South Carolina, in the USA, is known for its beautiful oceanfront neighbourhoods, and Myrtle Beach is up there with the very best of them. Attracting over 19 million visitors each year, the area is famed for its sun-soaked beaches and expansive theme parks, but it has far more to offer besides its busy promenade and most famed attractions.
If you’re seeking an alluring destination for your summer getaway, then Myrtle Beach promises to pack out your itinerary with cultural experiences, gastronomic adventures and plenty of fun pursuits – although if relaxing is more your style, then it’s the perfect place for that, too.
There are numerous Myrtle Beach house rentals in the area, catering to families, couples, or adventurous solo travellers, so you’ll have little trouble finding luxurious accommodation to serve as your base, and they offer a more exclusive and private alternative to the usual hotels.
Once you’ve done that, here are the things you won’t want to miss out on during your stay.
A cultural tapestry woven through time: Myrtle Beach’s rich heritage
The cultural legacy of Myrtle Beach is as varied and rich as the fresh seafood platters its restaurants are known for (which are a must try, whilst we’re on the topic). The Waccamaw people lived here for generations, and left their stamp on the land in the form of shell middens and a great regard for the natural world. Their heritage is blended with the 18th-century Southern charm brought by European settlers, which is still evident in their welcoming demeanour and easy-going vibe. This intriguing fusion of inspirations creates the ideal environment for a genuinely unique cultural encounter in Myrtle Beach that you simply won’t experience anywhere else.
Exploring artistic expressions
As we’ve touched upon, there’s much more to Myrtle Beach than just theme parks and gift shops – starting with a plethora of museums and art galleries to peruse at your leisure.
The Myrtle Beach History Museum, in the historic Myrtle Beach Pavilion, is the perfect spot for history enthusiasts to explore the area’s past, while the Midway Historic Complex provides a window into the Gullah Geechee community’s rich cultural legacy. This historically significant site offers visitors insight into the unusual lives and traditions of this distinguished African American group through its beautifully preserved structures and educational displays, depicting everyday life, agriculture, and crafts, in addition to faithfully replicated residences.
A delightful feast for the senses: Gourmet treats
Myrtle Beach tantalises the senses with a range of appealing dining options. The fresh seafood here is simply next-level, and the mouth-watering shrimp platters and warm bowls of Lowcountry boil served by restaurants all along the coast are essential eating if you’re a foodie.
You can also taste classic Carolina dishes like buttermilk biscuits and creamy grits, or try pulled pork grilled and coated in a hot sauce, for an authentic culinary experience.
Venturing beyond the beach
Visiting the Brookgreen Gardens, a sculpture garden with over 2,000 pieces of art set against a breath-taking background, is a great way to while away a morning or afternoon during your time in Myrtle Beach.
The SkyWheel is a spectacular attraction for thrill-seekers, offering breath-taking views of the coastline and the colourful cityscape below. Huntington Beach State Park provides a chance for those who appreciate the natural world to discover thriving ecosystems, while hikers can follow its walking trails through marine forests, and birdwatchers can enjoy seeing a wide variety of bird species inside the park.
A place to go in every season
Myrtle Beach’s charms aren’t limited to the summer months; in the springtime, the city holds lively events and is decked out with beautiful flowers, while autumn’s arrival sees the leaves turn myriad colours and temperatures remain at a comfortable level.
Numerous annual events, like the Carolina Opry Christmas Special and Myrtle Beach Bike Week, are designed to satisfy the varied interests of each guest, guaranteeing one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experiences.
Family fun for all ages
Myrtle Beach boasts a wide range of attractions and activities for families to enjoy, including well-known theme parks like Carowinds and Myrtle Beach Ocean Park, which offer a host of adrenaline-rush rides and exciting shows. At water parks like Myrtle Waves, the wave pools, lazy rivers, and cool water slides are the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day.
The bottom line
Whether you’re seeking the pleasure of leisurely beachcombing, the rush of thrilling amusement park rides, or an exciting tour through the area’s rich cultural tapestry, Myrtle Beach has something for everyone.
Finding a cosy and practical rental property to serve as your home away from home will ensure you have the best possible time in Myrtle Beach, offering a comfortable and luxurious space from which to experience all that’s on offer here and leave with priceless memories that will last a lifetime.
