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Myrtle Beach Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Myrtle Beach Travel & Tourism, Free Myrtle Beach Travel Guide Online

Myrtle Beach Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Myrtle Beach Travel & Tourism, Free Myrtle Beach Travel Guide Online

South Carolina's Grand Strand is gifted with blue skies, sun-bleached sand, golden sunshine, curling breakers and gentle breezes. The extraordinary natural beauty of this coastline has attracted visitors for nearly a century.

The Grand Strand is an island with a 60-mile oceanfront and three roads connecting it to the mainland. Surrounded on the north and the west by the Intracoastal Waterway, the east by the Atlantic Ocean and the south by Winyah Bay, the Grand Strand can be shut off from the outside world by closing four bridges, which gives the impression of its being a world unto itself.

Myrtle Beach and the other towns that dot this long island stretch, have become havens for visitors year round. From Little River to Pawleys Island, there are a dazzling variety of restaurants, as well as fantastic nightlife, concerts and theater, museums, interesting shops, and recreational pursuits for the whole family.

Myrtle Beach offers over 1600 great restaurants that will please anyone's appetite. You can eat everything from seafood to sushi with the accompaniment of a fantastic ocean view. Restaurants serve Italian, French, and American family style cuisine. The best in seafood, including the spicy, succulent Calabash variety graces many a buffet.

The area is a welcoming destination for golfers, fishermen, shoppers, families, honeymooners and anyone looking for a relaxed, fun-filled vacation. Myrtle Beach and its neighbor, North Myrtle Beach have something for every budget and itinerary. Their antique stores, great furniture stores and outlets, marinas, fishing, water sports, a Nascar track, and an easy-going family atmosphere make visitors want to return year after year.

The birthplace of the Shag, the official South Carolina State Dance, the Ocean Drive section is the host of two, week long gatherings of shaggers in April and September.. A dance born on the beach, the Shag has been called a cross between the jitterbug and swing dancing.

Myrtle Beach is home to the Pelicans, part of the Atlanta Braves Farm Team System. Many Braves began their careers with the Pelicans. By next year an ice hockey team will be headquartered locally. Myrtle Beach is the golf capital of the country with over 100 top courses on the Grand Strand.

There is also the excitement of Myrtle Beach's miniature golf courses, theme parks and museums which the whole family will enjoy. Cruise down the beautiful waterway or tour one of the area's historic plantations. Watch countless species of animals roam in their natural setting along over 500 acres on the Waccamaw River and Intracoastal Waterway.

Visit the world-famous Pavilion and ride every ride or just watch! Myrtle Beach area amusement parks do not impose a "gate fee." Smell the salt water. Sift your toes into the sand as the surf laps at your ankles. Take a marsh cruise, go deep-sea fishing or windsurf. Fall asleep in the sun. Swim and sail and dine and dance
. Experience the ultimate seaside holiday.

Myrtle Beach Attractions: Myrtle Beach Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Myrtle Beach Travel & Tourism, Free Myrtle Beach Travel Guide Online

Myrtle Beach Suburbs

Conway

One of the oldest towns in South Carolina. This historic river town has preserved much of its past, including many centuries old live oaks. The Horry County museum chronicles local history and contains prehistoric artifacts.

North Myrtle Beach

In 1968, four small beach towns: Windy Hill Beach, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive Beach and Cherry Grove Beach located on the northern edge of the Grand Strand, joined to form the City of North Myrtle Beach. Their goal was to provide unmatched services to its residents and tourists; create a unique, safe beach community; and offer a place with recreation and vacation facilities. More than 30 years later, the City of North Myrtle Beach is home to over 12,000 permanent residents, and many others call it home during vacations and weekend trips throughout the year.

Murrells Inlet

in the south end of the Grand Strand, Murrells Inlet is the oldest fishing village in the state. It is home to fishermen, writers, poets and more legends and ghost stories than any other part of the Grand Strand. The area's history recounts stories of pirates, aristocratic plantation owners, the daughter of a U.S. vice president being forced to walk the plank of a pirate ship, phantom lighthouses steering ships from storms and cemetery-walking ghosts.

Georgetown

28 miles S of Myrtle Beach

The lifestyle of pre-Revolutionary War days comes alive here. Named after George II, this etown of only 11,000 people contains more than 50 historic homes and buildings dating back as far as 1737. Masted ships sailed from this riverfront, bound for England with their cargoes of indigo, rice, timber, and "king cotton." You can take a leisurely stroll along the Harbor Walk, tour the antebellum homes, or dine at some of the favorite spots.

Pawleys Island/Litchfield

25 miles S of Myrtle Beach; 12 miles N of Georgetown

One of the oldest resorts in the South, Pawleys Island has been popular with vacationers for more than three centuries. During the 18th century, rice planters made the island their summer home so that they could escape the heat and humidity of the Low Country and enjoy ocean breezes. Storms have battered the island, but many of the weather-beaten old properties remain.

The beaches here are among the best-maintained, least-polluted, and widest along coastal South Carolina. Because so much of the land is private, however, access to public beach areas is limited.

Many visitors from Myrtle Beach come to Pawleys Island to shop for handcrafts, such as the famous Pawleys Island rope hammock. At various plantation stores (known as the hammock shops), shoppers can find wicker, pewter, miniature doll furniture, clothing, candles, Christmas items, brass, and china.

Myrtle Beach Area Attractions

Alligator Adventure

(843) 365-0655

U.S. Hwy. 17 N.

North Myrtle Beach

An alligator park and reptile research institute that adjoins Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, this is one of the largest reptile facilities in the world. In addition to alligators and crocodiles, the natural 12.5 acre setting is home to a variety of exotic birds, frogs, snakes, tortoises and lizards.

All are situated in natural surroundings that emulate the beautiful wetland habitats to which these animals are accustomed.

