Sightseeing in Myrtle Beach is best done on foot, provided you want to stay right in the heart of the strip. You'll definitely want to spend some time strolling the seemingly endless miles/kilometers of white-sand beaches.
Away from the beach scene, explore Broadway at the Beach with its shops, restaurants, nightclubs and 23-acre/9.5-hectare lake. The Ripley's Aquarium is in this complex, featuring a huge saltwater tank containing thousands of fish and an 18-ft/5.5-m water wall on the exterior of the building. There's also an IMAX 3D Theater and an incredible array of theme restaurants.
Hard Rock Park has rides, live performances, and fun memorabilia.
This museum houses a collection of Robert Ripley's famous oddities. The 14 galleries hold more than 500 exhibits, including a "mermaid." Daily 10 am-10 pm. US$12.99 adults, US$7.99 children ages 5-11, free for children younger than 5. Discounted combination tickets for all of Ripley's sites are also available. 901 N. Ocean Blvd. (between Ninth and 11th avenues), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-448-2331. http://www.ripleys.com.
This family-friendly museum was built with children in mind. There are lots of hands-on, interactive displays to explore. There are plans to open a new building by 2010. Open mid-September to mid-June Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm; mid-June to mid-September Monday-Saturday 10 am-4 pm. US$6 adults, free for children younger than 1. 2501 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-946-9469. http://www.cmsckids.org.
| Parks & Gardens | Top  |
Started by Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington in 1931, this Natural Historic Landmark is home to the world's most significant collection of American sculpture. Also on the grounds is the Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve, which is home to a collection of animals native to the South Carolina Lowcountry. Refreshments and a gift shop are also on the grounds. Open daily 9:30 am-5 pm. Closed Mondays in December and on Christmas Day. US$12 adults, US$10 seniors and children ages 13-18, US$5 children ages 6-12, free for children younger than 6. Admission tickets are good for seven consecutive days. 1931 Brookgreen Dr. (off Highway 17), Murrells Inlet. Phone 843-235-6000. Toll-free 800-849-1931. http://www.brookgreen.org.
| Amusement Parks | Top |
The amusement park features 30 rides, and the water park has a lazy-river ride, speed slides and several water attractions younger children will love. Family Kingdom is open daily late May-September. Oceanfront is open Memorial Day-Labor Day. Hours vary. Family Kingdom: US$21.50 adults. Oceanfront: US$16.95 adults, US$15.75 children shorter than 48 in/122 cm tall. Combination tickets are available. 300 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-626-3447 for Family Kingdom; phone 843-916-0400 for Oceanfront. http://www.family-kingdom.com.
Spread over 55 acres/22 hectares, this theme park officially opened in June 2008. It offers a variety of attractions, including rides, play areas, restaurants and cafes, shopping and live music. US$54.30. 211 George Bishop Parkway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-246-7625. http://www.hardrockpark.com.
This water park has 32 rides and attractions, from slides to bubbling pools. It is an ideal (but crowded) place to take children for the day. Open daily June-August. Hours vary. US$27 adults, US$20 children ages 3-8 and seniors older than 54, free for children younger than 3. Discounts given after 3 pm. Highway 17 Bypass at 10th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-913-9260. http://www.myrtlewaves.com.
For those who love speed, this theme park offers seven racetracks, as well as occasional scheduled public appearances by NASCAR drivers. There are also children's rides, miniature golf, an indoor arcade and speed bumper boats. Open daily from 10 am. Closing times vary by season. US$30 adults. Free to watch. Additional admission for driver meet-and-greets. Individual ride tickets are also available. 1820 21st Ave. N. (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-918-8725. http://www.nascarspeedpark.com.
This park contains all the historic features of the landmark Pavilion that closed in 2006, including the 1912 Herschell-Spillman Carousel and other rides, midway games and a museum. Tickets are US$3 each (rides cost one ticket). Ticket bundles are also available for purchase. Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach. http://www.pavilionnostalgiapark.com.
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Filled with fish and other denizens of the deep, this aquarium offers the chance to get up close and personal with everything from an octopus to a shark. Exhibits include a 750,000-gallon tank with a moving pathway. Open Sunday-Thursday 9 am-9 pm, Friday and Saturday 9 am-10 pm. US$17.99 adults, US$9.99 children ages 5-11, US$3.99 children ages 2-4, free for children younger than 2. Discounted combination tickets for all of Ripley's sites are also available. 1110 Celebrity Circle (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-916-0888. Toll-free 800-734-8888. http://www.ripleysaquarium.com.
