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10 Best Places to Stay in North Myrtle Beach

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When most people think of the Grand Strand, they instantly think of Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach’s more famous southern neighbor. And while they’re both among the best beaches in South Carolina, North Myrtle Beach is where you’ll want to go for a quieter, more tranquil getaway, although there are still plenty of great things to do in town.

If you’re planning a great escape to North Myrtle Beach, you’ll quickly see that there are many incredible places that you can stay. From oceanfront views to lazy rivers, or just something comfortable, North Myrtle Beach has so many great options for an amazing vacation. 

Whether you want a beachfront resort, a pet friendly hotel, or a cozy condo, here are some of the best places to stay when you visit North Myrtle Beach.

1. Beach Cove Resort: Oceanfront Fun with All the Amenities

  • Highlights: Lazy river, oceanfront condos, poolside bar, hot tub
  • Ideal for: Families, couples, beach lovers

Located right on South Ocean Boulevard, Beach Cove Resort perfectly blends relaxation and fun. Imagine waking up in a spacious oceanfront condo with the sea breeze greeting you each morning. 

Spend your day lounging by the outdoor pool, drifting along the lazy river, or indulging in the variety of on-site dining options. And when the sun sets, unwind in one of the hot tubs or enjoy a drink at the poolside bar while taking in the ocean view. 

It’s an ideal spot for families and couples looking to make unforgettable memories.

2. Avista Resort: A Beachfront Escape with Modern Comforts

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/PQK
  • Highlights: Indoor and outdoor pools, lazy river, oceanfront location
  • Ideal for: Families, couples, groups

If you’re looking for a mix of modern comforts and beachfront serenity, Avista Resort is calling your name. 

Famous for its beautiful oceanfront location and contemporary accommodations, this resort offers one- to three-bedroom condos complete with ocean views, free Wi-Fi, and full kitchens, everything you need for a comfortable stay. Spend your days enjoying the multiple pools, floating along the lazy river, or relaxing in the indoor hot tub. 

Plus, with easy access to attractions like Cherry Grove Pier, adventure is just around the corner.

3. North Beach Resort & Villas: Luxury on the Grand Strand

  • Highlights: Spa, lagoon pool, oceanfront location, fitness center
  • Ideal for: Couples, families, luxury seekers

For those looking for luxury, North Beach Resort & Villas on Ocean Boulevard is a standout option. The property offers spacious villas and condos with beautiful Atlantic Ocean views. From its lagoon-style pool to the on-site spa and fitness center, North Beach Resort & Villas caters to those seeking a more upscale experience. 

This resort is also within walking distance of Windy Hill Beach, making it perfect for guests who love to explore.

4. Seaside Resort: Cozy Oceanfront Condos with All the Essentials

  • Highlights: Indoor pool, lazy river, oceanfront condos, full kitchens
  • Ideal for: Families, small groups, budget-conscious travelers

Seaside Resort provides a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with oceanfront condos equipped with full kitchens and balconies overlooking the Atlantic. This resort is ideal for those wanting a low-key beach vacation without sacrificing amenities. 

Guests can enjoy the indoor pool, lazy river, and easy access to North Myrtle Beach’s popular spots, including Cherry Grove Beach and Ocean Drive Beach.

5. Ocean Creek Resort: A Family Favorite Near Barefoot Landing

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/PQK
  • Highlights: Proximity to Barefoot Landing, outdoor pool, private beach area
  • Ideal for: Families, groups, anyone looking for easy access to entertainment

Even though it’s not within the North Myrtle Beach limits, Ocean Creek Resort is close enough to make the list of great places to stay. This oceanfront resort is located near Barefoot Landing which gives guests easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment. 

You’ll find options for both hotel rooms and condo rentals and Ocean Creek Resort has plenty of choices for different group sizes. The property features an outdoor pool, an incredible dining area, and a private beach area for a peaceful escape.

