Myrtle Beach is famous for its sixty miles of sandy coastline, buzzing boardwalks, and world-class seafood. But for those of us who live and breathe the salt air here at Cozy Turtle RV Rentals, there’s one spot that stands out as a true staple of the Grand Strand experience: Apache Pier.
Whether you’re an angler hoping to reel in a king mackerel, a family looking for a safe and scenic place to stroll, or a couple chasing the perfect Atlantic sunrise, Apache Pier delivers. It’s not just a fishing spot; it’s a destination. And the best part? You don’t need to stay in a high-rise hotel to enjoy it.
Staying nearby in a fully set-up RV makes visiting the pier easier than ever. Imagine waking up, stepping out of your camper, and being just a short walk or golf cart ride away from one of the most iconic landmarks on the East Coast. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know for your 2026 trip—from parking and fishing tips to the best camping spots right next door.
Your stress-free Myrtle Beach vacation starts here.
Where Is Apache Pier Located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?
If you are plotting your GPS for a 2026 adventure, you’ll find Apache Pier tucked away in the northern section of Myrtle Beach, specifically within the Apache Family Campground. Its address places it right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, offering unhindered views of the horizon.
This location is strategic for RV campers and vacationers. It sits slightly north of the busy “downtown” boardwalk area, meaning you get all the beauty of the beach without the overwhelming foot traffic of the central district. However, it’s still incredibly accessible from major roads like Kings Highway (Hwy 17), making it a breeze to get to popular attractions like Barefoot Landing or the Carolina Opry.
For those staying at the Apache Family Campground, the pier is practically in your backyard. But even if you are staying at another local campground, the pier is a central hub that anchors the northern end of the Grand Strand, making it an easy day trip from anywhere in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
What Makes Apache Pier So Iconic on the East Coast?
When people talk about iconic Apache Pier, they aren’t just talking about a wooden walkway over water. They are talking about a piece of history and a hub of East Coast culture. For decades, this pier has served as a gathering place for visitors from all over the country.
What makes it a must-visit destination? It’s the atmosphere. Unlike some commercialized piers that feel like shopping malls extended over the water, Apache Pier retains a classic, laid-back vibe. It invites you to slow down. You’ll see grandparents teaching grandkids how to cast a line, couples walking hand-in-hand, and photographers capturing the way the light hits the waves.
Whether you are there to fish or just to soak up the scenery, the experience is quintessentially “beach life.” The rhythmic sound of the waves beneath the wooden planks and the salty breeze create a sense of peace that keeps families returning year after year.
Is Apache Pier the Longest Wooden Pier in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, it is! In fact, Apache Pier holds the title of the longest wooden pier on the entire East Coast. Stretching an impressive 1,206 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a vantage point you simply can’t get from the shore.
Why does length matter? For one, it gets you out past the breakers. This is crucial for fishermen looking for species that hang out in deeper waters. For sightseers, walking nearly a quarter-mile out to sea provides a panoramic view of the coastline that is breathtaking.
It is the perfect spot to watch the day begin or end. Sunrise lovers can watch the sun emerge directly from the ocean, while sunset viewers can look back at the illuminated skyline of Myrtle Beach. The length also means there’s plenty of room—even on busy summer days, you can usually find a spot at the rail to lean back and watch the pelicans dive.
Is Apache Pier the Best Pier in Myrtle Beach?
“Best” is subjective, but if you ask the locals and the thousands of families who visit annually, the answer is often a resounding yes.
Here is why many consider it the best:
- For Families: It feels safe and community-oriented. It’s part of a campground, so the vibe is friendly and relaxed.
- For Fishermen: The length and the well-stocked tackle shop make it a premier fishing destination.
- For Accessibility: It is handicap accessible, ensuring that everyone in your party can enjoy the views.
What sets it apart from other piers is the sheer number of amenities available. It’s not just a walkway; it’s a complex with food, entertainment, and facilities that allow you to stay all day without needing to leave.
