How to capture the best sunset photos around Myrtle Beach

You didn’t go on vacation to Myrtle Beach if you don’t have an iconic sunset shot. But with trees and other tourists walking the beach, it can be hard to know where the best spots to photograph are.

Tanya Ackerman, a Pawley’s Island “chasing the light” photographer, knows all the ins and outs of getting the best sunset photos. Ackerman, who’s won awards for her photojournalism, sells yearly calendars with iconic sunset pictures on her website.

You wanna be within 30 minutes of sunset. Touching the sun on your screen to get the best exposure setting.

Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

The sun sets in the west, so Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, a short drive from Myrtle Beach, will give you an undisturbed view of the setting sun. The Marsh Walk is a “half mile wooden boardwalk along a natural saltwater estuary,” according to the website. Being in a marsh environment offers photographers the advantage of having an unblocked view of the sky, away from the cover of trees.

Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

For $16.99 per adult and $12.99 per child, the SkyWheel is a Myrtle Beach landmark and makes a perfect spot to get a sunset shot at the top of the wheel. That is, if you can get the timing just right. Check the local sunset time and plan ahead around a 10 minute ride.

Intracoastal Waterway

There’s no better spot away from the cover of trees and people than on the water. The Intracoastal Waterway covers about 3,000 miles and there are six boat landings. There are several places nearby to rent a boat and go out during sunset to get the shot.

Pawley’s Island

Pawley’s Island is where Ackerman has chosen to stay for the beautiful views of water and nature. “It’s like stepping back in time,” Ackerman said. Pawley’s Island has plenty of boat landings to get shots out on the water. Ackerman recommends the beach for the sunrise, and the river for the sunset.

Tips for taking better sunset photos in Myrtle Beach

Being at the right place at the right time is key, according to Ackerman. She recommends that the best time is anytime in the 30 minutes after sunset will get you the best shot. While having a professional camera lens will get you better shots, all you need to get a good sunset photo is your phone camera. The Apple iPhone has plenty of camera settings for whichever environment you’re in. One tip is to touch the sunset with your finger, which changes the exposure setting. Ackerman recommends a lower shutter speed to get a longer exposure of the sunset.

Editor’s note: This story has been changed to reflect a price correction for the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.

This story was originally published June 25, 2022 at 1:00 AM.