The Original Hammock Shop in Pawleys Island: Where to Find Handwoven Hammocks and Coastal Furniture

A family-owned hammock maker on South Carolina's coast since 1938

The Original Hammock Shop sits on Pawleys Island, a barrier island near Georgetown, and has been hand-weaving hammocks in the same location for over 80 years. The shop sells hammocks, swings, and related outdoor furniture made on-site, along with a curated selection of coastal home goods and gifts. You can watch weavers at work while you browse, see how the hammocks are constructed, and buy directly from the makers rather than through a middleman.

The business started when A.H. Lachicotte began making hammocks by hand during the Depression. His family has run it ever since, and the shop remains one of Pawleys Island's oldest continuously operating businesses. The hammocks are still woven by hand using the same methods, though the shop has expanded to include other outdoor furniture and home décor items that fit the coastal aesthetic.

Key Takeaways

• The Original Hammock Shop is located on Pawleys Island near Georgetown and has operated since 1938 with the same family ownership.
• Hammocks and swings are woven by hand on-site, and you can watch the weavers work while shopping.
• The shop sells not only hammocks but also outdoor furniture, home goods, and gifts with a coastal theme.
• Pawleys Island is a short drive from Murrells Inlet and other Lowcountry attractions, making the shop easy to visit as part of a coastal outing.

What you'll find inside the shop

The main product is the hammock—available in different sizes, colors, and weaves. The classic Pawleys Island hammock is made from soft, durable rope or fabric and designed to hang between two trees or posts. Beyond hammocks, the shop carries rope swings, hanging chairs, and other suspended seating. Many pieces are made in-house; others are sourced from makers who follow similar handcraft traditions.

The shop also stocks home décor items, throw pillows, coastal artwork, and gifts that appeal to visitors and locals alike. The inventory reflects the island's character—nautical themes, natural materials, and pieces suited to outdoor living. Prices vary widely depending on whether you're buying a small gift item or commissioning a custom hammock.

Visiting Pawleys Island and the surrounding area

Pawleys Island is a quiet, residential barrier island about 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach and roughly 20 minutes from Georgetown. The island has a long history as a retreat for Lowcountry planters and remains a peaceful alternative to busier beach towns. The Original Hammock Shop is one of the few commercial establishments on the island itself, so a visit often pairs well with exploring nearby attractions.

Murrells Inlet, just across the bridge, has restaurants, fishing charters, and the Huntington Beach State Park. Georgetown's historic downtown is about 20 minutes away and includes colonial-era buildings, the waterfront, and local shops and restaurants. Many visitors combine a trip to the hammock shop with a meal in Murrells Inlet or a walk through Georgetown's historic district.

How hammocks are made and why handweaving matters

Hand-woven hammocks take time to construct. A weaver threads rope or fabric through a wooden frame, creating the interlocking pattern that gives the hammock its strength and comfort. Each hammock is made individually, which means slight variations between pieces—a sign of handcraft rather than factory production. The process requires skill and attention to tension and spacing.

Handwoven hammocks typically last longer than machine-made alternatives because the weaving technique distributes weight evenly and allows the material to flex without tearing. The rope or fabric can be replaced if it wears, extending the life of the frame. This durability is why Pawleys Island hammocks have remained popular for generations and why people often pass them down within families.

Planning your visit

The Original Hammock Shop is open year-round, though hours may vary seasonally. It's located at 10 Lachicotte Street on Pawleys Island. The shop is small and can get busy during peak tourist season (summer and holiday weekends), so visiting on a weekday or in shoulder seasons like spring or fall may offer a more relaxed experience.

Parking is available near the shop. The island itself has no major chain restaurants or hotels; most visitors stay in nearby Murrells Inlet or Myrtle Beach and drive over for the day. The shop accepts cash and cards. If you're interested in a custom hammock or have specific requests, calling ahead is a good idea, as special orders may take time to complete.

What makes this shop different from big-box furniture stores

Unlike chain furniture retailers, the Original Hammock Shop is a maker's space—you're buying from the people who built the product. There's no markup for distribution, advertising, or corporate overhead. The owners can answer questions about construction, materials, and durability because they understand the craft intimately. You also support a local, family-owned business that has been part of the Lowcountry for generations.

The experience of visiting is part of the value. Watching weavers at work gives you a sense of the labor and skill involved. You can see the difference between a hand-woven piece and a mass-produced one. For many people, that connection to the maker and the place makes the purchase more meaningful than ordering from a catalog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I watch the hammocks being made?

Yes. Weavers work on-site, and you can observe them while you shop. The shop is designed so you can see the weaving process as part of your visit. This is one of the main reasons people make the trip to Pawleys Island rather than ordering online.

How much does a hammock cost?

Prices vary depending on size, material, and whether it's a standard or custom piece. A basic hammock costs less than a premium or custom-woven version. The shop staff can discuss options and pricing when you visit or call ahead.

Do they ship hammocks outside South Carolina?

The shop does ship, though you'll want to confirm shipping costs and delivery times by contacting them directly. Visiting in person allows you to see and feel the product before buying, which many customers prefer for a piece they plan to use for years.

Is there parking at the shop?

Yes, parking is available near the shop on Pawleys Island. The island is small and quiet, so parking is generally not difficult except during peak summer weekends.

What's the best time to visit?

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and smaller crowds than summer. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends. The shop is open year-round, so winter visits are possible if you prefer solitude, though some nearby restaurants and attractions have reduced hours.