Myrtle Beach is famous for its neon boardwalk, but its true appeal lies in the quiet luxury found just beyond the main tourist hubs. While most visitors stick to the arcades and souvenir shops, those in the know seek out championship golf, secluded shorelines, and the city’s burgeoning culinary scene.
If you’re planning a getaway, you likely want more than a typical vacation; you want an experience. That’s why we’ve compiled the ultimate Myrtle Beach travel tips to help you navigate the Grand Strand like a local. As a premier destination for refined coastal living, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is proud to share the insights that turn a standard trip into an unforgettable escape.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Choosing the Best Area to Stay
- When to Visit: Timing Your Escape
- 10 Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
- Travel Smarter: The Quick Checklist
- FAQs
- Make Your Trip Effortless
Choosing the Best Area to Stay
Location is the foundation of any good trip. While the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is the heart of the action, perfect for those who want neon lights and high energy, it can feel hectic during peak season.
For a more curated experience, travelers look to Grande Dunes. This upscale enclave offers a resort-style atmosphere along the Intracoastal Waterway. Staying here provides a “best of both worlds” scenario: you are minutes from the beach and attractions, but you return to a sanctuary of calm.
The Marina Inn Advantage
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes caters to the traveler who values space and serenity. Our oversized suites offer significantly more room than standard hotels, making them ideal for a Myrtle Beach family vacation. With private beach access and views of the shimmering marina, it is the definitive choice for a refined stay.
When to Visit: Timing Your Escape
One of the most impactful Myrtle Beach travel tips is mastering the “shoulder season.” The time of year you visit dictates the entire atmosphere of your stay.
- Spring (The Sweet Spot): Myrtle Beach in April and May offers crisp, bright days perfect for golf and outdoor dining before the peak summer humidity arrives.
- Summer (Peak Energy): Ideal for families seeking the full Myrtle Beach summer experience. Pro Tip: Book oceanfront stays and dining reservations at least 3–4 months in advance.
- Fall (The Golfer’s Autumn): September and October are local favorites. The water stays warm, but the crowds thin out, making it the prime season for 18 holes.
- Winter (Quiet Luxury): For those seeking a wellness retreat, Myrtle Beach in January offers mild coastal temperatures and the most competitive luxury rates of the year.
10 Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
There’s no shortage of things to do here, whether you’re visiting with family, traveling as a couple, or planning a golf-focused getaway. These experiences are easy to add to your travel guide to Myrtle Beach when planning.
1. Beaches and Water Sports
The beach is the main reason many people visit Myrtle Beach.
Whether you prefer a morning walk along the shore or a full day of swimming and soaking up the sun, it’s easy to enjoy it your own way.
If you want to do more than just sit on the sand, there are also fun water activities like paddleboarding, jet skiing, parasailing, and boat rides.
2. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is one of the most iconic areas in the city, especially for first-time visitors
This oceanfront stretch is lined with shops, beachfront dining, arcades, and plenty of popular attractions.
One of the best Myrtle Beach travel tips is to plan a visit to the SkyWheel at sunset, where you can ride to the top and take in sweeping ocean views.
Even if you don’t spend hours here, it’s worth walking through at least once to experience the heart of Myrtle Beach.
3. Shopping and Entertainment Complexes
Beyond the boardwalk, Myrtle Beach is home to several popular entertainment districts that combine shopping, dining, and attractions all in one place.
Broadway at the Beach is one of the most popular places in Myrtle Beach. You’ll find restaurants, entertainment venues, family attractions, and plenty of ways to spend an afternoon.
Barefoot Landing is another favorite, offering a slightly more laid-back waterfront setting with boutiques, restaurants, and open-air walkways. It’s a great place to walk around in the evening, once the crowds thin out
Both spots are fantastic options if you want easy places to walk around, eat, and shop during your trip.
4. Live Shows and Nightlife
Myrtle Beach also offers plenty of nightlife and live entertainment, with a mix of long-running shows and well-known venues that visitors return to year after year.
Some of the most popular options include The Carolina Opry and Alabama Theatre, both known for large-scale music and variety shows.
