The 6 Best Bakeries in Myrtle Beach, SC

Photo of Frosted Cupcakes at a Bakery in Myrtle Beach.South Carolina’s sunny Grand Strand is home to a variety of bakeries, cafes, and confectionaries, many of which stand out amid the sea of options. Our very own North Shore Oceanfront Hotel boasts a small, seasonal bakery, Ocean Sweets, which serves everything from pastries to cookies and ice cream. However, during the winter season, families must strut off-site to enjoy a sweet treat or savory baked delight. Thus, we’ve pieced together a Myrtle Beach bakery guide, complete with our favorite cafe, bagel shop, confectionery, and more!

The Best of Myrtle Beach: Bakeries

The term “bakery” is frustratingly broad, especially if you’re searching for a specific baked good, such as an artisanal cake, cheesy bagel, or mammoth donut. We split our Myrtle Beach bakery guide into six categories: bakery, bagels, cafe, cakes, cupcakes, and donuts. Seemingly every family-owned business in the baking world has a specific focus—something that makes them stand out from the pack. Let’s begin with the best overall bakery: The Market Common’s You Eat I Bake.

Best Bakery: You Eat I Bake

You Eat I Bake’s idyllic location in The Market Common helps its case for Myrtle Beach’s best bakery. But, truthfully, the eclectic mix of offerings, combined with the mouth-watering flavors, is enough to make travelers weep with joy after each bite. Stop in for a cookie, cupcake, brownie, Swiss roll, or a pie to-go.

Best Bagels: Benjamin’s Bakery & Cafe

Yes, Benjamin’s Surfside Beach locale is a wee bit off-the-beaten-path. But those heavenly bagels are worth the journey, especially if you plan to visit Brookgreen Gardens, Wild Water & Wheels, or Huntington Beach State Park.

Best Cafe: Le Bon Cafe & Bakery

While most folks flock to Le Bon for the savory crepes, this Kings Highway staple offers everything from macarons to lattes and breakfast sandwiches. The fresh daily pastries, cinnamon rolls, and cobbler muffins all make perfect pre-shopping fuel for those headed to the Tanger Outlets.

Best Cakes: Sweet Poison Bakery

There are nearly a dozen confectionaries on the Grand Strand, but none of them have as much pizzaz as the guys and gals at Sweet Poison. Browse through their unique cake creations on Facebook, and you’ll quickly understand our obsession.

Best Cupcakes: Coccadots Cake Shop

Trade a slice of cake with a frosty, brilliantly-designed cupcake at Coccadots. They do it all: cakes, donuts, cookies, pies, and so on. But those cupcakes are to-do-for, especially for those of us with a sweet tooth (who doesn’t?).

Photo of Colorful, Frosted Donuts at a Bakery in Myrtle Beach.Best Donuts: Peace Love & Little Donuts

Yes, Peace Love & Little Donuts is a country-wide franchise. However, how could one deny a box of “funkadellic donuts?” Donuts range from Almond Brothers to Robert Brulee and the Shaka Pecan. They’re fun, vibrant, and undeniably delicious!

Oceanfront Resorts in Myrtle Beach, SC

Photo of a Sands Suite, Just Minutes Away from the Best Bakeries in Myrtle Beach.After a brief pit stop at a top-rated bakery in Myrtle Beach, set your sights on the sea. Sand Dunes Resort and North Shore Oceanfront Hotel (neighboring Myrtle Beach resorts) offer a genuinely one-of-a-kind lodging experience, including complimentary water park access, semi-private beach acreage, free parking, unobstructed Atlantic views, pristine accommodations, an on-site arcade, a blacklight mini-golf course, and surprising affordability. 

Please browse through our vacation specials to start saving. And remember: Booking direct is the best way to avoid hidden third-party fees. Call us today at 800-960-9273 to learn more about our two seaside havens.

The Smokiest BBQ in Myrtle Beach: Finger-Lickin’ Deliciousness

House-smoked, Southern-style BBQ has a way of awakening the animal inside us all. There’s something overwhelmingly alluring about the smell of smoked pork, especially when it’s billowing out of an old-school Mom and Pop shop on the outskirts of sunny Myrtle Beach. Artisanal BBQ sauce can make anything taste like gold. No utensils are necessary—it’s just you and that rack of ribs or super-stuffed brisket sandwich, globbed with a sweet and sassy sauce. While the Grand Strand is widely regarded as a coastal haven, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find mouth-watering BBQ in Myrtle Beach at nearly every turn. Sands Resorts’ fleet of villas, suites, and condos line the city’s North Shore, only minutes away from a tray of saucy, smoky meats, creamy mac and cheese, Grandma’s baked beans, and, you guessed it, fried okra.