Bellefield Nature Center

U.S. 17

South of Pawleys Island

The center is open year round, and admission is free.

The Bellefield Nature Center, at the entrance to Hobcaw Barony, is operated by the Belle W. Baruch Foundation. The Center features displays and audiovisual programs on Hobcaw's history, coastal environments, local wildlife and the teaching and research programs of the Baruch Institutes. Visit the saltwater touchtank and snake displays. Audiovisual programs are also shown daily. There are no walking trails or self-guided tours, and advance reservations are required for guided tours and special programs.

Brookgreen Gardens

US Highway 17 South

Murrells Inlet

843-237-4218

Located twenty miles south of Myrtle Beach, Brookgreen Gardens is known as the most beautiful sculpture garden in America. In 1930, Archer Milton Huntington, and his sculptress wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington, purchased four colonial plantations. In 1931 they organized a non-profit institution to preserve habitats for native plants and animals while providing an outdoor showcase for American Figurative Sculpture.

Brookgreen is also home to a 23-acre Wildlife Park that protects the habitats of a wide variety of indigenous animals.

Brookgreen's botanical gardens feature 2,000-plus species and sub-species of plants.. "The Springfield," a pontoon-type craft that accommodates approximately 50 passengers tours the flora and fauna of the creeks, as guides identify such and give historical aspects of the rice fields.

Broadway At the Beach

1325 Celebrity Circle

Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-7445

(843)444-3200

a 350-acre entertainment complex in the heart of Myrtle Beach, offers 20 restaurants including Hard Rock Caf�, Planet Hollywood, Official All Star Caf�, Easyriders Caf� and NASCAR Caf�. Broadway at the Beach, nestled around a 23-acre lake, features more than 100 specialty shops and attractions such as Celebrity Square nightclub district, Carmike's Broadway Cinema 16, The Palace Theater, NASCAR SpeedPark and Dragon's Lair Fantasy Golf.

Broadway at the Beach also offers IMAX Discovery Theater and Ripley's Aquarium.

Butterfly Pavilion

Broadway at the Beach

Myrtle Beach

1-877-280-2751

Open daily. Call for hours.

The 22,500 square foot Butterfly Pavilion is a fully enclosed butterfly habitat featuring North American and tropical butterflies. It contains a 30 foot waterfall, a sunken pirate ship and colorful moths, butterflies, and birds. Interactive displays include a giant (walk-through) bee hive.

Carolina Safari Jeep Tours

(843) 497-3480

Tours take place twice daily during the summer; other seasons, once a day.

Each specially designed tour vehicle seats 10 to 13 passengers and a tour guide "safari-style," allowing for an extensive and personalized overview of area history and local lore as well as tons of narrative information.

The itinerary includes natural coastal attractions, historic areas, old plantation homes, two islands and an unexpected abundance of natural beauty.

Binoculars are provided, and you're welcome to bring cameras;

Franklin G. Burroughs and Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

3200 S. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach

(843) 238-2510

The museum features an art gallery, gift shop and an art education center.

The art gallery building is housed in the former Springmaid Villa, a 1920s beach house that was saved from demolition. Renovations created 10 galleries with a total 3,600 square feet of exhibition space, a tea room and a large seminar room. Exhibits in the gallery showcase local and regional artists and national art exhibits.

Children's Museum of South Carolina

2501 N Kings Hwy

Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-3054

(843)946-9469

Family Kingdom Ocean Front Park

301 3rd Ave S

Myrtle Beach,

(843)916-0400

Family Kingdom is open from late March to late November. Operating hours vary, depending on the season.

South Carolina's largest roller coaster and largest Ferris wheel are both available here. . The Swamp Fox Roller Coaster is a great wooden classic with a 62-foot drop. Children like the miniature locomotive that chugs around the grounds. The antique carousel was built in Germantown, Pennsylvania, in 1932. Other attractions include go-carts, bumper cars and the Express Himalaya.

This home of family fun takes a great deal of pride in it's reputation as a "family-friendly" park. There is a separate area called Kiddie Land just for toddlers & tots. In Kiddie Land, you'll find lots of "small" rides, including a miniaturized ferris wheel and roller coaster.

The Franklin G. Burroughs, Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

3100 South Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach

238 2510

Tuesday - Saturday, 10 - 4 Sunday,1 - 4

Admission charged.

The Franklin G. Burroughs, Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is a public art museum for the visual arts and includes "the Villa" exhibition galleries. Its programs include local art shows, a permanent art collection and traveling guest artist exhibits. An art library and working studios support active educational programs.

Fun Spot Action Park

500 S. Ocean Blvd.

Myrtle Beach

open daily from March until December

Operating hours vary, depending on the season.

This park will put you in the driver's seat of a custom-designed go-cart on a number of different and exciting tracks. The Super Eight Track, a multilevel, nine-turn course with hairpin curves features Myrtle Beach's only nine-horsepower carts. On the Family Track, two-seater carts allow a parent and child to share a spin.. The action park also features Bumper Cars, Bumper Boats, a Space Walk, Ferris wheel, carousel, Kiddie Cars and several other attractions for the little ones.

Hopsewee Plantation

off U.S. 17 S., 12 miles south of Georgetown

843-546-6961

Schedule visit in advance.

The plantation, featuring a view of the North Santee River, is open to the public early March through early November on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Other times are available by appointment. The plantation mansion, which was once the home of Thomas Lynch Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence, is surprisingly elegant in its simplicity.

Horry County Museum

438 Main St.

Conway 626-1282

The Horry County Museum showcases not only Horry County history but much of the surrounding area's history as well.