For concerts and nightlife-style shows, House of Blues Myrtle Beach is a go-to spot. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants around town offering live music in the evenings.
Planning one or two evening outings is an easy way to add something memorable to your trip without overpacking the schedule.
5. Nature, Parks, and Outdoor Escapes
For a peaceful side of Myrtle Beach, there are several nature trails where you can step away from the busiest areas.
Myrtle Beach State Park is a great option for tranquil beach walks, shaded trails, and a slower pace right near the ocean.
For marsh views and an easy waterfront walk, the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk offers a scenic boardwalk where you can take in the coastal landscape away from the main tourist zones.
Whether it’s a morning walk through the park or an afternoon by the marsh, these outdoor escapes add a relaxing balance to a Myrtle Beach trip.
6. Where to Eat in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach has no shortage of amazing places to eat. From casual dinner spots to fresh seafood and upscale dining.
One of the best Myrtle Beach travel tips is to plan a few meals ahead of time, especially if you want to secure reservations.
Fresh Seafood Favorites
Adding fresh seafood to your Myrtle Beach travel guide is a must, with so many great places around town to enjoy it.
Mrs. Fish Seafood Grill is a great casual lunch spot if you want something fresh and easy. They’re known for delicious grilled seafood platters, from mahi mahi to shrimp and crab cakes.
For dinner, dine at Hook & Barrel, which is a popular restaurant for fresh seafood. The menu focuses on coastal dishes, including their she-crab soup, which is prepared right in front of you at the steam galley.
Waterfront Dining and Scenic Evenings
There’s just something about eating near the water that makes a Myrtle Beach vacation feel more memorable.
For a classic oceanfront dinner, Sea Captain’s House is one of those longtime favorites people come back to again and again. Sitting right on the beach, it offers a true coastal dining experience, especially around sunset.
For other waterfront dining options, booking a table along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is an easy way to enjoy ocean views while you eat.
Casual Family-Friendly Spots
Not every meal needs to be a big night out, and Myrtle Beach is full of casual restaurants that are perfect after a long beach day.
River City Cafe is a local favorite for a reason. It’s casual, fun, and a great choice when you want a laid-back dinner that works for families, groups, or, honestly, anyone who just wants a tasty burger and a relaxed atmosphere.
Fine Dining for a Special Night Out
For those in the mood for something a little nicer, Myrtle Beach also offers several great options for an upscale dinner.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is a popular choice, especially for guests staying near Grande Dunes. It’s known for classic steaks, seafood, and an extensive wine list.
It’s fantastic for a special night out, and one of several upscale dining options guests will find throughout Myrtle Beach.
A Convenient Upscale Option Right at Marina Inn
If you want to stay close to dining without constantly traveling around Myrtle Beach, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes makes it easy.
With on-site restaurants like Waterscapes and a relaxing setting along the Intracoastal Waterway, guests can enjoy a good meal without dealing with crowds or traffic.
After dinner, you’re only a few steps from your suite, making it easy to wind down for the night.
7. Golf Tips for A Myrtle Beach Golf Getaway
Why Myrtle Beach Is a Golf Destination
Myrtle Beach is often called the “Golf Capital of the World,” and it’s easy to see why. With dozens of courses nearby, golf is one of the biggest reasons people plan trips here.
There are options for every skill level, making it easy to build part of your trip around tee times, lessons, and relaxed resort evenings.
Book Tee Times Early
One of the best Myrtle Beach travel tips for golfers is to plan ahead. Tee times fill up quickly in spring and fall, so booking early helps you get the courses you want.
This is especially important if you’re traveling with a group or visiting during a busy weekend.
Best Seasons for Golf
The time of year you visit can shape your entire golf experience, from course conditions and weather to pricing and tee time availability.
Spring and fall are the most popular seasons, thanks to mild temperatures and excellent playing conditions.
Summer can still be enjoyable, especially with early morning tee times, while winter offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
If you’re looking for the best overall value, fall often hits that perfect balance.
Stay Near the Courses You Want to Play
Staying close to your courses makes everything easier.