Photo of a Tray of BBQ in Myrtle Beach.The Best Smoked BBQ in Myrtle Beach

While you tie an adult-sized BBQ bib around your neck (you’re going to need it), it’s important to note that the tastiest BBQ in Myrtle Beach is readily available for curbside pick-up. However, if you’re in the mood for a no-frills, down-to-earth dining experience, feel free to arrive unannounced. The smoky goodness will enter your nostrils immediately and nearly bring you to tears. Alright, enough preamble—it’s time to run through the three best BBQ joints on the Grand Strand, starting with North Myrtle Beach’s “Brisket.”

Brisket

Texas transplant Jeff Vallancey knows a thing or two about Southern BBQ. He had the gall to name his restaurant “Brisket”—nothing more, nothing less. And it worked. People instinctively flocked to this rustic, Texas-style outpost in search of the most tender brisket in South Carolina. Vallancey’s custom-made BBQ pit holds up to 750 pounds of meat at one time. Sauce doesn’t touch the brisket until the tray is laid out in front of you. At that point, you get to decide between four house-made sauces. And you really cannot go wrong.

Pop Pop’s Pit BBQ

Pop Pop’s is sleeker, saucier, and sassier than Brisket. The spice level can be amped up to 11 if you so desire. Meanwhile, you’ll be happy to discover a variety of eats on Pop Pop’s extensive menu, including racks of ribs, bowls (for those on a diet), extra-large brisket sandwiches, girthy wings, and, of course, family-style meals complete with all of the fixin’s. Pop Pop’s has locations in Myrtle Beach (near Socastee) and Murrells Inlet, perfect for those who are visiting the Grand Strand’s southern rim, with stops at Brookgreen Gardens, Myrtle Beach State Park, or TPC Myrtle Beach.

Simply Southern Smokehouse

Simply Southern is a straightforward, buffet-style eatery that slings grub tasting a lot like Grandma’s home-cookin’. The concept is relatively simplistic: you’ll grab a plate and choose between nine sides, a bevy of entrees, and an ice-cold beverage. Then repeat. Leave room for dessert, because Simply Southern crafts some of the yummiest peach cobbler in Horry County. We recommend visiting during dinner hours (after 4 p.m.) when the smothered BBQ ribs arrive.

Family-Friendly Oceanfront Hotels in Myrtle Beach

After devouring some of the tastiest BBQ in Myrtle Beach, return to your seaside haven for some much-need relaxation. Sands Resorts owns several properties along the ocean’s edge, including Sand Dunes Resort and North Shore Oceanfront Hotel. You’re bound to find a villa, suite, or condo that perfectly fits your family’s size, style, and budget. On-site amenities include free water park passes, semi-exclusive beach access, an arcade, a mini-golf course, ocean-view balconies, and on-site dining. Spacious accommodations start at just $64 for a limited time. Book now to begin saving!

The Top 3 North Myrtle Beach Golf Courses

Photo of one of the best North Myrtle Beach golf courses.

The lively seaside city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, remains one of the premier golf meccas in the world, as hundreds upon thousands of travelers line up to play 18 holes at the likes of King’s North and TPC Myrtle Beach. As you can imagine, it’s not easy to book a tee time at the top-rated North Myrtle Beach golf courses. That’s where Sands Resorts comes into the mix. Our four affordable oceanfront havens, Sand Dunes Resort, North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, and Ocean Annie’s Resorts, feature jaw-dropping discounts and affordable golf packages at dozens of Myrtle Beach’s most elusive courses. Before we dive into the savings, let’s take a look at three of our favorite North Myrtle Beach golf courses.

1. Tidewater Golf Club

The aptly-named Tidewater Golf Club snugs the Intracoastal Waterway. In fact, it’s sandwiched in-between lush Heritage Shores Nature Preserve and the Waterway’s serene shoreline. Tidewater remains one of the most biodiverse landscapes in the Carolinas. It masterfully blends links-style holes, densely-forested greens, faraway cityscapes, and acres upon acres of marshland. There’s no denying that Tidewater is a challenge, but it’s a challenge worth accepting time and time again.

