It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Old Town Hall gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Pawleys Island, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available.”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always”
“Lisa helped my family understand the best options for my parents and the resources available. She has great contacts and helped guide us thru the process. We received wonderful service. Thanks!”
“Always Best Care has been a lifesaver for our family. We have worked with them twice, both in emergency situations and they have treated us as if we were their only clients. Within an hour of our first call, we had paperwork completed and a caregiver on the way – and that was a holiday weekend. When the second emergency occurred, we knew exactly who to contact. We truly appreciate everything that Lisa, Melissa and the entire team have done for our family.”
“Thank you for the care you gave to my dad. He did not have any family living close to him. My sister and I were relived to know he was well taken care of. The caregivers truly care about your loved ones.”
“Always Best Care provided excellent care when I was discharged from Atrium after surgery- the office staff and caregivers were professional and caring- would definitely recommend if you need care at home-”
“Lisa and her team at Always Best Care have been a great partner and resource in providing services to our patients!”
“Amazing staff and services. Much appreciated.”
“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care was just absolutely wonderful. I needed to qualify people who could deal with my sister with brain cancer. My sister would throw people in and out of her house; it was crazy. She died on December 5th. Always Best Care sent incredible people. I don't know where they came from, but they had one girl who was the only person my sister never attempted to throw out of the house. I'd never hear one bad word about this woman who was actually pulling double shifts at the end because my sister liked her so much. For some reason, this woman understood my sister and brain cancer. Brain cancer is hard to deal with because people could be pretty mean and abusive and they don't know what they're doing really. My sister was also going blind at the same time. It was not easy. I just wanted to say what wonderful care we received from Always Best Care. It was amazing. They were just coming and being there. My sister was crazy, and she didn't want anybody overnight, until she finally let me have someone come in overnight. On that night, she died. She got to die in her home, which is what I'm trying to do because that too was the most important thing of all. Always Best Care was able to staff at short notice and send really good people. I was impressed, and I would highly recommend them. They would help my sister get to the bathroom. She weighed 70 pounds when she died, but she was still able to walk. She had cancers on both her femurs, and her blood pressure was 80/47. They just helped with everything, like fixing her small meals, fixing coffee, and talking to her if she wanted to talk or not talking to her if she didn't want to talk. They were just very great with their help. My sister had brain cancer and she was belligerent. Always Best Care would find people within their staff. Also, it didn't take them long, I didn't have to wait. We had letters from others saying they don't have staff right now. With Always Best Care, I did it over the phone with a woman who was a Godsend. I think the caregiver was sent almost the first day and was there every day except on the weekend when they sent someone else. That person seemed to work out OK, too, which amazed me. For some reason, these people knew how to appease someone who is really crazy. It was the cancer; it was in my sister's head. You have to be tough-skinned and just realize that this is the disease talking to you and not a person. They were able to do that, and I feel very blessed.”
“I love working for this company.”
“I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing.”
“I love being able to work with this company, the owners are great people and support me daily! We have many calls to work on performance and continue to grow and learn!”
“Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider Services were geared according to need. We were looking at rehab and they were willing to see what was needed. Very flexible and focused needs of patient All caregivers were on time We had a great experience”
“I am a past client of this provider I used this nursing service for my cousin Pat who had cancer. I can not express the level of care and compassion that was shown for her. The nurses felt like family! Especially Alicia. You treated my cousin as if she was your family and I can't thank you enough for that. You not only took care of her but us also. I would recommend this service 100%! We only used them for 1 month as my cousin passed quickly. I d not have a single negative remark. Thank you Chuck! Your nurses are amazing. Donna O.”
“Chuck and his personnel are truly the best. They helped us with mom and always focused on the care and not a much of processes and forms. I would highly recommend them to all.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Pawleys Island Nature Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Chive Blossom Cafe or visit Pawleys Island Historic District, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Pawleys Island, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Pawleys Island, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Pawleys Island, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
FILE - Rainbow in Pawleys Island after Hurricane Ian Sept. 30, 2022 (Credit: Emily Mayes)GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — Pawleys Island has been named the "Best Beach in South Carolina" for the second time, according to the venerable USA Today/10Best Readers' Choice poll.Furthermore, Litchfield Beach placed number three and Huntington Beach was placed at number four.There were 17 South Carolina nominees in the running.Local officials spoke on how beneficial this ranking is for the tourism industry...
