Myrtle's Best
Sandy's Top 5 Lists
"Honey, I've spent my whole life figuring out the best of everything on the Grand Strand β and now I'm sharing it all with you, updated fresh every single day!" ποΈ
Top 5 Golf Courses
Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Myrtle Beach
This legendary Robert Trent Jones design is consistently ranked among the nation's best, featuring the famous Waterloo hole. It offers a challenging layout with stunning oceanfront views and impeccable course conditions.
π¬ "That 13th hole is a real doozy, but the views of the Atlantic are just pure heaven, honey!"
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Pawleys Island
Built on the site of an old rice plantation, this course is famous for its live oaks draped in Spanish moss and scenic beauty. Itβs an award-winning layout that feels like stepping back into a more elegant time.
π¬ "Driving down that alley of oaks feels just like a warm hug from the Old South."
TPC Myrtle Beach
Murrells Inlet
Designed by Tom Fazio, this course gives every player a chance to feel like a pro on the PGA Tour. It winds through beautiful wetlands and tall pines, offering a fair but demanding test of golf.
π¬ "Itβs so peaceful out there in the Inlet, you might just forget youβre trying to sink a birdie!"
Top 5 Bars & Nightlife Spots
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
Murrells Inlet
This half-mile wooden boardwalk is the heartbeat of the 'Seafood Capital,' featuring a string of bars with live music and stunning views of the saltwater marsh. It's the perfect spot to stroll from one live band to the next under the summer stars.
π¬ "Honey, there is just nothing like a moonlit stroll along the water with a cold drink in your hand!"
Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewing Co.
Myrtle Beach
Located at Broadway at the Beach, this massive new complex combines a moonshine distillery with a craft brewery and an outdoor stage for live entertainment. Itβs the hottest spot this summer for tasting local spirits and enjoying a high-energy atmosphere.
π¬ "That white lightning moonshine surely will put a pep in your step while you're dancing the night away!"
Dead Dog Saloon
Murrells Inlet
A legendary waterfront fixture on the MarshWalk, this spot is famous for its live music, expansive deck, and vibrant crowd. It offers a perfect blend of high-energy nightlife and beautiful views of the inlet.
π¬ "The atmosphere here is always just as lively as a Fourth of July parade, and the views are simply divine."
Romantic Getaways in the Grand Strand
Planning a romantic escape to the Grand Strand? Myrtle Beach offers a charming blend of stunning oceanfront views, luxurious accommodations, and intimate dining experiences perfect for couples. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, our curated list will guide you to the most romantic spots. Rekindle the romance and create unforgettable memories!
Top 5 Golf Courses for Spring
Caledonia Golf & Fish Club
Pawleys Island
An award-winning, picturesque championship course known for its stunning beauty and challenging layout.
π¬ "The moss-draped oaks and azaleas make it feel like a Southern dream."
Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Myrtle Beach
A legendary course designed by Robert Trent Jones, consistently ranked among the nation's best.
π¬ "The oceanfront holes and challenging design keep me coming back for more."
TPC Myrtle Beach
Murrells Inlet
An award-winning, championship 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Fazio, offering a true test of skill.
π¬ "Playing here makes me feel like a pro on a PGA Tour course."
Top 5 Outdoor Adventures
Well, sugar, springtime in Myrtle Beach is a breath of fresh air, and there's no better way to soak it all in than with some outdoor adventures. Here are my top five picks that'll make your heart sing.
Top 5 Breakfast & Brunch Spots
Johnny D's Waffles and Bakery
Myrtle Beach
A local powerhouse known for Chef Jamie Daskalis's creative waffle creations and a full bakery counter. They offer everything from red velvet waffles to savory benedicts in a cheerful atmosphere.
π¬ "Honey, those red velvet waffles are just like a little slice of heaven on a plate!"
Croissants Bistro
Myrtle Beach
This elegant French-inspired bistro offers handmade pastries, savory crepes, and the most delightful quiches in town. It is the perfect spot for a sophisticated brunch with a Southern twist.
π¬ "It feels just like a trip to Paris right here in the Lowcountry, especially with a fresh macaron in hand."