2. Beachwood Golf Club

Unlike Tidewater’s salty marshland locale, Beachwood Golf Club rests in the heart of the city. You can’t put a price on locality and convenience. That being said, Beachwood perfectly amalgamates city and country. Yes, this North Myrtle Beach golf staple is a mere hop, skip, and jump from several of the area’s finest seafood restaurants, not to mention the beach. But don’t overlook the sheer beauty of this Gene Hamm-designed marvel, which boasts the “most player-friendly” conditions in town.

3. Myrtle Beach’s Fantastic Four | The Dye Club

Most Myrtle Beach golf trips inevitably land at Barefoot Resort, home to the “Fantastic Four.” Golf legends, such as Greg Norman, Davis Love III, and Tom Fazio, designed these four stunning works of art. However, while those three household names indeed hold clout in the golf industry, Pete Dye’s “treacherous” par-72 course is widely regarded as the best of the bunch. Dye beautifully utilized the natural white sands of the estate, as well as the rolling, links-style grounds, to craft a true crowning achievement in the heart golf country.

Money-Saving North Myrtle Beach Golf Packages

After playing 18 (or 36) holes at one of the most-beloved North Myrtle Beach golf courses, retreat to Sands for a lazy river float, a beach stroll, and oceanfront cocktails. Don’t forget that Sands Resorts’ collection of classic Myrtle Beach hotels does offer deep discounts and wide-ranging golf packages. Simply click the links below to learn more about the potential savings. Three-day packages start at just $299 per person! We’ll seamlessly match you with an accommodation or two that perfectly suits your group’s size, style, and budget. Our experienced Golf Directors will be happy to help you plan your next golf outing. Please contact the resort of your choice for details.

A Splashtastic Adventure: Ride a Jet Ski in Myrtle Beach

Photo of a Man on a Jet Ski in Myrtle BeachMyrtle Beach, South Carolina, remains a tourist-friendly mecca for those with a special place in their heart for live entertainment, pristine beaches, and world-class shopping. However, the Grand Strand is also a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, especially for those who thrive in the Atlantic Ocean. Prospective guests will have a dizzy spell if they search for “water sports near me” because the options near Sands Resorts’ oceanfront properties are in the triple digits. Most families ask about potential deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, and parasailing excursions. Still, jet skiing will always remain a massive draw for travelers looking for plenty of sun and excitement while at sea. Riding a jet ski in Myrtle Beach has never been easier as seemingly every tour and rental company offers a variety of services.

Blast off on a Jet Ski in Myrtle Beach

Locating a rentable jet ski in Myrtle Beach is as easy as throwing a dart at a map of the Grand Strand. That being said, only a handful of local companies offer elite guiding services. No two Myrtle Beach jet ski tours are alike as some head out to sea while others explore the Intracoastal Waterway and its many channels. Below, you’ll find a handy list of the best tour guides along the Grand Strand, many of which are a short drive from our four top-reviewed Myrtle Beach resorts.

Island Adventure Watersports

Location: 5843 Dick Pond Road, Myrtle Beach
Reservations: 843-650-7003 (or book online), rates start at $185
Why choose Island Adventure? Island Adventure boasts a perfect five-star rating on TripAdvisor, so you know that they’re apt to please crowds of people. They specialize in small groups of 10 or less, which is perfect for mid-sized families. If you plan to hop aboard a jet ski in Myrtle Beach, start your search with Island Adventure.

Myrtle Beach Watersports

Location: Harbourgate Marina, 2100 Sea Mountain Highway, North Myrtle Beach
Reservations: 843-280-7777 (or book online), rates start at $125
Why choose Myrtle Beach Watersports? Myrtle Beach Watersports offers the very best dolphin watching tours in the region. In particular, the two-hour early morning excursion is a must as dolphins prefer to show off just after dawn.

Express Watersports

Location: 4042 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet
Reservations: 843-357-7777 (or book online), rates start at $99
Why choose Express Watersports? Yes, Express Watersports is approximately 30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach in nearby Murrells Inlet. But how can you argue with that $99 price tag? The 7 a.m. eco-tour cruises past “Millionaire Row,” Huntington Beach State Park, Atalaya Castle, and curious families of dolphins.