FILE - Rainbow in Pawleys Island after Hurricane Ian Sept. 30, 2022 (Credit: Emily Mayes)
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — Pawleys Island has been named the "Best Beach in South Carolina" for the second time, according to the venerable USA Today/10Best Readers' Choice poll.
Furthermore, Litchfield Beach placed number three and Huntington Beach was placed at number four.
There were 17 South Carolina nominees in the running.
Local officials spoke on how beneficial this ranking is for the tourism industry, with state officials estimating a $300 million economic impact for Georgetown County.
I couldn’t be more excited about this news,” said Mark A. Stevens, director of tourism development for the Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce. “Pawleys Island topping the list for the Best Beach in South Carolina once again is wonderful, but it’s made even more sweet with Litchfield Beach and Huntington Beach State Park also finishing in the Top 4. Clearly the Hammock Coast’s beaches are beloved by residents and vacationers. Our beaches are adored for their pristine shores and mild crowds, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Beth Stedman, the Chamber’s president and CEO, emphasized how you "don't have to be the biggest to be the best."
We love to say we are comfortably nestled between two of the biggest tourism meccas in South Carolina – Myrtle Beach to the north and Charleston to the south, but we love being our own unique brand," he said. “The natural beauty of our area and its history bring visitors here throughout the year and they return again and again. The majesty of our area, with tens of thousands of acres preserved and protected, sets it apart from many other coastal regions.
The judges for USA Today who selected the 17 beaches to compete for "Best Beach in South Carolina" were Jamie Davis Smith, Marla Cimini and Catherine Smith.
They all have shared interests in travelling, writing and adventures.
Locations on South Carolina’s Hammock Coast have been featured in other USA Today/10Best contests such as Huntington Beach State Park, Brookgreen Gardens, Georgetown and Caledonia Golf and Fish Club.
Plenty of folks hit the road for a visit to the tidelands of Georgetown County. Pawleys Island, in particular, has a centuries-long tradition of being one of America’s oldest seaside resorts, going back to the days of the indigo and rice planters who packed up their households to get away from the fields and enjoy the salt air by the beaches.That being said, you might not know that the first European settlement in what is today the United States dates back 500 years. In fact, Spanish ship captains from the Caribbean island of Hi...
Plenty of folks hit the road for a visit to the tidelands of Georgetown County. Pawleys Island, in particular, has a centuries-long tradition of being one of America’s oldest seaside resorts, going back to the days of the indigo and rice planters who packed up their households to get away from the fields and enjoy the salt air by the beaches.
That being said, you might not know that the first European settlement in what is today the United States dates back 500 years. In fact, Spanish ship captains from the Caribbean island of Hispaniola first came to Pawleys Island in 1520-1521.
One ship was sent out by his sponsor to find land. He came upon another ship’s captain who was a friend and they journeyed together.
After landing at Pawleys Island, they reported back to the first ship’s sponsor, Lucas Vázquez de Ayllón, that the land would be fertile. It took several years and a trip back to Spain, but de Ayllón put together an expedition with about 600 people and close to 100 horses. They returned to what is today Pawleys Island and then Winyah Bay and established the settlement of San Miguel de Gualdape.
While that Spanish settlement only lasted a few months, in many ways it was a precursor to the many people who’ve come to the coast of Georgetown County to visit, and some have decided to stay.
There’s a lot to enjoy in this little slice of heaven on earth.
George Pawley inherited the barrier island that carries his name. He sold parcels of the land on the small island to other planters in the early 1700s. Many rice planters brought their families and some enslaved Africans to the island in the summer months in order to escape the heat and malaria of their riverfront plantations.
But it's important to distinguish the Pawleys Island community from the Town of Pawleys Island when discussing the area's history as a travel destination.
While visitors to Pawleys Island were first recorded in the 1790s, it's difficult to pin down an exact date. Research shows that no one vacationed on the barrier island home to the Town of Pawleys Island until after 1822. When plantation owners traveled to the “seashore” in the 1700s, they were actually staying in the Pawleys Island area on the mainland by the salt marshes, according to historian Lee G. Brockington, who has written several books about the town.