More than 100 species of animals are housed in natural habitats in this privately owned zoo located on 500 acres/200 hectares of woodlands. You'll see kangaroos, zebras and many other animals. Open daily 10 am-5 pm, except in inclement weather. US$7 adults, US$3.50 children ages 1-12, free for children younger than 1. Prices subject to change. Group rates are available. 8500 Enterprise Road, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-650-8500. http://www.waccateezoo.com.
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MagiQuest
Lovers of knightly challenges, castles and swords will enjoy this challenging interactive game, popular with kids and adults. Using electronic wands and moving from one interactive exhibit to another at their own pace, players unlock mysteries and earn points by solving puzzles and consulting ancient books and sages.
Imagine sliding down a snow-covered mountain, diving into the deep blue sea or riding a roller coaster—all without ever leaving your seat. IMAX's shows vary, but the virtual thrill rides are the most exciting (or unsettling). The 3D theater shows films about dinosaurs and the underwater world, among others. Show times hourly 11 am-10 pm. US$10 adults, US$8 children ages 4-12, free for children younger than 4. 1195 Celebrity Circle (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-448-4629. Toll-free 866-433-4629. http://www.imax3dmyrtlebeach.com.
If you enjoy spooky stories about ghosts, chilling tales of the See Wee Indians, pirate adventures and more, you can't miss Myrtle Beach Ghost Walk. Come rain or shine, these tours will entertain all with the spookiest adventures around. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes and don't forget your camera. A separate Ghost Show is a seated performance featuring the spirits of Blackbeard and local characters. Ghost Walk departs nightly; hours vary. Ghost Show performances take place nightly; hours vary. Ghost walk: US$16 adults, US$12.95 children. Ghost show: US$8.95 adults, US$5.95 children. Combination tickets are available at a discount. Ghosts & Legends Theatre, 4818 Highway 17 S. (Barefoot Landing), North Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-361-2700. http://www.myrtlebeachghostwalk.com.
This three-story haunted house offers a trip through terror—but all in fun. Open Monday-Thursday 10 am-7 pm, Friday-Sunday 10 am-9 pm. US$12.99 adults, US$7.99 children ages 6-11. No admittance for children younger than 6. Discounted combination tickets for all of Ripley's sites are also available. 915 N. Ocean Blvd. (between Ninth and 11th avenues), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-916-8971. http://www.ripleys.com.
This theater shows films in 4-D. Daily 10 am-10 pm. Ticket prices include admission to two shows. US$12.99 adults, US$7.99 children younger than 13 (must be at least 43 in/109 cm tall). Discounted combination tickets for all of Ripley's sites are also available. 917 N. Ocean Blvd. (between Ninth and 11th avenues), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-626-0069. http://www.ripleys.com.
Travelers looking for outdoor diversions (tennis, miniature golf and watersports) love Myrtle Beach. Golf is one of the region's biggest draws, with more than 100 courses to choose from. Miniature-golf courses also abound for those who want to brush up on their short games. Then, of course, there's the ocean shoreline that started it all. Fishing, cruises and sunning are all prime activities.
Myrtle Beach has 60 mi/95 km of beaches—both public and private—on which you can swim, collect shells, bird-watch, walk along the sand or sunbathe to the sounds of the soothing surf. There are 9 mi/14 km of sand that attract the most attention: Crescent Beach lines most of the hotels with Cherry Grove to its north and Windy Hill to its south.
An easy way to gain beach access is through a stay at an oceanfront hotel. The biggest drawback to the beaches is trying to find a place to park: Public parking is scarce.
This Grand Strand beach offers wildlife viewing, bird-watching, camping and fishing. Also on-site is Atalaya, the winter home of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. Park open daily from 6 am, closing times vary by season. Atalaya is open daily 9 am-5 pm. The Education Center is open 9 am-4:30 pm. US$5 adults, US$3 children ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. 16148 Ocean Highway, Murrells Inlet. Phone 843-237-4440. http://www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/1020.aspx.