Action Water Sportz

Location: 1525 13th Avenue North, North Myrtle Beach
Reservations: 843-280-4100 (or book online), rates start at $155
Why choose Action Water Sportz? This two-hour dolphin watch meanders past shrimp trawlers, commercial fishing boats, casino boats, and the Little River Swing Bridge before crossing paths with adorable bottlenose dolphins.

Photo of a Person on a Jet Ski in Myrtle BeachShawn’s Backwater Adventure

Location: 101 Fantasy Harbour Boulevard, Myrtle Beach
Reservations: 843-353-7020 (or book online), rates start at $155
Why choose Shawn’s Backwater Adventure? Shawn’s headquarters lie within minutes of Broadway at the Beach, countless championship golf courses, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and the airport. Oh, and their two-hour Explorer Tour just might be the highlight of your trip!

Unforgettable Myrtle Beach Vacations

For those aiming to jet ski in Myrtle Beach this summer, please give one of these fine establishments a call today. After each full day of craft beer, championship golf, Italian cuisine, and live entertainment, gleefully retreat to one of our oceanfront getaways. Sands Resorts is made up of four unique Grand Strand destinations: North Shore Hotel, Sand Dunes Resort, Sands Beach Club, and Sands Ocean Club. To get matched with a suite, condo, or villa that perfectly suits your family’s size and budget, please give our team a call today at 800-726-3783.

A Comprehensive Myrtle Beach Brewery Guide

Photo of a Hazy IPA at a Myrtle Beach Brewery.Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, draws travelers from all across the globe. People flock to our bustling oceanside city to soak up the sun, entertain the family, and, of course, play countless rounds of championship golf. A common pleasure among adults and parents alike is a beach cocktail. There’s just something magical about sinking your toes in the sand with nary a care in the world whilst sipping on a tall, fruity, and undeniably delicious signature cocktail at Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar. That being said, sometimes the most refreshing beverage after 18 holes of golf, a lengthy conference, or a rousing live performance is a local craft beer. Locating a cool, frothy craft beer in Myrtle Beach near Sands Resorts isn’t a cinch as there are only four taprooms within the city limits. Thus, we crafted this handy Myrtle Beach brewery guide.

A Self-Guided Myrtle Beach Brewery Tour

Admittedly, the Myrtle Beach brewery scene hasn’t quite swelled like many other major cities in South Carolina. However, we’re quite happy with the area’s collective beer quality. It’s only a matter of time before the craft beer community rapidly expands once home brewers and entrepreneurs discover the potential here along the Grand Strand.

New South Brewing

New South Brewing is the state’s second-oldest brewery. As this mature brew crew enters its 22nd year, it’s showing no sign of letting up. In fact, New South’s team continues to innovate in its expansive brewing facility and revamp its brand. The double dry-hopped Cloud City DIPA, a smooth, hazy New England-style game-changer, is perhaps New South’s best beer to date. The taproom remains industrial and homey, but that’s part of this establishment’s easygoing charm.

Liberty Brewery & Grill

In 2020, brewpubs tend to get a bum rap, primarily because they rightfully put an equal amount of time and effort into the grub. That being said, we have nothing but kind words for Liberty Brewery & Grill. It’s hard to top $4 core beers, especially when you’re traveling on a budget. The subtly-sweet Cuckoo For Cocoa Stout and the refreshing Blueberry Blonde are both equally delightful in their own way. And don’t overlook Liberty’s crispy shrimp tacos, BBQ baby back ribs, and that juicy dry rub sirloin.

Photo of a Beer Pour at a Myrtle Beach Brewery.Gordon Biersch of Myrtle Beach

Gordon Biersch often pops up on Google when travelers search for “craft breweries near me with food.” This long-standing Myrtle Beach brewery is just one of many U.S. locations, including Honolulu, New Orleans, and Las Vegas. However, each location has its own brewing team and a distinct, always-changing beer menu. They typically feature 10 beers on tap, ranging from the sessionable Czech Pilsner to the classic, Oktoberfest-style Marzen.

Independent Republic Brewing Company

Independent Republic’s beer is served exclusively at The Landing at the Boathouse, the “best backyard in town.” To date, their team has only crafted 17 beers, most of which have earned high praise from locals and tourists alike. The hazy Cybernetic Organism is garnering a lot of love, while their experimental farmhouse ales continue to improve. It’s only a matter of time before Independent Republic finds a new home where they can spread their wings.