Fishing at Apache Pier: What Anglers Need to Know
If you are coming to Myrtle Beach to fish, this is your arena. Fishing at Apache Pier is world-class, but it’s also approachable for anglers of all skill levels.
What You Can Catch:
Depending on the season, the waters here are teeming with life. Common catches include flounder, black drum, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. During the summer months, the fishing is particularly exciting, and you might even hook a king mackerel if you’re fishing off the end. Shrimp bait fishing is also popular here.
Tips for Beginners and Pros:
- Beginners: You don’t need to be a pro to catch a fish here. The staff at the tackle shop are incredibly helpful and can guide you on what bait is working that day.
- Pros: The length of the pier gets you into deeper water, giving you a shot at larger game fish that shore fishermen can’t reach.
Rules and Licenses:
You generally do not need a separate saltwater fishing license to fish from the pier, as the pier holds a commercial license that covers its guests (though it’s always smart to check current regulations before you cast). There is a daily fishing fee, but it’s a small price to pay for the access you get.
Apache Pier Tackle Shop, Bait, and Amenities
One of the reasons you can spend a full day here is the on-site infrastructure. The Apache Pier Tackle Shop is legendary. It’s not just a place to buy a hook; it’s a resource. They stock fresh live bait (seasonal), frozen bait, lures, rigs, and essentially anything you might have forgotten at home.
Beyond fishing gear, the shop offers snacks, cold drinks, and souvenirs to remember your trip. But the amenities don’t stop there.
- Clean Restrooms: Essential for families.
- Seating Areas: Plenty of benches for those who want to rest their legs.
- Shade: There is a covered center stage area midway down the pier, providing a nice respite from the midday sun.
These conveniences mean you don’t have to pack up the whole family just because someone needs a snack or a bathroom break.
Live Music and Entertainment at Apache Pier
When the sun goes down (and often while it’s still up), Apache Pier comes alive. The pier features a covered pavilion that hosts live music and entertainment regularly during the peak season.
This is one of the most fun piers in Myrtle Beach because of the energy. During the day, it’s wholesome family fun. In the evenings, you might find a band playing beach music, classic rock, or country, with plenty of room for dancing. It’s a great way to unwind after a day in the sun—sipping a cold drink, listening to live entertainment, and feeling the ocean breeze.
Keep an eye on their schedule for 2026; they often host special events during holidays and peak summer weeks that add an extra layer of excitement to your vacation.
Is There Parking at Apache Pier? What Visitors Should Know
Parking in Myrtle Beach can sometimes be a headache, but Apache Pier tries to make it easier. There is a parking lot specifically for the pier and the arcade area.
However, visitors should plan ahead. On peak summer days (July 4th week, for example), the lot can fill up quickly.
- Tip: Arrive early in the morning if you plan to fish all day.
- The RV Advantage: If you are staying at the Apache Family Campground (where the pier is located), you don’t need to worry about public parking. You can walk or take a golf cart from your campsite right to the pier entrance. This eliminates the parking stress entirely!
Camping Near Apache Pier: Apache Family Campground
If you want the full experience, the Apache Family Campground is the place to stay. It has been a favorite for generations for a reason.
Why stay here?
- Proximity: You are steps away from the pier and the ocean.
- Amenities: The campground features a pool, playground, basketball courts, and a trading post.
- Atmosphere: It’s incredibly welcoming to families, groups, and pet owners.
This is where Cozy Turtle RV Rentals shines. We can deliver a luxury RV right to your reserved site at Apache Family Campground. You don’t have to own a truck or know how to tow a massive trailer. We bring the camping experience to you.
Pack light — we’ll handle the rest.
Why Staying in a Cozy Turtle RV Makes Your Apache Pier Trip Better
Let’s be honest: tents are hot, and hotels can feel impersonal. Renting an RV gives you the comfort of a home with the adventure of camping. But renting from Cozy Turtle takes it a step further.