Established in the 1935, South Carolina's first state park embraces 312 acres/126 hectares of unspoiled public beach with ample parking. There is a small fee to use the beach, which includes access to hot showers and restroom facilities. Also available are campgrounds, cabins, picnics areas, a fishing pier and a nature trail. Snacks are available at a small store located near the campgrounds. Open daily March-November 6 am-10 pm; December-February 6 am-8 pm. US$4 adults, US$1.50 children ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. US$2.50 for seniors. 4401 S. Kings Highway (3 mi/5 km south of downtown), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-238-5325. http://www.southcarolinaparks.com.
Bicycles N-Gear
You can rent beach cruisers for half- or full-days, along with helmets at this outfit clustered in with Nu Horizons and other sports stores at The Sports Corner.
Saltwater fishing licenses are required for all parties older than 16 if fishing from private boats. If you are fishing from a pier, the surf or a charter boat, a license is not required. For additional information about fishing, contact the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources regional division, phone 843-953-9300. http://www.dnr.sc.gov.
King mackerel pier-fishing tournaments take place in June and September. Numerous charters are available for those who like to challenge the bigger fish in open waters. Most of the companies operate from cities just outside of Myrtle Beach.
This company offers fun and adventure on the Myrtle Beach waters. Enjoy parasailing, dolphin-watching or Jet-Skiing or get information about specialty fishing. Deep-sea fishing trips are US$41 for a half-day trip, US$58 for eight hours, US$79 for 11 hours. Prices for other tours vary. Call for schedules. Located south of Myrtle Beach on the Highway 17 waterfront, Murrells Inlet. Phone 843-651-3676. Toll-free 866-557-3474. http://www.captdicks.com.
Try your hand at catching flounder, bluefish, Spanish mackerel and Red Drum—depending on the season. Dolphin-watching and eco-tours are also available. Charters explore inshore sounds, inlets and wrecks near the shore. Fishing available all year, but days and hours vary. Half-day charter US$300, two-hour crabbing trip US$150. 4474 Waterfront Ave., Little River. Phone 843-361-7445. http://www.captainsmileyfishingcharters.com.
The pier was originally built in the 1950s, but it has seen some renovations to erase the signs of weather and wear and tear from hurricane-strength winds. There is a tackle shop on-site. Open Thursday-Sunday 8 am-6 pm. Rods are available for rent for US$15.50. Walk-on passes are US$1. 3500 N. Ocean Blvd., North Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-249-1625. http://www.cherrygrovepier.com.
This company has a number of fishing boats and excursions to choose from, and more than 15 years of fishing and diving experience. BW's Marina (25 mi/40 km northeast of Myrtle Beach), Little River. Phone 843-361-3323. Toll-free 800-249-9388. http://www.littleriverfleet.com.
Try to catch flounder, trout and king mackerel at this beautiful 310-acre/125-hectare park. No license required. US$4.50 adults, free for children younger than 12. 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-238-5325.
Mystical Golf
Mystical Golf is actually a group of three courses—Man 'O War, The Witch and The Wizard—that are centrally located on Highway 501 just north of the Broadway at the Beach complex. Built by renowned golf course architect Dan Maples, each course has its own unique features that separate them from the others.
Tree-lined holes and world-class water hazards make the Dunes one of the area's top-ranked golf courses. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, this course is at the top of many must-play lists. To play you must be sponsored by a club member or a member of a reciprocal club. There is a driving range on-site as well as a tennis club. Tee times start at 7 am. Greens fee US$170. 9000 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-449-5236. http://www.dunesgolfandbeachclub.com.
This complex features three great courses: SouthCreek, The West and King's North. Designed by golfing legend Arnold Palmer, King's North is one of the most challenging courses in the state. Tee times start at 8 am. Greens fees US$63-$140 depending on day and time. 4900 National Drive (off Highway 501), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-235-6077. http://www.mbn.com.
The triple threat of Lion's Paw, Panther's Run and Tiger's Eye has been joined by Leopard's Chase, a new par-72 course. A fifth cat, Jaguar's Lair, is scheduled to open in late 2008. There is also a golf academy on-site. Tee times start at 7 am. Greens fees vary depending on course and day. 351 Ocean Ridge Parkway S.W., at Ocean Ridge Plantation (35 mi/55 km northeast of Myrtle Beach), Ocean Isle Beach. Phone 910-287-1717. Toll-free 800-233-1801. http://www.big-cats.com.
