5 Hidden Gems to Explore in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is known to many as the best destination because it offers 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches with stunning views. Did you know there is so much more to explore in the area that doesn’t include visiting the surf and sand? Myrtle Beach is a great location to stay in a vacation rental where you can be close to some of the fun. We’d like to share some of our best-kept hidden gems on the Grand Strand.

Waites Island

Did you know about 1000 acres of undeveloped land north of North Myrtle Beach? Waites Island is a hidden gem in the Myrtle Beach area as it is hidden in the plain sight of visitors. You can only reach this island via horseback, but you can kayak through the marshland to get by water. This land was donated to CCU to help preserve nature and beauty and use it for research. Some wildlife on the island is blue herons, osprey, dolphins, and loggerhead sea turtles. Schedule a tour to experience this unique island with the family.

Atalaya Castle

Archway entrance to Atalaya at Hungtinton Beach State Park in South Carolina.

Another hidden secret to many visitors of Myrtle Beach is the Atalaya Castle. This castle is in Huntington Beach State Park near Murrells Inlet. It was first built in the 1930s as a winter home to the famous sculptor Anna Huntington and her husband, Archer. Now you can explore this Great Depression-era estate in the park. Now that it’s a national landmark in the Myrtle Beach area, this is one that you can’t miss visiting on your next trip.

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

Have you ever visited the Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens before? If not, let us share this unique hidden gem with you. Here you’ll be able to walk along the Intracoastal Waterway with a stunning view surrounded by nature. This park is located just north of North Myrtle Beach in Little River and is one you don’t want to miss. They offer boardwalk trails for bringing the whole family, including your pup, to walk through natural wetlands. What a perfect area to do a scavenger hunt with the kids on your next trip to North Myrtle Beach.

Heritage Shores Nature Preserve

view of the marsh in Cherry Grove South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is filled with a lot of nature to offer locals and visitors, including Heritage Shores Nature Preserve. This park is in Cherry Grove and is a great place to find some extra hidden gems. Some of the things you’ll find at this park are about seven acres filled with walking trails, boardwalks, and observation decks that are accessible. Be sure to bring your camera or binoculars as they have extensive wildlife that can be seen, such as birds, fish, plants, and other animals.

Horseback Riding

The final hidden gem we wanted to share is horseback riding with Inlet Point Plantation. Here you’ll be able to find several different tours that you can take, from private island rides to waterway trail rides. They can be a perfect surprise for the kids as they get to see and explore the beach differently. And the best thing about visiting Inlet Point Plantation is they offer horseback tours year-round!

There are so many hidden gems in the Myrtle Beach area, but we had to share these with you. If you’re still looking for a great place to stay, North Beach Vacations still has many vacation rentals available this year. We can’t wait to hear if you found a hidden gem in the area on your next trip!

What to Pack on a Beach Vacation

Do you have a family vacation to North Myrtle Beach coming soon but aren’t sure what to pack? Have no fear, as we have all the details on what to pack and what to leave at home. Staying in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will keep you and your family never wanting to go back home again. Let’s look below at what items you should pack on your next vacation to the beach.

Checklist

We know that packing for the whole family can be overwhelming, but we have a checklist to help keep you organized. Check out each checklist below:

Woman packing suitcase with luggage for a beach trip

Clothes & Accessories

  • Underwear
  • PJ’s
  • Coverups (Swimsuit)
  • Jeans
  • Shorts
  • T-shirts
  • Tank Tops
  • Dresses
  • Casual Shorts/Pants
  • Socks
  • Waterproof Day Bag
  • Swimsuits
  • Beach Bag
  • Tennis Shoes
  • Sandals/Flip-Flops
  • Water Shoes
  • Hats
  • Sunglasses
  • Lightweight Jacket

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Hand Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Disposable Wipes/Diapers
  • Hairbrush
  • Hairdryer/Curling Iron
  • Makeup/Remover
  • Face Cleaner
  • Body Wash
  • Dental Floss
  • Contact Lens/Solution
  • Sunscreen/Aloe Vera
  • Moisturizer
  • Feminine-hygiene products
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Medications/Vitamins
  • First Aid Kit

