Myrtle Beach Travel Tips: Your Ultimate Guide to a Memorable Vacation
Embark on a fantastic beach adventure with this comprehensive guide to the best Myrtle Beach travel tips and activities. From its stunning 60-mile coastline to family-friendly attractions, mouth-watering eateries, and affordable shopping options, Myrtle Beach is an unforgettable destination that will make you fall in love with South Carolina.
To ensure that you have the best time possible, we’ve gathered insider tips from experienced travelers who have gone off the beaten path and discovered hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly recommendations, local favorites, or the best places to stay, we’ve got you covered in this ultimate Myrtle Beach travel guide.
Table of Contents
- Preparing for your Myrtle Beach vacation 1.1 Saving for your trip 1.2 Finding cheap flights 1.3 Accommodation options 1.4 Shopping for essentials
- Top Myrtle Beach attractions 2.1 Huntington State Park 2.2 Broadway at the Beach 2.3 Murrell’s Inlet 2.4 Surfside Beach 2.5 Wonderworks Amusement Park 2.6 Ripley’s Aquarium
- Eating out in Myrtle Beach 3.1 Budget-friendly options 3.2 Unique local eateries 3.3 Fine dining
- Saving money on food and drink 4.1 Shopping for groceries 4.2 Packing lunches 4.3 Utilizing hotel amenities
- Beach essentials 5.1 Beach bag must-haves 5.2 Protecting your belongings 5.3 Dealing with sand
- Exploring nearby destinations 6.1 North Myrtle Beach 6.2 Charleston, South Carolina 6.3 Wilmington, North Carolina
- Traveling with kids 7.1 Family-friendly activities 7.2 Keeping children entertained 7.3 Dining out with kids
- Making the most of your vacation 8.1 Frugal travel tips 8.2 Maximizing your time 8.3 Creating memorable experiences
- Myrtle Beach souvenirs 9.1 Affordable options 9.2 Unique finds 9.3 DIY beach memory jar
- Final thoughts
1. Preparing for your Myrtle Beach vacation
1.1 Saving for your trip
One of the first steps in planning a memorable Myrtle Beach vacation is to start saving money for your trip. Set up a dedicated “Myrtle Beach Trip Fund” and look for ways to increase your travel budget. Consider taking on a side gig or participating in online surveys to earn extra cash in your free time.
1.2 Finding cheap flights
To secure the best deals on flights, consider using airline mileage points and gift cards. By accumulating points through travel hacking credit cards and taking advantage of airline-specific hacks, you can significantly reduce the cost of your airfare.
1.3 Accommodation options
When booking accommodations in Myrtle Beach, consider using hotel reward programs or staying in a vacation rental by owner (VRBO) to save money. Many travelers recommend staying in North Myrtle Beach for a more family-oriented, less crowded experience.
1.4 Shopping for essentials
Before leaving home, stock up on essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and beach gear at your local Walmart or similar retailer. You can save even more by using free Walmart gift cards.
2. Top Myrtle Beach attractions
2.1 Huntington State Park
Huntington State Park offers a beautiful beach, alligator viewing opportunities, and a chance to explore Atalaya Castle. This park is a must-visit for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
2.2 Broadway at the Beach
This popular entertainment complex features shops, restaurants, attractions, and a splash pad for kids. Don’t miss the Wednesday night fireworks show during the summer season.
2.3 Murrell’s Inlet
Murrell’s Inlet is a charming coastal village known for its seafood restaurants and picturesque views. Take a nature boat ride for a memorable experience.
2.4 Surfside Beach
Located just down the road from Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach offers a less crowded, more relaxed beach experience.
2.5 Wonderworks Amusement Park
This interactive attraction features over 100 hands-on exhibits, making it a perfect destination for families with children.
2.6 Ripley’s Aquarium
A visit to Ripley’s Aquarium is a must for marine life enthusiasts. The aquarium offers a variety of exhibits, including a shark tunnel and interactive touch pools.
3. Eating out in Myrtle Beach
3.1 Budget-friendly options
For affordable dining, try Hamburger Joe’s, Dino’s for breakfast, or River City Cafe at Murrell’s Inlet.
3.2 Unique local eateries
Some local favorites include Carolina Roadhouse, Mr. Fish, and Nacho Hippo. Be sure to also sample the seafood at Calabash buffets and visit Paula Deen’s restaurant.
3.3 Fine dining
For a more upscale dining experience, consider trying Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse, Umbertos at Barefoot Landing, or Sea Captain’s House.
4. Saving money on food and drink
4.1 Shopping for groceries
Stock up on groceries and snacks before you leave home or at a local store upon arrival. This will help you save on dining out expenses during your trip.
4.2 Packing lunches
Pack a cooler with lunch items and snacks to enjoy during your beach days or outings. This will not only save you money but also provide healthier meal options.
4.3 Utilizing hotel amenities
Choose a hotel that offers a complimentary breakfast, mini-fridge, and microwave to save on food expenses. Preparing meals in your room can help keep your budget in check.
5. Beach essentials
5.1 Beach bag must-haves
When packing for your beach vacation, don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, beach towels, beach chairs, umbrellas, and a waterproof bag for your electronics.
5.2 Protecting your belongings
Keep your valuables safe by using a waterproof pouch or a portable safe while you’re at the beach.
5.3 Dealing with sand
To remove sand from your feet and belongings easily, use baby powder or a specialized sand-removing brush.
6. Exploring nearby destinations
6.1 North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach offers a more family-oriented and less crowded experience. Visit Main Street for shopping, dining, and shag dancing clubs.
6.2 Charleston, South Carolina
A short drive from Myrtle Beach, Charleston is a historic city filled with charm, shopping, and dining options. It’s worth visiting for a day trip or even an overnight stay.
6.3 Wilmington, North Carolina
Wilmington is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history, stunning beaches, and a vibrant downtown area. It’s an excellent destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
7. Traveling with kids
7.1 Family-friendly activities
Myrtle Beach offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including mini-golf, go-kart racing, and water parks. Don’t miss the Pirates Voyage Dinner Show, Medieval Times, or Ripley’s Aquarium.
7.2 Keeping children entertained
Pack travel-friendly games, audiobooks, and portable electronics to keep kids entertained during long car rides or flights.
7.3 Dining out with kids
Choose restaurants with kid-friendly menus and options for sharing. Look for venues that offer “kids eat free” promotions or discounts.
8. Making the most of your vacation
8.1 Frugal travel tips
Use Groupon or similar websites to find discounts on attractions and shows. Explore free activities like hiking trails, parks, and gardens.
8.2 Maximizing your time
Plan your itinerary to make the most of your time in Myrtle Beach. Visit popular attractions during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long lines.
8.3 Creating memorable experiences
Take lots of photos, try new experiences, and make lasting memories during your Myrtle Beach vacation.
9. Myrtle Beach souvenirs
9.1 Affordable options
Look for inexpensive souvenirs like keychains, magnets, or postcards to remember your trip.
9.2 Unique finds
Visit local shops like the Gay Dolphin for one-of-a-kind treasures and keepsakes.
9.3 DIY beach memory jar
Create a beach memory jar filled with sand, shells, and other mementos from your vacation as a unique and personal souvenir.
10. Final thoughts
Myrtle Beach is an incredible destination full of fun, excitement, and relaxation. With these travel tips and insider recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your vacation. Enjoy your time in Myrtle Beach, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