Even though most of the beach houses and cottages are much more modern now, still Pawleys Island and Litchfield have plenty to offer for a break from the routine with salt water, fresh air, many attractions, shops and restaurants.
You may not be able to stay from May to November like the folks did back then, but you can still enjoy the beauty, the atmosphere and the laid-back lifestyle of the tidelands.
The town encompasses all the island. Within the incorporated community there are approximately 130 full-time residents. There are about 450 rental properties available through various realty companies.
The town and the county have three boat landings on the island and about a dozen beach public access points. The largest and most popular beach area is at the south end of Pawleys Island.
At that location there is parking, beach access as well as Pawleys Creek access and there are portable toilets available. The other beach public access points each have some limited parking available. All the beach access points are open to the public.
Pawleys Island has even been recognized at the state level for its attractive qualities. It was named “Best Beach in South Carolina” by USA Today's 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards in May 2024.
These awards highlight “top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations,” according to a news release, and the list was part of a series to name the best beaches in South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Texas, California, New Jersey and Michigan.
Three Georgetown County destinations — Huntington Beach State Park, Litchfield Beach and Pawleys Island — were among the beaches in the contest, and while Pawleys came out on top, Litchfield Beach placed No. 4 and Huntington placed No. 5.
Others in the running included Daufuskie Island, Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Beach in North Myrtle Beach, Coligny Beach Park, Edisto Beach State Park, Folly Beach, Folly Field Beach Park, Hunting Island State Park, Isle of Palms, Kiawah Beachwalker Park, Myrtle Beach State Park, North Myrtle Beach, Sullivan’s Island and Surfside Beach.
Catching some rays from the sun, swimming in the ocean, surfing and surf fishing, fishing in the creek or crabbing or gathering oysters are all activities that people enjoy.
One of the fun things on the beaches that a lot of children — and moms and dads — enjoy is building sandcastles. Beachgoers should have fun but be aware that a county ordinance requires that if a hole is dug on the beach to build a sandcastle, they must return the sand to the hole so it doesn’t present a hazard to other visitors.
Turtles also frequent the beaches. Speaking of turtles, all the beaches in Georgetown County have varying numbers of sea turtles that come ashore each year to lay their eggs.
There’s a volunteer group called South Carolina United Turtle Enthusiasts. Member volunteers patrol the beaches on a daily basis during turtle nesting times to make sure that the nests are undisturbed by man or by any predators. You may visit the S.C.U.T.E. Facebook page for more information about this group.
Along with the incorporated town of Pawleys Island, the general area is also called Pawleys Island and is served by a post office that takes in a large part of the Waccamaw Neck.
Nearby Litchfield Beach also includes public beach accesses maintained by Georgetown County. Litchfield Beach has residential homes and neighborhoods.
There is plenty of shopping and a wide selection of restaurants available for people to enjoy in Pawleys Island and Litchfield. There are several supermarkets that provide groceries and other necessary items for residents and visitors alike.
Within the Pawleys Island/Litchfield area there are about a dozen golf courses that are open to the public. Many of them receive high rankings by the various golfing organizations.
As with some of the golf courses in the Murrells Inlet area, most are built on lands that were at one time part of the indigo or rice plantations in the area.
Running from Murrells Inlet down to the Pawleys Island area, the Bike the Neck group has spearheaded efforts to develop and then maintain bike paths that provide designated areas for people to get their exercise and enjoy the area’s scenery and various attractions.
A target of the Bike the Neck group is to help to develop the local portions of the East Coast Greenway. The ultimate goal for that Greenway is to have a bike path along most of the Eastern Seaboard of the United States.
As with other parts of Georgetown County, the Parks and Recreation Department maintains a number of neighborhood parks. There are four regional parks within the county and various ball fields and tennis courts.
Throughout the year, there are seasonal sports programs for children and some for adults as well. Many of the regional recreation centers have scheduled programs and teams that are open for people to enjoy.
Throughout the Waccamaw Neck there are local oyster beds where during designated times people may harvest oysters. There are several seafood outlets and fish houses that have oysters for sale.