This antebellum club is known for its white-gloved caddy masters clad in kilts. Pine Lakes offers elegance and tradition, as well as a famed and respected course. Known as The Granddaddy, this club is considered one of the area's most sophisticated and traditional golfing experiences. The course is closed for renovations until fall 2008. Call for greens fees. 5603 Woodside Ave., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-449-6459. http://www.pinelakes.com.
For a taste of golf around the world, try this replica course. It features 27 re-created holes from Augusta National, St. Andrews, Winged Foot and other championship layouts. Greens fees US$80-$190, depending on season and day. 2000 World Tour Blvd., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-236-2000. Toll-free 877-377-7773. http://www.worldtourmb.com.
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Explore sea life in the Barracuda Alley Artificial Reef or along one of the Civil War wrecks. Discover dives are available for beginners. Open-water and advanced dives require a C card. Dives take place daily; hours vary. Full equipment rental is US$36 with a charter dive. 1901 Highway 17 S., North Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-361-3323. Toll-free 800-249-9388.
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These two miniature-golf courses have a 30-ft/9-m fire-breathing dragon, as well as challenges enough for any knight. US$7.75 adults, US$6.75 children ages 3-8, free for children younger than 4. US$9.75 to play both courses. 1197 Celebrity Circle (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-913-9301.
If you like to putt on the wild side, then this is the place for you. Try not to hit the zebras or the waterfall on either of the two 18-hole layouts. US$7.50 adults, US$6.50 children ages 5-12. Prices increase in the evening. Fifth Avenue South and Highway 17, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-626-7894. http://www.junglelagoon.com.
This indoor go-kart road course is air conditioned. Race against a timer or your friends. There is also a track for children. Open Monday-Thursday 4-9 pm, Friday-Sunday 11 am-10 pm. Adult prices start at US$11 for one race; a day pass is US$39.95. US$6 children 42-54 in/107-137 cm tall; US$24.95 day pass. 3901 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-916-1111.
Myrtle Beach nightlife offers a variety of live music and entertainment. Although there are plenty of clubs scattered throughout Myrtle Beach, the crowds tend to stay in the Broadway at the Beach area. There you'll find several hot spots to dance the night away.
Unlike most of the rest of South Carolina, which prohibits the sale of alcohol on Sunday, beer and wine can be purchased in select Myrtle Beach stores all week.
| Bars, Taverns & Pubs | Top |
Stool Pigeons Coop and Grill
Located in the Broadway at the Beach complex, this bar offers plenty of beer (30 on tap alone) and your typical bar food, including burgers, cheese fries and nachos. But it's the atmosphere that draws the crowds, especially during one of the best happy hours in town.
This place may not look like much, but it is the location where the band Alabama first played for tips. The bar still hosts live acts. Daily at 11 am. 110 9th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-448-5832. http://www.thebowerybar.com.
This huge daiquiri bar features a selection of frozen drinks. They are especially good after a hot day on the beach. Open daily 11 am-midnight. 1318 Celebrity Circle (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-444-3255.
This gay bar is popular with locals and visitors alike. There is different live entertainment nightly. Nightly from 5. One-time membership fee of US$2. Cover charge US$5 Friday-Monday. 520 Eighth Ave. N., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-448-1180. http://www.timeoutmbsc.com.
| Comedy Clubs | Top |
This club spotlights new and established comedians. Reservations are required for some shows and strongly suggested for others since most sell out in advance. Must be 18 or older to gain entry, but youths ages 16-17 can attend when accompanied by an adult. Some shows are smoke-free. Shows Wednesday-Saturday at 8 pm with an additional 10:15 pm show on Friday and Saturday. Two-item purchase minimum. 9588 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-449-4242. http://www.comedycabana.com.
| Dance & Nightclubs | Top |
This company offers three clubs in one. Razzies Beach Club offers live bands and music to shag to—it is the place to go to hear the biggest acts in beach music. If you don't enjoy beach music, then visit the lighted dance floor at Funkytown for disco and tunes of the 1970s, '80s and '90s. The third club, Club Touch, features Top 40 and hip-hop. Open Wednesday-Saturday. Cover charge. 920 Lake Arrowhead Road (behind Thoroughbreds Restaurant), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-449-9435. http://www.2001nightclub.com.