Originally a post office, the building stands on what was formerly the grounds of a historic home. Just outside the museum, stands the stately old Wade Hampton oak. A plaque on the oak commemorates the day in 1876 when Confederate Gen. Wade Hampton brought his campaign for the governorship to Conway and addressed the residents from beneath the tree. Many years later, when construction of a railroad threatened the historic oak, a spirited local lady, Mary Beaty, brandished a loaded shotgun and ordered workers, "Touch not a single bough." Her defiance inspired other residents to actively protect the town's magnificent live oaks.

Myrtle Beach Pavilion Amusement Park

812 N. Ocean Blvd.

Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-6456

In the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach, the Pavilion has been the area's No. 1 family attraction for more than four decades. In the last several years, the park has spent $10 million-plus on new rides, expansions and renovations. Covering 11 acres, the Pavilion currently offers more than 35 rides for young and old. One exciting option is the Hydro Surge, an 1,100-foot whitewater rafting experience that recreates the excitement of rafting down a wild river in an eight-person raft.

The Pavilion Grand Prix Road Course, a 900-foot-long go-cart course, allows the all family members to test their skill.

Myrtle Beach Grand Prix Family Thrill Park

3201 South Kings Highway

Myrtle Beach

(843) 238-3787

and

3900 US Highway 17 South

North Myrtle Beach

(843) 272-6010

10AM - 11PM in season.

Grand Prix Family Thrill Parks (North and South) each feature a variety of racing cars and tracks including formula Grand Prix, Go-Carts, Speed Racers, and Junior Racers. The parks are divided into zones which accurately describe the types of rides found in each area. Families and individuals of all ages enjoy spending time in the Family Thrill Zone, Race Zone, Children Zone, Laser Zone, Food Zone, Golf Zone, Water Zone, and Game Zone. The parks are designed to accommodate more than 3,000 people at one time, and can accommodate groups of all sizes.

Myrtle Waves

3000 10th N. Ext. (off U.S. 17 Bypass)

Myrtle Beach

843-448-1026

20 acres of water rides and slides. The Carolinas' largest water park is also the tallest; Turbo Twisters is a 10-story, lightening-fast ride. With 30 rides and attractions, Myrtle Waves is proudly staffed by professionally certified lifeguards. The just-for-children Tadpool, only 18 inches deep, includes a Little Dipper Slide and the Magic Mushroom water fountain.

The Lazy River serves up a cool and relaxing opportunity to float along a designated course. Picking up the pace is no problem on Snake Mountain, Pipeline Plunge or Ricochet Rapids all heart-in-your-throat water slides. Only the adventuresome venture to the Riptide Rocket, two body flumes that send you blasting.

Myrtle Waves also boasts its own Ocean In Motion Wave Pool

NASCAR Speed Park

1820 21st Ave N

Myrtle Beach, SC

(843)626-8725

and

North Myrtle Beach Grand Prix

3900 Hwy. 17 S., Windy Hill Section

North Myrtle Beach

The Speed park is designed to provide family entertainment that resembles as closely as possible the NASCAR racing circuit.

An impressive variety of vehicles includes Grand Prix go-carts, mini Ferraris, Jeeps and Corvettes that can be maneuvered on a variety of tracks for high performance fun. A few of the most challenging tracks require licensed drivers; however, there is plenty of racing excitement available for all ages.

Both parks also offer miniature golf courses and water race parks with bumper boats. The south park boasts speed boats and the East Coast's only Hydro-Fighter. The North location has a complete Kiddie Park with rides that include Dinosaurs, a Car Carrousel and a merry-go-round. Air-conditioned arcades and snack bars are provided at both locations.

Ocean Watersports

300 4th Ave. S.

Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

843-232-8383

http://www.familykingdom.com

Ripley's Sea Aquarium

1110 Celebrity Cir

Broadway at the Beach

Myrtle Beach, SC

(843)916-0888

Ripley's 74,000 square foot Aquarium is a unique, state-of-the-art, multi-sensory, entertainment facility which transports visitors to numerous aquatic environments.

It is a stunning exhibition of fish behind glass. Five portions of the aquarium feature different sea habitats.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Museum

Ocean Blvd. & 9th Ave No Myrtle Beach

843-448-2331

More than 500 exhibits from the believable to the bizarre.

South Carolina Aquarium

(843) 579-8601

The South Carolina Aquarium on Charleston Harbor depicts the rich variety of life that exists in the aquatic environments of South Carolina. Opening Spring of 2000, the Aquarium will bring together over 10,000 animals and 5,000 live plants normally separated by hundreds of miles in the wild. Journey from the Mountain to Sea, and learn how these environments, no matter how different, are mutually interdependent. River otters, snakes, fish, turtles, alligators, and birds, all in their natural habitats will be found under one roof. The South Carolina Aquarium offers the perfect balance between conservation, education, and entertainment.

Southern Cruz Casino

4491 Waterfront Ave.

Little River, SC 29566

843-249-9811

Take a cruise for casino fun. Call for schedule

Waccatee Zoological Farm

8500 Enterprise Rd. (Socastee Community)

Myrtle Beach

The Waccatee Zoological Farm began approximately 16 years ago as a private collection of exotic and domestic animals. Today, on a 500-acre farm nearly hidden away in the Socastee community west of Surfside Beach, Waccatee Zoo contains more than 100 species of animals. Including a herd of miniature horses and deer; a variety of big cats such as a black leopard, a lion, cougars and tigers; a long-necked llama; ostriches; a rainbow of exotic birds; and a menagerie of monkeys, the Waccatee Zoo is a wonderful off-the-beaten-path treat for the family. The zoo also has a petting area that is ideal for introducing small children to animals.

Wild Water

(843) 238-3787

a, state-of-the-art amusement park that offers a water park, kiddy park, motorized rides, miniature golf course, and arcade. stemming from a 35 ft. tower, the only ride of its kind in the Carolinas!

