Everything You Need to Know About Planning A Trip to Myrtle Beach, SC
Everyone loves a coastal paradise, with sun-kissed shores and a peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement and Myrtle Beach is no exception! This vibrant destination has something for everyone whether it be relaxation, thrill, or culture. With a little help from this curated guide, you’ll know everything you need to know when it comes to planning the best Myrtle Beach, SC getaway.
The Heart of Myrtle Beach and the Best Seasons to Visit
More than just a beach town; Myrtle Beach is a hub of Southern culture, steeped in history and bursting with local charm. Originally settled in the late 1800s, the area grew as a resort destination thanks to its beautiful coastline and accessibility via the Atlantic Coast Line Railway. Over the years, it evolved into one of the most popular vacation spots on the East Coast. Today, Myrtle Beach is known for its warm Southern hospitality, live entertainment venues, and family friendly atmosphere. The area celebrates its roots through annual events like the Myrtle Beach Jazz Festival and the Carolina Country Music Fest, where local and national talent come together. The city also has a strong connection to its maritime history, with attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and the historic Sea Captain’s House offering glimpses into the past of this incredible city.
To truly enjoy Myrtle Beach, it is important to know the perfect time to visit! The early spring and fall months offer pleasant weather without the peak-season crowds, perfect for those looking for a quieter beach escape. While summer sees the most visitors for the sunny weather and warm temperatures, there is still much to enjoy about the area during this time such as seasonal events, festivals, and shows.
Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture or simply unwind, Myrtle Beach's welcoming atmosphere is sure to provide a memorable experience year-round.
More to Myrtle Than the Beach: The Best Communities to Visit
Myrtle Beach is much more than just a sandy shore and thrilling boardwalk, there are many incredible communities located in and around the city that offer their own little slice of paradise.
Cherry Grove Beach
Located just 25 miles north of central Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Beach is a peaceful, family-friendly destination perfect for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Known for its wide sandy shores and clear waters, it offers a quieter alternative to the bustling Myrtle Beach area. Cherry Grove is also home to the iconic Cherry Grove Pier, where visitors can enjoy fishing, scenic views, and the occasional dolphin sighting. For nature lovers, the nearby Heritage Shores Nature Preserve provides beautiful walking trails and wildlife-watching opportunities. The area is also ideal for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, thanks to its calm waters. Cherry Grove Beach is a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, and take in the slower pace of life while still enjoying all of the action of Myrtle Beach.
North Myrtle Beach
Located just 15 miles north of Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere while still providing plenty of fun activities. Known for its beautiful, less crowded beaches, it’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape with easy access to local attractions. The area is home to the popular Barefoot Landing, a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex with live shows, unique shops, and waterfront restaurants. North Myrtle Beach also boasts several golf courses, and the Alligator Adventure park, where you can get up close with reptiles and other wildlife. With its perfect balance of tranquility and excitement, North Myrtle Beach is a great place to visit during your Myrtle Beach getaway.
Arcadian Shore
Located just 10 miles north of downtown Myrtle Beach, Arcadian Shores offers a serene coastal retreat while being close to all the action. One of the highlights is the Arcadian Shores Golf Club, a scenic course with challenging holes and beautiful views. For outdoor lovers, the nearby Myrtle Beach State Park offers nature trails, picnicking areas, and a quiet beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. If you enjoy fishing, the Apache Pier provides a great spot for casting a line and enjoying ocean views. Arcadian Shores is also conveniently close to the popular Tanger Outlets and Restaurant Row, offering plenty of shopping and dining options. With its combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and easy access to Myrtle Beach attractions, Arcadian Shores is a great place to relax and explore when visiting Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, located along South Carolina’s Grand Strand, boasts 60 miles of stunning coastline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can explore the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, home to iconic attractions like the SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel with sweeping ocean views. The area also offers numerous golf courses, shopping at the Tanger Outlets, and family-friendly entertainment at places like the Broadway at the Beach complex. For nature lovers, the nearby Brookgreen Gardens showcases beautiful sculptures and botanical displays. Myrtle Beach also hosts seasonal events, such as the Carolina Country Music Fest and the Sun Fun Festival. The opportunities for fun are truly endless!
Surfside Beach
Located just 10 miles south of Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach is a charming, family-friendly destination known for its relaxed atmosphere and pristine coastline. The area is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying beach activities like volleyball or picnicking. Surfside Beach also features a scenic fishing pier, where visitors can try their hand at fishing or simply enjoy the view. For those interested in exploring, the nearby Huntington Beach State Park offers nature trails, birdwatching, and access to beautiful Atalaya Castle, a historic site once home to a renowned sculptor. Surfside Beach is truly a great place to unwind and enjoy the best of the Grand Strand.
