Aside from beaches, there is so much more to see and do in Myrtle Beach. A beautiful U.S destination with a dose of southern hospitality.
Whether you are on spring break, a family vacation, or on a last-minute getaway, there is a ton of attractions and entertainment for just about everyone. I’ve been going to Myrtle Beach at least once or twice a year since 2015 and it is the perfect getaway. This time, I had to share it all with you on the blog. Ready for fun? Get your beachwear ready and let’s dive into this ultimate travel guide to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
WHERE TO STAY
Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes
I will warn you, you will not want to leave this resort. The Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is located in North Myrtle Beach and it is my preferred hotel choice. We had a beautiful spacious room with outstanding views. This property was recently renovated and everything looks phenomenal.
This oceanfront resort is perfect for families, couples, and/or group vacations. You will have private access to the beach where you can rent out chairs with umbrellas (so worth doing this) or you can hang out at the pool. Either way, you have the option to do both. There is an indoor pool as well.
Staying at the Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes has it all, even when it comes to food. You have:
Oceans’s On 82nd: They have a morning breakfast buffet as well as all-day dining with gorgeous ocean views. Try the Chipotle Chicken Wrap with Sweet Potato Fries! So delicious.
Ocean Blu: They have a casual menu where they serve all kinds of finger food to enjoy poolside. They don’t have it on the menu but as for their fruit bowl. A large bowl filled with delicious berries, melon, and pineapple. Perfect for snacking poolside.
The Cove: An American restaurant with beachfront views that offer all sorts of American food
Lastly, Blue Restaurant and Lounge: A perfect evening place to get signature cocktails and a relaxing dinner.
From gorgeous beach views from the room to amazing poolside food and entertainment. You will feel like you are in another world. You can find the best rates here.
THINGS TO DO
The infamous landmark is known and one of the “best scenic views in South Carolina”. This infamous landmark SkyWheel cannot be missed when strolling down the Boardwalk. This is not your typical Ferris wheel ride. The SkyWheel is a fully enclosed gondola with glass windows and doors. The gondolas are both heated and cooled for year-round operation. Standing 200 feet above the ocean, the views are amazing. I’ve heard that the sunset is a must-see so if you are planning to go, arrive early.
*Warning! Wear comfy shoes* With a long beach, some comes a long boardwalk. In this case, there is so much to see and do along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Aside from the Sky Wheel, there are several little shops, activities and depending on the weekend, you might find a little festival happening. You will find yourself strolling for hours. I’d like to consider the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk fun and big outdoor playground for everyone.
Other things to do:
Alligator Adventures
Miniature Golf (Great for kids)
Hollywood Wax Museum
PLACES TO EAT
Aside from the resort restaurants which, I am completely satisfied with. Myrtle Beach has an array of dining to choose from.
Hook and Barrel: A popular place for amazing seafood and their cookie skillet. If you follow me on Instagram, chances are you’ve watched my stories and raved about their cookie skillet. For starters, try the crab cakes and fish bites are so good. Let’s not forget the complimentary pimento cheese, SO good! I’ve been to Hook and Barrel twice. The first time I had their salmon which was so delicious and this time around, I had their scallops. Everything was so good and the seafood is very fresh. They have a kids menu with kid-friendly choices. Lastly, the cookie skillet is a must! Aside from the food being so good, the desserts are even better.
Sea Captains House: First, this restaurant is so cute. It is literally a little house nestled between large resorts. The history behind this restaurant is that is was once a beach house for vacationers and after converted to a restaurant, it has been an award-winning restaurant for the past 50 years. You will find everything from salads, country appetizers and of course, lots of seafood. Apparently many come here for brunch but their dinner is really good. Be sure to use Open Table for reservations because they get really busy. Of course, for starters, check out their crab cakes, she-crab soup and crab dip (oh yes, I love anything crab lol) for dinner, I had their shrimp scampi with pasta. So delicious. Everything is super fresh. I was too stuffed for dessert but they have many options
Toscana Italian Bistro: Want a break from seafood? Check out Toscana’s. A cute little Italian restaurant. I noticed that they opened up a second location but I have only been to the original one. They have a really nice wine selection and the food is amazing. When I left New York to move to the south, I knew that I would not find good Italian food. Toscana’s reminds me of a cute little restaurant in Little Italy (NYC). From the calamari to shrimp dishes, chicken marsala and even chicken warm. Everything is so delicious! Definitely get a cannoli before you leave.
Fiesta Americana: A local family-owned Mexican restaurant. Here, you will get authentic Mexican cuisine. I love local restaurants and I felt a warm welcoming vibe upon entering. I stumbled upon this restaurant on Yelp and decided to give it a go. Obviously, we ordered live guac which was delicious and I ordered a typical fajita quesadilla. They have amazing drinks as well! In the mood for Mexican, certainly, check them out!
Other Restaurants (For Taking Out):
AJ’s Pizza
Little Italy
WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to visit Myrtle Beach is Summer and Fall. In the summer, the weather is nice and hot for all-day fun in the sun however, in the fall, climates are not as hot but the crowds are way less, making it more enjoyable. Also, Fall is off-peak season meaning, hotel rates are significantly lower. Overall, there is so much to do, so much to see, so much nightlife to enjoy making Myrtle Beach a perfect destination for a family getaway, a girl’s trip or even a couples trip. Needless to say, I will be returning to Myrtle Beach before summer is over.
For more travel guides head to the TRAVEL section of my blog