Myrtle Beach is known as one of America’s favorite destinations with its long stretch of sandy beach, warm ocean water, and more seafood buffet restaurants than you know what to do with. But there’s more to Myrtle Beach than that famous, fun vacation place where families have traveled for decades.
So where did the name Myrtle Beach come from? “Myrtle certainly sounds like a woman’s name possibly a famous resident from the early nineteen hundred. Or maybe, it’s from an American Indian heritage paying homage to our early natives.
There’s even a story that it had to do with a guy’s daughter that would come to this beach a long time ago. In reality, the name Myrtle came from a contest among the residents and the name “Myrtle” was submitted by a local resident. The name Myrtle Beach comes from the thousands of wax myrtle trees that used to line the beach, not the showy crape myrtles that most of us are familiar with.
The Wax Myrtle is an evergreen shrub. It provides nesting cover for wildlife in the winter when other foliage has gone dormmate. Wax Myrtles only grow from 15′ to 20′ tall and can reach its full size very quickly. They make excellent privacy barriers and are easy to propagate as a shrub because they are resistant to most insects and diseases.
The Wax Myrtle plant grows into a gray wax containing berries that have many uses. Early residents used the plant to make candles. Many wildlife creatures will use the Wax Myrtle for protection and food. The branches and thick foliage offers an excellent nesting location for birds found along the coast.
Now that you know where this famous destination got its name, Head to this great beach city today for awesome attractions and shows and resorts. Book your vacation today and get the best deals the area offers!
Sands Resorts is the home of the best Myrtle Beach vacation accommodations on the Grand Strand. Our property offers a variety in size and locations throughout the resort. The number one question we are asked in booking is what is the difference between oceanfront and oceanview rooms and condos.
At Sand Dunes we offer many options to include the Oceanfront Main building, North and South Towers, Tower 1 & 2, Villa 1 & 2 and the Sand Dunes Villas.
The oceanfront options are in our Oceanfront Main building. Here we have efficiency, 1 bedroom junior suites and the two bedroom penthouse option. In this building all the balconies are directly facing the ocean with no building in between. Walking from the first floor, there is direct ocean access.
The ocean view options are North and South Towers, Tower 1 & 2, Villa 1 & 2 and the Sand Dunes Villas. Often these are chosen due to larger floor plans and more occupancy. Still offering an ocean view, many families choose Sands Resorts for the option to have the 2 and 3 bedroom resort experience. All ocean view buildings share resort parking and have all amenity and ocean access as the oceanfront building guests. Most of these buildings also offer kitchens and in suite laundry.
Planning your vacation at Sands Resorts gives you the options to customize your beach vacation. If it’s just for two or four, our oceanfront main building may be the perfect fit. Enjoy dinner down stairs at our onsite restaurants or a night on the town in Myrtle Beach. If you are vacationing with more than 4, need space to spread out, or looking to prepare your own meals, our ocean view rooms are likely to meet your vacation needs.
Be sure to book direct with us and save the most!
Everyone loves pizza. Our inherent fondness for fluffy, yet subtly-crispy dough, well-seasoned tomato sauce, freshly-grated mozzarella, and a bevy of meaty (or vegetable) toppings originates somewhere deep down in our souls. It’s not difficult to locate a slice of pizza in Myrtle Beach (or anywhere else, for that matter). However, unearthing a show-stopping slice of pie that wholly satiates your taste buds takes practice. Or, you could just take our advice and plan a trip to one of these three local pizza joints, all of which are a short distance from Sand Dunes Resort.
The Best Pizza in Myrtle Beach: Delizioso!
What’s genuinely unique about Myrtle Beach’s always-fabulous pizza scene is how diverse it is, with ample inspiration from New York City, Southern California, and Italy. And, per usual, these three local staples offer a variety of services, including curbside pickup, delivery, and on-site dining, depending on which mood you’re in this fall. Without further ado, here’s our shortlist of the best pizza in Myrtle Beach (and the entire Grand Strand, for that matter).