6. Prince Resort: Steps Away from Cherry Grove Pier

  • Highlights: Rooftop pool, on-site restaurant, close to Cherry Grove Pier
  • Ideal for: Fishing lovers, families, beach enthusiasts

For those who love a bit of local charm, Prince Resort sits right by Cherry Grove Pier, one of North Myrtle Beach’s iconic attractions. Prince Resort offers oceanfront views, a rooftop pool, and condos with full kitchens and balconies. 

Given the close proximity to the fishing pier, this location is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. It’s also great for those who prefer to enjoy a meal or drink without leaving the property.

7. Hampton Inn North Myrtle Beach-Harbourgate: Pet-Friendly and Convenient

  • Highlights: Pet-friendly, free breakfast, close to Cherry Grove Beach
  • Ideal for: Pet owners, budget-conscious travelers, convenience seekers

If you need a place that’s pet friendly, the Hampton Inn North Myrtle Beach-Harbourgate is going to be a great choice for you. This comfortable hotel has easy beach access, free Wi-Fi, and a hot breakfast each morning. 

Located near Cherry Grove Beach, the hotel is close to shops, restaurants, and boat rentals. This makes it easy to explore North Myrtle Beach with your furry friend in tow.

8. Wyndham Ocean Boulevard: Oceanfront Rentals with Resort-Style Amenities

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/PQK
  • Highlights: Oceanfront rentals, multiple pools, lazy river, fitness center
  • Ideal for: Families, groups, extended stays

Wyndham Ocean Boulevard offers resort-style vacation rentals with the comforts of home and stunning oceanfront views. With multiple pools, a lazy river, and a fitness center, Wyndham caters to guests looking for both relaxation and fun. 

Located on Ocean Boulevard, this resort is within walking distance of North Myrtle Beach’s shops and dining spots. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a quiet getaway, Wyndham Ocean Boulevard is a top choice.

9. Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center: Family-Friendly Fun

  • Highlights: Multiple pools, lazy river, beach access, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Ideal for: Families, groups, vacationers looking for on-site activities

Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center is a family-friendly resort in North Myrtle Beach. When you stay here you’ll find that it has a great choice of amenities for all ages. The property has several pools as well as a lazy river and direct access to the beach. 

This resort is a great place that makes sure the whole family is entertained. The spacious condos come with kitchenettes, and the property is close to family attractions in the area, making Bay Watch a great choice for vacationers.

10. Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort: Cozy Beachfront Comfort

  • Highlights: Free breakfast, outdoor pool, oceanfront rooms
  • Ideal for: Budget travelers, couples, anyone wanting a beach getaway

Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort offers cozy, affordable beachfront comfort right in North Myrtle Beach. You and your family will love the beautiful oceanfront rooms, a fitness center, and even free breakfast. The swimming pool and easy beach access make sure that it’s a popular choice for those who want to relax without breaking the bank. 

Plus, with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable vacation.

Key Takeaways for the Best Places to Stay in North Myrtle Beach

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/MarynaG

Don’t have time to read the full article, here’s a quick recap of the best places to stay in North Myrtle Beach. 

  • Beach Cove Resort and Avista Resort are top picks for their extensive amenities, including lazy rivers and hot tubs.
  • Ocean Creek Resort and North Beach Resort & Villas provide a luxurious experience, ideal for guests looking for a touch of elegance and easy access to entertainment.
  • Seaside Resort and Prince Resort offer cozy oceanfront options, perfect for a relaxed beach getaway.
  • Hampton Inn North Myrtle Beach-Harbourgate is a solid choice for pet owners, with convenient beach access and free breakfast.
  • Bay Watch Resort and Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort are great family-friendly spots with budget-friendly rates.

Where Will You Stay in North Myrtle Beach?

Each of these places to stay in North Myrtle Beach provides a unique beach experience, from luxury villas to cozy oceanfront rooms. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, pet-friendly options, or a peaceful beach retreat, North Myrtle Beach has the perfect spot to make your vacation unforgettable. 

Pack your bags, choose your perfect stay, and get ready to enjoy the best of North Myrtle Beach!

12 Best Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach

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North Myrtle Beach is a quiet, beach-side community just up-beach, past Crescent Beach, from the quintessential spring break destination, Myrtle Beach. It marks the beginning of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile string of South Carolina beaches that runs from the fishing pier at Cherry Grove Pier down to Pawley’s Island. This strip of golden sand is lined with restaurants and resorts.