Wild Rapids Water Park & Pavilion

301 Third Ave. and S. Ocean Blvd.

Myrtle Beach

In addition to a fabulous oceanfront location in the center of Myrtle Beach, Wild Rapids features several big slides and tube rides for fun that's wet and wild and refreshing. A children's area is available, as well as an expansive sundeck that overlooks the Atlantic. An arcade is underneath the park that looks like a mountain

Wild Water Waterpark & Family Fun Center

910 Highway 17 S

(843)238-9453

Wally the Walrus, the mascot of Wild Water, welcomes guests to the wild slides and careening rides. This 16-acre facility is the area's newest waterpark

A 16-foot wide Lazy River, complete with a tropical rainforest and cascading waterfalls, meanders throughout the park. Wild Water also offers Wally's Wee-Children World, a wonderful kiddies' park with a pool, a "shipwreck," slides and more. Grownups will love the Lounge Pool; in-water lounge chairs are approved, and island music is upbeat.

Myrtle Beach Events: Myrtle Beach Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Myrtle Beach Travel & Tourism, Free Myrtle Beach Travel Guide Online

Events

January

North Myrtle Beach Winter Run

Throughout North Myrtle Beach

(843) 280-5570

This event includes the 5K and 15K road races for the Southeastern Region.

Myrtle Beach Wildlife Exposition

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 237-3899

Families can enjoy a wide variety of activities at this mid-January show to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of properly managing those resources.

February

Burroughs & Chapin Company Children's Festival

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 626-6385

a fun-filled weekend of educational, cultural and safety-related presentations and exhibits for children and their families. More than 120 booths provide interactive presentations in the fields of science, art or health. Continuous entertainment includes dancers, tumbling acts, magicians, singers and storytellers. Children are given the opportunity to take part in various contests on stage.

Grand Strand Boat Show and Sale

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 238-0485

This early February show attracts up to 10,000 boating enthusiasts and more than 100 exhibitors displaying motor boats, fishing equipment, pontoon boats, sailboats, one-person kayaks, watersports gear including scuba-diving equipment

National Shag Dance Championships

Celebrity Square, Broadway At The Beach, between 21st and 29th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

(843) 497-7369

For enthusiasts of the shag, the vintage dance born and bred in the Carolinas. This late February event, includes qualifying rounds for each of 38 spots in the national championships that take place in March at this same location.

March

St. Patrick's Day Parade and Celebration

Surfwood Shopping Center, North Myrtle Beach

(843) 280-5570

South Carolina International Chili Cook-off

Barefoot Landing, 4898 U.S. Hwy. 17 S., North Myrtle Beach

(843) 272-8349

These serious contestants are known as "chiliheads", a group that numbers 50,000, who publish their own quarterly newspaper to keep up with trends and cooking events. The chili is evaluated by a panel of judges, and winners are in the running for the international grand prize of $25,000. Family entertainment is always a part of the cookoff.

Annual Canadian-American Days Festival

Throughout Horry County

(843) 626-7444

Coinciding with the spring school break in the Canadian Province of Ontario, Can-Am Days is a mid-March festival that attracts about 100,000 visitors from both Canada and the United States every year.

The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show

is an action-packed demonstration of chopping, sawing, logrolling (by men and dogs), ax throwing and dragster chain sawing -- all performed by world-champion lumberjacks.

Annual Doll Show & Sale

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 248-5643, (843) 448-7166

doll dealers from 15 states and more than 200 tables of related goods at this mid-March show.

Annual Georgetown Plantation Tours

Throughout Georgetown

(843) 546-2292

These plantation homes and colonial townhouses are only open to the public once a year in late March for this 51-year-old tour. All the homes are privately owned, and several are on the National Register of Historic Places. Histories and maps are provided.

April

S.O.S. Spring Safari

Throughout North Myrtle Beach

(888) SOS-3113

the world's largest spring break for mature adults. More than 15,000 shaggers, members of the Society of Stranders and lovers of the beach gather in North Myrtle Beach in mid-April for an annual rite of spring. Ten full days and nights of beach music and activities are all part of this ritual. There's a parade along Main Street in North Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Gras

Chapin Park, Kings Hwy. at 16th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-8578

"the Grand Strand's Cajun celebration," Myrtle Gras, in late April, is a simple festival in the park that offers Cajun and local cuisine for sale, arts and crafts and a variety of musical entertainment.

Susan G. Komen International LPGA Golf Tournament

Wachesaw East Golf Club, off U.S. Hwy. 17, Murrells Inlet

(843) 357-5252

week-long tournament is held in mid-April 1997 at the South Strand's new Wachesaw East Golf Club. Top ladies on the LPGA tour compete in the seven-day event, which draws an estimated 40,000 fans.

May

Blue Crab Festival

On the waterfront, Little River

(843) 249-6604

More than 150 arts-and-crafts booths are featured.

The children's area includes a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting and puppets. Entertainment includes a variety of live musical performances including jazz, country, bluegrass and gospel.

The Carolina Harley-Davidson Dealers Association and Harley-Davidson Motor Company Spring Rally

Throughout the Grand Strand

(843) 651-5555

Rated as one of the top-five motorcycle events in the nation -- and the oldest dealer-sponsored motorcycle event in the country -- an estimated 60,000 to 75,000 cyclists roar into town for four days in mid-May. A race is usually held on the Friday of the event at the Myrtle Beach Speedway.

June

Annual Sun Fun Festival

Throughout the Grand Strand

(843) 626-7444

summer officially begins with Sun Fun in early June. The largest annual festival of its kind in either North or South Carolina, it attracts about 300,000 people to the beach each year. A parade along Ocean Boulevard kicks off the festival. From bikini contests to sand-sculpture competitions, Sun Fun hosts a multitude of activities.

