Just to the south, Surfside Beach has carved out its own identity as the “Family Beach.” The land was once home to Ark Plantation, later renamed Floral Beach, before officially becoming Surfside in the 1960s. Its quiet streets and welcoming shoreline make it a favorite for families seeking a slower pace than the busier resorts nearby. The Surfside Pier, first built in the 1950s and rebuilt several times after hurricanes, stands as a symbol of resilience and community pride. Surfside has also become known as an autism-friendly destination, further cementing its reputation as a place where all families can feel at home by the sea.