Dreaming of The Grand Strand – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
by Stefanie Michaels
I’m a firm believer in listening to what your dreams have to say. And, if you’re like me and dream of the sea, there’s never not a good time for a beach getaway.
As the kids are back in school, and the tourists begin to thin out, the 60-mile stretch of Atlantic shoreline known as The Grand Strand featuring Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is a low-country staple for fall travel.
Actually, the region consists of fourteen diverse communities boasting over 2000 restaurants, 90 golf courses, and beach life at its finest. While there are plenty of luxe experiences to be enjoyed in The Grand Strand, you can keep it casual in this seaside dream.
Eat
If brunch is your jam, Blueberry’s Grill definitely needs to be on your list. As the grill’s name suggests, there are plenty of blueberry offerings, including a local favorite – blueberry hushpuppies. South Carolina Chef Ambassador Heidi Vukov welcomes you to Croissants Bistro and Bakery where locally sourced ingredients are her focus. Bananas Foster French Toast along with Shrimp and Grits are must-orders.
Head out for “Lobster and Jazz” on Tuesday and Thursday nights at The Brentwood – a 1900s Victorian home turned fine dining venue. Or, enjoy a night of drinks and music at Myrtle Beach’s premier piano bar – 88 Keys.
You may opt to take a short drive over to Pawley’s Island where Chef Adam Kirby specializes in elevated Southern cuisine at Bistro 217. Just watch your speed, as this charming small town enforces a 25-mph speed zone throughout its four-mile stretch of Ocean Highway.
Play
On your way to Pawley’s Island, stop off at Brookgreen Gardens – the nation’s largest collection of outdoor sculptures within a 551-acre botanical garden. Much smaller, but just as impressive, the Myrtle Beach Art Museum includes a collection of Southern works not to miss. Come October 7-8 and November 11-12 Art in the Park show and sale happens in Market Common – an outdoor shopping and dining destination.
Still, if you’re more into adventure, The Grand Strand doesn’t disappoint. Hone your surfing skills with Jack’s Surf Lessons, or go deep sea fishing with Voyager Fishing Charters.
Yet, if a day golfing at one of South Carolina’s best courses is more your speed, Dunes Golf and Beach Club is an excellent choice. Be on the lookout, as this champion golf course will be on the PGA tour next year. Of course, nothing beats toes in the sand with a sun-kissed nose beachside at one of The Grand Strand’s many resort options.
Stay
Beachside accommodations found along The Grand Strand with pampering at the core of offerings are indeed bountiful. The North Beach Resort and Villas boasts South Carolina’s world-class Cinzia Spa among other luxury amenities. The newly renovated ocean-side Kingston Resorts indulges its guests and outside visitors at Spa 33.
And, there’s a full menu of wellness services also at Hibiscus Spa within the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes. Finally, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes offers complete spa packages.
“We dream in colors borrowed from the seaside.” – Jordan Hoechlin
Did you know?
Myrtle Beach is home to the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a Minor League Baseball team. The Pelicans are a Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Chicago Cubs and play in the Carolina League.
The team’s name, “Pelicans,” is inspired by the state bird of South Carolina, the brown pelican. The franchise was founded in 1999 and plays its home games at the TicketReturn.com Field, located in Myrtle Beach’s Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex.
Attending a Myrtle Beach Pelicans game can be a fun and family-friendly way to enjoy America’s pastime while visiting this popular South Carolina destination.
