Grand Strand Travel Guide

Explore the best of Grand Strand with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover beaches, parks, museums, and more in South Carolina's famous coast region. Plan your trip with our detailed itinerary, transportation guide, and tips for a memorable stay.


Introduction to Grand Strand

Welcome to Grand Strand, South Carolina’s famous coast region! Known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and rich history, Grand Strand is a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With miles of pristine coastline, lush parks, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food, Grand Strand offers something for everyone.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a comprehensive tour of Grand Strand and help you plan your trip to this beautiful region. From must-see attractions to hidden gems, hiking and biking trails to food and drink scene, we’ve got you covered. So let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Grand Strand

Grand Strand is home to many attractions that make it a top destination for travelers. Below are some of the most popular places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Myrtle Beach State Park: a gorgeous park with beach access, picnic facilities, trails, and fishing spots.
  • Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: a 1.2-mile boardwalk overlooking the ocean with shops, restaurants, bars, and amusements.
  • Hollywood Wax Museum: a famous wax museum with celebrity figures, props, and interactive exhibits.
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium: a museum of oddities with over 200 exhibits, including shrunken heads, a two-headed calf, and a spinning vortex tunnel.
  • The Children’s Museum of South Carolina: an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and activities for children of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Grand Strand: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Brookgreen Gardens: a 9100-acre botanical garden with sculptures, wildlife, and nature trails.
  • Cherry Grove Beach: a serene beach with long stretches of shore, dunes, and sea oats.
  • Huntington Beach State Park: a large park with diverse habitats, including a maritime forest, salt marsh, and freshwater lagoon.
  • Apache Pier: the longest wooden pier on the East Coast, with a tackle shop, bait and tackle rentals, and a full-service bar and restaurant.
  • Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge: a 17,500-acre refuge with diverse habitats, including hardwood forests, tidal freshwater marshes, and blackwater creeks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grand Strand

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a leisurely biker, Grand Strand has numerous trails and routes that will get you moving and give you a chance to explore its stunning coastline and natural beauty. Some of the top hiking and biking trails in Grand Strand include:

  • The East Coast Greenway: a 3000-mile coastal trail system that runs through Grand Strand and other East Coast states.
  • Waccamaw Neck Bikeway: a 12.5-mile paved trail that runs from Murrells Inlet to Sandy Island Road.
  • Conway Riverwalk: a 1.5-mile scenic trail that runs along the Waccamaw Riverfront in Conway.
  • North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex Trails: a network of trails for walking, jogging, or biking, covering over 8 miles.

Best Things to Do in Grand Strand: Activities and Tours

Grand Strand is bustling with activities and tours to keep you busy and entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Grand Strand:

  • Parasailing, windsurfing, and water sports.
  • Fishing charters and boating.
  • Dolphin watching tours.
  • Live shows and entertainment.
  • Golfing and mini-golfing.
  • Amusement parks and water parks.
  • Nightlife and bar-hopping.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grand Strand

If you’re planning a weeklong vacation in Grand Strand, here’s a recommended itinerary that will give you a taste of all the region has to offer.

Day 1: Arrive in Myrtle Beach and check into hotel. Spend the day exploring Myrtle Beach State Park and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.

Day 2: Take a morning hike at Huntington Beach State Park, then visit Brookgreen Gardens in the afternoon.

Day 3: Head to North Myrtle Beach and go parasailing, then take a dolphin watching tour in the afternoon.

Day 4: Spend the day at Cherry Grove Beach, relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Day 5: Take a fishing charter in the morning, then visit the Children’s Museum of South Carolina in the afternoon.

Day 6: Go golfing in the morning, then visit Hollywood Wax Museum or Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium in the afternoon.

Day 7: Depart for home, or extend your stay to explore more of Grand Strand at your leisure!

Food and Drink Scene of Grand Strand

Grand Strand offers a variety of dining and drinking options, from seafood shacks to fine dining establishments. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • She-Crab Soup: a creamy soup made with crabmeat, crab roe, and heavy cream, flavored with sherry and Old Bay seasoning.
  • Lowcountry Boil or Frogmore Stew: a dish made with shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes, boiled together in a large pot with spices and herbs.
  • BBQ Pork: slow-cooked, smoky pork meat, often served with a side of coleslaw.
  • Hushpuppies: deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter, served as a side dish or snack.
  • Sweet Tea: a Southern classic, sweetened iced tea that is a refreshing drink in warm summer months.