It’s worth noting that there are three more breweries near Myrtle Beach: Makai Brewing Company, Quigley’s Pint and Plate, and Red Hare Brewing Company. Each unique destination is within 45 minutes or so from our affordable yet modern Myrtle Beach hotels.

4 Distinct Myrtle Beach Resorts

Sands Resorts has four oceanside destinations along the Grand Strand, all of which are steps from seemingly endless white sand, beach bars, and top-rated restaurants. After a brief, self-guided Myrtle Beach brewery tour, retreat to the sea’s edge to sunbathe, sip on cocktails, and admire the natural beauty. Don’t forget that Sand Dunes Resort has a complimentary water park! Ocean Annie’s Resorts, meanwhile, is home to the number one beach bar in the city. Please give us a call today at 800-726-3783 to book a well-deserved escape to sunny South Carolina.

Top 3 Market Common Restaurants in Myrtle Beach, SC

Market Common RestaurantsIt’s easy to become enamored by Myrtle Beach’s colorful lights, towering attractions, and pristine beaches, but don’t forget that this seaside haven is also one of the East Coast’s most-visited shopping meccas. Families frequent crowd-pleasing destinations, such as Broadway at the Beach, Barefoot Landing, the Coastal Grand Mall, and Tanger Outlets, to discover the region’s best apparel, jewelry, footwear, and knickknacks. Yet, a small, lavish storefront common near the airport typically garners the most praise from travelers thanks to its high-end brands, modern architecture, and polished interiors. This contemporary palace is known as Myrtle Beach’s Market Common. Perhaps the most overlooked aspect of this underrated attraction is the array of Market Common restaurants, ranging from eye-catching sushi to classic Southern fare.

The Best Market Common Restaurants

While this shopping district only spans 114 acres, there are countless Market Common restaurants worth revisiting time and again. It wasn’t easy leaving Gordon Biersch Brewery and King Street Grille off of this list as their craft ales and happy specials, respectively, are difficult to top. But, alas, these three eateries stood tall among the competition. It’s also worth noting that the Market Common is approximately 10 miles from Sand Dunes Resort and North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, a recently re-branded and renovated beachside paradise.

1. Tupelo Honey

Tupelo Honey is an idyllic marriage of flavorful Southern comfort food and sophistication. During the warmer months, travelers flock to Tupelo’s large patio. But the modern yet rustic interior design is reminiscent of those classic family restaurants of decades past. With a menu highlighted by wild-caught shrimp and grits, honey-dusted fried chicken, and Lowcountry catfish, you won’t possess the ability to leave Tupelo Honey off of your meticulously-planned itinerary. The mixology team at Tupelo Honey, meanwhile, is skilled, charismatic, and swift.

2. CO Sushi

While Japanese cuisines certainly aren’t for everyone, there’s no denying the creativity and culinary skill of the itamaes at CO Sushi. This sleek, hip sushi joint isn’t your run-of-the-mill Japanese eatery—the plate presentation, inventive concoctions, and luscious flavors trump most Market Common restaurants. We cannot get enough of those spicy maki rolls, Cambodian poke bowls, and the poached egg pho.

3. Crepe Creation Café

The best breakfast in Myrtle Beach, SC, according to many past guests, can be devoured at Crepe Creation Café, one of the only early-morning Market Common restaurants. Yes, this down-to-earth cafe has nearly a dozen dessert crepes. But the breakfast and savory crepes are where they make a living. It’s not easy to find a smoked salmon, cordon bleu, or Tuscan chicken crepe in these parts. Crepe Creation is the perfect locale for a midday snack in-between stints of window shopping.

Market Common RestaurantsMyrtle Beach Resorts with a Water Park

After a full day of shopping, dining, and live entertainment, retreat to the sandy beach beside Sand Dunes Resort, North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, or Ocean Annie’s Resorts. Splash inside our complimentary water park, walk the beach, and enjoy live music at Ocean Annie’s Bar before retiring for the evening. And don’t forget that Myrtle Beach is home to a wide array of unique museums, world-class fishing destinations, and countless attractions. Please give us a call today at 800-726-3783 to book a well-deserved, long-awaited escape to sunny Myrtle Beach!

