The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn: A Beachfront Stay in Pawleys Island
What to expect at the Oceanfront Litchfield Inn
The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn sits directly on the Atlantic in Pawleys Island, a quiet barrier island about 30 miles south of Myrtle Beach. The property offers oceanfront rooms with private balconies overlooking the water, an indoor heated pool, and a restaurant on-site. Most rooms include a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker; some have full kitchens. The inn does not have a casino, nightclub, or high-rise feel—it caters to visitors seeking a slower pace and direct beach access.
The building itself dates to the 1980s and has been updated over time, though it maintains a mid-range resort character rather than luxury finishes. Rooms vary in size and view; oceanfront units command higher rates than those facing the parking lot or sound side. The property sits within walking distance of Pawleys Island's small downtown, where you'll find local restaurants, a pier, and shops, but the island itself is residential and undeveloped compared to the Myrtle Beach strip.
Key Takeaways
- Oceanfront rooms have private balconies and direct beach access, while interior rooms cost less but lack water views.
- The inn includes an on-site restaurant, indoor heated pool, and basic amenities like refrigerators and microwaves in most rooms.
- Pawleys Island is quieter and more residential than Myrtle Beach, with a small downtown within walking distance offering dining and local shops.
- The property is pet-friendly in certain rooms, though fees apply and advance notice is required.
- Parking is included with your room and located on-site; there is no resort fee beyond your nightly rate.
Room types and what they include
The inn offers three main room categories. Oceanfront rooms have a balcony facing the water, a king or double queen bed, and typically a refrigerator and microwave. These are the most expensive option and book up quickly during summer and holiday weekends. Sound-side rooms overlook the marsh and inlet rather than the ocean; they cost less and appeal to visitors who want a water view without the oceanfront premium. Standard rooms face the parking lot or interior courtyard and offer the lowest rate; they include the same basic amenities but no view.
Several rooms have full kitchens with a stove, oven, and dishwasher—useful if you're staying a week or traveling with a family. These units rent at a higher rate than standard rooms but can save money on dining out over a longer stay. All rooms include cable television, a phone, and air conditioning. The inn does not provide daily housekeeping; rooms are cleaned at checkout and upon request for longer stays.
Dining and on-site amenities
The Litchfield Restaurant operates on the ground floor and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. The menu focuses on Low Country seafood and casual American fare—shrimp and grits, fried flounder, burgers, and salads. Breakfast includes eggs, pancakes, and pastries. The restaurant has a bar and overlooks the oceanfront, making it a natural gathering spot for guests. Hours and menu items vary seasonally, so check ahead if you have specific dietary needs.
Beyond dining, the inn has an indoor heated pool open year-round, a fitness center with basic equipment, and a small business center with computers and a printer. There is no spa, hot tub, or game room. Beach access is direct from the property—no boardwalk or stairs required. The front desk can arrange activities like fishing charters, kayak rentals, and golf tee times at nearby courses.
Pawleys Island location and nearby attractions
Pawleys Island is a 4-mile-long barrier island known for its quiet, residential character and natural beauty. The island has no high-rise hotels or commercial sprawl; the Oceanfront Litchfield Inn is one of the few lodging options on the island itself. The town of Pawleys Island, about a mile from the inn, includes a fishing pier, a small museum, local restaurants, and shops selling crafts and gifts. Many visitors come to walk the beach, fish from the pier, or simply sit and watch the water.
Myrtle Beach's attractions—amusement parks, outlet malls, golf courses, and restaurants—are 30 minutes north by car. Georgetown, a historic port town with colonial architecture and riverfront dining, is 20 minutes south. The Huntington Beach State Park, known for its salt marsh and bird watching, is nearby. If you want beach time without the bustle of a major resort town, Pawleys Island's location offers that trade-off.
Rates, booking, and pet policy
Room rates vary by season and day of the week. Summer (June through August) and holiday weekends command the highest prices; rates drop in fall and winter. Oceanfront rooms typically cost more than sound-side or standard rooms by $50 to $150 per night, depending on the season. The inn does not charge a separate resort fee; the nightly rate covers parking, pool access, and basic amenities. Booking directly through the inn's website or by phone may offer better rates than third-party travel sites, and the front desk can discuss package deals for longer stays.
The inn allows pets in select rooms for an additional fee per night. Advance notice is required, and certain restrictions apply—typically a limit on the number and size of animals. Call the front desk before booking to confirm pet policies and availability. Cancellation policies vary by rate type; standard bookings usually allow cancellation up to 48 hours before arrival, though non-refundable rates may have stricter terms.
Getting there and parking
The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn is located at 14001 Ocean Highway (US Route 17 Business) in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. If you're driving from Myrtle Beach, take US 17 South for about 30 miles; the inn is on the right as you enter Pawleys Island. From Charleston, take US 17 North for about 90 miles. Parking is included with your room and located on-site in a lot adjacent to the building. There is no valet service, and spaces are first-come, first-served during peak seasons.
The nearest commercial airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. There is no shuttle service from the airport, so you will need to rent a car or arrange a ride. The inn is not accessible by public transit; a car is necessary to explore the area beyond walking distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk to restaurants and shops from the inn?
Yes, Pawleys Island's small downtown is about a mile away on foot—roughly a 20-minute walk along US 17 Business. Several restaurants, a pier, and local shops are within walking distance. However, the walk is along a highway shoulder rather than a dedicated path, so it's not ideal for families with young children or those with mobility concerns. A car is more practical for exploring beyond the immediate area.
Is the beach good for swimming?
Yes, the beach at Pawleys Island is open for swimming year-round. The water is warmest from June through September. Lifeguards are not always on duty, so swim at your own risk. The beach is also popular for fishing, shelling, and walking. Rip currents can occur, so check conditions with the front desk before entering the water.
What's the difference between oceanfront and sound-side rooms?
Oceanfront rooms have a balcony facing the Atlantic Ocean and direct beach access; sound-side rooms overlook the marsh and inlet on the other side of the island. Both offer water views, but oceanfront rooms are more expensive and book faster. Sound-side rooms are quieter and less expensive, making them a good choice if you want a view without the premium price.
Does the inn have air conditioning and heating?
Yes, all rooms have individual air conditioning and heating controls. The indoor pool is heated year-round, so you can swim comfortably even in winter months when the ocean water is cold.
Are there golf courses nearby?
Yes, Pawleys Island and the surrounding area have several championship golf courses. The front desk can provide information about nearby courses and help arrange tee times. Most courses are within 10 to 20 minutes by car from the inn.