This fine, well-rounded resort is a lovely strand between North Myrtle and the overbuilt Myrtle Beach downtown area. Just a couple of miles south from the Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation and the Hilton, this place features a classical architecture and interior styling, unlike the typical beachfront style of most resorts here.
Guests find comfortable seating and cool lemonade in the lobby, as well as a helpful concierge and front-desk staff. Huge windows overlook the patio area and huge pool.
Hungry guests can order from
the bar and cafe poolside and dine at their lounge chair in season. The main restaurant dishes up three meals all day long, and the lobby bar is popular in the evening hours.
That pool is surrounded by a generous seating area for sunbathers, and whirlpools and children's areas are within a few steps. An indoor pool provides refuge from the summertime afternoon storms, and a well-equipped fitness center is nearby. The Hibiscus Spa offers a full menu of treatments and massages, and its relaxing steam room and plunge pools are better than the spas at nearby properties.
Large groups fare well here with multiple options for meeting space, including a ballroom that seats up to 1,600 people. Parking is ample, and for those wanting door-to-door service, valets are available. Pets are not welcome here.
Guest rooms show classic Marriott design in floral print duvets and feather pillows on the standard king or queen beds. Large desks and an ergonomic chair provide a great place to spread out work (if you can pull yourself off the beach). High-speed Internet hookups are available in each room, and radio alarm clocks, in-room safes and small balconies are standard. Corner rooms are preferred for their natural light and extended views. Baths are small but feature adequate counter space, hair dryers and Neutrogena amenities. All rooms and public areas are now smoke-free.
This resort is a pleasant spot for upscale beach lovers who currently share the sand only with hotel guests. Marriott's timeshare division is building a small city next door. Restaurants, bars and shopping are still only a short drive away. Thanks to its newness, privacy and breadth of facilities, this is a candidate for "Best Resort in Myrtle Beach."