Garden City Beach
Located just 12 miles south of Myrtle Beach, Garden City Beach is a peaceful, picturesque destination. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and less crowded beaches, it’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape with easy access to local attractions. The Garden City Pier is a popular spot, offering fishing, scenic views, and live entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy waterfront dining at local seafood restaurants, serving fresh catches from the Atlantic. With its perfect balance of serenity and thrilling attractions, Garden City Beach is a charming place to explore the Myrtle Beach area and enjoy the Grand Strand.
Murrells Inlet
Located just 15 miles south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is a charming fishing village known for its scenic beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Often referred to as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina," the area offers a variety of waterfront dining options, where visitors can enjoy fresh local seafood while overlooking the Inlet’s stunning views. The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is a popular destination, with a boardwalk that stretches along the water, offering shops, restaurants, and live music. For outdoor activities, kayaking, fishing, and boating are popular pastimes in the inlet’s calm waters. Murrells Inlet provides a peaceful, picturesque retreat while still being close to Myrtle Beach, making it a perfect spot for anyone seeking a relaxing escape with plenty of local flavor and natural beauty.
Things to Do, Places to See, Food to Eat
Apart from the culture of the area and the many charming communities surrounding Myrtle Beach, there are countless exciting activities, stunning sights, and delicious dining options located within the city itself. There is a reason Myrtle Beach is a must-visit spot along the South Carolina coast!
Start your adventure by exploring the famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a lively stretch along the oceanfront, lined with shops, arcades, and attractions like the SkyWheel. For a bird's-eye view of the coastline, take a ride on this giant Ferris wheel, or enjoy the nightly fireworks shows. If you're looking for adventure, head to the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, a thrilling live performance featuring acrobats, pirates, and live animals.
For a more relaxed day, spend time at Broadway at the Beach, a massive entertainment complex with restaurants, shops, and attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium. Myrtle Beach is also a golfer’s paradise, with over 100 championship courses offering a variety of challenges. Nature lovers can explore Brookgreen Gardens, a beautiful outdoor museum featuring stunning sculptures and lush gardens. For those who enjoy water sports, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing are popular activities, while the nearby state parks provide ample hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities.
For more unique experiences or just an extra activity, you can visit places such as Time Warp at The Carolina Opry, Myrtle Waves Water Park, The Original Motown Tribute Show at GTS Theatre, The Funplex Myrtle Beach, and so much more! Packed with everything and anything you can think of, there is no way you will ever be bored when visiting Myrtle Beach.
Never bored, and more importantly, never hungry! When it comes to food, Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of options, from fresh seafood to Southern comfort food. Enjoy a classic Lowcountry boil at one of the area’s seafood restaurants, or indulge in delicious dishes at local favorites like Sea Captain’s House or Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant. For a unique dining experience, head to the MarshWalk in Murrells Inlet, where you can savor fresh seafood while enjoying waterfront views. Local favorites include The Grumpy Monk, Wicked Tuna, Dead Dog Saloon, and King Kong Sushi, all places where a delicious meal is guaranteed!
There are also several incredible bars and places to have a nice glass of wine, we suggest visiting Captain Archies for a thrilling bar experience, or La Belle Amie Vineyard for a glass or two! With so much to do and taste, Myrtle Beach promises a fun-filled, unforgettable vacation!
Your Myrtle Beach Home Away from Home: Saltwater Grande
For every dream vacation, there is a perfect vacation rental home that serves as the cherry on top, providing the comfort, convenience, and access you need to ensure a memorable vacation. Saltwater Grande is the best and only choice to ensure your dream Myrtle Beach vacation becomes a reality! This curated collection of Myrtle Beach vacation rentals values quality with no detail left spared; these homes ensure a delightful experience from the moment you step through the doors. Enjoy lush amenities such as expansive balconies, stunning water views, and prime locations. These vacation rentals provide quality both inside and out, offering resort-style communities with indoor and outdoor pools, lazy rivers, kiddie pools, fitness centers, beach access and so much more. Regardless of how big or small your group may be, Saltwater Grande is fully prepared to provide the best vacation rental experience with every expectation exceeded. A Myrtle Beach getaway is never complete without your home away from home with Saltwater Grande.
Myrtle Beach is a true South Carolina gem, With its stunning beaches, renowned attractions, bustling dining scene, and charming local culture, it's no wonder this coastal gem draws visitors from all over. Whether you're strolling the boardwalk, enjoying fresh seafood by the water, or exploring the natural beauty of the area, Myrtle Beach offers an unforgettable experience. With your when, where, and what already in place all that is left is to pack your bags; your magical Myrtle Beach vacation awaits!