Looking for the best places to stay in North Myrtle Beach? Browse through beachfront properties to find the right location, amenities, and price point for you and your family. 

Community-minded, there are also a plethora of North Myrtle Beach attractions. There are award-winning golf courses and mini-golf adventures. There are summer regattas on the Intracoastal Waterway, movies in the park, a Hollywood Wax Museum, and a weekly Farmer’s Market. Holidays are celebrated throughout the year in Carolina style with July 4th fireworks and a Christmas light show.

The calming atmosphere of where shore meets sand is perfect for an impromptu relaxing weekend. It’s also an ideal choice for a week-long, family-friendly vacation packed with activities and new experiences. In fact, North Myrtle Beach is one of the best beaches in South Carolina, with some of the Grand Strand’s best things to do and see.

Let’s dive right into the specifics so you can start planning your dream vacation to North Myrtle Beach.

1. Play a Round or Two of Golf

The ping of the perfect swing. A hole-in-one with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. The award-winning golf courses surrounding North Myrtle Beach (NMB) are a golf mecca and were designed by golfing greats. Sun and surf with a gentle (sometimes) sea-fueled cross breeze tempt linksmen of all levels.

A few of the best courses to play nine at are:

  • The Surf Golf and Beach Club
  • Azalea Sands Golf Club
  • Beechwood Golf Club
  • Eagle Nest Golf Club
  • Dunes Golf and Beach Club

2. Movies@McClean Park

Grab a beach blanket and your favorite movie buddy. Each Friday, roughly 15 minutes past sunset, from June to October, the small city turns out for some beachy live entertainment -Movies@McClean Park on Oak Drive.

There is something for everyone: Kids’ movies and old classics are on the schedule. Movies@McClean Park is a popular free event for families, a unique date night, or just a relaxing evening under the South Carolina stars.

3. Show Off Your Precision Skills with a Round of Miniature Golf

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Andrei Armiagov

Take a break from the links and play through with pirates and dinosaurs. North Myrtle Beach’s treasure of miniature golf locations, some championship-rated, have waterfalls, Tyrannosaurus Rex, video games, and golf-adventure fare.

And each year, thousands descend on North Myrtle Beach for the U.S. Pro Mini Golf Association’s Master Tournament. There are almost a dozen putt-putt golf locations throughout the city but a few of our favorites include:

  • Hawaiian Rumble
  • Black Pearl Golf
  • Miniature Bay Miniature Golf
  • Mayday Golf
  • Professor Hacker’s Dinosaur Golf
  • Lost Treasure Golf
  • Aloha Golf
  • Molten Mountain

4. OD Pavilion Amusement Park

There is no better combination than an intimate fair and the beach. The oceanfront entertainment, the OD Pavilion in North Myrtle Beach, ticks both boxes.

The attraction is centrally located within walking distance of the micro-neighborhood of Main Street’s Ocean Drive Beach. A stop on Ocean Boulevard (OD), admission to the pier is free. The rides, however, require tickets to access the Ferris wheel, small roller coasters, or any of the kid’s rides.

5. Enjoy Fireworks all Year Long

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/RoJo Images

There are many ways to honor North Myrtle Beach; one of the most popular is to turn the night sky into a canvas of light and color. Watching is easy. Pull up a beach chair or float on the Intracoastal waterway for the best view of the fireworks over the water.

Regular firework displays are scheduled on holidays and weekly throughout the summer.

  • Barefoot Landing (Mondays)
  • Broadway at the Beach (Tuesday and Friday) – just note that this location is farther south in Myrtle Beach but still just a quick drive away.
  • Downtown – 4th of July

6. Go Kneeboarding in Little River

For vacationers looking for a resort-style water park, there are many roughly five miles south in the Myrtle Beach area. Landlubbers can visit Shark Wake Park, located in the North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex in and on Little River, SC.

This river-based entertainment offers kneeboarding, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. A jungle gym of cabled water floats and a ropes course is available to all ages. And safety instructors are present at all times.