Local Beverages

  • Palmetto Moonshine: a corn whiskey that is a staple of Grand Strand’s nightlife and bar scene.
  • South Carolina Wine: Grand Strand is home to several wineries that produce traditional and fruit wines.
  • Local Craft Beer: Grand Strand has a thriving microbrewery scene that offers a variety of beer styles, from IPAs to stouts.

Where to Stay in Grand Strand: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grand Strand offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. From beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses, there’s something for everyone in this region. Here are some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area:

  • Anderson Ocean Club and Spa: a luxury hotel with oceanfront suites, indoor and outdoor pools, and on-site spa.
  • The Sea View Inn: a charming guesthouse that offers beach access, cozy rooms, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • The Wayfarer Motel: a budget-friendly motel with clean rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
  • Myrtle Beach KOA: a family-friendly campground with tent and RV sites, cabins, and plenty of amenities for a comfortable stay.

What to Buy in Grand Strand: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home a piece of Grand Strand, here are some souvenirs and local products you can consider:

  • Seashells, sand dollars, and other beach finds.
  • Handmade crafts and artwork from local artisans.
  • Local gourmet food items, such as BBQ sauces, hot sauces, and sweet pralines.
  • T-shirts, hats, and other apparel with Grand Strand logos or designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Grand Strand

As a tourist in Grand Strand, it’s important to respect the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress appropriately for the occasion. Beachwear is fine at the beach, but not in restaurants or other public places.
  • Don’t litter or leave trash on the beach. Keep it clean and respect the natural beauty of the area.
  • Be courteous and friendly to the locals. Southern hospitality is a hallmark of Grand Strand.
  • Don’t assume that everyone speaks English. Many locals speak Spanish or other languages.

Best Time to Visit Grand Strand

The best time to visit Grand Strand is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Summer is the peak season, with hot temperatures and crowded beaches. Winter can be chilly, but it’s a good time to enjoy off-season rates and uncrowded attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grand Strand

Do:

  • Do go to the beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
  • Do try the local seafood and regional cuisine.
  • Do visit the museums and cultural attractions.
  • Do bring sunscreen, insect repellant, and other essentials for a comfortable stay.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to respect the environment and wildlife.
  • Don’t litter or leave trash on the beach.
  • Don’t underestimate the power of the sun and the ocean.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Grand Strand

Grand Strand is a safe destination overall, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Use the buddy system when swimming or participating in water activities.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended in your car or hotel room.
  • Be cautious when walking alone at night.
  • Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn and dehydration.

Health in Grand Strand

Grand Strand has good medical facilities and emergency services, but it’s always best to take preventative measures to avoid getting sick or injured. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration.
  • Apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun.
  • Protect against insect bites and ticks by wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks regularly.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness.

Getting to Grand Strand: Transportation Options and Logistics

Grand Strand is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus. Here are some of the transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Grand Strand

  • Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): the main airport serving Grand Strand, with direct flights from major cities in the US and Canada.
  • Wilmington International Airport (ILM): located about 70 miles north of Grand Strand, with flights from major cities including New York and Atlanta.

Bus Stations Near Grand Strand

  • Greyhound Station: located in downtown Myrtle Beach, with bus services to major cities in the US.

Other Options

  • Car rental: several car rental companies operate in the area, providing easy access to transportation and flexibility in exploring the region.

How to Get Around in Grand Strand

Grand Strand is a fairly small region, so getting around by car or bike is easy and convenient. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available. Many hotels offer shuttle services as well.

Where to Go Next from Grand Strand: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time during your visit to Grand Strand, there are several nearby destinations and excursions you can consider:

  • Charleston: South Carolina’s historic port city with stunning architecture, museums, and plantation tours.
  • Wilmington: a coastal city in North Carolina with a historic downtown, museums, and the USS North Carolina battleship.
  • Pawleys Island: a quiet and quaint seaside town that’s famous for its hammocks and shell collecting.
  • Murrells Inlet: a small fishing village known for its seafood and marsh views.
  • Brookgreen Gardens: a 9100-acre botanical garden with sculptures, wildlife, and nature trails within the Grand Strand region.

Conclusion

Grand Strand offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and laidback charm. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an active getaway, Grand Strand has something for travelers of all ages and interests. We hope this travel guide has been helpful in planning your trip to this stunning coastal region. Enjoy your stay in Grand Strand!



    Conway
    Garden City
    Murrells Inlet
    Myrtle Beach
    North Myrtle Beach
    Pawleys Island