Tag: Myrtle Beach Vacation

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.

July 4th Getaways to Myrtle Beach, SC

myrtle beach water parkThere’s still plenty of time to book a well-deserved July 4th getaway to sunny Myrtle Beach with Sands Resorts. For those who’re searching for a change of scenery for this year’s Independence Day celebration, you won’t find another locale that’s more family-friendly than Myrtle Beach. Not only does our beautiful oceanfront city feature jaw-dropping fireworks, unique parades, marvelous attractions, and authentic coastal cuisine, but we gladly provide all guests with complimentary passes to our Myrtle Beach water park and exclusive access to on-site beaches! Keep reading to learn why July 4th getaways to Myrtle Beach have become commonplace for families across the East Coast.

A Free Myrtle Beach Water Park

First and foremost, Sands Resorts’ free Myrtle Beach water park is a rare perk that your kids will absolutely love. Spend your afternoons floating along the lazy river, anxiously waiting underneath a giant water bucket, and blasting down slippery waterfalls this Independence Day. When your family has had their fill of our exciting Myrtle Beach water park, if that’s even possible, head over to the Family FunZone inside the newly-renovated North Shore Oceanfront Hotel. The Family FunZone features classic arcade games, an indoor pool, a black-light mini golf course, and so much more!

Fireworks High Above Barefoot Landing

myrtle beach water parkBarefoot Landing remains one of the top attractions here in Myrtle Beach thanks to its unique combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment. This popular, family-friendly hub is also home to the best fireworks display in the city. Gaze toward the cloudless sky as fireworks crackle high above the Intercoastal Waterway. Broadway at the Beach, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, and the Second Avenue Pier will also have firework displays, just not on the Fourth.

Family-Friendly Parades

It wouldn’t be Independence Day without a parade filled with large American flags, unique floats, and free treats. The two premier parades in the Myrtle Beach area are the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade and Pawleys Island 4th of July Parade. Both of these annual events are huge draws for locals and vacationers alike. The main event is the boat display along the marsh walk in nearby Murrells Inlet where you’ll observe dozens of patriotic vessels filled with enthusiastic boaters. If you’re looking for a traditional yet still unique parade, head down to Pawleys Island for one of the only golf cart parades in the country. Over 100 golf carts, as well as trucks and hauled boats, will coast down Myrtle Avenue past thousands of eager bystanders.

Beach Fun and Tasty Eats

Unlike most July 4th getaways, your family will have unlimited access to several miles of pristine beaches. Go swimming, build a sandcastle, read a novel, fly a kite, and sunbathe under the golden sun this year instead of sweating near a scorching grill! All of Sands Resorts’ Myrtle Beach hotels are steps from the Atlantic Ocean’s white, sandy shores. Trade your apron, oven mitts, and spatula for an appetite this year. Enjoy beach cocktails at Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar, wood-fired pizza at Oceanside 74, or juicy burgers at Eli’s Oceanfront Cafe. To book a well-deserved July 4th getaway to sunny Myrtle Beach, please give us a call today at 1-800-726-3783.

Glass Kayaking: The New Must-Try Water Activity

Summer beach season is upon us. Coastal South Carolina is flush with enlivened families and couples from all over the globe visiting Sands Resorts’ Myrtle Beach Waterpark at Sand Dunes Resort. Convincing you to spend one afternoon away from our waterpark will be difficult. The waterpark is free for guests–yes, you read that right. A new Myrtle Beach craze, however, is blossoming on the surrounding rivers, marshes, and beaches: glass kayaking.

Glass Kayaking is For Everyone

The idea is simple: create a transparent kayak so adventurers can see into the clear waters below. The 21st century sure is fun! The idea was simple, but the creation was complicated. Glass kayaks, sometimes called clear or transparent kayaks, are frequently made from the same material as bulletproof glass. These modern marvels also feature a UV layer to keep the glass from yellowing and your skin from burning. The frame is anodized aluminum, which in layman’s terms is a protective layer that prevents the kayak from being susceptible to breaking. The glass has an imported Lexan film, a high-tech polymer to make the vessel smooth, durable, easy to handle and soft.

Being able to look down into the Atlantic Ocean is a dynamic thrill. The most inexperienced individual can pick up the sport in nearly an instant in these kayaks built for all skill levels. Glass Bottom Kayak Tours is the lone Myrtle Beach adventure company to offer glass kayak rentals and tours. Tours start at an astoundingly low rate of $25 per person. Take a glass kayak tour of Cherry Grove Salt Marsh or Wacammaw River, or try the Waites Island Kayak Shelling Tour. The tours last up to 3 ½ hours, are family friendly, and professionally guided. Tandem kayaks are available, and remember to make reservations online.

The Best Myrtle Beach Waterpark

After a spectacular afternoon of glass kayaking through a nature preserve, saltwater marsh, and shelling on the beach, head back to Sands Resorts Waterpark. Don’t worry about long lines, high admission prices, or long drives–the waterpark is just steps away from your cozy guest room. This Myrtle Beach waterpark offers speedy waterslides, waterfall pools, an aquatic treehouse, lazy river, bubble pool, and prime sunbathing. Come for the area’s adventure, and stay for Sands’ exciting waterpark and incredible amenities!

Sands Resorts Presents its Signature Collection

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Just in time for prime vacationing to Myrtle Beach, Sands Resorts is presenting its Signature Collection, a collection of premier luxury bedroom suites and townhomes.