Beach Gear

  • Beach Towels
  • Beach Umbrella
  • Beach Blanket
  • Beach Chairs
  • Book or Kindle
  • Cooler
  • Portable Speaker
  • Beach Toys
  • Beach Games
  • Reusable Tumblers
  • Inflatable Floats/Boogie Board
  • Snorkel Gear/Goggles
  • Beach Safe
  • Beach Wagon

Items for Vacation Rental (Doesn’t include food items)

  • Pack ‘n Play (for babies)
  • Stuffed Animals or Blankets
  • Pillows (sometimes your own is best)
  • Nightlights
  • Sound Machine
  • Bed rail
  • Laundry Detergent/Dryer Sheets
  • Dish Soap
  • Dishwasher Tablets
  • Disinfectant Wipes
  • Non-Stick Spray/Oil
  • Plastic Wrap/Foil
  • Sponge
  • Storage Containers
  • Trash Bags
  • Ziplock Bags/Reusable Bags

Miscellaneous Items

  • Books/Magazines
  • Maps/Directions
  • Reservation Information/Confirmation
  • Insurance Cards
  • Emergency Contacts
  • Copies of Important Documents
  • Camera/SD Cards/Chargers
  • Tablets & Laptops
  • Pen & Paper
  • Movies
  • Chargers for Electronics
  • Snacks
  • Sleep Travel Kit
  • Headphones
  • Tissues
  • Cash/ATM/Credit Cards
  • List of Medications

There are many other things that you could pack but we wanted to start out with just the basics. If you are now ready to book that North Myrtle Beach vacation to stay with us, give us a call. We can’t wait to see you and your family this coming up season!

3 Reasons to Plan your Spring Break Vacation Today

Spring will be here before you know it, which means it will be more time to spend outdoors in the warm sun. Spring break will be here soon and it’s time to start planning for the fun. Staying in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun and action of the beach. Let’s look below at three reasons why you should plan your spring break vacation today.  

Warm Weather & Fewer Crowds

3 Reasons to Plan your Spring Break Vacation Today

One of the best things about vacationing to North Myrtle Beach during the springtime is the weather is fantastic. While it won’t be as warm as it is compared to the summer months, you can still sit on the beach and enjoy many things. Some of the fun things you can want are the pools and the waves; even though they may be a little chilly, it’s nothing like snow and ice you may have now. The crowd levels will be less, too, compared to our busier season of the summer months, so feeling like you have the whole beach to yourselves is just what we hope you would enjoy!

Fun in the Sun

Another excellent reason for planning your spring break vacation today is that you’ll be able to enjoy some of the great things you can do in the sun. And no, we’re not talking about the sand and sun on the beach. Some of the great things that you and your family can enjoy this spring break are the Family Kingdom, Alligator Adventure, and The Track. A few other things that may be different to check out is Top Golf, Dave & Busters and Sky Zone. There are so many different options that you can choose from while staying in North Myrtle Beach that allows you and your family to enjoy time together out on the town.

Shopping

3 Reasons to Plan your Spring Break Vacation Today

Shopping has to be one of the best things about vacationing in the area during spring break. You will be able to head on over to one of the two outlet malls located on the Grand Strand to the few malls and many other fun beach shops. If you’re looking for a good deal this spring on some beautiful swimsuits or other fun beach equipment, you’ll be able to find just what you’re looking for. North Myrtle Beach also has many different areas that allow you to shop at Barefoot Landing and nearby Broadway at the Beach. The options are endless when you vacation to North Myrtle Beach any time of the year.

While there are so many other reasons as to why you should vacation to North Myrtle Beach this spring break, we had to share these with you. If you haven’t booked or planned your spring break vacation with the family to North Myrtle Beach, give us a call today. We can’t wait to see you and the family this spring as you enjoy some time away from life at home!