July

Murrells Inlet Fourth of July Boat Parade

Murrells Inlet

(843) 651-0900

For 14 or so years, more than 100 boats have entertained thos who watch from and picnic on the shores. From 14-foot fishing boats to 40-foot yachts, participating watercraft start the aquatic caravan at high tide at the jetties of Garden City Beach and proceed to Murrells Inlet.. Trophies are given to the three best-decorated boats and to the three most-adorned docks along the route.

August

Carolina Craftsmen's Summer Classic

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(910) 274-5550, (843) 448-7166

authentic, hand-crafted items at this arts and crafts show in early August. More than 250 exhibitors from 20 states bring in original designs that include pottery, wood, fine art, toys, jewelry, baskets, stained glass, leather, tin, weaving, sculpture, musical instruments and furniture.

September

S.O.S. Fall Migration

Various locations in North Myrtle Beach

(888) SOS-3113

The Society of Stranders calls its thousands of active members to return to North Myrtle Beach in mid-September for one last big party before winter sets in. Days and nights are filled with activities, shagging and sightseeing with nonstop beach music.

South Carolina's Largest Garage Sale

Myrtle Beach Pavilion Parking Garage, Kings Hwy. and Ninth Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-8578

Hundreds of booths set up on every parking level feature household goods, clothing, toiletries, sporting goods, furniture, toys, food, etc.. The sale runs from 8 AM to 1 PM, and admission is free.

Lowcountry Days

Brookgreen Gardens, U.S. Hwy. 17 S., Murrells Inlet

(843) 237-4218

During this nature festival, the tidal freshwater creeks and rice fields of Brookgreen are opened to the public. Passengers visit the natural flora and fauna of this area aboard The Springfield, a 48-foot pontoon-type craft that accommodates 50 people at a time.

The Sandy Island and Rice Plantation Excursion is a two-hour trip out past Sandy Island and charming old 18th and 19th century plantation homes.

Springfield Creek Kayaking is another feature of Lowcountry Days, and hiking programs are available as is a guided horseback ride through the back country of Brookgreen.

October

Indian Summer Festival

Downtown Main St., North Myrtle Beach

(843) 249-6921

Usually held in mid-October, the Indian Summer Festival is sponsored by Downtown Organizations Interacting Together, a revitalization group in North Myrtle Beach. It's a day of arts and crafts, food, entertainment and special activities for the children.

Admission to the Indian Summer Festival is free.

Oktoberfest

Football field at the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base,

Myrtle Beach

(843) 918-1242

Beer and bratwurst are the favorites at this early October celebration of the harvest season. Authentic German music is played and arts and crafts are on display. Children enjoy the scarecrow-building and pumpkin-painting contests and a climbing wall.

VIVACE!

Various locations in Myrtle Beach

(843) 248-7200, (800) 868-2787

This premier fine arts festival in mid-October showcases local and national vocal, theatrical, instrumental, visual and literary arts groups. At least 25 of the area's finest arts organizations participate. It's 10 days and nights of exhibits, ballet, classical music, arts and theater. .

Surfside Beach Family Festival

One block off Surfside Dr., Surfside Beach

(843) 238-4131, Ext. 333

Annual festival is attended by more than 10,000 people each year! It's a day-long affair in early October, with plenty of food and arts and crafts

Several bands perform, and more than 90 vendors offer everything from hot dogs to rides. This event always coordinates lots of games for children. There is no admission fee.

Annual Wooden Boat Exhibit and Challenge

Front St. (on the waterfront), Georgetown

(843) 527-3229, (843) 546-0064

You make your boat from scratch before sailing! There is no admission fee to the exhibit; spectators are allowed to watch from outside the working tents of the competing teams.

Ghostbusting Tour

Throughout Georgetown County

(843) 546-8441

Participants are armed with tickets and a map, and a fully costumed interpreter greets them at each site to relate the folklore events during the month of October by the Southeastern Tourism Society, dramatizations of Georgetown County's most famous ghosts and legends.

November

Intracoastal Christmas Regatta

Little River to North Myrtle Beach

(843) 280-6354

Viewing sites encompass the restaurants along the Little River waterfront, the Riverboat Restaurant at North Myrtle Beach Marina, the Blue Marlin Yacht and Fishing Club at Anchor Marina and Marker 350 at Harbourgate

The regatta benefits local children's charities and spurs an annual toy collection for needy children.

Taste of the Town

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 249-4885

If you would like to sample foods from a variety of Grand Strand restaurants, don't miss this early November event. More than 40 restaurants participate each year, serving up the best they have to offer. you an idea of the pace, Austin's restaurant served 2,000 portions of food by 8 PM!

Awards are bestowed for the best overall food, the best entree, the best dessert and the People's Choice.

Annual Dickens Christmas Show & Festival

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 448-9483

mid-November. Decorated trees and wreaths are usually auctioned off by the end of the festival, and hundreds of holiday gifts and ornaments are available for show and sale.

Annual South Carolina State Bluegrass Festival

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

(843) 448-7166

Drawing fans from throughout the eastern United States and Canada, the Bluegrass Festival offers arts and crafts booths, food and beverages.

December

Christmas Tour of Homes Throughout the North Strand

(843) 272-7598, (843) 249-6449

this Christmas Tour of Homes gives a chance to see stately homes dressed for the Yuletide season. Sponsored by the North Myrtle Beach Women's Club, six homes are opened to the public for one afternoon in December. Proceeds from the event help Children's Hospice, the North Myrtle Beach Rescue Squad, the North Myrtle Beach Animal Shelter and various scholarship funds.

Wacca Wache Marina Christmas Boat Parade

Murrells Inlet

(843) 651-2994

This event is usually held on a Saturday evening in early December to highlight to the holiday displays on the decorated boats. The marina provides dockage for the event, and admission is free.

