Nothing says “Independence Day celebration” quite like a trip to the beach. We might be biased, but our favorite happens to be the favorite for many – Myrtle Beach. The United States is home to 12,383 miles of coastline – and The Grand Strand is second to none.
Now that restrictions are easing a bit in many places, those dreams we’d had of getting out and about to those prized vacation destinations are closer to reality. Myrtle Beach has a bit of everything, from wide-open spaces on the beach to premier golf courses to some of the best seafood restaurants in the south.
The great news is that all the attractions you love in Myrtle Beach are now open! We have plenty of time to make up for, don’t we?
We’ve compiled a list of things to do when planning the perfect Myrtle Beach getaway.
Why Myrtle Beach?
If you’ve been here, you already know the answer to that question. For those who’ve not been yet, it’s an experience that you have to see for yourself. We mentioned golf and restaurants. The beauty of Myrtle Beach is the versatility of this beautiful coastal town. Whether you want to get away and not do a thing, or you’re a thrill-seeker ready for your next adventure, you’ll find just what you’re looking for.
Did you know?
William Gause might have been the first innkeeper in the Grand Strand. He ran a tavern old King’s Highway in Windy Hill in 1740! George Washington, the first U.S. president, stayed there.
“Strand” is an area of land that borders a body of water. Myrtle Beach’s Grand Strand includes 60 miles of uninterrupted beach, from Georgetown County to close to the North Carolina border.
Myrtle Beach’s first residents were the Waccamaw and Winyah tribes. The first visitors? Spanish settlers who sailed with explorer Lucas Vasques de Allyon.
Our favorite beach activities
There’s so much you can do on the beach at Myrtle Beach. Here are a few of our favorites.
1. Take a picnic
Whether you pick up sandwiches from Boardwalk Coffee House, a pie from Vicini’s Pizzeria, or homemade fried chicken, toss out a blanket have lunch in the Myrtle Beach sun.
2. Take a banana boat tour
Doesn’t it look like a blast? Take to the waves aboard a banana boat for a unique experience. Try Aloha Watersports, Myrtle Beach Watersports, or New Wave Watersports.
3. Parasail!
You’ve seen parasailors soar above the waves at Myrtle Beach. Why not try it for yourself? We recommend Atlantic Watersports, Downwind Sails, or Shoreline Watersports.
How to plan your beach vacation
1. Pick some activities in advance
What are a couple of things you definitely want to do in Myrtle Beach? Maybe hit Broadway at the Beach. How about a trip to Ripley’s Aquarium or a spin on Skywheel? Look up these attractions and more online, and research how to get discount tickets or other special deals. Check the weather forecast too, in case your go-to activity is outdoors. Also, take a look at the attractions’ hours so you don’t get left out!
Pro tip: Leave a little space in your itinerary for spontaneity. A little of the unknown can be a good thing, and Myrtle Beach has plenty of choices you probably didn’t know were here.
2. Map out your meals
Myrtle Beach is famous for its diverse array of restaurants. You can go fine dining (The Library Restaurant), look for local favorites (Pop Pop’s Pit BBQ), or family-friendly (Donald’s Pancake House). If you have a room with a kitchenette, it’s fun to make a meal or two on your own. We like this Vacation Spaghetti, this Sheet Pan Sweet Potatoes and Black Bean Hash, and also these One-Pot BBQ Chicken Burrito Bowls.
Pro tip: After you check in, make a grocery run. It’s also a good chance to get extras you forgot, like sunscreen, bottled water, and toothpaste.
3. Bring beach (and other) bags
Lots of things you bring to the beach could use some protection: books, cameras, and phones for sure. Pack large food storage bags (that zip closed) for those items. Keep a bag of adhesive bandages, bug repellant, lip balm, and sunscreen. Bring grocery store or trash bags to keep your wet bathing suits from soaking your car seats and dry clothes. Just remember to take them out of the bags and rinse them so they can dry overnight for the next day. Pack a beach bag bigger than you would expect to need – for the unexpected!
Pro tip: We know straw bags are cute, but you’ll get better use out of one made of fabric, nylon, rubber, or Teflon. Especially if it has a waterproof lining.
Ready to go?
We’ve covered a lot! We got in a little Myrtle Beach trivia, some planning tips, and shared our favorite activities in Myrtle Beach. Time to start planning your getaway! Take a look at Britain Resorts properties for an elevated home base as you have fun in the sun.