The Grande Dunes area is a great home base, with top-rated golf nearby and a more upscale setting. It also keeps you away from the busiest tourist areas while still being close to everything.
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes keeps you close to the Grande Dunes Resort Golf Club, while still being near the beach, dining, and Myrtle Beach attractions.
8. Family Travel Tips for Visiting Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a popular family destination, with attractions that appeal to both kids and adults. Here are some activities and travel tips that can make planning your trip easier.
Best Beaches for Families
One of the nicest things about Myrtle Beach is how family-friendly the shoreline is.
The beaches are wide, easy to access, and great for long days of swimming, building sandcastles, and walking along the water.
Some of the most family-friendly options include Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach, and North Myrtle Beach, all known for a calmer pace and plenty of space to spread out.
Rainy Day Activities
Even in a beach town, you’ll sometimes get a rainy afternoon, and it helps to have a backup plan.
Broadway at the Beach is a great option for families because it has indoor entertainment, shopping, and places to grab a bite all in one spot.
Other attractions, like Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, along with arcades and other family-friendly spots, can be a real lifesaver when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Planning at least one rainy day activity is a helpful tip for visiting Myrtle Beach with kids.
9. Dining That Works for Everyone
Family trips usually call for easy dining options, and Myrtle Beach has plenty to choose from.
Casual restaurants and laid-back spots make it simple to find something everyone will enjoy.
Places like Dave & Buster’s are especially popular with families because they combine food and games in one place, which can be a big win when traveling with kids.
Choosing flexible, family-friendly dining spots like this can make Myrtle Beach trip planning much easier, especially when traveling with kids.
10. The Value of Suite Space and Pool Time
When you’re traveling with kids, where you stay matters even more. Having extra space makes it easier for everyone to unwind at the end of the day.
That’s where Marina Inn at Grande Dunes really stands out. The resort offers spacious suites, which are ideal for families who want room to spread out instead of feeling packed into a standard hotel room.
The setting is also quieter than the main Boardwalk area, which can be a big plus for families looking for a calmer place to recharge.
And of course, pool access is always a win. Marina Inn offers both indoor and outdoor pools, giving families a fun option even when they’re taking a break from the beach.
Travel Smarter: The Quick Checklist
To wrap up our Myrtle Beach travel tips, here is how to “travel like a local”:
- Midweek Magic: Book Sunday–Thursday for lower rates and quieter pool decks.
- The “31” Shortcut: Use SC-31 (the Carolina Bays Parkway) to bypass the traffic lights on Highway 17.
- Is it Pricey? While there are many ways to splurge, you can find a balance by checking our guide on if Myrtle Beach is expensive.
- The Ultimate Resource: For a day-by-day plan, check out our comprehensive Myrtle Beach travel guide.
Myrtle Beach Travel FAQs
I. When is the cheapest time to visit Myrtle Beach?
Late fall and winter are usually the most affordable times to visit, with lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. Spring and fall can also offer great value with nicer weather.
II. Where should I stay for a quieter trip?
For a calmer stay, look outside the busy Boardwalk area. Neighborhoods like Grande Dunes feel more upscale and relaxed while still being close to everything.
III. Is Myrtle Beach family-friendly?
Yes, Myrtle Beach is a great destination for families, with wide beaches, kid-friendly attractions, and plenty of casual dining. Resorts with suites and pools make it even easier.
IV. How many days do I need in Myrtle Beach?
Three to five days is a great amount of time for most trips. A weekend covers the highlights, while longer stays allow for golf, day trips, and more downtime.
V. What’s the best area for golf in Myrtle Beach?
Grande Dunes is one of the top areas for golf, with easy access to highly rated courses. Staying nearby makes planning rounds much simpler.
VI. Are there luxury hotels in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, Myrtle Beach has several luxury resort options, especially in quieter neighborhoods. Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is a standout for wellness, relaxation, and waterfront amenities.
Make Your Trip Effortless
A great vacation doesn’t have to be complicated; it just requires the right home base. At Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, we combine the luxury of a private estate with the soul of a beach retreat.
Ready to plan your escape? BOOK NOW and discover the more refined side of Myrtle Beach.