You can get access to all four of Celebrations' clubs with just one cover charge. Malibu's Surf Bar features two DJs playing Top 40 and dance hits. Froggy Bottomz has live music and a more laid-back atmosphere. Mainstream and Latin hits, as well as some hip-hop, are second nature to patrons of Club Boca. And the family-friendly Broadway Louie's has billiards, karaoke and arcade games. Dress code varies. Hours vary. Celebrity Square at Broadway at the Beach (between 21st Avenue North and 29th Avenue North), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-444-3500. http://www.celebrationsnitelife.com.
This large club sports a cigar and martini bar. It plays Top 40 dance tunes and holds event nights. The club offers limousine service back to hotels. Call for information about dress-code requirements and special events. Open Wednesday-Saturday from 10 pm. Cover charge. 2925 Hollywood Drive (Next to Planet Hollywood), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-839-9200. http://www.club-kryptonite.com.
This club features shag dancing all week long. The entertainment varies from dance instruction to beach-music oldies spun by a DJ. Go even if you can't dance—it's fun watching some of the area's top dancers spin their partners around the floor. Open daily from 4 pm. Lessons available on Tuesday and Thursday. 212 Main St., North Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-249-5779. http://www.fatharolds.com.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
Live performances have had mixed success in Myrtle Beach. The Alabama Theatre, Calvin Gilmore Productions and Carolina Opry have been the most consistent in booking shows and selling seats. There is a wealth of family-friendly shows such as Medieval Times and the Dolly Parton-owned Dixie Stampede. Nearby Conway has a thriving local theater scene, producing about 15 stage performances each year. Buy tickets in advance, if possible. Reservations are required at most performances.
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Getting tickets from this company will be more expensive than going through the venue, but it may have hard-to-find tickets for sports, theater and concert events. Online and phone sales only. Customer service line open Monday-Saturday 8 am-midnight, Sunday 8 am-8 pm. Toll-free 866-353-5167. http://www.coasttocoasttickets.com.
Hard Rock Park
Music and other performances abound at this rock-music-themed amusement park, including shows and special performances in the 10,000-person capacity amphitheater.
This 2,000-seat theater was built to showcase the talents of the country-music group Alabama. Today it offers shows from top entertainers in all genres. Ticket prices vary depending on show. Free for children younger than 17 during summer. 4750 Highway 17 S. (Barefoot Landing), North Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-272-1111. Toll-free 800-342-2262. http://www.alabama-theatre.com.
This large two-story theater features in-house musical-revue productions year-round. Shows lean toward country, but they also feature some music from other genres. 8901A Highway 17 N. (next door to Dixie Stampede), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-913-4000. Toll-free 800-843-6779. http://www.cgp.net.
The 2,000-plus-seat theater features live shows with circus acts, variety shows and Vegas-style productions. Shows are generally nightly at 8. Call ahead for schedule. Ticket prices vary by show and seating section. 1420 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-448-9224. Toll-free 800-905-4228.
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This western-themed dinner theater features great stunts and a four-course meal. Shows nightly at 6; some nights have an additional 8:30 pm show. Reservations recommended. US$43.39 adults; children ages 4-11 receive a discount depending on date and show. 8901B Highway 17 N., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-497-9700. Toll-free 800-433-4401. http://www.dixiestampede.com.
Eat a four-course dinner fit for a king while watching knights joust in this arenalike setting. Shows nightly at 6; some nights have an additional 8:30 pm show. Reservations recommended. US$44.95 adults, US$27.95 children younger than 13. 2904 Fantasy Way (Highway 501), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-236-8080. Toll-free 888-935-6878. http://www.medievaltimes.com.
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The sports scene in Myrtle Beach is small, but growing. The city is home to minor-league baseball team the Pelicans and a NASCAR-sanctioned track.
NASCAR-sanctioned races take place on Saturday in season. Special events are held at other times. Season runs April-September. US$10-$12 adults, US$8 children ages 10-15, free for children younger than 10. Highway 501, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-236-0500. http://www.myrtlebeachspeedway.com.
Known locally as the "Bird," this Atlanta Braves Class-A Carolina League team has a winning history. Home games take place at Coastal Federal Field. Season runs April-September. Tickets start at US$7. 1251 21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-918-6002. For tickets, call 843-918-6000 or 843-918-8499. http://www.myrtlebeachpelicans.com.
