The best stargazing spot in SC is near Myrtle Beach, survey says. Here’s where

Between the near-full moon and cloudy overcast skies, the recent peak of the majestic Perseid meteor shower was hard to spot in the Myrtle Beach area. Despite that skywatching bust, the Grand Strand actually has the best stargazing in South Carolina, according to a new survey.

Home to a picturesque maritime forest, world-class bird watching and historic Atalaya Castle, Huntington Beach State Park was named the top spot to observe the stars around the Palmetto State.

A survey of more than 3,000 skywatchers by astrology website TarotCards.io identified the best stargazing sites in every U.S. state and Huntington Beach came out on top in South Carolina. The state park was also named the 54th best stargazing spot nationally.

With 2,500 acres across 3 miles of coastline, Huntington Beach State Park has some of the darkest skies in the Grand Strand because it’s protected from the development and light pollution of surrounding areas. In those darker skies it’s easier to spot stars.

“This coastal park offers excellent views across the Atlantic, with minimal light from nearby towns,” the survey said. “Stargazers often use the causeway or beach area to watch constellations rise over the water.”

When can you stargaze at Huntington Beach State Park?

Huntington Beach State Park is open to day visitors from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. standard time, but extends its hours until 10 p.m. during daylight savings time. Some stars may be visible shortly after the sun goes down, but the best conditions are later, when all light from the sun has disappeared.

Dedicated stargazers can make the most of Huntington Beach’s views with an overnight trip. The state park offers both tent and RV camping reservations.

When is the best time to stargaze?

A clear sky is critical for star visibility. While summer nights are great for enjoying the beach and staying up late, fall and winter fall tend to be clearer.

“You get these big, strong cold fronts that move across and there’s little moisture content in the air, and you get clear skies for days,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Stephen Keebler. “So if there’s something to watch, a meteor shower or something like that, your odds of seeing it clearly are better in the winter time and the fall.”

The time of the month is also important when planning a stargazing expedition. The moon dims the appearance of stars, so a new moon is best. If the moon is fuller, checking moonrise and moonset times can help plan around its appearance.

Preparing to stargaze

Before heading out under the stars, it’s critical to check the forecast, sunset time, moonrise time and moonset time. Planning around these variables will help determine the optimal time for stargazing — or if stars just won’t appear that night.

Once a timeframe is established, it’s a good idea to avoid white light, which inhibits night vision. That means avoiding bright camping lanterns, flashlights, headlights and phone screens. A red flashlight can be used to navigate the night terrain and, while a blue light filter can limit cellphones’ impacts, simply putting the phone away is even better.