January North Myrtle Beach Events

January North Myrtle Beach Events

Are you and your family coming to the North Myrtle Beach area this January? If the answer is yes, then we have to tell you all about the fun events that are happening in the area. North Myrtle Beach is a great place to experience the area the winter and the fun things happening. Let’s look below at a few of the events that are happening in January in North Myrtle Beach.

Early Myrtle Beach & The War Years Trolley Tour

January North Myrtle Beach Events

Have you ever experienced what Myrtle Beach was like during World War II or even earlier than that? If you haven’t, then we must tell you about the Early Myrtle Beach & The War Years Trolley Tour that is happening on January 4th beginning at 10:00 am. Here you and your family will be able to climb aboard a trolley that will take you through some of Myrtle Beach’s oldest areas. You will also visit the Pine Lakes Country Club and Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum all while learning some history too. After the trolley you will be able to enjoy some of the shops and dining that happen to be at The Market Common. What a fun day to spend with the family all while learning more about Myrtle Beach!

South Carolina Restaurant Week at Tidewater Grill & Bistro

Beginning on January 12th through 22nd your family will be able to participate in Restaurant Week in South Carolina. You can visit both locations of Tidewater Grill and Bistro where you’ll be able to enjoy a 3-Course Chef’s Tasting Menu. The price per person is $50 but you will receive the following choices:

  • First Course: Baked Crab & Artichoke Dip, Fried Grouper Bites and Thai Style Fried Shrimp
  • Second Course: Chicken Alfredo, Blackened Atlantic Salmon, Prime Bone-in Pork Chop, Calabash Style Fried Shrimp and Shrimp Scampi
  • Third Course: Key Lime Pie, New York Style Cheesecake with Strawberries or Chocolate Brownie A La Mode

This can be a great date lunch or a great way to experience some of the food around town that you won’t want to miss.

2023 Grand Strand Boat & Sportsman Expo

January North Myrtle Beach Events

This year bring the family to the 2023 Grand Strand Boat & Sportsman Expo at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. If you have ever considered purchasing a boat for your family to use on your next vacation or to use at home, this is the event for you! Not only will you be able to check out some pretty amazing boats, but you can also check out other outdoor equipment like kayaks, paddle boards and more. Admission into the event is $10 per adult, $8 per senior, $5 for children & Free for children under 3. The hours of the event are from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on Friday; 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturday and 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday. Don’t miss this fun event with the family on your next vacation from January 6th to January 8th, 2023!

While there are many other fun events that are happening on the Grand Strand in January, these are the few we wanted to share with you. If you haven’t booked your next vacation to stay in one of our North Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope that your family has a wonderful and happy New Year!

Holiday Events Your Family Can't Miss in North Myrtle Beach

Are you and your family coming to North Myrtle Beach for the holidays? There are plenty of holiday events that your family can take advantage of this year to help celebrate the holiday season. And if you happen to be staying in one of our Beach vacation rentals, you will be close to many of the festive things to do. With all the festive things that are happening around Myrtle Beach this year, you and your family will have an all-access pass to all the fun holiday events. 

Brookgreen Gardens – Nights of a Thousand Candles

Holiday Events Your Family Can't Miss in North Myrtle Beach

This event is a holiday highlight to many locals on the Grand Stands in Murrells Inlet. You family can head over to Brookgreen Gardens and see it come to life among the soft glow of more than 5,000 candles and sparkling lights. Walk along the paths with a cup of hot cider, listen to the sounds of hand bells ringing and carolers singing. Come celebrate the Nights of a Thousand Candles with your friends and family to help celebrate the holiday season this year. The event happens every Thursday through Sunday from now until January, 1, 2023 from 4:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

Exciting Christmas Shows

Watching Christmas shows during the month of December can be one of the best things to do in North Myrtle Beach during the holidays. If you are looking for a Dinner Show, we suggest heading to Pirates Voyage for a Christmas show. We know of two best shows that pull out all the stops on their holiday productions. The two that are known as the best on the Grand Stand are Carolina Opry Christmas and The South’s Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theater. Don’t miss either one of these shows this holiday season!