Shopping is a major activity in Myrtle Beach. There are two large manufacturer's outlets on opposite ends of town, as well as two enormous groups of stores and a couple of malls. The hardest part is deciding where to go first.
Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach and Broadway at the Beach both contain dozens of specialty stores where shoppers may find unique and hard-to-find items. Other than off-season sales, prices in most of the stores reflect the high cost of renting space. The shops at Market Common include high-end retailers such as Williams-Sonoma and Anthropologie and plenty of eateries.
Better deals can be found at the outlets, both part of the Tanger chain. Tanger North and South serve different parts of the city, but shopaholics thirsty for bargains won't be disappointed at either one. The local malls house major department stores with a sprinkling of restaurants. For those who like to troll for real bargains, try the Big Deal Bazaar and Flea Market, where you can find goodies for pocket change.
| Shopping Hours | Top |
Stores are generally open 9 am-9 pm, with shorter hours on Sunday.
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Saucony, Skechers, Wilsons Leather, Jones New York and Fossil combine to make this collection of stores something that both teens and adults will enjoy. New stores are added to the lineup all the time. Memorial Day-Labor Day Monday-Saturday 10 am-11 pm, Sunday 10 am-7 pm; shorter hours the rest of the year. 10835 Kings Road (at Highway 17), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-449-0491. http://www.tangeroutlet.com.
Aeropostale, Eddie Bauer, Reebok, Oneida and Black & Decker are among the stores at this outlet. As at its northern neighbor, new shops are added frequently. Memorial Day-Labor Day Monday-Saturday 10 am-11 pm, Sunday 10 am-7 pm; shorter hours the rest of the year. 4653 Factory Stores Blvd. (at Highway 501), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-236-5100. http://www.tangeroutlet.com.
Fruits, vegetables, crafts and hot, freshly prepared meals are the main features of this market. Open April-October Wednesday-Saturday 9 am-3 pm. Mr. Joe White Avenue (at Oak Street), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-457-5618.
| Shopping Areas | Top |
The Market Common
Anthropologie, Williams-Sonoma, Coldwater Creek, Banana Republic and Brooks Brothers are highlights at this strolling-style urban village, which includes a mix of high-end, mostly chain eateries, a cinema and condos on the site of the former army base.
Thousands of white lights make Barefoot Landing one of the prettiest places in Myrtle Beach after dark. More than 100 great stores, restaurants and entertainment venues are available for all ages. Store hours vary. 48th Avenue at Highway 17, North Myrtle Beach. Phone 800-272-2320. http://www.bflanding.com.
More than 400 vendors make this flea market a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon. A church on the premises holds services there each Sunday morning. Open Thursday-Sunday 9 am-5 pm. 4761 Highway 501, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-236-7474.
Dozens of specialty shops are scattered near nightclubs and restaurants (Hard Rock Cafe's The Rock Shop anchors one end of the shopping area) along a pleasant waterfront. Additional amusements include miniature-golf courses and the IMAX 3D Theater. Store hours vary. 1325 Celebrity Circle (off Highway 17 between 21st and 29th streets), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-444-3200. http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com.
This mall has 130 stores and restaurants. Sears and Bed Bath & Beyond make their homes there. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday noon-6 pm. 2000 Coastal Grand Circle (off Highway 17), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-839-9100. http://www.coastalgrand.com.
Victoria's Secret, Foxy Lady, Bass Pro Shops and Gold Crown Hallmark, along with a variety of favorite stores for the young and young at heart, round out this mall, which hosts about 90 stores. There is also a cinema. Open Monday-Saturday 10 am-9 pm, Sunday noon-6 pm. 10177 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-272-4040. http://www.colonialmallmyrtlebeach.com.
| Specialty Stores | Top |
Copper Penny Shooz
With the original in Charleston, this specialty shoe and handbag boutique features the latest designs by Bettye Muller, Cynthia Vincent, Tibi, Loeffler Randall and even stylish and affordable options by Blakelee, the owner's son. Next door, Copper Penny ladies clothing store is equally chic and label-minded.
Handpicked
This accessories shop has locations only in the Carolinas and specializes in monogrammed items, including pendants and charms, luggage tags, cuff links, belt buckles and flasks. There are lots of sterling silver and beaded items to suit just about every taste.
