South’s resident traveler headed north to discover both sides of South Carolina’s dynamic Myrtle Beach.

In an attempt to put my beachside daydreams at bay, I drove down to Myrtle Beach, ready for any and everything the South Carolina city had to offer. What I found was a sunny spot that far exceeded my expectations. A bit touristy at times yes, but it was many other things too. I found there’s a secret side to the town where locals run away from the crowds and chain restaurants, opting for the underground shopping spots and miles and miles of pristine coastline. Following whatever whim arose, I fluctuated between both worlds: the underground and the mainstream, leaving me satisfied and largely impressed.

Lay of the Land

Just a little over four hours away, this buzzing beach community is a straight shot from Savannah. Take I-17 north then cruise northeast for a fairly easy drive. But, be prepared for slow traffic once you get about 40 miles from Myrtle Beach; the two lane roads are packed with tourists all summer.

Sitting amid the 60 miles of beaches that make up the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach has been a popular place to live and to visit since the early 1900s. The birthplace of Sports Illustrated Magazine, the beach is now home to approximately 22,759 people.

Murrells Inlet

Noted by locals as the place to go for its laidback bars and waterfront entertainment, the strip is the indie hang out for ages 25 and up.

Surfside Beach

Grab your long board and some beach towels for this popular place to surf and to relax amid the waves. It’s only 10 miles from Myrtle Beach. The break from the bustle and traffic makes this friendly locale worth looking into.

Pawley’s Island

Just 25 miles south of Myrtle Beach, Pawley’s Island is host to a plethora of kitschy boutiques and serene waterfront. It’s perfect for families and for those seeking a quiet retreat for shopping and lounging.

Where to Stay:

For a quaint place to kick up your heels, take a rest at Serendipity Inn on Myrtle Beach. A three-minute walk from the shore, this Spanish-influenced inn has a prime location at surprisingly low rates ($89 for a single room in peak season). A swimming pool and a scrumptious home-cooked breakfast (which was breakfast casserole, fresh fruit, coffee cake and muffins when I stayed) with owners Phill and Kay Mullins give this beachy hideaway a romantic-yet-relaxed aura.

A higher end option right on the beach is The Breakers Resort Myrtle Beach. Indulge in a Passion to Thailand treatment at the recently constructed Cinzia Spa after a long day in the sun or have the resort book you a tee time at one of the dozen or so award-winning golf courses in the area. Then lounge by the pool or the beach, just a few feet away from your ocean-view room. Kids can let their imaginations run wild at the Pirate Ship on site.

If you’re drawn to golf and shopping as much as you are the beach, dine and slumber in a condo or in a villa at Barefoot Resort and Golf. Located in North Myrtle Beach on Barefoot Landing, you’re just a short walk away from four golf courses, House of Blues Myrtle Beach and over 150 shops. Grab a few friends and rent a four-bedroom luxury villa right beside the water. Prices start at $199- when you divide it by eight it’s a real steal!

To read more about Myrtle Beach check out South Magazine’s August September Issue!