North Myrtle Beach Guide And Information

Some of America's top beaches have given rise to large metropolitan areas, springing up around the beach.  Not so with North Myrtle Beach. If you want a small community feel to your beach trip, then North Myrtle Beach might be the destination for you.  This is a small South Carolina town that has only around 15,000 residents.  In addition to its coastline, this beach town has two notable claims to fame.  First, "the shag," which is South Carolina's state dance, was born here, and it's also where "Wheel of Fortune"'s Vanna White grew up.

Before 1968, North Myrtle Beach was comprised mostly of the smaller towns of Ocean Drive Beach, Cherry Grove Beach, Windy Hill Beach, and Crescent Beach.  In 1968, these areas merged and North Myrtle Beach was incorporated.

North Myrtle Beach is considered to be a part of the "Grand Strand."  However, visitors soon see that its personality is completely distinct from its big sister.  North Myrtle Beach has more of a family feel to it, and less of a transient atmosphere than the Grand Strand overall has.

If you visit North Myrtle Beach, you'll find that it's best to get around with your own vehicle, or perhaps rent a car.  There are taxis available, but they tend to be more expensive than most cities. 

The most important thing you'll want to see when you visit North Myrtle Beach is -- of course -- the beach itself.  You can spend most of the day here, enjoying the ocean, picnics, volleyball and more.  But if you get tired of the sand and the sea, there are other things you can do. For instance:

• Myrtle Beach Ghost Walk is something that most visitors enjoy.  This is a tour-by-lantern-light, conducted by staff storytellers.  As you travel and see the coastal swamp at Barefoot Landing, these storytellers will captivate your group's attention with numerous creepy stories.  Tickets are $17.95, or $12.95 for kids.

• Ghosts & Legends Theatre.  This theatre is the only lace that features exclusively shows about Myrtle Beach.  Tickets are $8.95 or $5.95 for kids.

• Miscellaneous activities available include water-sports, fishing on charter boats, jet-ski rentals, banana-boats, para-sailing, casino cruises (offered by Southern Elegance fleet and SunCruz Casino), dinner cruises aboard the Barefoot Princess), miniature golf, plenty of shopping, and more.

• And when it's time to eat, there's a wide variety from which to choose.  For instance, one of the most popular and highly-rated restaurants in the area is SeaBlue Tapas Bar and Restaurant.  Then over in Barefoot Landing is a local favorite for Italian cuisine, Umberto's Pittsburgh Italian Trattoria.  If you like a little music with some outstanding eating, you can check out Marini's Continental Dining and Piano Bar.  Or Logan's Roadhouse will appeal to those who prefer something a bit more casual.

Almost everything you'll find at North Myrtle Beach feels laid-back and peaceful.  This is an outstanding vacation destination for those who don't want to head to a bustling metropolis, but like to experience an ocean vacation punctuated by small-town charm.