Myrtle Beach is a top destination for tourists seeking sunshine, white sandy beaches, family fun entertainment, and gourmet dining. These are just a few of the reasons we decided to make the leap to full-time resident over seven years ago.
If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Strand, here are a few of our tips for making the most of your time at the beach.
Beach Survival
With miles and miles of beaches stretching from Pawleys Island to Littler River, enjoying your time in the sun and sand of the Grand Strand can take a toll if you’re not careful. To ensure the best beach experience, here are a few items you want to buy or pack ahead of time: sunscreen, cheap sunglasses, and a boogie board.
Sunscreen– never leave the hotel without it. If you’re going to be spending hours on the beach, sunscreen will be your defense against nasty sunburns that can ruin your vacation. Walking around with bright red, splotchy skin is not only unhealthy and unattractive, it just plain hurts, too.
Another key item is inexpensive sunglasses. Not only will they get scratched and slathered in sweat and sunscreen, but if you’re spending quality time in the waves, they can easily get swept away. An inexpensive pair will ensure your designer shades keep their pristine appearance and you’re not left squinting the entire day.
For the ultimate fun, pick up a cheap boogie board from one of the beach shops or big box stores. These little boards offer hours of entertainment and consist of formed Styrofoam perfect for propping your upper body on for body surfing in the waves.
Seek Out Free Activities
There are a bunch of free, family fun activities happening around the Grand Strand during the summer season.
At Market Common, couples and families can enjoy free carriage rides every Tuesday night from 6-9 p.m., and free movies during their Movies Under the Stars series on Fridays. Both activities are weather permitting and run through the end of August 2016.
If you’re a lover of art, the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum offers a calendar full of exhibitions and events that are free to the public. “The Art of the Brick” runs through September 10, 2016, and features large-scale Lego sculptures by artist Nathan Sawaya.
If you like big bangs, Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing blast off fireworks displays one night each week throughout the summer.
Prepare to Nosh & Sip
Myrtle Beach is home to a vast variety of gourmet restaurants, fast food chains, and diners. If you’re a foodie, you’ll revel in the selection the Grand Strand has to offer. Whether it’s local seafood, USDA grade steaks, handmade pasta, or decadent desserts, diners have a ton of options for satisfying their cravings.
One tip to keep in mind when planning for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? Wander off the beaten path.
If you’re looking for eclectic southern comfort food, seek out the fare at Chive Blossom Café in Pawleys Island. Or, if you want to enjoy a smorgasbord of fresh seafood, travel to Bimini’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Cafe in Myrtle Beach. Seeking Mexican food with a twist? Head to Main Street and dine at Sun City Café, one of our favs.
Some of Myrtle Beach’s greatest restaurants are not located along U.S. 17, U.S. 17 Bypass, or Ocean Boulevard.