Michael’s New York Style Pizza
While Michael’s is a casual, straightforward New York-style pizza joint with basic decor and furnishings, you’ll quickly discover big-time flavors, surprisingly-creative plate presentations, and buckets of mozzarella around every turn. For those looking for a deep-fried alternative, the “mega” calzone is a gut-busting revelation. Otherwise, the classic ‘za is equally cheesy, hearty, and perfectly cooked every single time. We cannot resist the call of the stuffed meat, barbecue chicken, and, oh, that delectable spinach and feet concoction that packs a surprising punch!
AJ’s Pizza
AJ’s tagline is “local pizza done right.” Well, you got that right. Their classic pizzas are somewhere between deep-dish and Greek-style, as there’s plenty of olive oil-swatched crust to go around, as well as layers upon layers of cheese. If you’re worried about having “too many” options, you’ll likely want to try another nearby eatery, mainly because AJ’s has over two dozen varieties. Local favorites include the “surf and turf” steak and shrimp, classic taco, and hot-smoked Lowcountry sausage. You simply cannot go wrong at AJ’s.
Ultimate California Pizza
The most popular pizza chain in Myrtle Beach is Ultimate California—four locations and counting! California-style ‘za has a devoted following, as pie lovers are rethinking their diet. Ultimate California is a favorite of ours because they offer a “build-your-own” option that’s great for those several dietary restrictions. Meanwhile, buckle up for a road trip through Cali with stops at Alcatraz, Sonoma, Berkeley, Hollywood, Fresno, and UCLA.
After a brief, albeit delicious pit stop at one of these three pizza places in Myrtle Beach, return to Sand Dunes Resort for a dip in the ocean, a lazy river float, and poolside cocktails. To learn more about our oceanfront respite, please browse through our money-saving vacation rentals (or call us directly at 866-845-1011).
South Carolina’s sprawling, sandy Grand Strand spans 60 miles from the North Carolina border to Winyah Bay, an estuary near Georgetown. Sailors, deep-sea anglers, and casual boaters coast up and down the Strand to various locales, including quaint Little River, picturesque Murrells Inlet, and, of course, the Intracoastal Waterway in bustling Myrtle Beach. Here at Sand Dunes Resort, we welcome all types of boating enthusiasts. Some folks motor into town from a nearby city, while others tow their vessel from afar and dock it at a nearby marina. Regardless, plenty of reputable Myrtle Beach marinas near the resort offer swift service, affordable rates, and a handful of amenities.
Myrtle Beach Marinas: 7 Nearby Options
While you’ll likely want to dock your boat as close to the resort as possible, there are many advantages to choosing a slip in either Little River or Murrells Inlet. Availability tends to be more attainable, they’re typically within steps of award-winning seafood eateries, and there’s less foot traffic in these small towns. That being said, the convenience of a Waccamaw River or Intracoastal Waterway slip is often too great to pass up. Without further ado, here are the seven best Myrtle Beach marinas.
Barefoot Marina – North Myrtle Beach
Location: 2051 Bridge View Cort, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Why choose Barefoot? Boaters can quickly reserve slips online. Oh, and it’s located across the Waterway from Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach’s most beloved attraction.
Osprey Marina – Myrtle Beach
Location: 8400 Osprey Road, Myrtle Beach, SC
Why choose Osprey? It’s one of only the marinas on the Waccamaw River, home to some of the finest largemouth bass fishing on the East Coast.
Myrtle Beach Yacht Club – Little River
Location: 714 Highway 17 North, Little River, SC
Why choose the Yacht Club? Besides being associated with a prestigious yacht club, sailers love the poolside Tiki Hut, live webcam, and fish cleaning station.
Cricket Cove Marina – Little River
Location: 4495 Baker Street, Little River, SC
Why choose Cricket Cove? They have 73 wet slips; there’s bound to be one with your name on it. Cricket Cove always shares the space with some of the premier fishing charters in South Carolina (Captain Smiley and Fisher of Men).
Marlin Quay – Murrells Inlet
Location: 1508 South Waccamaw Drive, Murrells Inlet, SC
Why choose Marlin Quay? Marlin Quay is so much more than “just” one of the best Myrtle Beach marinas. It’s also a fishing, boating, and sunset cruise mecca. It’s not often you find an 11-boat fishing fleet!