Arts and Entertainment

The Long Bay Symphony Long Bay Youth Orchestra

1811 Oak St., Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-8379

The Long Bay Symphony performs a full season of classical, chamber and POPS concerts, including playing the original scores during a silent film

Many of the Long Bay Symphony members have performed with such respected organizations as the Metropolitan Opera in New York and the pop-infused Radio City Music Hall Orchestra. With this array of influences, the Long Bay group melds a variety of musical backgrounds, performing selections from classical to pop as well as full stage productions. It presents 12 concerts each season .

Grand Strand Concert Band

2966 Newberry Tr., Garden City Beach

(843) 651-5683

The group has about 25 members, increased seasonally by the visitors who flock to this area to enjoy the mild winters. Selections include Big Band pieces from the 1940s and light concert music.

Swamp Fox Players Inc.

710 Front St., Georgetown

(843) 527-2924

Established in the early 1970s, this amateur theatrical group coordinates at least four productions per year.

Alabama Theatre

Barefoot Landing, U.S. Hwy. 17 N., North Myrtle Beach

(843) 272-1111, (800) 342-BAMA

Christmas in Dixie is Alabama Theatre's holiday program featuring Victorian costumes and high-energy dance productions. The show is known locally for its fun, family-style feeling plus incredible special effects and stage dressing.

House of Blues

4640 U.S. Hwy. 17 S. at Barefoot Landing, North Myrtle Beach

(843) 272-3000

The House of Blues now stands as the area's only true music hall, a massive space that can hold 2,200 people at one time. Except for some bar stools, the music hall is a standing venue.

The Carolina Opry

N. Kings Hwy. (at U.S. Hwy. 17 Bypass), Myrtle Beach

(843) 238-8888, (800) THE OPRY

The Opry Christmas Special holiday show is a mix of country, gospel and comedy.

The Palace Theatre

Broadway At The Beach, From 21st to 29th Aves. N. (off U.S. Hwy. 17 Bypass), Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-0588, (800) 905-4228

Since the night it raised its curtains, the 2,700-seat Palace Theatre has enjoyed brisk ticket sales due to the knockout entertainment it has brought to the Grand Strand.

Parks

Myrtle Beach State Park

U.S. Hwy. 17 S., between Myrtle and Surfside Beaches

(843) 238-5325

6 AM to 10 PM year round.

Situated in the heart of the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach State Park has one of the most popular public beaches along the Carolina coast. This 312-acre oceanfront park is one of the last remaining natural areas along the northern shores of South Carolina A park naturalist conducts activities year round and interprets the natural history of the coast. Surf fishing and pier fishing are allowed. Swimming in the ocean or in the park's pool

Huntington Beach State Park

U.S. Hwy. 17 S. (across from Brookgreen Gardens), Murrells Inlet

(843) 237-4440

6 AM to 10 PM daily from April through September and 6 AM to 6 PM daily from October through March.

Huntington Beach State Park offers the best-preserved beach on the Grand Strand

Hampton Plantation State Park

1950 Rutledge Rd., McClellanville

(843) 546-9361

9 - 6 Thursday through Monday

Contains one of the most impressive restored plantation homes in South Carolina.

Adjacent to the Santee River, this 322-acre property was once a coastal rice plantation and last served as the home of Archibald Rutledge, noted writer and South Carolina poet laureate. The state purchased the property from Mr. Rutledge in 1971.

Biking

Bicycle paths are clearly marked along the beach and Ocean Boulevard, and the residential area north of 54th Avenue N. features an outdoor fitness trail with exercise equipment along the beach. Bicycles and adult-size, tricycles can be rented from a variety of locations along the beach

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Population

: 30,000 in the city and over 12 million visitors annually

Location:

in the center of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile crescent of beach on the South Carolina coast.

Elevation

: 21 feet

Time Zone:

Myrtle Beach is in the eastern time zone. When it is noon in New York City; it is also noon in Myrtle Beach.

Weather:

Average Temperatures:

Month

High

Low

January

58F

43F

February

59F

44F

March

66F

50F

April

73F

57F

May

80F

66F

June

86F

73F

July

88F

75F

August

87F

75F

September

83F

71F

October

75F

61F

November

66F

51F

December

59F

44F

When to Go

Spring is probably the most attractive season in South Carolina. Throughout the region, cherry blossoms are followed by azaleas, dogwood, and camellias from April into May, and by apple blossoms in May. Summer can be hot and humid in many areas, but temperatures will be cooler along the coast. Folk, craft, art, and music festivals take place in summer, as do sports events. Fall brings spectacular foliage.

In winter, temperatures average in the 60s by the shore. Summer temperatures range from the high 70s to the mid-80s.

Business Hours

Banks are usually open weekdays 9 to 3 and some Saturday mornings; the post office from 8 to 5 weekdays and often on Saturday mornings. Shops in urban and suburban areas, particularly in indoor and strip malls, typically open at 9 or 10 daily and stay open until anywhere from 6 to 10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and until 5 or 6 on Sundays.

Holidays

New Year's Day Jan. 1

Martin Luther King, Jr., Day 3rd Mon. in Jan.

President's Day 3rd Mon. in Feb.

Memorial Day last Mon. in May;

Independence Day July 4

Labor Day 1st Mon. in Sept.

Thanksgiving Day 4th Thurs. in Nov.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dec. 24 and 25

New Year's Eve Dec. 31.

Customs & Duties

Arriving in the United States

Contact the
U.S. Customs Service (inquiries, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20229, 202/354-1000

Electricity

The U.S. electrical standard is 110 volts/60 cycles AC. Visitors from other countries, traveling with dual-voltage appliances will not need a converter, but they will need a plug adapter. The standard U.S. electrical outlet takes a plug of two flat pins set parallel to one another.

Emergencies

Ambulance

,
Fire ,
Police (Phone: 911).

Hospital Emergency Rooms

The emergency room is open 24 hours a day at the
Columbia Grand Strand Regional Medical Center (809 82nd Pkwy., off U.S. 17, Myrtle Beach, 843/692-1000).