In partnership with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, there are several oyster shell recycling locations where people are encouraged to take the oyster shells after enjoying them.
Periodically, SCDNR will gather the oyster shells and take them to a quarantine area where they may be treated and ultimately used to help establish and maintain oyster beds in the coastal waters of Georgetown County and along the South Carolina coast.
Along with oceanside boating opportunities, there are several boat landings and marinas. Some are operated by Georgetown County. There are also several commercial operations that are open to the public.
For many years, Georgetown County in general has had among the highest per capita numbers of boats in South Carolina. With the Atlantic Ocean, five rivers and numerous creeks, there are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. People enjoy boating, personal watercraft, paddle-boarding and waterskiing. There’s also, of course, plenty of fishing.
The fishing pier at Pawleys Village is for owners and guests. People also fish along some of the bridges and causeways. If you head south to Georgetown, there are two Winyah Bay fishing and observation piers at the city limits. They are remnants of the old Lafayette Bridge.
When you’re out and about enjoying the beaches, the rivers and creeks, be sure to use sunscreen regularly and drink liquids.
Most of all — enjoy yourselves.
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — (Update) The short-term swim ban affecting sections of Pawley's Island and Debordieu Beach has been lifted as of Monday morning, according to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.(Original story) The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has issued a short-term swimming advisory.Officials said this advisory is for water at Pawleys Island near the access point at Hazard St (station WAC-045A) in Georgetown County. The...
GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — (Update) The short-term swim ban affecting sections of Pawley's Island and Debordieu Beach has been lifted as of Monday morning, according to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.
(Original story) The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has issued a short-term swimming advisory.
Officials said this advisory is for water at Pawleys Island near the access point at Hazard St (station WAC-045A) in Georgetown County. They added that it's not a beach closing and this doesn't affect the entire beach.
In a release, the SCDES said:
Bacteria levels that are above state and federal standards have been detected in this area of water, and swimming is not advised in the area until bacteria levels return to normal. It’s safe to wade, collect shells and fish within this swimming advisory area. However, it’s advised that people entering the water in this area refrain from swallowing it, and that people with open wounds or compromised immune systems avoid contact with the water.
The SCDES tests water quality along ocean fronts in compliance with federal and state laws.
They said the water is tested for the enterococci bacteria, which are naturally found in warm-blooded animals, including humans. They added that high levels of this bacteria can cause illnesses such as gastrointestinal problems or skin infections.
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They said that short-term swimming advisories typically last for a few days and are lifted once more sampling shows normal bacteria levels.
Go here for more information on recent water sampling.
GEORGETOWN — A speakeasy, rooftop bar and micro distillery are coming to Front Street.It’s all part of a new Tidal Creek Brewhouse location set to open across three buildings in historic downtown.Charleston resident Adrian Sawczuk co-owns Tidal Creek with his wife, Dara. He said Georgetown's rich history, scenic waterfront and antebellum-style homes make it an attractive place for expansion."There's not a lot of locations like...
GEORGETOWN — A speakeasy, rooftop bar and micro distillery are coming to Front Street.
It’s all part of a new Tidal Creek Brewhouse location set to open across three buildings in historic downtown.
Charleston resident Adrian Sawczuk co-owns Tidal Creek with his wife, Dara. He said Georgetown's rich history, scenic waterfront and antebellum-style homes make it an attractive place for expansion.
"There's not a lot of locations like that," he said. "You can't make them."
Tidal Creek opened in the Market Common area of Myrtle Beach in 2021. It’s part brewhouse, part coffeehouse and features a beer garden, full bar and in-house coffee roaster. It will also be expanding to include 10 pickleball courts on nearby open land.
Sawczuk said the Georgetown location will have a more urban feel, replacing the outdoor beer garden with a rooftop terrace and a second-floor speakeasy that will have an exclusive and intimate atmosphere.
It won’t have a coffee roaster, but it will include a small distillery serving up spirits inspired by the Lowcountry and Georgetown’s history, he said. Four apartments will be added to the back of the property to be used for short-term rentals, Airbnbs or long-term housing.
