more mysterious side to this beloved coastal town. For centuries, ghostly legends and eerie tales have been whispered along the Grand Strand. From haunted plantations to ghostly ships, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of paranormal thrills for those brave enough to explore.
If you’re a fan of the supernatural, pack your ghost-hunting gear and get ready to discover the spookier side of the coast! Here’s a guide to the most chilling legends, ghost stories, and haunted adventures that you can experience in and around Myrtle Beach.
1. The Gray Man of Pawleys Island
One of the most famous ghost stories along the Grand Strand is that of The Gray Man, a spectral figure said to walk the shores of Pawleys Island before hurricanes hit the area. Legend has it that the Gray Man is a benevolent spirit, warning residents of approaching danger. He is said to be the ghost of a young man who died tragically in a storm while visiting his fiancée. His appearance is seen as a good omen, with families who encounter him often finding their homes spared from destruction. While Pawleys Island is about 40 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, the story has become one of the most enduring legends of the Lowcountry.
2. Alice Flagg’s Ghost at All Saints Cemetery
Alice Flagg’s tale is one of heartbreak and lingering spirits. A young woman from a wealthy family, Alice fell in love with a man her family disapproved of. After becoming engaged in secret, her brother forced her to end the relationship and sent her away to boarding school. Alice fell ill and passed away, still clinging to the engagement ring her love had given her. Today, it’s said her ghost haunts All Saints Cemetery near Pawleys Island, where she wanders in search of her lost ring. Visitors to the cemetery often leave flowers or coins on her grave in hopes of glimpsing her spectral figure.
3. The Ghost of Pelican Inn
Another haunted site on Pawleys Island is the historic Pelican Inn. This charming inn has seen its share of ghostly visitors, with guests reporting strange occurrences like unexplained footsteps, objects moving on their own, and eerie sensations. The most common story involves the spirit of a young woman who is said to linger in the inn, her presence felt late at night. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, spending a night at Pelican Inn is sure to add a spooky twist to your stay.
4. Atalaya Castle at Huntington Beach State Park
If you’re a fan of historic architecture and ghostly lore, a visit to Atalaya Castle is a must. Located within Huntington Beach State Park, Atalaya was once the winter home of sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington and her husband Archer. Though the castle is beautiful by day, it takes on an eerie atmosphere at night. Many believe the castle is haunted, with ghostly figures seen wandering the grounds and strange sounds heard in the abandoned rooms. The castle’s empty halls and coastal winds add to the spine-tingling ambiance, making it a popular spot for those seeking a supernatural experience.
5. Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates, and Historic Families Trolley Tour
For a deeper dive into the ghostly history and pirate lore of the Grand Strand, the Myrtle Beach Area Ghosts, Pirates, and Historic Families Trolley Tour is an incredible way to experience the region’s haunted past. This tour takes you through significant historic sites, including former pirate hangouts, haunted homes, and locations with ties to famous local families. You’ll hear chilling stories of shipwrecks, pirate legends, and ghostly encounters while traveling in the comfort of a trolley. It’s a fascinating mix of history and hauntings, perfect for those who want an immersive storytelling experience.
6. The Ghost of Drunken Jack at Murrells Inlet
Murrells Inlet is known for its waterfront dining and lively atmosphere, but it’s also home to the eerie legend of Drunken Jack, a pirate who was left behind on an island by his crew with nothing but a stash of rum. According to local lore, Jack drank himself to death, and now his ghost haunts the waters of Murrells Inlet. Locals and visitors alike have reported strange lights and sounds in the marsh at night, which many believe are the ghostly remnants of Drunken Jack’s last wild party.
Happy Haunting from Breakers Resort!
After a day of ghost hunting and exploring Myrtle Beach’s haunted sites, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest—and there’s no better spot than Breakers Resort. Located right on the oceanfront, Breakers offers modern amenities, cozy accommodations, and stunning views of the Atlantic, making it the perfect base for your supernatural adventure
