Myrtle Beach, located in South Carolina, is one of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast. The city is split into four distinct sections, each offering visitors a variety of attractions, amenities, and accommodations. From the beautiful oceanfront views and luxurious resorts of North Myrtle Beach to the world-class entertainment locales of Central Myrtle Beach to the live music venues and dining spots of South Myrtle Beach, there’s something for everyone in this family-friendly vacation spot.
What are the 4 sections of Myrtle beach?
The 4 sections of Myrtle Beach are:
North Myrtle Beach
The northernmost section of Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular visitor locations. It's home to some of Myrtle Beach’s most luxurious resorts, as well as a vast array of restaurants, shopping centers, and entertainment venues. North Myrtle Beach is also home to several golf courses and some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. Visitors to North Myrtle Beach can find countless activities to keep them busy throughout their stay, including water sports, deep sea fishing charters, amusement parks, and more. Accommodations in North Myrtle Beach range from sprawling resorts with spacious rooms and oceanfront views to cozy beach cottages.
Where to visit
Here are some of the must-visit attractions for your next trip to North Myrtle Beach:
Barefoot Landing: This multi-level shopping center is one of North Myrtle Beach's most popular destinations. With over 50 shops and restaurants, as well as live entertainment and amusements, there's something for everyone at Barefoot Landing. You can find everything from beach apparel and souvenirs to fine jewelry and boutique items in this outdoor shopping oasis.
Tanger Outlets: This luxurious outlet mall features more than 100 stores offering deep discounts on designer labels and top brands. With major retailers such as Nike, Gap, Coach, and Kate Spade, you won't want to leave without taking home some great deals.
Alligator Adventure: Get ready to be immersed in the wonders of nature at Alligator Adventure. This family-friendly attraction has an incredible collection of reptiles and other animals, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Spend a day checking out alligators, crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and other exotic animals from around the world.
House of Blues: It's time to rock out at the House of Blues! This world-class venue offers live music by some of the best artists in the industry, as well as a full-service restaurant and bar. Enjoy an evening filled with toe-tapping tunes and great grub at one of North Myrtle Beach's premier performance spots.
South Myrtle Beach
South Myrtle Beach is the home of the iconic Boardwalk district. Here visitors can find a wide variety of live music venues and restaurants offering a taste of local cuisine. While the nightlife options in South Myrtle Beach are vibrant, this section also offers plenty of daytime activities for families, like arcades, souvenir shops, boat tours, and more. Accommodations range from all-inclusive resorts and beachfront condos to budget-friendly motels near the Boardwalk district.
Here is a look at some of the most popular places to visit when you’re in town.
Family Kingdom Amusement Park: Family Kingdom Amusement Park is one of the most popular attractions in South Myrtle Beach and offers the ultimate family fun experience. The park boasts over 30 rides, including the historic Swamberg Frittilizer, a vintage wooden roller coaster; a giant ferris wheel; and two water rides. The park also features an arcade, mini golf, go-karts, and other entertainment options.
Myrtle Beach State Park: Located just minutes from the oceanfront, Myrtle Beach State Park offers a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features some of the most pristine beaches and nature trails in the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and kayaking, as well as marine life watching at the nearby salt marsh.
The Market Common: Located in the heart of South Myrtle Beach, The Market Common offers a unique shopping and dining experience. The district features over 30 retail stores, restaurants and entertainment venues, along with a movie theater. The area also hosts special events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for upcoming events before visiting.
Coastal Grand Mall: Coastal Grand Mall is one of South Myrtle Beach’s most popular shopping destinations, with over 140 specialty stores, department stores and eateries. The mall also houses a movie theater complex and has an ice-skating rink during the winter months. A holiday light show is also held here each year during the holiday season.
Central Myrtle Beach
Central Myrtle Beach is where visitors can find some of the city’s most popular amusement parks and water parks. Here you will also find plenty of family-friendly attractions and dining options, including Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex and Barefoot Landing shopping complex. Central Myrtle Beach’s accommodations are varied too; they range from budget-friendly hotels to upscale resorts with full amenities.
Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Central Myrtle Beach.
Broadway at the Beach: Broadway at the Beach is one of the most popular places to shop in Myrtle Beach. There are lots of attractions and fun things to do like going to Margaritaville, Ripley's Aquarium, Hard Rock Cafe, WonderWorks and Legends in Concert. The Avenue is great for a night out at Crocodile Rocks Dueling Pianos. Do not miss out on Dave & Buster's, Wahlburgers and Broadway Grand Prix which are all new additions.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Myrtle Beach's Boardwalk was built in the 1930s and has a long history. In 1954, Hurricane Hazel destroyed the wooden Boardwalk and it was replaced with a concrete one. In 2006, the town voted to pay $6.4 million dollars to upgrade it. It took three years to complete, then the new Boardwalk opened in 2010. Today, you can listen to music, ride the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, take a walk by the ocean, and watch fireworks shows in the summer.
The Grand Strand
The Grand Strand is a stretch of shoreline extending from Little River south to Georgetown County. This area offers visitors relaxation and recreation opportunities, including some of the best golf courses in the Carolinas. Along with golf courses, The Grand Strand provides plenty of entertainment for beach lovers, such as fishing charters, parasailing trips, and dolphin cruises. The Grand Strand’s accommodation choices include vacation homes directly on the beach and various hotels and resorts.
Conclusion
No matter which section you choose to stay in while visiting Myrtle Beach, you’re sure to find plenty of activities and attractions that appeal to all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation experience, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone!