The Greatest Christmas Light Show

Holiday Events Your Family Can't Miss in North Myrtle Beach

Come celebrate the Christmas season at the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex for The Great Christmas Light Show. Open from now until December 30, 2022 your family can drive through the park to see the sparkling and dazzling lights on display. There will be around 20 different animated figures and different holiday scenes that come to life. And when you have finished driving through the light show, go visit Santa’s Village for some extra special fun. You can enjoy some village treats, ride on Santa’s Express Train, slip & slide down Santa’s Super Slide and Ice Skate the night away. To help end the night, let the kids visit with Santa!

Shopping

In case you haven’t finished your shopping up before the holidays hit, then we know the perfect places you can do some shopping. You and your family can head over to Barefoot Landing to get in some shopping while enjoying some holiday cheer. You will be able to enjoy the festive decorations they have there all while you are shopping. For more shopping there are the malls, Tanger Outlets and Broadway at the Beach. So many different options to choose from when you visit North Myrtle Beach. 

There are many other festive events your family can enjoy while you vacation in North Myrtle Beach. With so many different events and activities to choose from we thought these would be a good start. The holidays are almost here, so book your next North Myrtle Beach getaway today in one of our Beach vacation rentals. We at Beachcomber Vacations hopes that your family enjoys the holidays this year!

Vacation this Thanksgiving in One of Our North Myrtle Beach Rentals

Vacation this Thanksgiving in One of Our North Myrtle Beach Rentals

Are you and your family looking to get out of town for Thanksgiving this year? If you are, then allow us at North Beach Vacations to share why you should come to North Myrtle Beach. Staying in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to spend quality time together. Let’s look below as to why you should vacation to North Myrtle Beach this Thanksgiving.

Family Space

Vacation this Thanksgiving in One of Our North Myrtle Beach Rentals

Staying in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will allow you and your family to have plenty of space to enjoy. We have plenty of homes that can sleep up to four people to homes that sleep up to 25 people. That means that you can invite the whole family, including grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins. All of the homes have plenty of bathrooms because we understand that this can become an issue with teens. The living space in the houses is large enough that everyone will have somewhere to sit. Think of how unforgettable your vacation will be with having room for the whole family!

The Kitchen

Another excellent reason to stay in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals is the large kitchen. When you stay in a hotel, you usually don’t have a full kitchen to cook your Thanksgiving dinner. You will find that our vacation rentals have full-sized kitchens where you can cook and bake in them. They have all the necessary pots and pans, as well as the dishes. Your family can go grocery shopping once you arrive and pick up all the ingredients for dinner. Cook your Thanksgiving Day dinner together in your vacation rental this year to start a new tradition.

Amenities

Vacation this Thanksgiving in One of Our North Myrtle Beach Rentals

Staying in one of our vacation rentals will allow your family to take advantage of some of the other amenities they offer. If you’d like to bring your pet along with you, then check out our pet-friendly vacation rentals. We have many homes that offer you different views from marsh view to oceanfront. Depending on where you stay along the Grand Strand, you will be close to shopping, restaurants, and more. Just sit back and enjoy your Thanksgiving Day vacation this year in North Myrtle Beach with the family.

Black Friday Deals

Anytime you visit North Myrtle Beach during Thanksgiving, you can do a little shopping on Black Friday. While many stores are closed on the holiday, you’ll notice that some great deals hit around the Grand Strand on Friday. North Myrtle Beach offers many different options for shopping around town, from the malls to the outlets. You may also find great deals at local stores to bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir perfect for that someone you know. Check the paper on Wednesday for those Black Friday ads you don’t want to miss!

There are many other reasons you should take your vacation to North Myrtle Beach this Thanksgiving; we wanted to share them with you. If you haven’t booked your stay yet in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope that you and your family have a great Thanksgiving this year!

