If you’re in the Myrtle Beach area and love discovering hidden gems, the Hudson Flea Market in Surfside Beach, SC, is a destination you shouldn’t miss. Whether you’re a local shopper or a vacationer seeking a unique experience, this bustling flea market offers an eclectic mix of antiques, handcrafted goods, collectibles, local produce, and beach-themed treasures. With its relaxed coastal vibe and wide variety of vendors, it’s a great way to spend a weekend morning in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. If you enjoy Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market, don’t miss Fairgrounds Exchange Park and Pickens County Flea Market.
Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market Schedule
- Address: 1040 US-17 BUS, Surfside Beach, SC 29575
- Phone: (843) 238-0372
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Monday | Closed |
Parking, Entry Fees, and Transportation Options
Free Parking and Convenient Access
One of Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market’s biggest advantages for visitors is the completely free parking available directly adjacent to the market buildings. The parking areas are well-maintained and offer designated accessible spots for individuals with mobility needs, ensuring that all visitors can access the market comfortably. This thoughtful approach to visitor accommodations demonstrates the market’s commitment to welcoming shoppers of all abilities.
No Entry Fees Required
Admission to Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market is completely free no tickets, no passes, no hidden charges. This means you can browse at your own pace without any pressure to purchase, making it perfect for casual explorers, families on vacation, and serious collectors looking to build their collections without committing to expensive entry fees.
Getting There: Transportation Options
| Transportation Method | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Vehicle | All Visitors | Most convenient; free parking on-site |
| Uber/Lyft | Tourists; Non-drivers | Reliable service available year-round |
| Rental Car | Vacationers | Flexible exploration of area attractions |
| Public Transit | Budget Travelers | Limited options; plan ahead accordingly |
| Rideshare Services | Group Visitors | Cost-effective for multiple people |
While driving remains the most convenient option, Uber and Lyft services operate reliably throughout the Myrtle Beach area, making them excellent choices for visitors without personal transportation. The market’s prominent location on a major highway ensures that rideshare drivers are familiar with the destination and can drop you off with ease.
Notable Vendors and Featured Shops
Beachside Antiques
Beachside Antiques stands out as a consistently popular vendor stall, attracting visitors who appreciate vintage coastal aesthetic and nostalgic décor. This vendor specializes in carefully curated vintage surfboards some from several decades past retro signage featuring classic beach-themed messaging, and nautical collectibles that evoke the charm of South Carolina’s classic coastal heritage. Shopping here transports you to a time when beach culture was simpler, more colorful, and deeply connected to the ocean lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for an authentic vintage surfboard to display or retro beach signage to brighten your home, this vendor delivers authentic pieces with genuine character and history.
Handcrafted Treasures
For those seeking unique, artisanal merchandise, Handcrafted Treasures offers an impressive array of one-of-a-kind items created by local artisans and crafters. The vendor specializes in intricate jewelry designs that range from delicate coastal-inspired pieces to bold statement accessories, boho-inspired clothing that captures the free-spirited essence of beach living, and handmade home décor items that add personality to any space. The visual presentation of this stall is particularly Instagram-worthy, with carefully arranged displays that showcase the creativity and attention to detail that goes into each item.
Coastal Snacks Corner
Shopping works up an appetite, and Coastal Snacks Corner provides the perfect solution. This vendor cluster features freshly prepared snacks, cold beverages, and refreshments designed to keep shoppers energized and comfortable while they explore. From coffee and fresh juice to grab-and-go snacks and light meals, the options here ensure you won’t need to leave the market to satisfy hunger or thirst during your visit.
Featured Sections and Merchandise Categories
| Merchandise Category | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage & Antiques | Authentic aged goods with historical value | Collectors; History enthusiasts |
| Beachwear & Nautical | Coastal-themed clothing and décor | Beach lovers; Vacation shoppers |
| Handcrafted Goods | Artisan-made jewelry, clothing, décor | Gift seekers; Art appreciators |
| Collectibles & Curiosities | Rare finds, quirky items, vintage collectibles | Treasure hunters; Curious explorers |
| Furniture & Home Décor | Vintage pieces for home beautification | Interior designers; Homeowners |
| Tools & Equipment | Practical items for DIY projects | Contractors; Hobbyists |
| Toys & Games | Vintage and collectible toys | Nostalgic shoppers; Collectors |
Collectibles & Curiosities Section
The Collectibles & Curiosities section represents the heart of what makes Hudson’s special for serious treasure hunters and casual browsers alike. This constantly evolving collection includes rare vintage finds, quirky items that spark conversation and curiosity, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered by the next owner who’ll appreciate their unique value and story.
