Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach • 6 Best Areas with Top Hotels
Are you looking for the best places where to stay in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina? Awesome!
I’ve been comparing all the areas and the best hotels in Myrtle Beach for your dream stay! I did all the planning, so now you can pick from top-notch options!
Flash news: the best area for first-timers is Central Myrtle Beach. You’ll have easy access to attractions and restaurants, as well as beautiful beaches! But listen, there are more areas for all tastes and budgets in this article!
Stay until the end to uncover the best beachfront hotels and Myrtle Beach apartments!
Keep in mind that the best hotels in the Grand Strand are highly sought after by travelers, so I recommend booking in advance to save yourself a spot!
If you are in a hurry
Here are the best hotels to stay in Myrtle Beach, all located in Central Myrtle Beach:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize all the areas where to stay in Myrtle Beach that I will be talking about in this post:
1. Central Myrtle Beach – where to stay for the first time
If this is your first time visiting Myrtle Beach, or If you want to be in the heart of it all, Central Myrtle Beach is ideal for you! Here you can enjoy the stunning beaches, shop at the thousand stores that North Ocean Blvd nestles, and eat in the best restaurants.
One of the most iconic things to do in this area is taking a walk on the Boardwalk and Promenade. The boardwalk delimits the Myrtle Beach Downtown area, it stretches from the 14th Avenue North to the 2nd Avenue Piers. It is pretty long – 1.2 miles (1.9 km) long!
Admire the Atlantic Ocean views from the boardwalk and stop by a restaurant for a drink or meal. For more fun you can head to Broadway at the Beach, a huge open air mall that nestles shops and attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium!
Oh, and if you are into wax museums Hollywood Wax Museum is only a short drive away from Broadway at the Beach! So get ready to snap some photos next to your favorite celebrities! While you are in the area, something the whole family will love is riding a go kart at Broadway Grand Prix, only a 3-minute walk away!
Did you know Myrtle Beach acquired its name because of all the Myrtle bushes you can find in the city?
You can find most of the big attractions in this area. All of them are great for kids and adults alike! For example, the SkyWheel of Myrtle Beach and the Family Kingdom Amusement Park! And if you are into mini golf, you cannot miss visiting Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf!
Definitely, this zone is best for those looking where to stay in Myrtle Beach without a car since you will have everything steps away from your hotel!
Below, you have top-rated hotels, the Myrtle Beach strip and surroundings for the perfect Central Myrtle Beach stay!
Luxury hotel
Stunning hotel for the best Myrtle Beach getaways! Admire the Atlantic Ocean views from the balcony of your room in one of the safest hotels in Myrtle Beach! The hotel offers rooms with full kitchens and a fitness center but makes sure you go for a swim in the indoor and outdoor pools before you go out for fun things to do in the area
Other accommodation in Central Myrtle Beach
Mid-Range
This hotel near Myrtle Beach boardwalk is perfect for couples and families! It comes with a swimming pool with slides!
Budget
Go for a dip in the indoor and outdoor pools of this hotel which has rooms for families and free parking spots
Airbnb
Relax in the hot tub of this accommodation that has beach access, 2 rooms, and offers free parking
If you are looking for Campgrounds & RV Resorts, I highly recommend Myrtle Beach KOA Resort. The campgrounds offer unique activities for guests, apart from having amazing onsite restaurants and swimming pools! This is the perfect place for family quality time!
Things to do in Central Myrtle Beach
2. North Myrtle Beach – where to stay with family
Located 9 miles (15 km) north of Myrtle Beach, this small town is super peaceful compared to Central Myrtle Beach since it’s not packed with tourists and it doesn’t have a big downtown area.
In this area, you can find mostly families and older generations. Making it perfect for families looking for the safest hotels in Myrtle Beach to stay in. And although Myrtle Beach is great for families in all neighborhoods, this area has the best hotels for kids!
Of course, one of the main things to do in the area with your family is enjoy a nice time playing and swimming at the beach or playing baseball at the many parks. In McLean Park, you can even spot beautiful birds and water-sliders!