Free Local Delivery and Setup:
We serve the entire Myrtle Beach area, including Apache Family Campground. When you rent with us, we deliver the unit, level it, hook up the power and water, and get the A/C running before you even arrive. You walk into a cool, clean camper ready for vacation.
All the Comforts of Home:
Our RVs aren’t bare bones. They come with:
- Fully stocked kitchens (pots, pans, coffee maker, ice maker).
- Outdoor mats to keep the sand at bay.
- Cozy interiors with plenty of room for the kids.
Customizable Add-Ons:
Want to sit by a fire? We offer fire pit rentals. Need beach gear? We can add chairs and umbrellas to your package. Hate laundry? We offer full linen packages so you don’t have to bring sheets and towels.
Peace of Mind:
We partner with Bish’s RV Mobile Service for emergency support. If something goes wrong, we have a network to fix it fast so your vacation isn’t interrupted.
Things to Do Near Apache Pier While Visiting Myrtle Beach
While you could easily spend your whole trip at the pier, the surrounding area is packed with action.
- Restaurant Row: Just a short drive south, you’ll find some of the best dining in the state, from fresh seafood buffets to upscale steakhouses.
- Arcadian Shores Golf Club: For the golfers in the family, this legendary course is right nearby.
- Tanger Outlets: If you need a break from the sun, the outlets on Hwy 17 offer great shopping.
- Murrells Inlet: For a fun day trip, head south to the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina” for a marsh walk and live music.
The Apache Pier area is perfect for extended stays because it’s quiet enough to relax but close enough to the action when you want it.
Best Time to Visit Apache Pier in 2026
Planning your 2026 trip? Here is a seasonal breakdown:
- Spring (April – May): The weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and the crowds are thinner. Fishing starts to pick up.
- Summer (June – August): This is peak season. The water is warm, the pier entertainment is in full swing, and the energy is high. If you want the full bustling beach experience, this is it.
- Fall (September – October): A local favorite. The ocean is still warm enough for swimming, but the humidity drops. This is often the best time for fishing as the fall mullet run brings in the big predators.
Note: Campgrounds and RV rentals book up fast for peak summer weeks. Planning early for 2026 is the best way to secure your preferred dates.
Planning Tips for a Stress-Free Apache Pier RV Vacation
- Book Your Campsite First: Secure your spot at Apache Family Campground (or your preferred local campground) as soon as reservations open for 2026.
- Reserve Your RV: Once you have your dates, book your Cozy Turtle RV.
- Choose Delivery: Select the “delivery and setup” option to save yourself hours of work.
- Pack Smart: Since we provide kitchenware and offer linen rentals, you can focus on packing clothes, sunscreen, and fishing gear.
- Check the Events Calendar: Look at the Apache Pier schedule to see what bands are playing during your stay.
Helpful Resources for Your Apache Pier Trip
To help you plan the perfect getaway, here are a few resources filled with tips, tide charts, and local info:
- Visit Myrtle Beach: The official tourism guide with calendars of events and attraction lists. (visitmyrtlebeach.com)
- South Carolina DNR – Saltwater Fishing: Essential for checking current bag limits and fishing regulations. (dnr.sc.gov)
- Tides Near Me: A great site (and app) to check tide charts for Apache Pier to time your fishing trip perfectly. (tidesnearme.com)
- Visit Myrtle Beach Blog: Offers detailed information about various piers and attractions in the area. (visitmyrtlebeach.com)
- Grand Strand Weather: Local weather updates specifically for the coastal region, more accurate than general weather apps. (grandstrandweather.com)
- TripAdvisor – Apache Pier: Read recent reviews from other travelers to get real-time tips on what’s biting and current conditions. (tripadvisor.com)
- Murrells Inlet MarshWalk: Information on the nearby dining district, perfect for a day trip away from the pier. (marshwalk.com)
Make Memories at Apache Pier With Cozy Turtle RV Rentals
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