Myrtle Beach holidays

There are many reasons to visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – the most well known being the 96km of beachfront known as the Grand Strand. While this practically uninterrupted stretch of white sand is impressive, it’s not the only reason to visit Myrtle Beach. This Southern city offers variety and value to its visitors.

What to do
There are many stretches of beach in and around the city that are free to visit. Just park your car on the street, make sure you swim near a lifeguard, and don’t forget your sunscreen. When you’re not tanning, swimming or building sandcastles, be sure to check out these other attractions:

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk opened in 2010, and has been called one of the best boardwalks in the United States by National Geographic and Travel + Leisure. Running from 14th Avenue North to 2nd Avenue North, this wooden promenade forms a meandering park with the beach on one side and a series of shops, restaurants, and bars on the other.

As you walk the boardwalk, you won’t be able to miss SkyWheel. At 61 metres tall, this observation wheel is the largest on the East Coast, and offers visitors with an unbeatable view from the comfort of a climate-controlled gondola. If you’re afraid of heights, the way the wheel gets lit up at night makes for a pretty spectacular view that doesn’t require leaving the ground.

In the evening, be sure to get tickets to a show at The Carolina Opry. The musical variety show by the same name is highly acclaimed and gets a special Christmas makeover every year, but this venue also plays host to a laser light show and a musical performance featuring the best of the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

Where to eat
At the South end of the Grand Strand, Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk is home to seven excellent restaurants serving up some of South Carolina’s best seafood. After dinner, walk along the salt marshes and take in the view while you work off your meal. You might even catch some live music.

Closer to Myrtle Beach’s city centre, Toscana Italian Bistro is a great option. The restaurant is small and upscale, and some people say the food rivals meals they’ve had in Italy.

If you’re looking for Southern food, however, head to Big Mike’s Soul Food. Dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese are easy on your budget and taste like home cooking.

Or, if you’re looking to splurge for a special occasion, Aspen Grille’s romantic atmosphere and casual elegance won’t disappoint. The food isn’t bad either.

Where to stay
Carolina Winds Oceanfront Resort is located on a quieter part of the Grand Strand. There are different room types available, but many include a kitchen to accommodate travellers who like to prepare their own meals. Nearby attractions include Family Kingdom Amusement Park, a charming old-fashioned amusement park, and Alligator Adventure. Both of these attractions are sure to please children, as are the resort’s multiple pools. Parents can even grab an inner tube and relax in the resort’s lazy river.

Right on the beach, every room at Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront Resort includes a private balcony. Hotel amenities include a fitness room, a spa, and two lazy rivers, as well as a pool specifically for children. Adults can swim and relax in peace, and children can play together in a safe environment that’s just for them.

Holiday Inn at the Pavilion is the perfect option for people who like to stay active. With five swimming pools, a fitness centre, and free tennis privileges at a private club nearby, guests won’t run out of exercise options. People who just want to spend their holiday lounging on the beach will find the Holiday Inn an easy place to relax. Don’t forget to order a drink from the hotel’s Tropical Paradise Beach Bar, to help you really unwind.

When to go
Myrtle Beach is beautiful anytime of year! Winters are pleasant and mild, making it a great place to getaway for Christmas. Summers seem to last forever and, although it can get humid in South Carolina, the coastal climate will keep you cooler than you’d be further inland. With multiple professional fireworks displays along the beach, Myrtle Beach is one of the best places to enjoy 4th of July in the United States.