Lightkeepers Marina – Little River
Location: 4603 Lightkeepers Way, Little River, SC
Why choose Lightkeepers? This no-wake marina is a stone’s throw from U.S. 17, and it boasts the cheapest power rates along the Grand Strand.
Crazy Sister Marina – Murrells Inlet
Location: 4123 U.S. 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC
Why choose Crazy Sister? Unlike most Myrtle Beach marinas, Crazy Sister also offers a vast array of tours, including kayaking, dolphin watching, paddleboarding, parasailing, and so much more!
Myrtle Beach Hotels with a Water Park
Start and finish each day filled with aquatic adventures at Sand Dunes Resort, home to a quintessential water park (including a lazy river), an arcade, a blacklight mini-golf course, and some of the most spellbinding unobstructed Atlantic Ocean views in the city. Of course, you’ll always be mere steps from the salty sea when you choose Sand Dunes. Other family-friendly pursuits include live entertainment, the Boardwalk and Promenade, and deep-sea fishing. To learn more about our latest money-saving specials, please visit us at SandDunesMB.com. Otherwise, a reservationist is always standing by at 866-845-1011.
Very few thrills rival an offshore excursion several miles into the azure Atlantic in search of the monstrous (and delicious) creatures of the deep. “Common” targets include hammerhead sharks, barracuda, and king mackerel, all of which provide quite the oceanic battle. What makes the Grand Strand so undeniably enticing for anglers are the ample inshore possibilities, where tens of thousands of plump redfish thrive. Luckily for prospective anglers, Sand Dunes Resort is a short drive from the best fishing charters in Myrtle Beach.
The Top 3 Fishing Charters in Myrtle Beach
Fishing, whether far at sea or in a backwater wetland, is a magnificent way to spend time with the kids. Learning a new skill, such as fishing, helps put a memorable stamp on a vacation! Thankfully, there are a handful of fishing charters in Myrtle Beach that specifically cater to families and small groups—no prior experience is needed.
Reel Action Fishing Charters
Reel Action, the pride of North Myrtle Beach, does it all: shark hunts, king mackerel runs, kid-friendly jetty casts, and backwater boat trips. Their slogan, “We can travel anywhere you’d like to go,” is especially alluring to anglers with years of experience in the area. However, Reel Action’s knowledgable, professional team is more than happy to make recommendations based on the season. Reel action simplifies things: Anglers receive four hours of fishing for $400 (or $450). Now, you cannot beat that price!
Wise Fishing Charters
The guys and gals at Wise Fishing Charters specialize in Intracoastal Waterway angling; although, they also have decades of experience deep at sea. Captains Steve and Daniel Wise know these waters like the back of their hands. Typically, the team will troll or bottom-fish for sea bass, cobia, sharks, and two types of mackerel. We also recommend Wise during the shrimp season (May through December) because netting is just as much fun!
Low Country Fishing Charters
The four-man team at Low Country has over three decades of experience in the region. Still, Low Country remains a “hidden gem” amongst competing fishing charters in Myrtle Beach. That being said, their newly-expanded list of services—which ranges from Gulf-stream charters to dolphin watching—is starting to turn heads at the Myrtle Beach Yacht Club. Rates are comparable to like outfits, but we think that Low Country offers more bang for their buck. They target just about anything, including marlins, grouper, mahi-mahi, black drum, and trout.
Myrtle Beach Hotels with a Water Park
After four hours aboard one of the premier fishing charters in Myrtle Beach, we recommend walking the Promenade, visiting a nearby winery, or buying a round of ice cream cones. Then, let the beach relaxation begin! Sand Dunes Resort is a unique destination because it boasts a free, on-site water park, lazy river, arcade, and mini-golf course. We also boast an array of Myrtle Beach golf packages, semi-exclusive beach access, and several on-site dining options. You’ll rarely have to leave our little slice of South Carolina paradise to get the most of your vacation. Oh, and you won’t find better Atlantic Ocean vistas in the city. Check availability online at your earliest convenience (or give us a call today at 866-845-1011).