Georgetown Memorial Hospital

(606 Black River Rd., Georgetown, 843/527-7000).

Telephones

The country code for the United States is 1. The area code for South Carolina's coast is 843.

All U.S. telephone numbers consist of 10 digits - the three-digit area code, followed by a seven-digit local number. If you're calling a number from another area-code region, dial "1" then all 10 digits. For calls within the same local calling area, just dial the seven-digit number. A map of U.S. area codes is printed in the front of most local telephone directories.

Getting There

By Automobile

The popularity of the Grand Strand has soared, with an estimated 12 million visitors pouring in every year. It is easy to avoid traffic snarls if you travel at the right times of day and night. Plan your trip so that you will be driving U.S. Highway 501 into Myrtle Beach before 7 AM or after 7 PM Monday through Thursday, or in the middle of the day. Another rule of thumb is to stay off beach exit roads right after hotel checkout time on Saturdays and Sundays. You will be much better off to check out of your room, put the bags in the car and plan to spend time in town or on the beach until late afternoon.

An excellent highway system has recently been completed providing easy access from all directions and within the area.

If you're coming to the Grand Strand from eastern North Carolina, try Interstate 40 east or U.S. Highway 17 south to Wilmington, North Carolina. At Wilmington, head southbound on U.S. 17. Avoid rush hours.

From Charleston, take U.S. 17 north. It could be crowded at peak traffic times.

If you're traveling north on Interstate 95, take Exit 170 (clearly marked "Myrtle Beach"), near Florence. Take U.S. Highway 76 to U.S. 501 and follow it the rest of the way. Vacationers heading to North Strand beaches -- Little River, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive, Atlantic Beach and Windy Hill -- should veer to the left at Marion, cross two lanes of U.S. 501 and continue on U.S. 76. At Nichols, take a right onto S.C. Highway 9.

If you're traveling Interstate 20, follow the signs toward Florence. The road will merge into I-95 north and bypass Florence. Then take Exit 170, same as if you'd come the whole way on I-95.

If you're traveling south on I-95, take Exit 193 at Dillon. Head toward Latta, then take U.S. 501. If you're going to North Myrtle Beach, you can take S.C. 9 all the way from Dillon.

By Plane

In addition to services offered at the Myrtle Beach International and Grand Strand airports private planes and corporate jets can access the Conway-Horry County Airport, off U.S. Highway 378, outside Conway, (843) 397-9111. The airport is home of the North American Institute of Aviation, an international pilot training school.

Myrtle Beach International Airport

Between U.S. Hwy. 17 Bus. and U.S. Hwy. 17 Bypass, Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-1589

An $18-million renovation project expanded Myrtle Beach International Airport from 50,000 square feet to 120,000, and added an upper-level concourse. Two jetways now connect the planes to the terminal. Present plans are for Horry County to double the size of the existing airport, making it a regional terminal and adding a second runway.

Grand Strand Airport

33rd Ave. S. and Terminal Ave., North Myrtle Beach

(843) 272-5337

Horry County operates the Grand Strand Airport, where private aircraft and corporate jets can land. It's open 24 hours a day. You don't have to notify anyone that you're coming, but be aware that all services close for business at 10 PM.

You can leave your craft for several days while you enjoy the beach. The airport is about one block west of U.S. 17, pretty much in the heart of North Myrtle Beach.

Fixed-base operators at Grand Strand Airport are Shell Aviation and Ramp 66. Both services offer overnight tie-down for $5 per night. Fuel is also available.

By Bus

You should be able to get to Myrtle Beach on a Greyhound bus from just about any point in the United States. You'll find it easier during the summer when more buses are scheduled. The station, Oak Street and Seventh Avenue N., Myrtle Beach, is open from 8 AM to 1 PM and 3 to 7 PM. Call (843) 448-2471 or (800) 231-2222 for details.

By Train

Florence and Dillon are the two closest places Amtrak serves. The problem is you can't get to the Grand Strand from either of those cities unless you arrange for a vehicle or have friends who'll pick you up. If you decide to take the train to Florence or Dillon and then rent a car, there are two outlets that, with advance notice, can arrange for a vehicle to be at the station when you arrive

Greyhound bus service from Florence to Myrtle Beach has been discontinued.

By Boat

The most scenic and perhaps most peaceful way to get to the Grand Strand is by boat. The Intracoastal Waterway generally parallels the Atlantic Ocean for 1,200 miles from Boston to Key West, Florida.

In 1932, the Army Corps of Engineers dug a 20-mile canal, connecting Little River to the Waccamaw River. This portion goes right through the Grand Strand.

Boaters can tie up at Barefoot Landing for a day of shopping and dining and an evening of country music at the Alabama Theatre. There are numerous marinas along the waterway and the Waccamaw River where boaters can spend the night, eat in a nice restaurant, buy groceries or have their motors tuned up.

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All Children's Park

10th Ave. S. and Hollywood Dr., Surfside Beach

This innovative playground, designed and equipped to accommodate both able-bodied and disabled children has set a nationwide example.

All Children's Park features "standard" equipment modified to suit the singular needs of challenged youngsters, without separating them from their peers. Specially designed equipment includes a slide with tiered ramp along its side, mesh-net swings and an elevated tic-tac-toe board and sandbox. A landscaped, shaded area with picnic tables and an adult swing adjoins the park.

Inlet Point Plantation

5800 Little River Neck Rd., North Myrtle Beach

(843) 249-2989

Reservations are highly recommended because prices and hours vary greatly. 9 or older admitted.

Horseback beach and trail rides, carriage rides and a horse-lover's adventure on a private island all highlight this attraction for children of all ages.

Ride through hundreds of acres of fields and forests, over high rolling terrain, past salt marshes and along miles and miles of uninhabited barrier island beaches. This family-fun adventure offers a genuine alternative to the glitter and ping of the high-tech arcades and all-inclusive amusement park rides.