Many others have also started looking to Georgetown as a place to expand their businesses.
The George Hotel opened on Front Street in 2024. It was developed by Winyah Hospitality LLC, composed of Charleston’s Joe Keenan, Pawleys Island’s Christy Whitlock and Florence’s Ben Zeigler.
Shortly after The George opened, the Charleston-based Indigo Road Hospitality Group opened The Independent, a seafood restaurant, inside the hotel. It’s the group’s first restaurant in Georgetown.
Indigo Road Hospitality Group has a strong presence in Charleston, along with Atlanta, Washington D.C., Raleigh and Charlotte.
Main Street Director Al Joseph said there's been a trend of business owners expanding into Georgetown. Five Pawleys Island businesses have opened second locations there over the past two years, he noted.
“It’s very significant,” he said.
Deanna Benston is the owner of Sea Gypsy Boutique in Pawleys. Her husband Scott owns Surf the Earth, a surf shop that offers camps, kayak tours and surf lessons.
Benston recently opened a second boutique on Front Street called Revival. The boutique offers a similar style of clothing to Sea Gypsy, with some additional brands. Benston said she has a focus on items made from natural materials such as cashmere, linen and cotton.
At first, she was unsure about the vision for the boutique. Then, as she began revitalizing the building that would hold her business, the idea for Revival bloomed.
She said she’s drawn to Georgetown — which has been undergoing its own kind of revival — because of its hometown feel and the ability to walk Front Street and duck in and out of mom-and-pop shops.
“I feel like we need more of that in society. We need to be supporting our friends and our neighbors that have been able to establish small businesses over the big box stores,” Benston said.
She said Georgetown also offers a tight-knit community feel, which appeals to her as a business owner. In the future, she said she'd like to partner with local organizations and host events to bring people together.
Sawczuk said operating a Georgetown location will likely be different than running a business in the bustling Market Common area.
He said he expects fewer tourists, and with a smaller population, it could be more difficult to secure employees.
But ultimately, he’s optimistic about the new location. Construction is set to begin in the next few months and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 or the beginning of 2027.
He said he’s also optimistic about the city's future, despite an affordable housing shortage and uncertainty about its future in heavy industry.
"We’ll continue to have development in Georgetown," he said.
PAWLEYS ISLAND — Michael Van Arsdel hasn’t given up hope that his father, who disappeared while sailing on the Waccamaw River last week, is safe.Kerry Van Arsdel, a 66-year-old Indiana resident, was last seen May 19. He departed from The Reserve Marina, but his boat was found unmanned near Butler Island on May 22, miles from the docks....
PAWLEYS ISLAND — Michael Van Arsdel hasn’t given up hope that his father, who disappeared while sailing on the Waccamaw River last week, is safe.
Kerry Van Arsdel, a 66-year-old Indiana resident, was last seen May 19. He departed from The Reserve Marina, but his boat was found unmanned near Butler Island on May 22, miles from the docks.
His phone, wallet, ID cards, tablet and medication were found inside the boat. There was no sign of a struggle, according to a report from the Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office.
“The situation is very, very unusual for him. I mean, it's not like him to be out like that,” Michael Van Arsdel said. “But we're just hoping for the best right now that he did swim ashore or jumped on a different boat.”
The sheriff’s office and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources are continuing to search the river, according to a Facebook post from the sheriff’s office.
Since Kerry Van Arsdel's disappearance, Midway Fire Rescue, the U.S. Coast Guard and the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) assisted in the search with boats, drones, airplanes and a helicopter.
Michael Van Arsdel said his father often sailed on the Waccamaw, typically anchoring for a couple of nights before returning to the marina.
Although he’s trying to remain optimistic, he said he can’t help but feel something went wrong.
"I don't know. I really don't know what happened," he said. "It’s odd, and it's hard to wait. You just don't — you just don't know. And it's frustrating."
Michael Van Arsdel lives in Hawaii and is trying to coordinate a trip to Pawleys Island to aid in the search effort. He said his sister is planning a trip to the area as well.
He described Kerry Van Arsdel as a loving father and grandfather who enjoys bowling and is fun to be around.
“Dad’s just a very loving person,” he said. “A very caring person.”
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