Don’t Miss These October Events in North Myrtle Beach

Don't Miss These October Events in North Myrtle Beach

Are you coming to North Myrtle Beach this month and are looking for some fun and exciting things to do? Have no fear because there are plenty of things for you to do. October is a fun month to come to the North Myrtle Beach area as there are so many things for you and your family to do. And when staying in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals, you will be near it all. Let’s look at what events are happening this month in the area.

Flashlight Fridays

Don't Miss These October Events in North Myrtle Beach

Are you looking to have a little fun on Fridays with the family? If so, then look no further as you can come to Thompson Farm every Friday night. Here you will be able to see if you can make it through the largest corn maze in the state which can be a little challenging. And when you have completed the maze, then why not join in for a fun Halloween movie each Friday night in October from 5 pm to 11 pm. Admission is $12 per person but there will be refreshments for you to enjoy like coffee, hot cider & s’mores.

Brookgreen Gardens Harvest Home Weekend Festival

On Saturday, October 8th come with your family for a fun weekend at Brookgreen Gardens’ Harvest Home Festival. Here you will be able to take part in building a scarecrow, take a wagon hay ride, learn to spin wool, live entertainment and so much more! This festival is including with your garden admission and runs from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm on October 8th & October 9th, 2022. Think of all the fun memories that you and your family will make while attending this festival.

Halloween Trick or Treating

Don't Miss These October Events in North Myrtle Beach

If you are vacationing during the week of Halloween, then you are coming for the fun. On Monday, October 31st you can go trick or treating at several locations. If you’d like to stay close to North Myrtle Beach, then heading to Barefoot Landing is going to be where you want to be. Beginning at 5 pm you and your family are invited to visit shops and restaurants to go trick or treating ending at 7 pm. If you’d like to try another great location we suggest Broadway at the Beach to go get treats for the kids.

These are just a few of the events happening in the Myrtle Beach area for the month of October, but there are plenty for you and your family to enjoy. If you are still searching for a North Myrtle Beach vacation rental, then check out our availability. We hope to see you this month and take part of the activities happening during your vacation.

Getaway to Myrtle Beach this Labor Day Weekend

Are you looking to sneak away to the beach this Labor Day weekend? If the answer is yes, allow us to share a few things you can do in the area. Staying with us in our Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the action. Let’s peek at what you and your family can do this Labor Day weekend on the Grand Strand.

Waterpark Days

little girl on water slide at waterpark, water, wearing goggles,

One of the best things about taking a getaway to Myrtle Beach during the first weekend of September is the waterparks. The temps for the area are still in the 90’s, and it’s a great way that your family can connect. Head on over to Myrtle Waves, Wild Water & Waves, or Splashes Waterpark for the day. There is something for everyone in the family to get to do and enjoy, including a relaxing lazy river. Don’t end summer without heading to a waterpark in the Myrtle Beach area this Labor Day weekend.

It’s Show Time

If you’re looking for something a little different to do with the family, we might suggest seeing a show. Some great shows are happening this weekend on the Grand Strand. Head over to Alabama Theatre to see “The One” Show or one of the shows at The Carolina Opry. If you’re looking for something to do that includes dinner, we suggest either Pirates Voyage (located right next to The Carolina Opry) or Medieval Times. No matter what show you decide on, the family will surely enjoy your trip to the area.

Beach Day

Boy and girl playing on the beach, Sand, Water, Blue sky, white clouds, beach pails, sand toys

Another great option you and your family can do this Labor Day weekend is to spend your time on the beach. Bring your umbrella, beach chairs, towels, coolers, book, sunglasses, and more, and relax for a bit. Let the kids play in the sand together making sandcastles or letting them find the biggest shell to take home. If you want to let them bring home a little sand from the beach to remember their trip, then be sure to pack a small jar or a Ziplock bag before you leave home. Think of all the new memories you can make while relaxing and enjoy your time in the sun.

There are many other fun things that you can do this Labor Day weekend, but we wanted to share these with you. Staying in one of our Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will allow your family to make new memories. We hope to see you and your family this Labor Day weekend as you relax and enjoy your time at the beach!

