Tag: Myrtle Beach South Carolina

4 Splendid Day Trips from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

There’s no deep-rooted reason to vacate Myrtle Beach’s warm, sugary sand or the Turkish blue Atlantic. However, it’s not uncommon for travelers to spend several weeks in our beachy paradise, particularly during inexpensive “offseasons.” Thus, it’s only natural that guests grow curious about the many seaside villages and historic towns on both ends of the sprawling Grand Strand. Part of what makes the Grand Strand so undeniably captivating is how accessible it is, thanks to U.S. Route 17. Sands Resorts, the premier Myrtle Beach vacation hub, has four distinct properties located in the heart of the beach community. We pride ourselves in being pleasingly affordable, utterly hospitable, and unquestionably sanitary. Oh, and our team has whipped together four sublime day trips from Myrtle Beach: Murrells Inlet, McClellanville, Wilmington, and Charleston.

Day Trips from Myrtle Beach: Explore the Carolinas

There are dozens of potential day trips from Myrtle Beach, including Little River, Calabash, and Bald Head Island. At the end of the day, these four selections exemplify the day trip “experience,” including an emphasis on the visual and culinary arts, as well as historical significance. Let’s start with the closest destination of the bunch: sunny Murrells Inlet.

Murrells Inlet, SC

Murrells Inlet is Myrtle Beach’s neighbor to the south. Many consider this charming marshland to be an integral part of the tourism industry. It provides a unique lens into the Grand Strand’s history via plantations, state parks, and cultural mainstays, such as long-standing restaurants and golf courses.

McClellanville, SC

Despite housing less than 550 residents, McClellanville is often regarded as one of the most memorable day trips from Myrtle Beach. Natural beauty, Southern charm, and charismatic locals perfectly accentuate the many nearby attractions, including countless wildlife preserves, historic sites, and, yes, some classic Carolina seafood.

Wilmington, NC

Yes, we often welcome guests from the Wilmington area, but most first-time visitors to the Grand Strand are not from the Carolinas. Thus, it’s important to shine a light on this port city, home to a historic district, countless WWII monuments, and a thriving craft brewery scene. As you can imagine, there are nearly a dozen absorbing museums that spotlight the area’s art, culture, wildlife, and architecture.

Charleston, SC

Last but certainly not least is Charleston, America’s “most beloved small city.” It’s easy to get swept away to a simpler time thanks to Charleston’s cobblestone streets, antebellum houses, and some of the oldest unrestored gardens in the country. Travelers return time and time again for the jaw-dropping plantation landscapes, divine gourmet cuisine, and bustling City Market. Although Charleston is 100 miles south of town, it’s by far one of the two best day trips from Myrtle Beach.

An Idyllic Ocean Resort in Myrtle Beach

Remember: Day trips from Myrtle Beach to Charleston or Wilmington require an early rise. Upon return to Myrtle Beach, take full advantage of the city’s live entertainment, hip beach bars, and thriving nightlife. The perfect hub for your mid-day adventures is Sands Resorts, home to the newly-rebranded North Shore Oceanfront Hotel and dazzling Sand Dunes Resort (and its splash-tastic water park). Please don’t hesitate to browse through our various money-saving specials, including inexpensive Myrtle Beach golf packages, before dialing 800-726-3783. Our team will swiftly match you with a guest room that suits your family’s size, style, and budget.

The Best Takeout in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Photo of a Woman Eating Some of the Best Takeout in Myrtle Beach...on the Beach.Although several restaurants along Myrtle Beach’s sandy shores are expanding their dining services (oftentimes to outdoor seating only), a healthy portion of tourists will likely prefer some good, old-fashioned takeout during this ongoing pandemic. Travelers and locals alike have opened their arms to the region’s struggling, vulnerable restaurants by ordering takeout or utilizing delivery services. Even after things return to normalcy here at Sands Resorts, there will still be a need for the best takeout in Myrtle Beach as beachgoers and golfers will always grow hungry, especially when trying to pack as many experiences as possible into a long-awaited summertime escape.

The Best Takeout in Myrtle Beach: 25 Unique Eats

In an effort to shine a light on our community’s eclectic mixture of restaurants, ranging from finger-lickin’ BBQ to authentic Mexican, we’ve decided to compile a handy list of 25 local staples that continue to offer the very best takeout in Myrtle Beach. If you’re feeling the urge to satisfy an unstoppable craving while also contributing to a worthy cause, please don’t hesitate to click the links below. Before we dive into this extensive list, it’s worth noting that all of our resorts provide on-site dining, including the newly-updated North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, legendary Sand Dunes Resort, and hip Ocean Annie’s Resorts. Depending on the resort, you’ll be able to enjoy outside dining, in-room delivery, and, of course, takeout.

Photo of Beachfront Kitchen, Home to Some of the Best Takeout in Myrtle Beach.