Tupelo Honey
Myrtle Beach
Located in Market Common, this spot serves up scratch-made Southern classics like honey-dusted fried chicken and biscuits with blueberry jam. Their brunch cocktails and lively atmosphere make it a summer favorite.
π¬ "You haven't lived until you've tried their shrimp and grits with a cold glass of sweet tea."
Top 5 Beaches on the Grand Strand
Huntington Beach State Park
Murrells Inlet
This pristine park offers wide, undeveloped sands alongside the historic Atalaya Castle and incredible bird-watching opportunities. It is a nature lover's paradise where the Atlantic meets preserved salt marshes.
π¬ "I just love findin' a quiet spot to watch the pelicans dive while I take in that gorgeous Spanish-style architecture."
Pawleys Island
Pawleys Island
Known for its 'arrogantly shabby' vibe, this historic island offers a peaceful escape with its iconic hammocks and cypress-sided cottages. Itβs the perfect place to leave your worries behind and enjoy the simple life.
π¬ "Nothin' beats a slow afternoon nappin' in a rope hammock with a tall glass of sweet tea!"
Cherry Grove Beach
North Myrtle Beach
Home to a famous fishing pier and stunning ocean views, this beach is a favorite for families and anglers alike. The unique inlet views make it one of the most picturesque spots in the North Strand.
π¬ "That pier is just the darlin' of the coast, and the sunsets there will plumb take your breath away."
Top 5 Restaurants Right Now
Sea Captain's House
Myrtle Beach
This oceanfront landmark serves authentic Lowcountry cuisine in a historic 1930s cottage with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. They are famous for their award-winning she-crab soup and fresh seafood platters.
π¬ "Nothing beats watching the waves roll in while tucking into a plate of their world-famous shrimp and grits, honey."
The Inlet Affairs
Murrells Inlet
Located right on the marsh in the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, this fine-dining gem offers romantic views and an exquisite wine list. Their menu features elegantly prepared local catches and Southern-inspired specialties.
π¬ "The sunsets over the marsh at Murrells Inlet are just pure magic when you've got a glass of crisp white wine in your hand."
Hook & Barrel
Myrtle Beach
This upscale, eco-friendly eatery focuses on sustainable seafood and local ingredients served in a modern, airy atmosphere. Their open kitchen and steam galley provide a front-row seat to the culinary action.
π¬ "Their smoked shrimp and grits is a modern twist on a classic that just makes my heart sing!"
Top 5 Seafood Restaurants
Sea Captain's House
Myrtle Beach
This historic oceanfront home serves up award-winning Lowcountry favorites with a side of stunning Atlantic views. It has been a beloved local tradition since 1962, famous for its hushpuppies and she-crab soup.
π¬ "Watching the waves crash while tucking into their world-famous hushpuppies is my idea of heaven on earth!"
Gulfstream Cafe
Garden City
Located right on the water, this spot offers a refined atmosphere with fresh local catches and a famous Sunday brunch. The rooftop deck provides some of the best sunset views on the entire Grand Strand.
π¬ "Honey, you haven't lived until you've seen a Garden City sunset from their deck with a plate of fresh oysters."
Lee's Inlet Kitchen
Murrells Inlet
As one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the area, they serve authentic Murrells Inlet-style seafood in a cozy, welcoming setting. Everything is prepared fresh using recipes passed down through generations.
π¬ "This place feels just like home, and their fried shrimp is the gold standard for any true Southerner."
Top 5 Local Attractions
Huntington Beach State Park
Murrells Inlet
This pristine coastal preserve features three miles of undeveloped beach, the historic Atalaya Castle, and some of the best birdwatching in the South. Visitors can explore salt marsh boardwalks or relax on the quiet sands away from the downtown hustle.
π¬ "I just love wanderin' through Atalaya Castle and then feelin' that fresh ocean breeze on my face!"
Black River Outdoors Center
Pawleys Island
Specializing in eco-friendly adventures, this center offers guided kayak tours through the cypress swamps and salt marshes of the Lowcountry. It is a fantastic way to see local wildlife like ospreys and alligators in their natural habitat.
