Venomous Snake Startles South Carolina Beachgoers

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is one of America's most popular vacation destinations. Millions of folks visit the area for the sun, surf, and nightlife every year. However, one visitor recently surprised the other beachgoers. Maybe startled is a better word.

According to UPI, Michele Robert was collecting sea glass at Myrtle Beach State Park when she saw a large snake in the water. It appeared to be enjoying itself. The serpent would slithered to the edge of the water, get tumbled around a bit, then go back to dry land for a breather before heading back to the water.

As you can imagine, the snake's seaside sojourn was just a bit unsettling to the humans nearby. Park officials called Russell Cavendar, owner of Snake Chaser, to capture and relocate the animal. Cavendar identified it as a canebrake (timber) rattlesnake, which is highly venomous. He reportedly released the snake in a swampy area of Horry County, South Carolina.

WPDE-TV posted video of the snake frolicking in the surf on Facebook:

My wife and I are beach people. We just got back from the beach and we're already looking forward to our next beach trip. If your summer plans include a beach vacation, this list might help you pick a really good one.

Scientist Stephen Leatherman, also known as "Dr. Beach," has released his 2022 list of the top U.S. beaches. Dr. Leatherman is a professor and director of the Laboratory for Coastal Research at Florida International University. He has been ranking America's best beaches since 1991.

According to CNN, Leatherman uses 50 criteria in evaluating 650 public beaches. He examines sand softness, water temperature and clarity, beach width, and even wildlife. A few beaches in the Carolinas, including this year's top pick, check off a lot of boxes.