A Handy Myrtle Beach Arcade Guide

Myrtle Beach ArcadeNostalgia is a powerful sentiment, especially for us “old-timers” that remember the glory days of rotary telephones, CRT televisions, floppy disks, and, of course, arcade games. Many old-school products from the mid-to-late 1900s are making a comeback, including vinyl records, Polaroid cameras, and even cassette tapes. Likewise, classic arcade venues are suddenly trending as more and more kids are growing fascinated with these mysterious joystick machines. But our generation never lost interest in these dazzling, six-foot-tall apparatuses. And, luckily for you and your family, North Shore Oceanfront Hotel is home to a bright, newly-remodeled Myrtle Beach arcade: the Family FunZone Arcade.

Top 3 Myrtle Beach Arcade Venues

Researching and locating the best arcade in Myrtle Beach requires quite a bit of energy as there are nearly a dozen venues in the city. This handy list has a little bit of everything: a boardwalk staple, a pinball museum, and an arcade/mini-golf combo just a few steps from a free Myrtle Beach water park. To ensure that your upcoming wintertime escape to South Carolina’s coast is nothing short of flawless, we’ve pieced together this handy Myrtle Beach arcade guide.

North Shore Family FunZone Arcade

North Shore Oceanfront Hotel’s Family FunZone Arcade has a lot going for it: countless state-of-the-art arcade games, a blacklight mini-golf course, and an attached, newly-renovated pool area. Oh, and it’s just steps from Sands Resorts Water Park, which is entirely free to all guests at both North Shore Oceanfront Hotel and Sand Dunes Resort. Besides being free, convenient, and vast, visitors treasure this arcade’s diverse mixture of top-of-the-line video games and old-school arcade-style machines.

Myrtle Beach ArcadeMyrtle Beach Pinball Museum

Not only is the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum one of the area’s most underrated hidden gems, but it’s home to perhaps the best collection pinball machines in the state. Most travelers believe that this timeless escape is just a museum, but visitors can conquer these blasts from the past during business hours for only $12 per hour. Visitors can bounce around from machine to machine to play classics such as Ghostbusters, Munsters, Simpsons, and Indiana Jones.

Fun Plaza

Fun Plaza is the premier Myrtle Beach Boardwalk arcade. We have a fondness for Fun Plaza’s many classic games, such as skee ball, table hockey, pop-a-shot basketball, and coin-operated “Batter Up” baseball. This facility’s location to the SkyWheel, Atlantic Ocean, eclectic shopping, and highly-praised restaurants instantly makes it a candidate for the “best Myrtle Beach arcade.”

Memorable Myrtle Beach Vacations

For those who’re yearning for even more arcade games in Myrtle Beach, the kids will love the lighthearted ambiance at Fun Warehouse! And don’t forget to read up about the area’s best beach activities, water sports, and rainy day ideas before your arrival. Sands Resorts has four affordable yet modern oceanfront hotels along the Atlantic Ocean’s edge here in sunny Myrtle Beach. There’s no better time to book a trip than right now as our fall and wintertime vacation specials have never been more affordable. Please give us a call today at 800-726-3783 to get matched up with a condo that perfectly suits your family’s size, style, and budget.

The Top 3 North Myrtle Beach Restaurants

Naturally, one of the first actions a person undertakes after booking a well-deserved coastal getaway to beautiful Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is extensively researching the area’s culinary scene. There’s something for everyone along the Grand Strand, including ample fresh-caught seafood, longstanding Italian staples, and a plethora of cheap eats. Just a couple miles out of town, however, lies a gourmet cuisine mecca near North Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Landing. To many people’s surprise, there are dozens of top-reviewed North Myrtle Beach restaurants along busy Highway 17 that have been wowing foodies for over a decade. And luckily for you, Sands Resorts have four oceanfront hotels just a couple miles down the road from North Myrtle Beach’s culinary hotbed.

Fine Dining Done Right: the Best North Myrtle Beach Restaurants

These three hand-selected North Myrtle Beach restaurants have several traits in common: they’ll all high-end, romantic, and award-winning. While the price for an entree certainly isn’t cheap, the arresting experience at each location is well worth the extra dollar sign or two. Finding fresh seafood in North Myrtle Beach is quite easy, but savoring the best flavor combinations in one bite is hard to achieve. Luckily, these fine establishments have some of the premier executive chefs in the region.

