Visit Atalaya Castle on your Vacation to Pawleys Island

There are plenty of scenic beaches and great landmarks to visit during your Pawleys Island vacation. From the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk to Brookgreen Gardens to all the attractions of nearby Myrtle Beach, you're sure to have a packed itinerary! But no matter what you've got planned be sure to fit in some time to explore Atalaya, one of the most unique and beautiful landmarks along the Grand Strand.

Situated in Huntington Beach State Park, Atalaya was dreamt up by Archer M. Huntington and Anna Huntington. Archer was a wealthy industrialist who had an intense love for the arts and his wife Anna was a talented and acclaimed sculptor. The couple donated land that they owned in the Murrells Inlet area to found Brookgreen Gardens in 1932 as a huge sculpture garden that featured the works of Anna Huntington as well as works of other world-class sculptors. Between 1931 and 1933 the couple began construction on Atalaya, drawing from Moorish revival architecture to build what would become their winter home.

One of the unique aspects of Atalaya is that it was built without any drawn plans. Instead, the layout of the 200' by 200' structure was literally the brainchild of Archer, eventually encompassing 30 rooms with a 40 foot tower in the center which housed a 3,000 gallon water tank.

Today Atalaya is one of the most beloved landmarks along the Grand Strand and a favorite spot for weddings and formal events. In 1984 Atalaya was bestowed the honor of being listed on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its legacy and ensuring that following generations would be able to enjoy this beautiful estate.

Tours of the castle are available through Huntington Beach State Park and if you're in the area during the fall, the Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival hosts scores of skilled artisans exhibiting their works and carrying on the philanthropy for the arts that was so important to the Huntingtons.

Whether it's a spring weekend getaway or a weeklong summer trip, there's never a bad time for a Pawleys Island vacation! And with our amazing spring and summer booking specials, the Litchfield Company has the perfect Pawleys Island condos and beach houses for your trip. From our golf course suites and villas at Pawleys Plantation Resort and True Blue Resort to our oceanfront condos at Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort, book your accommodations today and plan an unforgettable vacation to Pawleys Island today!