The easiest way to put a smile on a child’s face, particularly on a warm summer afternoon, is a towering ice cream cone, topped with a number of sugary delicacies. Myrtle Beach is known for its family-friendly attractions, pristine beaches, and sultry summers. And nothing pairs more naturally with a 90-degree afternoon than three scoops of ice cream jammed into a waffle cone. Luckily for you, Sand Dunes Resort is home to a contemporary indoor ice cream parlor, known as Ocean Sweets, a hip spot with everything from mammoth cookies to fudge and, of course, dollops of ice cream. Regardless of where you’re traveling on a given day, you’ll always be a short walk, bicycle ride, or drive from some of the tastiest homemade ice cream in Myrtle Beach.
The Best Ice Cream in Myrtle Beach
Finding a spot to enjoy ice cream in Myrtle Beach is as easy as blindly smacking an index finger at a map of the Grand Strand. However, nothing beats authentic homemade ice cream from a local staple, rather than name-brand treats from the likes of Ben & Jerry’s or Cold Stone Creamery. The best ice cream shops in Myrtle Beach all have distinct ambiance, whether that’s a vibrant, brightly-lit emporium or a dainty, late-1800s-style saloon.
Kirk’s Ice Cream Parlor
Hands down, the best ice cream in Myrtle Beach lies inside Kirk’s, a longstanding staple along Kings Highway. The old-timey charm, checkered exterior, and arcade atmosphere usher feelings of a prior era. The original 1890 location is just eight minutes south of Sand Dunes Resort. Kirk’s second location, however, is a mere 1.2 miles away from our sandy paradise. Unique flavors, such as banana pudding, party cake, and red velvet cake, come and go like the wind. But don’t fret, because there’s plenty of creamy goodness to go around!
Mr. Rolls
A growing trend in the sweet treat industry is rolled ice cream, a visual and delicious delight. Mr. Rolls is a sleek, modernized alternative to your typical ice cream joint in Myrtle Beach. Firstly, there’s no wrong way to devour ice cream. So, why not roll it into tight coils? Secondly, the presentation is artistic and aesthetically pleasing. And lastly, the flavor combinations at Mr. Rolls are tough to beat. Oh, and don’t forget to try the vibrant, eye-popping “Dragon’s Breath.”
Sugar Life
Sugar Life, for better or worse, is all about the spectacle. This crowd-pleasing marvel features walls of candy, featuring all colors of the rainbow (and then some). If you and your kids have a sweet tooth, a brief stop at Sugar Life is a must. Particularly if you plan to visit the heart of Myrtle Beach. With 32 rotating flavors of ice and a bevy of toppings, you’ll leave with nothing but a smile and a satisfied belly.
The Finest Oceanfront Hotels in Myrtle Beach
An idyllic place to start and finish each day of beach relaxation, live entertainment, and tasty treats is right here at Sand Dunes Resort, home to a splash-tastic water park, newly-updated arcade, and some of the most enthralling Atlantic views in town. Remember: If you’re looking for a quick treat, Ocean Sweets is only steps away from each ocean-view accommodation. We also boast an array of Myrtle Beach packages, including golf-focused getaways. For more information about various Myrtle Beach attractions, restaurants, and mid-day activities, please visit our Travel Guide. Otherwise, give us a call today at 866-845-1011 to book a long-awaited escape to South Carolina’s heavenly Grand Strand.
The Myrtle Beach lifestyle has not been overtly altered in recent weeks despite the current global pandemic. Travelers and locals can still bask in the soothing Carolina sunshine while splashing in the vast Atlantic Ocean. In fact, the sheer magnitude of the Grand Strand allots approximately 60 miles of pristine beach access. And, because of travel restrictions, there’s never been more space to spread out in the sand than right now as we approach summer 2020. We strongly urge all guests to heed the CDC’s social distancing guideline this summer, which will likely be no tall task, thanks to our exclusive beach access here at legendary Sand Dunes Resort. There’s still plenty of beach fun to be had along this sandy paradise. So, pack your beach gear, hop into the car, and head to South Carolina’s crown jewel without a care in the world.