π¬ "Thereβs nothin' quite as peaceful as paddlin' through those quiet waters while the sun peeks through the moss."
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
Myrtle Beach
This high-energy dinner theater features acrobatic pirates, tropical birds, and sea lions performing in a massive indoor lagoon. Guests enjoy a four-course feast while cheering on their favorite crew in a battle for lost treasure.
π¬ "It's the most fun a family can have, and that creamy vegetable soup is just to die for, honey!"
Top 5 Family Activities
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
Myrtle Beach
This high-energy dinner show features acrobatic pirates and sea lions battling it out on full-sized ships in an indoor lagoon. You'll enjoy a four-course feast while watching breathtaking stunts and aerial displays.
π¬ "There is nothing like watching those talented divers while tucking into some delicious creamy vegetable soup, honey!"
Myrtle Waves Water Park
Myrtle Beach
As South Carolina's largest water park, this spot features over 20 slides, a million-gallon wave pool, and a relaxing lazy river. It is the absolute best place to cool off under the blazing summer sun with the whole kinfolk.
π¬ "I do love a good float down the lazy river to keep my hair dry while the little ones splash around!"
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball
Myrtle Beach
Catch a game at the ballpark where minor league baseball meets family-friendly entertainment and weekly fireworks. It is a classic American summer tradition that offers fun activities for the kids between every inning.
π¬ "You just can't beat a warm summer evening with a hot dog in one hand and a cold sweet tea in the other!"
Top 5 Water Sports Adventures
Well hey there, sugar! With this August heat sizzlin' like a frying pan, there's simply no better way to stay cool than splashin' around our beautiful Atlantic waters.
Top 5 Shopping Spots
Broadway at the Beach
Myrtle Beach
This massive entertainment complex features a huge variety of specialty shops, boutiques, and attractions centered around a beautiful 23-acre lake.
π¬ "I just love grabbing a cold lemonade and wandering through all the unique little shops there!"
The Market Common
Myrtle Beach
An upscale outdoor shopping and dining district with a town square feel, featuring big-name brands and local boutiques in a beautifully landscaped setting.
π¬ "It feels just like a charming little village, and the parks nearby are simply lovely for a summer stroll."
Barefoot Landing
North Myrtle Beach
A beautiful waterfront shopping village built along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering unique shops and delicious restaurants in a relaxed atmosphere.
π¬ "Watching the boats go by while I pick out a new sun hat is my idea of a perfect afternoon!"
Top 5 Hidden Gems Locals Love
Well hey there, sugar! While the crowds are flocking to the Boardwalk, us locals know the real magic of the Grand Strand is tucked away in these quiet, beautiful corners.
Top 5 Annual Events Not to Miss
Christmas Lights at Nights of a Thousand Candles
Murrells Inlet
Brookgreen Gardens transforms into a magical wonderland with thousands of hand-lit candles and sparkling lights. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful holiday displays in the entire Southeast.
π¬ "Itβs purely magical to walk through those gardens with a cup of warm cider while the candles twinkle like fallen stars."
Carolina Country Music Fest
Myrtle Beach
This massive multi-day outdoor festival brings the biggest names in country music right to the shores of Myrtle Beach. It's the ultimate beach party for music lovers every June.
π¬ "Thereβs just nothing like kicking off your boots and dancing in the sand to your favorite country tunes!"
World Famous Blue Crab Festival
Little River
Celebrating the coastal fishing heritage, this May festival features incredible seafood, live music, and hundreds of local craft vendors along the historic waterfront. It's one of the largest and most beloved festivals in the region.
π¬ "Honey, you havenβt lived until youβve tasted fresh blue crab right on the docks in Little River."
Top 5 Best Bang for Your Buck
Well hello there, sugar! With the summer sun blazin' over the Grand Strand, I've picked out five wonderful spots where your hard-earned dollars go just as far as a cool sea breeze on a humid afternoon.
Top 5 Live Music Venues
Well hello there, sugar! With these warm summer nights upon us, there's nothing quite like some sweet Southern tunes to make your vacation memories last a lifetime.
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