Murrells Inlet, South Carolina | Once the lair of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, Murrells Inlet is now widely known as the ‘Seafood Capital of South Carolina’ and is an ideal place to for those who love the outdoors to explore. A half-mile long Marshwalk offers spectacular views and a chance to watch fishing boats come in with the days’ catch, be it fresh fish, clams, oysters, or crabs pulled from the surrounding waters. Thrill seekers relish opportunities to parasail, ride a banana boat or drive a jet ski, while pirate-themed boat tours bring. Murrells Inlet’s history of pirates and adventurers to life. This fishing village has a boating experience for every taste, from kayaking at sunrise to a day-long, chartered deep sea fishing excursion to the Gulf Stream. And after dark, things get lively along the Marshwalk, with live music streaming from several establishments. Known world-wide for its beauty, Brookgreen Gardens showcases its extensive American sculpture collection with the best nature has to offer. Founded by Archer and Anna Huntington in 1931, Brookgreen Gardens was their gift to the community they loved. Today it is a National Historic Landmark with one of the most significant collections of figurative sculpture, by American artists, in an outdoor setting in the world. Visitors will always find something in bloom, no matter what the season, and the zoo offers an up close look at local wildlife.Directly across the highway lies Huntington Beach State Park, originally a part of the Huntington’s estate and now a must-see for the serious bird watcher. This 2500 acre park also offers ocean-side camping, fishing and nature programs along the three miles of beach and hundreds of acres of salt marsh. This was also the summer residence of the Huntington’s and their castle-like home, Atalaya, is open for exploration daily.