Just note that this is only available seasonally and they do close in winter.

7. Escape the Sand & Take a Hike

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/Joanne Dale

The marine ecosystem and saltwater marshes surrounding provide many opportunities to hike paved walking paths and explore the seven acres of Heritage Shores or plan a relaxing day of fishing or crabbing at dog-friendly Russell Burgess State Park. 

A few of our other favorite places to take a long walk are:

  • Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
  • Ingram Dunes Nature Preserve
  • Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve
  • Murrell’s Inlet Marsh Walk

8. Try All the Watersports

It is absolutely necessary, when visiting the shore, to try at least one new outdoor activity. North Myrtle Beach has a handful of water experiences fun and safe for the whole family.

Most area outfitters are seaside and have watercraft, including small boats, kayaks, SUP, jet skis, and parasail rentals. They offer instruction and guided charters. 

Although we know a lot of your trip will be spent lounging on the beach and splashing in the waves, if you need a little more excitement, there’s a number of watersports you can try out.

9. Spend a Day at a Museum or Aquarium

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/StacieStauffSmith

Ripley’s Aquarium is located further south in Myrtle Beach, but the northern community is home to Alligator Adventure. The reptilian zoo is adjacent to Barfoot Landing and home to an extensive collection of animals: lizards, turtles, snakes, flamingos, and a rare albino alligator. The wildlife park also houses big cats and ostriches.

The city also hosts several specialized museums, definitely choices of some of the best things to do in North Myrtle Beach.

Spend a day indoors as a break from the sand and surf and instead visit:

  • Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum
  • The Horry Museum and L. W. Paul Living History Farm
  • Wheels of Yesteryear, a private car collection

10. Enjoy Live Music at the House of Blues

Even though North Myrtle Beach is referred to as a quieter community, that doesn’t mean that it is boring. The city has a relatively lively nightlife and is known for its outdoor live music spots and artistic performances. 

It is also home to a House of Blues restaurant and an intimate concert venue. Freestanding just off 48th Street between Barefoot Resort Bridge and Intracoastal Waterway, the House of Blues is active year-round, with tickets available online and at the door.

In addition to live music, the area includes performing arts. Just around the corner is the community playhouse, The Alabama Theatre. In the area, The Carolina Opry is a renowned performance arts center whose productions combine music, comedy, and dance for a two-hour extravaganza.

11. Go Wine-Tasting

If sweet wines are at the top of your list, try a few hours tasting the creations at Duplin Winery. Located off of Barefoot Resort Bridge and Intracoastal Waterway, a rustic building houses tastings, shops, and live music. 

Part of the Coastal Winery region, Duplin works primarily with a muscadine grape, a vine that dates back to circa 1584. A few of their most famous wines are:

  • Summertime Stout
  • Coastal Shag
  • Cotton Candy Wines
  • Hatteras Red

12. Eat, Drink, & Be Merry in North Myrtle Beach

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com/PQK

It is almost impossible to list all of the restaurants, bars, pubs, ice cream, and dessert spots but there are a few that are worth the time and effort. 

Blueberry’s Grill is a popular brunch spot, and Lulu’s North Myrtle Beach hamburger joint with a seaside vibe that sits on the Lewis’ Pond across the Intracoastal Waterway from Barefoot Queen, riverboat cruises. 

A little inland just off of Conway Street are three Joe-centric eateries: Native Joe’s Scoop and Grind provides ice cream and coffee, while Hamburger Joe’s and Joe’s Bar & Grill cover a crafted lunch or upscale dinner.

Here are a few other places to grab a pint, lunch, or both:

  • Crooked Hammock Brewery
  • Duplin Winery
  • Flynn’s Irish Tavern
  • Bennett’s Calabash Seafood Buffet

Enjoy These Best Things to Do in North Myrtle Beach

On many beach vacations, non-water activities are limited. But in South Carolina, the options for fun are endless and can be planned like a dolphin cruise or left as a spontaneous day of wine tasting and shopping at Barefoot Landing. 

Whatever your interests, something on the long list of the best things to do in North Myrtle Beach will whet your appetite for adventure.