North Myrtle Beach RestaurantsSea Blue Restaurant & Wine Bar

When we think of sophistication, elegance, and decadent flavors, Sea Blue Restaurant & Wine Bar immediately comes to mind. This posh, sleek, blue-lit wine bar is the epitome of romance. And, thankfully, the mouthwatering, succulent entrees match the dazzling decor. Sea Blue has one of the most extensive wine cellars in South Carolina for those with an adoration for fine vino. The menu at Sea Blue continually rotates with the changing of the seasons, but you’ll typically spot local seafood favorites, such as Maine lobster, seared diver scallops, and crab cakes. The 42-ounce, dry-aged porterhouse for two is one of life’s true culinary treasures.

Flying Fish Public Market & Grill

Flying Fish Public Market & Grill remains one of our favorite Barefoot Landing restaurants. While it’s undoubtedly much more laid back than Sea Blue, the vibrant coastal flavors are unrivaled. And the Intercoastal Waterway location next to the Alabama Theatre is a huge plus for families that are looking for a meal in-between shopping and live entertainment. What we love about Flying Fish is that their scrumptious meals don’t break the bank—the $12 blackened mahi-mahi tacos are dynamite! Seafood classics, such as the surf and turf, snow crab, crab cakes, and Gulf shrimp boil, are crowd-pleasers, especially for large groups aiming to get a small taste of everything. Oh, and their daily happy hour includes $2 PBRs, $4 Long Islands, $5 buffalo shrimp, and $7 oysters.

North Myrtle Beach Restaurants21 Main Prime Steakhouse

If you plan to devour a juicy steak during your long-awaited Myrtle Beach escape, we highly recommend embarking on a short trek to 21 Main Prime Steakhouse (yet another one of our favorite North Myrtle Beach restaurants). The ultra-talented culinary team at 21 Main have crafted a marvelous menu that includes Chilean sea bass, seared scallops, and lobster tail, but you simply cannot resist the allure of a 12-ounce, certified Angus, center-cut filet mignon. 21 Main serves eight USDA-certified prime cuts in all, including a bone-in ribeye, New York strip, and a whopping 40-ounce porterhouse. One bite into their prime steak and you’ll instantly understand why they rank among the best restaurants in North Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach Resorts with Water Parks

After half a day at Alligator Adventure, Duplin Winery, and LuLu’s Beach Arcade, retreat to Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar for a refreshing cocktail, a dip in the Atlantic Ocean, and a beach walk at dusk. Or head on down to our free Myrtle Beach water park located at Sand Dunes Resort. All four of our oceanfront resorts are just a short drive from the premier North Myrtle Beach restaurants, including Sea Blue, Flying Fish, and 21 Main. Give us a call today at 800-726-3783 to book a dreamlike coastal escape to sunny South Carolina!

Parasailing in Myrtle Beach: The Thrill of a Lifetime

It should come as no surprise that the best view of Myrtle Beach comes from the sky. Whether it’s atop the SkyWheel or inside a helicopter, there’s something magical about scanning the gorgeous Grand Strand high in the air. Perhaps our favorite method of aerial “exploration” here at Sands Resorts is an exhilarating parasailing expedition. Parasailing in Myrtle Beach is among the most popular midday activities for families, groups, and couples alike, especially for travelers with a thirst for adventure. When you’re not relaxing on the beach, visiting the area’s top attractions, and fishing in the Gulf Stream, we hope that you strap in for a trip into the sky!

Parasailing in Myrtle Beach (2)Discover the Best Parasailing in Myrtle Beach

To ensure that your well-deserved coastal escape is nothing short of flawless, we’ve compiled the area’s seven best parasailing outfitters. Parasailing in Myrtle Beach has never been more accessible thanks to a lot of buzz and word of mouth by frequent travelers. Myrtle Beach parasailing prices are as low as anywhere else along the East Coast, especially during the “offseason.” Hopefully, after reading through this list, you won’t have to search for “parasailing near me” during your upcoming getaway.

Express Watersports

Location: 4042 Highway 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC

Reservations: 843-357-7777 (or book online), rates start at $65

Why Choose Them? Express Watersports is one of the only establishments that have online booking, which is a huge plus for planners.

Downwind Sails

Location: 2985 Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-236-7245 (or book online), rates start at $59

Why Choose Them? Their parasails fly approximately 300 feet in the air.

