Myrtle Beach isn’t just beautiful; it also has Hollywood credentials as the filming location of The Notebook. From pole to pole, people have fallen head over heels for this wonderland. You can soak up the sun, sand, and surf while indulging in culinary delights that make your taste buds dance.
But planning a Myrtle Beach vacation is easier said than done! The options for activities and restaurants are practically endless. It’s hard to choose what to do, where to eat, and how much to spend.
However, with the right information, you can have a fabulous getaway with minimal effort on your part.
Ready to make waves in Myrtle Beach? Here are 8 tips to do just that.
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1. Gauge the Crowd
If you’re looking for a social vacation, the busy season (June – August) is the best time to go. To secure a hotel, make reservations several months in advance. Most resorts are fully booked during this time and may not have availability if you wait too long.
Those who prefer quieter trips should visit during September or between March and May. The fewest number of travelers come before the summer months.
Introverts should also stay up to date on upcoming Myrtle Beach activities. It’s easier to avoid crowds when you know where they’ll be. MyrtleBeachSC News can be a great resource for finding trendy events in town.
2. Pack to Explore
Add a versatile pair of shoes to your suitcase. Sandals are great for walking around the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, but exploring nature trails requires something more rugged.
Bring along a lightweight rain jacket as well. While it’s not likely to rain while you’re there, it’s always good to be prepared.
A swimsuit should also be on your checklist. Visiting pools and beaches is a must when temperatures reach over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
It’s also recommended that visitors pack plastic bags. Use them to keep your cell phone safe from the beach’s waves.
3. Double Up on Clothes
If you plan on visiting the beach, bring at least two changes of clothes. The first should be appropriate for the seaside; think swimsuits and flip-flops. The second should be more formal, as there are many restaurants you can visit after coming from the beach.
Why waste precious family time changing in your hotel room when you can whip out your formal wear from your trusty backpack?
4. Set a Travel Budget
If you’re flying to Myrtle Beach, choosing the international airport earns you one of the cheapest rates in South Carolina. But these savings are often offset by food and unnecessary souvenirs. Setting a travel budget will help you avoid these big spending mistakes.
If you prefer to drive, plan accordingly by setting aside extra funds for gas. Those traveling in rentals should also account for car insurance fees within their budget.
5. Know Food Allergies
The restaurants in Myrtle Beach have lots of tempting choices. If you’re allergic to certain foods, make sure to keep a list of the ones you need to avoid.
Carry an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an emergency. If you have any doubts about the ingredients in your food, be sure to ask before you eat.
6. Brush Up on Your Golf
If you’re like most people, the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Myrtle Beach is golf. It’s home to over 90 golf courses—including the famed Tide Water Golf Club.
You may decide to hit the links so make sure to bring your clubs. Though there are plenty of rentals in town if you forget.
Even if you’re not a golfer, you can take advantage of the lessons available at many of the courses. Learning to play can be a great way to make new friends.
7. Prepare for Broadway
Imagine a paradise where shopping, dining, and entertainment harmoniously coexist in the great outdoors. That’s Broadway at the Beach for you.
There are shops to suit every budget, from souvenir stores selling little trinkets to high-end boutiques. You can also indulge in a feast of seafood or a meat lover’s paradise.
The kiddos can stay busy in an arcade or dance the night away to live music. Not enough? Enjoy some side-splitting comedy shows or see the latest flicks at one of the many movie theaters.
With the help of maps, knowledgeable staff, and other travelers, you can navigate this place like a world-class adventurer. No more aimless wandering or lost looks.
8. Pack Sunscreen
It might seem like an insignificant thing, but sunscreen is one of the most important items to pack when planning a Myrtle Beach vacation.
The sun shines for over 200 days per year in this part of town. Even if you don’t burn easily, it’s still important to protect yourself from UV rays.
The best kind of sunscreen? SPF 30 or higher!
When choosing between brands and types, though, it all comes down to preference. You might favor sunscreen with a dry-touch finish. They don’t leave a sticky residue or white cast.
Start Planning a Myrtle Beach Vacation
Planning a Myrtle Beach vacation can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. There’s so much to do in this part of South Carolina that organizing your trip can feel like a full-time job. If you’re not sure where to start, use our 8 tips to help make your Myrtle Beach vacation one for the books.
But don’t stop here; a world of wanderlust-inducing content awaits you in our travel section. Browse our guides and itineraries for even more inspiration.