Alligator Adventure

Broadway At The Beach

U.S. Hwy. 17 N. Bypass at 21st Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

(843) 444-3200

On-site, permanent attractions include the fenced-in, padded, jungle-gym-filled Family Play Park to let your little ones run around in and work off some of that energy; the Carousel Park & Kiddie Rides section and pedal boats to get around the whole Broadway lake by your own leg power.

Butterfly Pavilion

Broadway at the Beach

Myrtle Beach

1-877-280-2751

Open daily. Call for hours.

The Children's Museum of South Carolina

2501 N. Kings Hwy., Myrtle Beach

(843) 946-9469

Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 4

Admission charged..

Adjacent to Myrtle Square Mall and next door to Office Depot, The Museum features exhibits such as: Calling All Colors Gallery, Bubble Play, Fairway Physics, Fossil Safari, Boating and Starlab. Ideal for children of all ages.

Dixie Stampede

N. Kings Hwy. at U.S. Hwy. 17 Bypass, Myrtle Beach

(843) 497-9700

Reservations needed.

Dixie Stampede is brought to you by the Dollywood Theme Park. For one all-inclusive admission, this unique dinner attraction serves Southern food, unlimited beverages and a show. Children will love the thrilling re-enactment of the North/South rivalry, complete with prancing horses, handsome heroes and fair maidens. The spectacular finale showcases 15,000 sparkling lights.

IMAX Discovery Theater

Broadway At The Beach, Celebrity Cir., Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-IMAX

There are shows every hour of every day. Operating hours vary from month to month. The theater is open 364 days every year. (closed Thanksgiving day

This amazing high-tech filming and projection process puts you in the middle of movie action in a way no ordinary screen presentation can. Titles include: Cosmic Void, Thrill Ride, Elephant Kingdom and Into the Deep.

Medieval Times

Fantasy Harbour, 2904 Fantasy Way, Myrtle Beach

(843) 236-8080

Admission includes dinner.

Imagine the year is 1093 A.D., and you are a noble guest of the Spanish kingdom's Royal Family. The Lord of the Castle has invited more than 1,000 of his friends, neighbors and foes to enjoy the sport and splendor of a royal tournament. As you step back in time nearly a millennium, you will feast on a hearty four-course meal. You'll marvel as spirited stallions perform intricate equestrian drills, and you'll gaze in awe as fearless knights compete in daring tournament games, jousting matches and sword fights.

Motion Master Moving Theater

917 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach

(843) 448-2331

cost per ride.

Hours are 10AM- 8 PM, depending on the volume of business ... sometimes until midnight during midsummer.

Motion Master is a theater that thrusts participants into film adventures, with seats that move in eight different directions. Seats are motion-synchronized with the giant-screen action for realism that's heart-pounding, nonstop fun. This adventure is really for child-age children the able-bodied (management describes the ride as "aggressive" and doesn't want anyone with any type of health condition to take any chances).

Ripley's Sea Aquarium

1110 Celebrity Circle

Broadway At The Beach between 21st and 29th Aves. N., Myrtle Beach

(843) 916-0888

9 - 8 Sunday through Thursday, 9 -9 Friday and Saturday.

This 74,000-square-foot aquarium is a world-class attraction. Travel a moving glide path

and get a close look at sharks, eels and stingrays and experience the glorious beauty of a living coral garden.

Five major portions of the aquarium explore different sea habitats. Dangerous Reef is centered around a shipwreck swarming with large sharks, poisonous predators, Caribbean reef fish and green moray eels. Rainbow Rock re-creates the Pacific Ocean to be home to more than 1,000 fish. The aquarium is viewed through two movie-screen sized windows. The Living Gallery is a Pacific environment. The inhabitants include the Pacific giant octopus, jellyfish and anemones. Rio Amazon showcases the piranha. At the Sea-For-Yourself Discovery Center, there is an opportunity to interact with some of the sea creatures.

Waccatee Zoological Farm

8500 Enterprise Rd. (in the Socastee Community), Myrtle Beach

(843) 650-8500

Admission charged.

10 - 5 every day, year round, excluding holidays.

For children and animal lovers, this is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to view many unusual animals including Bengal tigers.. Waccatee covers 500 acres that include pasture and woodlands for the zebras, buffalo and deer. In the zoo itself you can see the traditional lions, tigers, bears and monkeys : more than 100 species of animals. The walk is about a mile long and makes for a casual, educational afternoon.

Captain Dick's Educational Cruises

4123 U.S. Hwy. 17 Bus., Murrells Inlet

(843) 651-3676

If you're looking for a fun and unusual activity add "educational cruises" to your calendar. These anything-but-boring boat trips offer firsthand exposure to the vast array of plants and animals that make the salt marshes of Murrells Inlet their home. Narrated by a marine biologist, the cruises last up to two hours and are restricted to the calm waters of the inlet. Using crab traps, bottom dredges, plankton nets and rods and reels, a collection of marsh plants and animals is produced for up-close looks and touches. During the last portion of the trip, participants can fish for samples of inlet dwellers such as spot, croaker and pinfish. Cruises operate from late spring through early fall.

Captain Sandy's Plantation Tours and Ghost Stories

117 Harborwalk, Georgetown

(843) 527-4106

Capt. Sandy not only knows more ghost stories, folk history and local lore than anyone living, but also is the embodiment of Southern hospitality and quick friendship. One of America's greatest living storytellers, he is known worldwide for his wit, tall tales and ability to bring listeners into his world.

Three-hour plantation tours combine fascinating historical lore with wildlife tales as well as a ghost story or two. Shell-lovers can't miss the five-hour trip to undeveloped, off-the-beaten-path Shell Island, where the selection is far removed from anything you'd find on the mainland

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