Summer Beach Fun: 20 Activities Fit for 2020
While we’re all focused on what we can and cannot do in 2020, it’s important to note that these 20 beach activities will remain relevant for decades to come. When Mom and Dad hear the phrase “beach fun,” memories of building sandcastles, searching for starfish, and lapping up ice cream are likely to come to mind. Beach fun, in and of itself, is all about making everyone in the family happy, from your glee-filled youngest to your skeptical teenager. Try sitting down with the entire family before your departure to go through these 20 activities. You might be surprised to discern that everyone can find common ground when it comes to basking in the glorious, mid-summer Myrtle Beach sunshine.
- Build a towering sandcastle
- Fly a vibrant kite on a particularly windy afternoon
- Go for an early-morning sunrise jog before the kids wake
- Toss the Frisbee around—there’s just something refreshing about diving into the teal Atlantic for an errant throw
- Search for distinct seashells
- Savor a picnic highlighted by fresh fruit, crisp vegetables, and chilled sandwiches
Paint an awe-inspiring Atlantic Ocean sunrise- Learn to surf
- Swim for several hours, until it’s time for a cocktail
- Sunbathe—use sunblock, please
- Read that engrossing crime novel that you’ve been dying to finish
- Play Marco Polo with the fish of the sea
- Play two-hand touch football (or perhaps “500”)
- Kick the soccer ball around the sand—the World Cup is fast approaching
- Capture that perfect selfie or Insta classic
- Try people watching, Myrtle Beach-style
- Listen to your meticulously curated beachy playlist filled with country music hits, The Beach Boys tunes, and perhaps some chillwave from the likes of Washed Out, Bayonne, and MGMT
- Practice beach yoga while the kids splash in the on-site Sands Resorts Waterpark
- Start a water gun fight—please be respectful of your neighbors
- Hop on a floater and just sort of drift away—just don’t fall asleep, now
Hopefully, you were able to gather a good amount of potential beach fun for your next sunny escape to Sand Dunes Resort. Simply put, there is a seemingly endless array of fun things to bring to the beach. You just have to be mindful of the whole family.
Myrtle Beach Hotels…On the Beach
Thanks to Sand Dunes Resort’s countless complimentary amenities, there’s no end to the cheap family fun in Myrtle Beach. Guests can enjoy free access to our on-site water park, several acres of prime beach, and even a newly-upgraded Family FunZone. Our neighbors, North Shore Oceanfront Hotel, also just opened a new restaurant. For those hoping to experience several of the world’s best links-style courses, we boast a wide variety of Myrtle Beach golf packages on our website. To learn more about our oceanside haven, please visit us online (or call us today at 866-845-1011).
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, remains an unquestionably alluring coastal haven for families, couples, and groups alike. There’s no denying that this seaside paradise has the East Coast’s premier collection of championship golf courses, head-turning attractions, and fee-free conveniences. And the best way to commemorate a stellar day of aquatic adventure, birdie putts, and mouthwatering coastal cuisine is by visiting a top-reviewed Myrtle Beach winery. Sand Dunes Resort, home to the region’s most exclusive water park, is only a short drive from a handful of beloved South Carolina wineries, including the oft-visited Duplin Winery and La Belle Amie Vineyard.
Swirl, Sip, and Savor: A Practical Myrtle Beach Winery Guide
Before or after a brief stint on Restaurant Row, at a nearby museum, or under the sea, plan a relaxing trip to a top-rated Myrtle Beach winery. There are nearly a dozen wineries near Myrtle Beach, including several vineyards and tasting rooms across the border in North Carolina. However, these five selections perfectly embody the essence of a classic Carolina winery.
Duplin Winery, North Myrtle Beach, SC
The most-visited Myrtle Beach winery remains Duplin, whose home base is in Rose Hill, NC. Duplin opened a second location in picturesque North Myrtle Beach in 2015. The impressive, 15,000-square-foot facility features a 28-foot-tall replica of the Cape Hatteras Light Station, which is an ode to its North Carolina roots. Duplin’s Barefoot Landing locale helps draw hundreds of thousands of thirsty patrons each year.
La Belle Amie Vineyard, Little River, SC
For true backcountry vineyard ambiance, we always recommend La Belle Amie, the pride of Little River. Little River, of course, is celebrated for its salt marshes, but it’s now home to both a distillery (Twelve 33) and a quaint, peaceful vineyard. Enjoy a vino sampler of Twisted Sisters’ finest vino this summer amid lush grapevines and towering trees at La Belle Amie.
