One Day in The Grand StrandAAA editors suggest these activities for a great short vacation experience. Those staying in the area for a longer visit can access a 3-day itinerary at AAA.com/TripCanvas.
Morning Fuel up on flapjacks. Pancake houses are almost as plentiful as golf courses on The Grand Strand, but try Donald's Pancake House on North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach if you're looking for where to eat.
All beaches are not created equal. With a fishing pier, maritime forest, nature center, picnic shelters and restrooms, Myrtle Beach State Park is an option for anyone willing to pay a nominal per diem admission. However, families with teens might prefer the availability of water sports, arcades, shops, attractions and food places near the boardwalk in Myrtle Beach's historic district.
Afternoon Shake the sand out of your shoes and head over to Broadway at the Beach for an afternoon of one-stop shopping and dining. Not your typical mall, this village-like promenade surrounding a huge, man-made lake is the place to go to stroll outdoors, feed seagulls and buy beachwear, Birkenstock shoes and Brighton accessories.
For lunch duck into a familiar pizza, steak or seafood eatery or nearby restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. Amusements include the Charles Bach Wonders Theatre and Ripley's Aquarium .
Evening Plan on an early dinner at Thoroughbreds Chophouse & Seafood Grille , an upscale equestrian-themed restaurant in Myrtle Beach, before taking in a live variety show. You can't go wrong with The Carolina Opry, The Strand's longest running show, at The Calvin Gilmore Theater . If you've seen it, choose “One—The New Show,” at Alabama Theatre in North Myrtle Beach . Both shows have won numerous tourism industry awards.
Cap off the night with a little dancing at a beach club. Shag dancing is especially popular in the Ocean Drive district of North Myrtle Beach, where it originated in the 1940s and later enjoyed a revival after being named the state dance. Slip on a pair leather-sole loafers and show off your shuffle at Fat Harold's Beach Club , or join the gallery of spectators wishing they had the smooth moves characteristic of this retro dance style.
The Grand Strand, SC
AAA’s in-person hotel evaluations are unscheduled to ensure the inspector has an experience similar to that of members. To pass inspection, all hotels must meet the same rigorous standards for cleanliness, comfort and hospitality. These hotels receive a AAA Diamond designation that tells members what type of experience to expect.
Members save up to 10% and earn Honors points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Hampton Inn by Hilton Murrells Inlet512 Courtfield Dr. Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Book NowMembers save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel2101 N Oak St. Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Book NowMembers save 5% or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy™ points when booking AAA/CAA rates!
Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes8400 Costa Verde Dr. Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Book NowSave 5% or more when booking AAA/CAA rates plus earn bonus points with the AAA Preferred™ BWR Program
Best Western Plus Myrtle Beach @Intracoastal9551 N Kings Hwy. Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Book NowAs a AAA member, you'll save even more. Your AAA Travel Agent will check to see if AAA Vacations is combinable with other AAA member benefits, plus cruise and tour past passenger discounts and benefits.