Featuring one, two, three and four bedrooms, the collection has the perfect size for you and your guests to have a relaxing stay.

The two bedroom suites and condos have a fantastic view of the ocean, shutter-style furnishings, and a fully equipped kitchen with granite counter tops. You are close to all the fun, including the beach, the pools, lazy rivers, Sand Dunes WaterPark, and the oceanfront restaurants.

The three bedroom penthouses are luxurious, elegant and comfortable. They are newly remodeled and decorated with a beachy vibe that encourages you to relax and enjoy your time. With a fully equipped kitchen and a private oversize balcony, you will have everything you need for a great vacation.

A four bedroom townhouse is an excellent option for large parties that don’t want to be separated, but still want access to all the resort amenities. These multi-level townhouses have: an attached two-car garage, wifi, a washer and dryer, a kids room with bunk beds and a DVD player, and more. The townhomes are located right across from Sands Resorts so you will only be steps away from all the amenities the resort has to offer.

Staying at Sands Resorts is now better than ever. The Signature Collection offers you even more choices of accommodations so you can pick the best setting for your dream vacation with us.

Spend Valentine’s Weekend in Myrtle Beach

It’s time to treat yourself to a romantic getaway with your loved one. If you’re planning on coming to Myrtle Beach, then you are in for an unforgettable weekend. There isn’t anything more romantic than being able to stay oceanfront with your Valentine.

Here are events and things you can do with your significant other this Valentine’s Day weekend in the Grand Strand.

Ripley’s Splash of Love – February 13

If you are looking for a unique Valentine’s Day experience, then look no further. Ripley’s Aquarium will be hosting a 4-course dinner from 7 pm until 9:30 pm. Admission for the event is $79.99 per couple and includes the 4-course meal, a drink ticket to the bar and one long stem rose. Couples can upgrade for $10 and be in the Tunnel of Love and have a box of chocolates plus a strolling musician. Reservations are required for the event, so be sure to get your spot before it fills up. You can reserve your spot at 843-916-0888.

Medieval Times Valentine’s Day Couples Package

All week long Medieval Times is having a super special promotion for you and your sweetheart. The cost is $99 per couple and includes two adult admission tickets, a double-sided frame with photo, a commemorative Valentines scroll, two champagne glasses with a split of champagne, a sweetheart light-up red rose, two knight cheering flags and a cheering wand. It’s a fun and exciting experience that you don’t want to miss. Book online and use code: VDAYWEB. 

Enjoy the Atlantis Spa

Valentine’s Day weekend should be all about relaxing and making new memories. You can do this at the Atlantis Spa with a spa treatment. The Atlantis Spa offers couple massages, facials, foot and body treatments and organic sugar scrubs. It doesn’t get much better than that.

Dinner at Mango’s Restaurant

The Mango’s Restaurant is located at Sand Dunes Resort making it easy for all guests to access. Bring your sweetheart to the restaurant for dinner and enjoy steaks, seafood and pasta. Plus, you get the view of the Atlantic Ocean!

At Sands Resorts, we have plenty of great specials happening to make it an experience you’ll never forget. Call us today or book online to reserve your room for Valentine’s Day Weekend.

A Slice of Summer at Sands

mainIt’s only May but we have SUMMERTIME in our soul! We are geared up and ready to help you and your family make those beach vacation memories. Here’s how a Sands’ summer scene may look. Play along with us…

How is this for a morning wake up call? Open your eyes each day of your vacation with the Atlantic right outside your window. Take your time getting ready for the day’s adventures while sipping your coffee on the balcony taking in each wave crashing onto the shore. Oh, but don’t forget the delicious hot buffet breakfast waiting for you at the Brass Anchor restaurant.

Now that everyone has a full tummy, no better time to get the little ones over to the Sands Kids Club where they can sign up for ALL DAY fun and activities without mom and dad making all the rules. Supervised hours of fun, crafts, onsite water park adventures, scavenger hunts, duck races, face painting and meeting new friends.

Time for the BIG kids to hit the water and have fun too! Beach or pool? Spend a little time at both, make time to enjoy a cold drink and a light lunch at our new OD’s Pool Bar. LIVE entertainment all summer long! Lay back, relax and soak it all in. Don’t forget the sunscreen!

Looks like it’s time to round up the kids, head to the room and get ready for dinner at our onsite oceanfront restaurant, Mango’s on the Beach.You have certainly worked up an appetite by now. And with Mango’s new menu, there is definitely something delicious on hand, even for the finicky eaters. Need souvenirs? No need to run around town, stop in our new Sand Dunes Gift shop located right outside the restaurant.

Enjoy live music nightly, all summer long at Mango’s Lounge. Come listen to your favorites performed by singer/songwriter Walter Finley. Finish off the evening with a quiet stroll on the beach, watching the moon rise while breathing in the salty air.

Sands Kids Club Steps It Up

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Look at those smiles! Our popular Sands’ Kids Club is about to be in full swing. Opening full time Memorial Weekend, we are very excited to bring you new surprises, activities, water park fun and awesome adventures. Longer hours this year will keep the kiddos occupied all day. Sign ‘em up in the morning at 9am and pick them up by 6pm. Also new for this year, we have available, a Kids Club evening session two nights a week from 6-10pm for only $10. Let the kids be kids and enjoy their time, meeting new friends and making lasting vacation memories. See you this SUMMER!