Carolina Vineyards Winery, North Myrtle Beach, SC
Carolina Vineyards, much like Duplin, rests near the serene Intracoastal Waterway inside North Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Landing. This elegant tasting room is an idyllic spot to savor fine wine after a hearty meal, boat ride, or live performance. Most of the labels are in-house varietals, such as the Rock Step fruit wine or Tropical Paradise, a pineapple white grape wine.
Coastal Wine Boutique, Myrtle Beach, SC
If you’re hoping to make a quick pit stop at a petite wine bar along Ocean Boulevard, we highly recommend Coastal Wine Boutique on 21st Avenue. The sleek tasting room features many shades of crimson, a striking checkered countertop, and a variety of beautifully-plated delicacies. Locals often slink into the wine bar to try an exotic new hookah flavor.
Grapefull Sisters Vineyard, Tabor City, NC
There are only a handful of true vineyards within driving distance of the boardwalk. Luckily for you, the short, scenic trek to Grapefull Sisters Vineyard is bound to be a highlight of your weekend in paradise. This classic “Myrtle Beach” winery crafts some of the tastiest coastal wine in the Carolinas. Grapefull Sisters’ countryside ambiance is the perfect way to cap a day of championship golf.
Charming Myrtle Beach Hotels on the Beach
After a full day of golf, gourmet cuisine, and wine tasting in Myrtle Beach, retreat to Sand Dunes Resort for a relaxing evening under the stars. But first, before dusk approaches, indulge in a lazy river float inside the free, on-site Sands Resorts Waterpark. Our charming, affordable suites, meanwhile, are just steps away from the Atlantic Ocean’s soft waves, as well as several waterfront dining options. If you’d rather explore the heart of the city after dark, feel free to read our Myrtle Beach travel guide. We’re also one of the only regional resorts to offer discounted Myrtle Beach golf packages at some of the best courses in North America. Please give us a call today at 866-845-1011 to book a long-waited, well-deserved spring or summertime vacation to sunny South Carolina!
Many cities boast a highly-trafficked “Restaurant Row,” including New York City, Orlando, and Honolulu. But none of them rival Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach, primarily because of its world-class seafood, eclectic architecture, and Intracoastal Waterway location. There are countless dining hubs along the Grand Strand, but this unique collection of seafood shacks, steakhouses, and family restaurants remains an agreeable tourist trap for families of all sizes. Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach is just three miles from Sand Dunes Resort. And, although we feature three on-site restaurants, we cannot blame you if lunch or dinner at this popular eat street is too enticing to pass up.
Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach: The Top 8 Eateries
Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach is conveniently located along Kings Highway, adjacent to the peaceful Intracoastal Waterway. It’s not only a short drive from Sands Dunes Resort’s free outdoor water park, but it’s perfectly sandwiched in-between world-class golf courses, a Tanger Outlet, The Carolina Opry, and, of course, several miles of pristine beach. Below, you’ll find eight of our favorite Restaurant Row eateries, separated into different categories. Read the blurbs below to help make the selection process that much easier.
Top Rated / Best Seafood: Bimini’s Oyster Bar
Bimini’s Oyster Bar may not be extravagant, oversized, or modern. But my, oh, my, do they possess the freshest shellfish, the largest steam pots, and the friendliest servers.
Authentic Japanese: Miyabi Japanese Steak & Seafood
While most folks don’t flock to Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach for eye-popping maki rolls and hibachi-style dining, Miyabi continues to wow diners from all walks of life.
Best Steak: Thoroughbreds Chophouse
It’s exceedingly easy to find a steakhouse along the Grand Strand. However, Thoroughbreds is the epitome of a luxury steakhouse: juicy steak, romantic ambiance, unrivaled plate presentation, and perhaps the best dessert in town!
Best Family Restaurant: Chuck’s Steak House
Chuck’s has the familiar warmth and classic American nostalgia that you typically only see at a small-town family restaurant. Chuck’s was also voted the “best steakhouse” in town on several occasions. Their culinary team can craft a mean steak!
