Magical Sunrise at Belin UMC: A Peaceful Waterfront Experience in Murrells Inlet, SC

My friend and I spent Palm Sunday weekend in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, in 2022, and one of the highlights of my visit was an early-morning sunrise at Belin UMC or Belin Memorial United Methodist Church .

I’m not normally an early riser, but I made the effort to get up early and drive to the church’s beautiful waterfront location. It was still dark when I arrived.

I found a lovely bench overlooking the water and sat beneath majestic oak trees for a few quiet moments. As I waited for the sun to rise, I felt grateful for the peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to simply pause and take it all in.

Slowly, the first light began to appear over the inlet. I watched as the sun gradually made its way above the horizon, illuminating the marsh and water with the soft glow of a new day.

Before long, the quiet waterfront began to come alive. Birds circled above the marsh, friends headed out to fish from a nearby dock, and a few other early risers joined me to watch the spectacle.

For those few moments, we were all united in watching something as simple and beautiful as a sunrise. There was something almost magical about sharing that quiet experience with complete strangers as a new day unfolded before us.

I eventually returned to my hotel with peace and joy in my heart. What an incredible way to begin the day!

The History of Belin UMC

Belin United Methodist Church has been part of the Murrells Inlet community for generations. The current church was built in 1925 using materials salvaged from the dismantling of Oatland Methodist Church near Pawleys Island.

Today, Belin UMC is an active and vibrant church community with ministries and programs serving children, youth, adults, and seniors. The church also operates a preschool and offers a variety of community activities, including scouting, summer camps, and outreach programs.

But for me, the church’s waterfront setting was the real attraction that morning.

Sitting beneath the live oaks and watching the sun rise over Murrells Inlet was a simple experience, yet it became one of the most memorable moments of my weekend.

If you’re visiting Murrells Inlet, consider setting your alarm early and making your way to this beautiful waterfront location. The sunrise is worth it.

If You Go

Location: Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.
Our Visit: Palm Sunday weekend, 2022.
Best Feature: Beautiful waterfront setting overlooking the inlet and marsh.
Best Time to Visit: Arrive before sunrise to watch the changing colors of the sky.
Photography: Bring your camera—the marsh, live oaks, water, birds, and sunrise create beautiful photo opportunities.
Atmosphere: Peaceful and quiet early in the morning.
History: The current church was built in 1925 using materials salvaged from Oatland Methodist Church near Pawleys Island.
Tip: Check the church’s current policies and access information before visiting, as this is an active place of worship.