a river running through a lush green field

Huntington Beach State Park

South Carolina · Southeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Easy

Best Months

October-April

Entrance Fee

$8 adults

Hours

Open daily, 6 AM - 10 PM

About This Location

Huntington Beach State Park is a productive birding destination in South Carolina, with 340 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Gadwall, Bufflehead, and Hooded Merganser among many others. Mild winters attract waterfowl and sparrows, while spring and fall migration bring neotropical songbirds.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Magnificent Frigatebird

Fregata magnificens

7/21/2026Sea Island Dr. parallel lagoon2 observed

Gray Catbird

Dumetella carolinensis

7/20/202614290 Ocean Hwy, Pawleys Island US-SC 33.48459, -79.093541 observed

Wood Thrush

Hylocichla mustelina

7/20/2026Rocky Point Community Forest1 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Wood Stork

87/21/2026

Roseate Spoonbill

87/21/2026

Downy Woodpecker

17/21/2026

American Crow

17/21/2026

Carolina Wren

17/21/2026

Red-winged Blackbird

17/21/2026

Painted Bunting

17/21/2026

Mourning Dove

17/21/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

27/21/2026

American Coot

17/21/2026

Killdeer

27/21/2026

Laughing Gull

47/21/2026

Ring-billed Gull

27/21/2026

Double-crested Cormorant

27/21/2026

White Ibis

47/21/2026

Tricolored Heron

27/21/2026

Great Egret

47/21/2026

Osprey

17/21/2026

Red-shouldered Hawk

17/21/2026

White-eyed Vireo

17/21/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Check for wintering sparrows in brushy edges from November through February.

  4. 4

    Purchase your day pass online in advance to avoid wait times at the entrance station.

  5. 5

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Huntington Beach State Park for birding?
The best months to visit Huntington Beach State Park for birding are October-April. The best seasons are Spring and Fall and Winter.
What birds can I see at Huntington Beach State Park?
Notable species at Huntington Beach State Park include Gadwall, Bufflehead, Hooded Merganser, Greater Yellowlegs, Pied-billed Grebe, Great Horned Owl, Mourning Dove, Turkey Vulture, Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Carolina Chickadee. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Huntington Beach State Park?
Birding at Huntington Beach State Park is rated as Easy. The trails and viewing areas are accessible for birders of all experience levels.
Is there an entrance fee at Huntington Beach State Park?
The entrance fee at Huntington Beach State Park is $8 adults. Hours: Open daily, 6 AM - 10 PM.
What amenities are available at Huntington Beach State Park?
Huntington Beach State Park offers the following amenities: Parking, Restrooms, Trails, Visitor Center.