North Myrtle Beach Vacation
Had the worst Monday ever. Boss decided to schedule a 7am meeting (who does that??), and then my car wouldn’t start. Sitting in the parking lot waiting for AAA, scrolling Instagram, my cousin posts these sick beach photos from somewhere called North Myrtle Beach.
Never heard of it but looks way better than the tourist trap we went to last year. She said it’s so much cheaper too. The best part was renting condos instead of those tiny claustrophobic hotel rooms. Been googling flights since I got home. I need this trip more than my bank account needs the money right now.
North Myrtle Beach is part of the Grand Strand and helps make up 100 kilometres of glorious sandy shoreline.
It’s a diverse vacation hot spot that sees return visitors year after year because the accommodations are affordable, the food is delicious, the people are kind, the area averages 215 sunny days per year, and sunrises over the Atlantic Ocean will leave you breathless.
There are also endless water activities in this South Carolina beach town, and nothing beats a room with an ocean view.
More Inspiration for Your Next Trip
North Myrtle Beach is the antidote to overcrowded shores. If you love coastal escapes, you’ll also enjoy Fort Myers and Sanibel’s laid-back island hopping or a family-friendly getaway at Iberostar Paraiso Maya.
And for something completely different, experience the holiday buzz of Bethlehem at Christmas.
As the cooler weather descends upon us, many Northeners fly south for vacation, and snowbirds pack up for a road trip to warmer climates, as Myrtle Beach is home to year-round attractions.
The main strip is only a half-hour drive from North Myrtle Beach, which is more laid back and further removed from the crowds. You can chill for hours and relax to the sound of the waves, but there are still plenty of things to do, so needless to say, you will never be bored.
Here are five reasons to venture to North Myrtle on your next trip south.
1. Relax in a Condo-Style Resort
If you aren’t quite ready to make the leap to buying a timeshare, you can rent one in North Myrtle Beach. This is the perfect situation if you are looking to save money and want the convenience of home. Many guests come back year after year to stay in a timeshare, and some people end up buying one. Shore Crest Vacation Villas are located on South Ocean Blvd and boast large balconies where you can sit for hours looking out at the ocean.
The full kitchen is perfect for preparing meals, and there are many nearby grocery stores to stock up on supplies. Relax and unwind in their lazy river and swim in their refreshing pool under the sun. Shore Crest Villas are part of Bluegreen Vacations, a vacation ownership company, but they have rental availability offered through their strategic relationship with Choice Hotels and the Ascend Collection brand. For a non-Bluegreen owner, a great way to book a vacation at Shore Crest is through Choice Hotels.
North Myrtle Beach Tours
2. Walk for Hours Along the Shore
This should be a given, but sometimes we get so consumed with planning activities that we forget it’s okay to have a day (or a week!) where we just chill out. North Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to walk along the shore without a care in the world.
Search for washed-up shells, stroll hand in hand with a loved one, or watch kids build sandcastles for hours. Take time to admire the sand dunes and sea oats that separate the hotels from the beach, but be careful not to disturb or walk on them. They are the first defence in the event of a storm or hurricane and are also crucial to sea turtle survival.
3. Shop and Dine at Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing is an entertainment complex set along the Intracoastal Waterway that features a 27-acre lake and a chill southern atmosphere. It’s the perfect North Myrtle Beach location for a night out. There are plenty of places to shop for souvenirs at their unique waterfront boutiques and retail stores. Kids and kids at heart will love the magic tricks for sale at TrickMaster Magic Shop.
Make sure to arrive hungry to this massive complex, as there are so many delicious restaurants to choose from, including Ultimate California Pizza. Build your own tasty pizza with fresh veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, artichoke hearts, and fresh basil. Vegans will love the plant-based mozzarella cheese option.
Or catch a thrilling live show at Alabama Theatre, their Christmas performance starts in November and continues through New Year’s. If you are staying at Shore Crest Villas, it’s about a 15-minute walk.
4. Play Mini Golf Among Hawaiian Gardens
Head on over to Hawaiian Rumble Mini Golf for their fun 18-hole golf course centered around a tropical Hawaiian Garden. The huge 40-foot volcano right in the middle of all the action erupts fire every 20 minutes. This, of course, is matched only by the rocking tunes straight from the Hawaiian tropics. Golf lovers of all ages will love putting and weaving around their course, trying to get a hole in one.
5. Paddle A Kayak at Sunrise
If you are going to wake up before sunrise, you should do it in North Myrtle Beach and take full advantage of the early morning beauty as the sun rises over the majestic Atlantic Ocean. You may even spot dolphins jumping and dancing in the distance.
If you are adventurous, head to J & L Kayaks. Their focus is eco-tourism, and these trips are ideal for both experienced and beginner kayakers; it’s also the perfect family-friendly event. Their Island Sunrise Adventure tour will have you paddling out towards Waites Island and visiting Cherry Grove beach to admire the start of a brand new day from the soft sandy shore.
Honestly wasn’t expecting to write this much about a place I’ve never been, but here we are. My cousin sent me like fifty more photos today, and I’m pretty much sold. The whole lazy river thing at those condos looks perfect for doing absolutely nothing, which is exactly what I need. Might drag my sister along since she’s been complaining about work nonstop lately.
Already found some decent flights for March. Figure worst case scenario, I get a tan and eat too much pizza. There could be worse ways to spend a week.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach? A: North Myrtle Beach is way more laid back and about 30 minutes from the main Myrtle Beach strip. Less crowded, more chill vibes, but still plenty to do.
Q: Are condo rentals really cheaper than hotels? A: Usually yeah, especially if you’re staying more than a few days. Plus you save money cooking some meals instead of eating out every single time.
Q: When’s the best time to visit North Myrtle Beach? A: Depends what you want. Summer’s busiest but warmest. Spring and fall are perfect weather with smaller crowds. Winter’s quiet but you might need a jacket.
Q: Is North Myrtle Beach good for families with kids? A: Totally. The mini golf, lazy rivers, and beach activities keep kids busy. Plus condos give you space to spread out instead of cramming into one hotel room.
Q: How far is Barefoot Landing from most hotels? A: If you’re staying at Shore Crest Villas, it’s about a 15-minute walk. Other places might need a quick drive, but nothing’s far in North Myrtle Beach.
Q: Do you need a car in North Myrtle Beach? A: Helps to have one, especially for grocery runs and getting to different attractions. Some places are walkable though, depends where you’re staying.
Q: What should I pack for a North Myrtle Beach trip? A: Sunscreen, beach stuff, comfortable walking shoes, and maybe a light jacket for evenings. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle.
Q: Are there good restaurants for vegetarians/vegans? A: Yeah, Ultimate California Pizza at Barefoot Landing has plant-based cheese options. Most places can accommodate dietary restrictions if you ask.
Q: Is the beach safe for swimming? A: Generally yes, but always check local conditions. Watch for any posted warnings and don’t mess with the sand dunes – they’re protected.
Q: How busy does it get during peak season? A: Summer weekends can get crowded, but it’s still way more chill than main Myrtle Beach. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually quieter.
For additional information on the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com
