Nature, history, and luxury accommodations combine to make Murrells Inlet one of the most ideal vacation destinations in South Carolina. Located roughly 13 miles south of Myrtle Beach, this tranquil town is a natural wonder, and in the 1700s, pirates took notice. Murrells Inlet’s inlets and coves attracted famous pirates, including Blackbeard, to the area to hide their treasure.
Today, boaters and anglers keep the town’s seafaring spirit alive. Anglers flock to Murrells Inlet for excellent fishing opportunities of just about every variety – deep sea, inshore, you name it. The favorite fishing target is Red Drum, though Mackerel and Flounder are also common catches. With Murrells Inlet’s roots as a fishing village, it’s no surprise that it is known as “The Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” There are plenty of tasty seafood restaurants to try in the area, though you’ll find a wide range of other cuisines available at Murrells Inlet’s restaurants as well.
Within Grand Strand is Myrtle Beach, known for its plethora of things to do and see. The South Carolina town is known for popular attractions, including the boardwalk where you can find the SkyWheel. Head to the shoreline to enjoy a day at the beach, building sandcastles or cooling off by swimming in the ocean. Take your dining experience to the next level by making reservations for one of the fun and entertaining dinner shows in Myrtle Beach. The beachside town is also home to countless events and festivals, like the Carolina Country Music Fest and the Beach N’ Chili Fest.
If you’re looking to enjoy all Myrtle Beach has to offer but without the hustle and bustle, stay in North Myrtle Beach. Created roughly 50 years ago when the communities of Windy Hill, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive, and Cherry Grove combined, this beach community continues to thrive and grow. Home to everything from world-class golf courses to exceptional restaurants, this South Carolina town has everything you could want on vacation. This destination is also home to a wide variety of vacation rentals and accommodations, making it ideal for everyone from solo travelers to families.
Fondly known as “The Family Beach,” Surfside Beach is a peaceful, family-friendly town along the Grand Strand with plenty of modern lodging options. This town is small in size but big on charm; it’s hard not to fall head over heels for the pristine beaches and beautiful parks.
Safety, accessibility, and cleanliness are among the biggest draws to Surfside Beach. The facilities are well-kept, there are ramps to the beach, and lifeguards keep their eyes on the water. Surfside Beach’s combination of approachability and luxury accommodations makes it a stand-out vacation spot on the Grand Strand.
Garden City is a haven for all sorts of outdoor recreation but also has all of the modern comforts one could want in a vacation destination. Located south of Surfside Beach, Garden City is where the inlet meets the ocean, making it the ideal place for fishing, crabbing, and all types of watersports, including surfing.
The Pier at Garden City serves as the town’s unofficial hub. During the day, anglers line the pier looking to pull in a tasty catch. However, come evening time, the pier transforms. Locals and tourists alike head to The Pier at Garden City to enjoy an unbeatable combination of live entertainment, dancing, and delicious food and drinks.
Pawleys Island is one of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets, a quiet bit of paradise far from crowds. Located just south of Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island is a peaceful and carefree town that still features all of the outdoor activities one might want in a Grand Strand vacation destination. History buffs will also enjoy the area’s rich history that’s explored in local museums.
Experiencing Pawleys Island’s unspoiled beaches is a real treat. With less development comes fewer crowds, leading to sweeping beaches that are as tranquil as they are beautiful. For travelers who are looking to get away from it all, Pawleys Island is a fabulous choice.