Ocean Watersports

Location: 410 Ocean Boulevard, Myrtle Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-445-7777

Why Choose Them? This team has been parasailing in Myrtle Beach since 1981. And the $5 coupon doesn’t hurt.

Parasailing in Myrtle Beach (2)Aloha Watersports

Location: 2208 Ocean Boulevard, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-249-9908

Why Choose Them? If you’re hoping to spend an afternoon parasailing in North Myrtle Beach, we recommend Aloha Watersports. They’re one of the only companies that offer three-person rides.

Shoreline Watersports

Location: 409 Ocean Boulevard, Surfside Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-272-2420 (or book online), rates start at $40

Why Choose Them? Shoreline is the cheapest option in the Myrtle Beach area.

New Wave Watersports

Location: 1701 Ocean Boulevard, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-361-3322

Why Choose Them? New Wave is just 2.5 miles from Barefoot Landing.

Atlantic Watersports

Location: 3102 Ocean Boulevard, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Reservations: 843-272-2420

Why Choose Them? Atlantic Watersports has the best specials in town.

4 Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Resorts

Sands Resorts has four oceanfront destinations along the Grand Strand: Sand Dunes Resort, North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, Sands Ocean Club, and Sands Beach Club. Each unique resort is elegant, inexpensive, and conveniently located to the area’s top attractions. You’ll also discover a whole lot of perks, such as free entry to a water park, beach access, on-site dining, and ocean-view accommodations. Spend your afternoons shopping, jet-skiing, snorkeling, and parasailing in Myrtle Beach before returning to your oceanfront getaway for dinner, cocktails, and a moonlit beach stroll. To book a well-deserved family vacation to sunny Myrtle Beach, please give us a call today at 800-726-3783.

Where to Find Live Music in Myrtle Beach

myrtle beach hotels with water parksWhile many may not consider Myrtle Beach a music hotbed, our live local and regional music scene is exponentially growing. With dozens of locales to discover new artists and rediscover old favorites, Sands Resorts should be your next coastal South Carolina getaway headquarters. Sand Dunes Resort is king among Myrtle Beach hotels with water parks, and Sands Ocean Club and Beach Club are a short walk away from Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar. Throw on a band tee, grab an ice-cold beer, and seek these local music halls for an entertaining evening of live music.

Rock and Roll at the House of Blues

Co-founded by actor Dan Aykroyd, the House of Blues is a Barefoot Landing staple. While it’s unlikely you’ll be hearing any blues at this venue, a memorable night of hard rock awaits. This unique, two-story concert venue sees a large number of rock bands, spanning generations, including Seether, Blues Traveler, Marilyn Manson, Puddle of Mudd, Steel Panther, and Gwar. Rappers Pusha T and Lil Xan will also be performing later this year. The tribute bands are just as popular. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a Tom Petty, Dave Matthews, Led Zeppelin, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Michael Jackson, Johnny Cash, or Stevie Wonder tribute band. These artists are as close to the real thing as you can get. The House of Blues not only has nightly entertainment, but their jambalaya, baby back ribs, sliced brisket, and fried chicken is to-die-for.

Beach Music at Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar

For an entirely different concert experience, Sands Ocean Club guests can walk 10 feet to Myrtle Beach’s premier beach bar experience at Ocean Annie’s. Nearby Sands Beach Club is also a scenic three-minute beach walk from a specialty cocktail and hot summer jams. Our talented cover bands play Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars, Patsy Cline, Willie Nelson, Journey, Guns and Roses, Little Big Town, and many more. There’s nothing better than free live music steps away from a cozy accommodation.

Local Favorites Worth Checking Out

If you’re in the Murrells Inlet area south of town, stop by Dead Dog Saloon for daily live music and the best fish tacos on the coast. Two miles south of Sand Dunes Resort, chief among Myrtle Beach resorts with water parks, you’ll find Bourbon Street Bar & Grille. Bourbon Street is a local favorite because of their nightly entertainment and food and drinks specials. The supergroup Alabama performed six nights a week in 1973 at The Bowery. Alabama mostly covered Lynyrd Skynyrd and Merle Haggard during their stint at this oceanfront bar.

Myrtle Beach hotels with water parks are few and far between. Your family can gain free access to Sand Dunes Resort Waterpark by staying in any of our four Myrtle Beach resorts. Consult our packages and specials for up-to-the-minute discounts on week-long and mid-week stays!