Photo of Sand Dunes, Next Door to Some of the Best Takeout in Myrtle Beach.Oceanfront Myrtle Beach Hotels

And, of course, the perfect place to enjoy the best takeout in Myrtle Beach is on your private, oceanfront balcony. Some of the aforementioned restaurants also offer classic picnic fare for those who wish to chow down on some classic Carolina eats while seated in the warm sand. All 25 of these local eateries need our help. Luckily for them, our appetites never went away! Before we let you go, don’t forget that Sands Resorts offers complimentary water park access, prime beach acreage, affordable golf packages, unobstructed views of the Atlantic, and, of course, one of the most popular Myrtle Beach bars (Ocean Annie’s). Please give our worldly team a call today at 800-726-3783 to get matched with a property that suits your family’s size, style, and budget perfectly.

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.

Experience History with Medieval Times in Myrtle Beach

Medieval Times Myrtle BeachBook a fun-filled family vacation to Myrtle Beach with Sands Resorts, and experience the wide variety of quality entertainment offerings in this beachside destination. Enjoy the beautiful Atlantic Coast, famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and a plethora of other activities and events when you stay at one of our lovely resorts. One such event takes guests back to the era of fairytales. Take the family to the Myrtle Beach Medieval Times dinner attraction and experience a history lesson full of knights and royalty. Enjoy one of the most uniquely entertaining activities in Myrtle Beach!

Medieval Times Myrtle Beach

Medieval Times, rated the number one dinner attraction in North America, is a family-friendly show offering guests an authentic and exciting Medieval experience. Feel what it would be like to witness a real-life sword battle and jousting match in the company of the queen! Medieval Times has nine locations – called ‘castles’ – throughout the United States, and is based upon an actual feast and knight tournament from the 11th century. Head to the Myrtle Beach castle, located just minutes from your Sands Resort accommodations, and indulge in nearly two hours of high-energy sword fighting, horsemanship, and historical displays. While watching the action unfold before your very eyes, feast on a roasted chicken, sweet buttered corn, herb-basted potatoes, tomato bisque soup, and other delicious offerings! Medieval Times also provides vegetarian options, along with a full bar.

The Number One Dinner Attraction in North America

The lights dim, and a hush falls over the Coliseum. You, as noble guests of the court, are ready to experience the very best display of force and skill that the queen’s top knights can muster. Suddenly, blasts of trumpets sound welcoming the participants into the arena. As you study each knight, deciding on your favorite, the first of four courses in your royal feast arrives. Since this is the 11th century (when silverware did not exist), you will be enjoying a “hands-on” dining experience. The excellent show begins with an expert showcase of the players’ horseriding skills. Watch in awe as these majestic beasts display their training in the decorated Hall of Arms. After a variety of captivating tournament sporting events, it is time for battle. See if your chosen heroic knight has what it takes to claim victory and honor.

Sands Resorts

While on your Myrtle Beach vacation with Sands Resorts, take a trip back in time and experience dining in the presence of royalty. This exciting attraction is just one of the many fun-filled events that beautiful Myrtle Beach has to offer. Book your vacation to enjoy time with your loved ones and to make unforgettable memories. Sands Resorts and Myrtle Beach Medieval Times are waiting for you!

Holiday Spirits! Three Myrtle Beach Bars to Visit This Season

Myrtle Beach BarsWhile the winter months in Myrtle Beach can get a little bit chillier than the high-eighties bliss of summertime, there is an easy remedy! Take advantage of the smaller crowds this season and warm up with a drink at one of these fantastic Myrtle Beach Bars. Enjoy a lovely holiday at the beach this year, and indulge in some adult beverages at the best watering holes in South Carolina. A winter vacation to this beachfront city with Sands Resorts will provide you with great opportunities to relax and have a little fun. Here is a short guide to some of the best bars in Myrtle Beach where all visitors should grab a pint!

Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar

It makes perfect sense to start with one of the top-rated bars in Myrtle Beach located right at our own Sands Resorts, Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar! Ocean Annie’s has not only been voted one of the top ten pool bars in Myrtle Beach but has also been rated as one of the ten best bars in South Carolina! For over three decades, this Sands Resorts staple has been offering great deals, delicious drinks, and good times to guests from around the world. Grab a spot to sit at Ocean Annie’s and enjoy this Myrtle Beach icon.

Flynn’s Irish Tavern

Flynn’s Irish Tavern is a local favorite offering some of the best drinks and most authentic Irish pub food found on the coast. What’s better on an autumn day than a warming pint of Guinness or a finger of your favorite Irish whiskey? Nothing – that’s what. Flynn’s is full of personality, having at one time been the location of the North Myrtle Beach Jail. Drink alongside all walks of life at the old wooden bar and experience a little true Myrtle Beach spirit.

8th Avenue Tiki Bar & Grill

Did you really vacation at the beach if you didn’t grab a drink at the local Tiki bar? The 8th Avenue Tiki Bar & Grill is a venerable Myrtle Beach institution offering a wide variety of signature and frozen cocktails. Also praised as one of the best oceanfront beach bars in Myrtle Beach, 8th Avenue gives visitors the classic coastal drinking experience. Take on the ‘Beer Challenge’ at the bar and see if you can guess the mystery beer for a round on the house!

Make a trip to the South Carolina coast this season and have some fun at the great variety of Myrtle Beach bars. Spend a weekend relaxing at the beautiful Sands Resorts and take advantage of the great deals and area offerings of this time of year. Book your Myrtle Beach vacation now!