Myrtle Beach Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, food, and more in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.


Introduction to Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and exciting attractions. It is located in the Grand Strand, a stretch of beaches and coastal towns in South Carolina. Myrtle Beach has something for everyone, from golf courses and water parks to museums and shopping centers.

List of Places to Visit in Myrtle Beach

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Myrtle Beach has several museums and historical places that are culturally significant. The most popular among them are:

  • Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum: This museum showcases artwork and artifacts from American and South Carolina artists. It also hosts several events and exhibitions throughout the year.

  • Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center: This museum provides an insight into the education system for African Americans back in the early 20th century.

  • Horry County Museum: This museum showcases exhibits about the area’s history, including Native American artifacts, Civil War memorabilia, and early farming and fishing equipment.

Natural Attractions of Myrtle Beach: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

There are many outdoor adventures and scenic views to experience in Myrtle Beach, including:

  • Brookgreen Gardens: This botanical garden is home to over 1,400 sculptures, including works by American sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. It also houses a zoo and a butterfly exhibit.

  • Myrtle Beach State Park: This state park is known for its beaches, fishing piers, and hiking trails.

  • Apache Pier: This pier is one of the longest wooden piers on the East Coast and provides beautiful ocean views. It also has a tackle shop and arcade games.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach has several beautiful hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views of the area. Some of the must-visit trails include:

  • Waccamaw Neck Bikeway: This 18-mile paved trail is perfect for bikers and hikers and connects several communities along the Grand Strand.

  • Huntington Beach State Park Trails: This state park has several trails that vary in length and difficulty and offer views of saltwater marshes, beaches, and forests.

Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach: Activities and Tours

Myrtle Beach has countless activities and tours available for visitors. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Myrtle Waves Water Park: This water park has over 30 water attractions, including water slides, a wave pool, and lazy river.

  • Myrtle Beach SkyWheel: This 187-ft-tall Ferris wheel provides panoramic views of the ocean and city.

  • Kayak tours: Visitors can rent kayaks or book a guided tour to explore the area’s waterways.

Week-Long Itinerary for Myrtle Beach

Day 1: Relax on the beach and explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Day 2: Visit Brookgreen Gardens and enjoy the sculptures and zoo there. Day 3: Take a kayak tour of the Waccamaw River. Day 4: Explore Huntington Beach State Park and its trails. Day 5: Visit the Horry County Museum and learn about the area’s history. Day 6: Enjoy a day at Myrtle Waves Water Park. Day 7: Take a break from the crowds and visit the calm beaches of Pawleys Island.

Food and Drink Scene of Myrtle Beach

Must-Try Dishes

Myrtle Beach has a unique food scene with dishes that visitors shouldn’t miss, including:

  • Calabash-style seafood: This cooking method involves lightly frying seafood and is popular in the area.

  • Chicken bog: This dish is a southern specialty made with rice, chicken, vegetables, and spices.

  • Shrimp and grits: This dish is a Lowcountry classic made with shrimp, grits, and a creamy sauce.

Local Beverages

Myrtle Beach has several local beers and cocktails that visitors should try, including:

  • New South Brewing: This brewery produces several popular beers, including White Ale, Dark Star Porter, and IPA.

  • Firefly Distillery: This distillery produces several flavored vodkas, including Sweet Tea and Peach.

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Myrtle Beach has a variety of accommodation options to suit every visitor’s needs and budget. Some popular options include:

  • Marriott Resort and Spa at Grand Dunes: This luxurious beachfront hotel has several pools, a spa, and beautiful ocean views.

  • Hostelling International Myrtle Beach: This hostel is located near the beach and has several amenities, including a pool and a game room.

  • Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort: This budget-friendly resort is perfect for families and has a water park, mini-golf course, and several pools.

What to Buy in Myrtle Beach: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some popular souvenirs and local products to buy in Myrtle Beach include:

  • Taffy: Saltwater taffy is a sweet treat that is popular in the area.

  • Handmade jewelry: Local artisans make beautiful handmade jewelry with sea glass and shells.

  • Hot sauces: Myrtle Beach is known for its spicy hot sauces, which make a great gift for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a culturally rich area that values community and hospitality. Visitors should be respectful of locals and the environment and should follow the beach and street rules.

Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach

The best time to visit Myrtle Beach is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Myrtle Beach

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their culture.
  • Follow the beach rules, including no littering and no alcohol on the beach.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Don’t:

  • Swim when the beach is closed or when the lifeguards are not on duty.
  • Worry too much about the jellyfish; they are not usually harmful.

Safety and Health

Safety in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is generally a safe area, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. They should also lock their cars and not leave valuables in plain sight.

Health in Myrtle Beach

Visitors should protect themselves from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat. They should also stay hydrated and be careful when swimming in the ocean.

Getting to Myrtle Beach: Transportation Options and Logistics

Myrtle Beach is accessible by air, bus, and car. Some transportation options include:

Airports Near Myrtle Beach

  • Myrtle Beach International Airport
  • Wilmington International Airport
  • Charleston International Airport

Bus Stations Near Myrtle Beach

  • Greyhound Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental
  • Taxi or ride-sharing services

How to Get Around in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach has several transportation options for visitors, including:

  • Rental cars
  • Buses
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services
  • Biking and walking

Where to Go Next from Myrtle Beach: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore from Myrtle Beach, including:

  • Charleston, SC
  • Georgetown, SC
  • Wilmington, NC

Conclusion

Myrtle Beach is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone. From its natural attractions and outdoor adventures to its museums and cultural landmarks, this area is a must-visit for those looking to experience the best that South Carolina has to offer.

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