
An afternoon view across the expansive salt marsh at Huntington Beach State Park in the fall.
'Huntington Beach State Park' is a small, but spectacular coastal preserve and
state park near
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. The park, originally property of
Archer M. Huntington, was donated after his death and takes its name from him. His winter home, Atalaya, is also located on the park. Built during the
Great Depression by only local workers, it was designed to withstand hurricanes.
It features some of the best
birding of the east coast of the US. It has both fresh- and saltwater marshes and hosts many species of
ducks and
waders in winter. It also has an unspoilt beach and a jetty where oceanbirds like
gannets,
loons,
scoters and occasionally alcids like
razorbills and
murres can be found. Local birders frequently refer to the park as "HBSP" in communications.
Buildings and Places

A huge
Tree Swallow flock preparing for fall migration takes refuge from the rain on a snag in front of Atalaya.
★ Nature Center
★ Jetty
★
Atalaya castle
★ Gift Shop
★
Nature Trails
★
Campgrounds
★ Beach
★ Parking Lot
★ Crab Beach Access
External links
★
South Carolina State Parks Website
★
Huntington Beach State Park Website