The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove
It's a Grand Strand tradition to step inside the jam-packed, three-level Gay Dolphin and pick out a kitchy shell decoration, pinky ring or other inexpensive tourist trinket. Located in the thick of it all on "the Strip," this towering gift shop dates to the 1950s.
Vanity
Fun handbags and baubles at reasonable prices make this Carolinas-based accessories store, with two locations at Broadway at the Beach and one at Tanger Outlet North, popular with all ages. Beaded and sterling silver necklaces, bracelets and earrings, as well as trendy headbands, hair pins and rings.
The walls are covered in gemstone jewelry and pendants hang from the ceiling. Items are not your average shell trinkets found at most beaches. Also sells African-inspired artwork. Opens Monday-Saturday at 10 am, Sunday at noon. 4892 Highway 17 S., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-272-1468. http://www.blackmarketminerals.com.
Pick your favorite critter, have it stuffed, then customize it right down to the name and clothes. This chain store is a Myrtle Beach favorite, so plan on spending an hour or two turning a tuft of fur into something special. Open daily at 10 am. 1301 Celebrity Circle, Suite FS3 (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-445-7675. http://www.buildabear.com.
Christmas decorations are sold year-round there. Trees, garland, ornaments and stockings cover the walls. Expect to hear Christmas carols as you browse. There is a second location at 2306 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach. 4852 Highway 17 S. (Barefoot Landing), North Myrtle Beach. Toll-free 888-437-5635. http://www.christmasmouse.com.
Relive your favorite movie, television and music moments from the 1970s, '80s and '90s. You'll find the perfect concert T-shirt to complete your collection. 1200 Celebrity Circle No. 120 (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-916-1218. http://www.shopretroactive.com.
Get a customized fragrance or a high-quality skin-care product at this boutique. Second location at Tanger Outlets North. 1211 Celebrity Circle (Broadway at the Beach), Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-444-9300. http://www.mbscentshoppe.com.
To
Charleston. Less than 100 mi/160 km south of Myrtle Beach on Highway 17, you'll find one of the Low Country's most charming cities—Charleston. A city that boasts a unique past, Charleston is renowned for its architecture and genteel southern culture.
Tour the Charleston Museum, the nation's first museum (founded in 1773), and dine at some of the finest restaurants in the country. Take a tour of the historic downtown, enjoy a carriage ride and spend some time at the Market.
If time permits, be certain to check out The Battery, Waterfront Park and Rainbow Row. Charleston also boasts a selection of upscale antiques shops and art galleries. Some of the best shopping is on King Street, downtown.
To Conway. Take 501 Conway Bypass to this charming tree-lined riverside community, about 12 mi/19 km west of Myrtle Beach. In the last few years it's become a haven for artists, who've opened studios and galleries in historic buildings along its streets (check out the art walks on the first Saturday each month).
It's also a draw for artists of the stage—the Historic Main Street Theatre puts on sell-out Broadway hits and more. You can take a boat tour or just enjoy the riverfront park and Riverwalk, as well as boutiques and bistros. Phone 843-248-6260.
To Wilmington. Follow Highway 17 North for 75 mi/120 km and you'll end up in Wilmington, North Carolina, a beautiful riverfront town complete with a National Historic District. In the past, Wilmington was considered a college and beach town and a favorite hangout for artists and writers.
Now, the city is fast becoming a second-home destination for many who visit and fall in love with the community, and it is a popular setting for modern movies. Wrightsville and Carolina beaches abut this city, which was the headquarters of British Gen. Charles Cornwallis during the Revolutionary War.
Wilmington offers a glimpse of history, along with quaint waterfront restaurants and shopping, without as many tourist trappings. Check out the Cotton Exchange for unique stores and spend a few hours exploring the World War II Battleship North Carolina. http://www.battleshipnc.com.
Tours travel through the salt marshes of the Low Country to the sites of antebellum plantation homes. Reservations required. Daily three-and-a-half-hour tours leave in the morning and afternoon. 606 65th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-497-5330. http://www.carolinasafari.com.
Cruise with pirates or just take a trip to relax. This company offers many different options, including romantic moonlight cruises and dinner cruises. Reservations required. Ticket prices vary depending on cruise type. Cruises leave from Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach and Waccatee Zoo, Myrtle Beach. Phone 843-650-6600. http://www.mbriverboat.com.