Authentic Mexican: Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Occasionally a family desperately needs to devour a mess of fajitas, smothered burritos, and authentic tacos. And mom and dad can wash it all down with a signature margarita.
Best Buffet: Bennett’s Calabash
Bennett’s Calabash boasts arguably the best seafood buffet in Myrtle Beach, which has been a staple since 1978. Folks drool over their snow crab legs, fried oysters, and steamed clams.
Best Late Night Atmosphere: Barons Steaks & Spirits
It’s hard to beat top-notch steak, top-shelf spirits, and smooth jazz after dark. Barons has undergone extensive renovations, which mixed in some modern touches to go along with its classic piano bar feel.
Most Popular: Giant Crab Seafood Restaurant
More families visit Giant Crab than any other eatery on Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach. Kids love Tommy (the giant crab), and parents salivate over the carving station and stuffed flounder.
Myrtle Beach Resorts With Water Parks
After a brief albeit memorable visit to dazzling Restaurant Row in Myrtle Beach, retreat to Sand Dunes Resort for a lazy river float, a beach walk at dusk, and a few hours in the Family FunZone. And don’t forget to read our entertainment guide! The city is home to countless eye-popping museums, championship golf courses, and underwater adventures, all of which are just a short drive from our sandy shores. Please give us a call today at 866-845-1011 to book a long-overdue vacation to sunny Myrtle Beach!
We’re less than two months away from one of the most anticipated events of the winter season: the long-awaited Myrtle Beach Marathon. Every March, thousands of athletes flock to our sunny seaside community to run one of the prettiest courses in the country, as much of the route cruises along jaw-dropping Ocean Boulevard. Whether you’re a well-traveled marathon runner or just getting your feet wet, you won’t want to miss out on this spectacular annual event. The Myrtle Beach Marathon also meanders past Sand Dunes Resort’s on-site water park, which is ideal for those with family members who want to watch you run as well as soak up plenty of sun. If you found us by searching for a “marathon near me,” you’re in luck, because you’ll find countless essential details below.
The Myrtle Beach Marathon
Yes, the 26.2-mile Myrtle Beach Marathon is a visual treat, but the event has so much more going for it, including a health and fitness expo, post-run party, and several other race alternatives for those still building up to a full-length race. So, essentially, there’s a marathon “near me” for everyone! This USATF-certified marathon enters its 19th year, and it continues to expand—you’ll now find 12 water stops, five medical stops, and countless unobstructed viewing areas. The finish line rests at TicketReturn.com Field at Pelicans Ballpark, one of the city’s premier attractions. Elevation ranges from six to 38 feet, perfect for any type of long-distance run. If you’re looking for 26 pointers on your 26.2-mile run, we recommend visiting Runner’s World. A map of the Myrtle Beach Marathon route, meanwhile, can be found here.
Health and Wellness Expo
The day before the Myrtle Beach Marathon, thousands gather at Dave & Buster’s inside Broadway at the Beach, arguably the top attraction in the city. Runners can pick up a race packet, interact with regional vendors, and, of course, play an unlimited amount of video games. Meanwhile, all food and drinks are 20 percent off from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. This fun event is a hit among runners who’re visiting the area with their family (or a group of friends). If you’re looking for prime steak in an arcade setting, you’re in luck!
Finish Line Festival
The weekend’s top highlight, besides the marathon itself, is the post-run Finish Line Festival inside the Runners Village. After subduing one of the premier winter marathons in the country, listen to live music, enjoy free beer, watch the awards ceremony, and share stories of the day’s best sprints. Liquid Pleasure, a growing multi-cultural icon, is this year’s entertainment. Many snacks, such as doughnuts, pizza, doughnuts, and chocolate milk, will also be readily available.
Oceanfront Hotels in Myrtle Beach
As stated above, Sand Dunes Resort is just steps from Ocean Boulevard and the Myrtle Beach Marathon route. If you’re aimlessly searching for a marathon “near me” this winter, we highly recommend this growing annual event. After a rousing Finish Line Festival, retreat to our seaside paradise for a refreshing dip in the ocean, a lazy river float, and a long-overdue five-star dinner to commemorate your accomplishment! To check availability during early-March, visit us online. Otherwise, please give us a call today at 866-845-1011.