3 Events You Can’t Miss this 4th of July

Do you and your family have a planned vacation to North Myrtle Beach for the 4th of July? If the answer is yes, let us share three events you can’t miss this year. Staying with us in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals will keep you and your family close to the fun. Let’s look below at what those three events are this 4th of July that you can’t miss.

13th Annual Independence Day 5K

runners warming up for an outdoor race

Join this year’s 13th Annual Independence Day 5K happening over at The Market Commons in Myrtle Beach. This year start your day with a nice 3.1 run before you indulge in all those goodies to celebrate the holiday. The race will begin at 7:00 am, and participants are encouraged to come in festive costumes or attire. Don’t forget to register any later than Saturday, July 2nd at 6:00 am to be able to join in this family fun event.

4th of July Extravaganza

Another great way to celebrate the 4th of July is to head over to Broadway at the Beach this year. Start your evening out by having a quick dinner at one of the many restaurants to choose from. Next, check out the live entertainment that will be happening around the boardwalk, and be sure to grab a seat to watch the fireworks. Fireworks will begin promptly at 10:00 pm, and it’s a celebration like you’ve never experienced before. Think of the fun that the whole family will enjoy this 4th of July!

Fireworks Around Town

Spectacular Firework display  fireworks on 4th July Independence Day

Spending the 4th of July at the beach has its perks. With many different locations around the Grand Strand, you can pick where you want to watch the fireworks show. Beginning at 9:30, Cherry Grove Pier is where you can grab a seat near the Beach and watch the show in the sky. At 10:00 pm, you can choose from Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach, MarshWalk, and Second Avenue Pier to catch a glimpse of their fireworks. No matter where you stay in the area, we promise that the sky will be glowing for all to see.

Many other fun events are happening this 4th of July, but we wanted to share these with you. If you haven’t booked your next stay with us in one of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals, now is the time. We hope you and your family have a wonderful and safe 4th of July!

Don’t Miss These Fun June Activities in North Myrtle Beach

Don’t Miss These Fun June Activities in North Myrtle Beach

Summer will be here sooner than we think and it means that your summer vacation will begin soon too. When you stay with us at North Beach Vacations, you and your family will be close to where all the action is. June is a great month to take your family vacation since the weather will be nice and you can fill those days with sunshine and sand. But why not take advantage of some of the other fun activities that are happening around town while you are on vacation. Let’s see what kind of fun activities your family can enjoy in the North Myrtle Beach area below.

Take the Family Out to a Ball Game

Don’t Miss These Fun June Activities in North Myrtle Beach

Taking your family to see the Myrtle Beach Pelicans play a game or two this summer can be a highlight of your vacation. While their baseball season is in full swing now, you don’t want to miss a single second of the game. The tickets to see each game will cost around $12 per person and we can guarantee that you will have a great seat. Many of the June home games will include playing against the Fayetteville Woodpeckers and the Fredericksburg Nationals. Don’t miss this fun activity with the family as you cheer on our hometown team the Pelicans!

Carolina Country Music Festival

Don’t Miss These Fun June Activities in North Myrtle Beach

Don’t miss the Carolina Country Music Festival that is bringing more than 30 of country’s hottest starts to Myrtle Beach. This 3-day event is every June and it will not disappoint. Beginning on Thursday, June 9th and ending on Sunday, June 12th is where you and your family can come and enjoy some of the best singers in the industry. Chase Rice will be helping kick off the festival on Thursday, June 9th. Some of the other amazing acts will be Luke Bryan, Gabby Barrett and many more. What a fun event that you and the family can come and rock out to some amazing music! Get your tickets today and spend the weekend with us.

There are many other fun things that you and the family can do while in the North Myrtle Beach area, but these we thought you’d enjoy more. If you still haven’t made your North Myrtle Beach vacation reservations yet, now is the time. We can’t wait to see you and the family as you get the summer started here in the North Myrtle Beach area!