Accommodations Near Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market
Surfside Beach Inn & Suites
Perfect for early risers eager to arrive at the market before peak shopping hours, Surfside Beach Inn & Suites offers spacious, comfortable rooms with stunning ocean views. The proximity to Hudson’s Flea Market makes this an excellent choice for visitors whose primary goal includes exploring the market without extensive travel time. Guests appreciate the hotel’s convenient location and comfortable amenities, making it an ideal base for weekend shoppers and vacation-focused travelers.
Sea Trail Resort
This full-service resort provides comfortable accommodations combined with on-site dining options and family-friendly amenities that appeal to visitors traveling with children. The short drive to Hudson’s Flea Market, combined with the resort’s comprehensive facilities, makes it a convenient choice for families seeking a complete vacation experience that includes both shopping and relaxation.
Best Western Plus Ocean View
Located near Business Highway 17 with direct proximity to Hudson’s Flea Market, the Best Western Plus Ocean View combines convenience with comfort. The hotel features free breakfast service, modern rooms designed for contemporary comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for weekend shoppers and vacationing families alike. The complimentary breakfast means you can fuel up before heading to the market and maximize your shopping time.
| Hotel Name | Key Features | Distance to Market | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfside Beach Inn & Suites | Ocean views; Spacious rooms | Minutes away | Early morning shoppers |
| Sea Trail Resort | On-site dining; Family amenities | Short drive | Families with children |
| Best Western Plus Ocean View | Free breakfast; Modern amenities | Very close | Weekend visitors |
Tips and Strategies for First-Time Visitors
Arrive Early for Prime Selections
One of the most valuable pieces of advice for any flea market shopper is to arrive early, and Hudson’s is no exception. Vendors typically complete their setups early in the morning, and the most desirable, unique, and rare items tend to disappear quickly—particularly on weekends when foot traffic is highest. Early arrival gives you first access to merchandise and allows you to browse without navigating congested aisles.
Bring Cash for Better Deals
While modern payment methods have made card transactions common, many flea market vendors still prefer cash transactions. Beyond convenience, cash payment often opens doors to negotiation and potentially better deals, as vendors appreciate the immediate, fee-free payment method. Arriving with a combination of cash and card options ensures you’re prepared for any vendor preference.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Hudson’s spans multiple indoor and outdoor areas with varied terrain, and you’ll likely cover significant distance while shopping. Comfortable, supportive shoes are essential to prevent fatigue and allow you to enjoy your experience fully. Many experienced flea market shoppers recommend shoes with good arch support and cushioning for all-day wear.
Bring a Bag or Cart for Larger Purchases
Reusable shopping bags, backpacks, or small carts significantly enhance the shopping experience, especially if you plan to purchase multiple items or larger pieces. A wheeled cart proves particularly valuable for transporting heavy finds or multiple smaller items, preventing arm fatigue and allowing you to browse freely without limiting your carrying capacity.
Practice Polite Haggling
Negotiating prices is a time-honored flea market tradition, and Hudson’s vendors expect and welcome respectful haggling. Approach negotiations with courtesy and a friendly attitude, and remember that vendors have already priced items with negotiation in mind. A polite request for a better deal, especially when purchasing multiple items, often results in favorable outcomes and creates positive interactions with vendors.
What Merchandise Can You Expect to Find?
Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market offers remarkable variety that caters to diverse shopping interests and budgets. Expect to discover vintage goods spanning multiple decades, genuine antiques with documented histories, beachwear and coastal-themed merchandise that captures the spirit of South Carolina’s shore, handmade crafts showcasing local artisan talent, rare and unusual collectibles that appeal to serious collectors, vintage and contemporary jewelry in various styles and price points, toys and games from multiple eras, functional tools and equipment for practical projects, and decorative home décor items ranging from vintage to contemporary styles. This diversity ensures that whether you’re searching for something specific or simply browsing for inspiration, you’ll find merchandise that captures your interest and imagination.
Instagram-Worthy Moments and Social Media Appeal
Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market has become increasingly popular on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where the vibrant vendor booths, colorful merchandise displays, and relaxed beach-town aesthetic create naturally photogenic settings. The market’s artistic vendors have thoughtfully arranged their stalls to be visually appealing, understanding that Instagram-worthy moments drive word-of-mouth marketing and attract younger visitors seeking authentic, shareable experiences.
From retro signage and nostalgic displays to vibrant handmade art and quirky beach souvenirs, the market provides endless opportunities for casual travel content creation. The natural lighting, colorful merchandise, and casual beach-town vibe combine to create the perfect backdrop for travel photography. The market maintains an active social media presence and frequently shares visitor photos, creating a sense of community among shoppers and encouraging first-time visitors to discover the destination.
Why Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market Deserves Your Visit
Beyond the merchandise and vendors, Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market represents something increasingly rare in modern retail environments an authentic, community-focused marketplace that prioritizes experience over convenience, personality over corporate branding, and connection over transactions. The market has earned its reputation through consistent commitment to quality, vendor relationships, and visitor satisfaction over decades of operation.
Visiting Hudson’s means supporting local vendors, artisans, and entrepreneurs who pour their energy into creating unique shopping experiences. It means discovering items with history and character that mass-produced retail goods simply cannot match. It means participating in a tradition of treasure hunting and marketplace discovery that connects you to the broader community and culture of Surfside Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market operate year-round?
Yes, Hudson’s operates Thursday through Sunday with consistent hours from 9 AM to 4 PM throughout the year, though individual vendor participation may vary seasonally.
Are leashed pets welcome at the market?
Leashed pets are permitted in outdoor areas, though indoor building access may be restricted check with on-site staff regarding current pet policies.
Does the market offer food and beverage options?
Yes, Coastal Snacks Corner and other vendors provide freshly prepared snacks, cold beverages, and refreshments, with food trucks sometimes present during weekends.
What payment methods do vendors typically accept?
While many vendors now accept cards, cash remains preferred by most for quicker transactions and potential price negotiations.
How do I become a vendor at Hudson’s Flea Market?
Contact the market directly at (843) 238-0372 or visit their vendor information page to review booth rates and submit applications.
Is there wheelchair accessibility throughout the market?
Yes, the market provides designated accessible parking spots and wheelchair access to most areas, though some outdoor sections may have uneven terrain.
What’s the best time to visit for the largest selection?
Thursday mornings offer the freshest merchandise with less crowd, while weekends provide vibrant atmospheres but require earlier arrival for best selections.
Are there nearby restroom facilities available?
Yes, restroom facilities are available on-site at the market buildings to serve visitor needs throughout your shopping experience.
Can I reserve a parking spot in advance?
Parking is first-come, first-served, but the ample free parking typically accommodates all visitors without requiring advance reservations.
Does the market host special events or themed shopping days?
Contact the market directly at (843) 238-0372 to inquire about seasonal events, special promotions, or themed shopping days they may organize.
Final Thoughts
Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market in Surfside Beach, South Carolina, offers far more than shopping; it’s a complete experience blending nostalgia, coastal charm, and authentic marketplace culture. Whether vacationing, seeking weekend adventure, collecting rare finds, or discovering hidden treasures, Hudson’s welcomes you with open doors and free admission.
The diverse vendors, convenient location, free parking, accessible hours, and welcoming atmosphere create a memorable outing. Vintage antiques to contemporary handcrafted goods mean something for everyone. The relaxed aesthetic and vendor community make Hudson’s a standout Myrtle Beach destination.
Plan your visit soon, arrive early, bring cash for negotiating, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for discovering unique items for your collection or home. Tag finds on social media and join the community making Hudson’s their favorite shopping destination.