You can also check out the Barefoot Landing shopping center. Apart from nestling restaurants, and clothing stores, they also have concert venues like the House of Blues, playgrounds with carousels, and other attractions like Alligator Adventure.
Did you know North Myrtle Beach is around 14 miles (22 km) long?
If you want to try something different, you can also spend time at the many mini-golf courses around. I personally recommend Professor Hacker’s Dinosaur Adventure Golf.
After all the fun, you will need to recharge your batteries! The good thing is that you will be spoiled with American diners to choose from. Some of the best in the area are Hoskins Restaurant and Dino’s House of Pancakes!
Below, you can check out the best kid-friendly places to stay in North Myrtle Beach. You can also check out our guide to the best waterpark hotels in Myrtle Beach!
Luxury hotel
This is one of the best family hotels in the area! Get a cup of tea and gather up by the fire pit with your families and enjoy the ocean views of this stunning luxury accommodation. This hotel offers multiple pools, a fitness center, and rooms with balconies. Relax in the hot tub or take the kids to play at the playground on-site!
Other accommodation options in North Myrtle Beach
Mid-Range
Relax all day long in the lazy river or in the pool of this hotel that has rooms for families and a fitness center
Budget
A nice budget option where to stay in Myrtle Beach that has 2 pools, a hot tub, and a children’s playground
Airbnb
Have a great family vacation staying at this Airbnb! It has 2 rooms and many amenities, including an indoor pool
Things to do in North Myrtle Beach
- Sunbathe all day long on North Myrtle Beach
- Take the kids out to play in McLean Park
- Eat a delicious brunch with the family at Dino’s House of Pancakes
- Have some family fun at Break Out Myrtle Beach Escape Room
- Play all day long at Professor Hacker’s Dinosaur Adventure Golf
3. The Market Common – where to stay for shopping
The Market Common is located 4 miles (6 km) southwest of Myrtle Beach, and just a 5 minutes drive from the Woodland Park residential area. The Market Common is filled with shops and restaurants. It is the perfect mix between fun and tranquility!
Still, this area is busy but quieter than central Myrtle Beach, and there are a lot of outdoor options around! Without a doubt, it is one of the best places to stay in Myrtle Beach for adults.
There is a wide range of things to do in Myrtle Beach for adults in this area. The Market Common is just a 10-minute car drive to Myrtle Beach International Airport, so super convenient if you want to be close. It is the perfect place to buy souvenirs, shop for some new clothes, and eat at all the amazing restaurants.
If you prefer spending time in nature, you can visit Myrtle Beach State Park. Did you know it opened in 1936 and was the first State Park to open in South Carolina?
To see art pieces from Southern artists, I suggest you visit the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. This museum is actually very cool and sometimes hosts events and pottery classes.
Like in the rest of Myrtle Beach, you will have some cool mini golf courses around, such as Jurassic Mini Golf and stunning beaches.
SAFETY TIP: locals recommend you park on streets with restaurants instead of the common market parking lot since you can get mugged there.
Luxury hotel
Enjoy a hot afternoon by the pool with a cocktail in your hand while you admire the ocean views at this luxury hotel that offers free parking and a fitness center. The accommodation has a center for business travelers. Relax in the lazy river and live a good life at Hampton Inn!
Other accommodation options in The Market Common
Mid-Range
Go on the waterslides in the outdoor pool or relax in the indoor pool of this hotel that has a children’s playground
Budget
Enjoy your stay in Myrtle Beach in this budget hotel that has an indoor pool with a lazy river and family suites
Airbnb
This apartment has a super cool design, a hot tub, and it offers guests access to swimming pools
Things to do in The Market Common
- Go shopping for souvenirs in The Market Common
- Spend a fun night playing at 810 Billiards & Bowling
- Visit the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum
- Take a stroll around Myrtle Beach State Park
4. Arcadian Shores – where to stay for golf
Arcadian Shores is definitely a great area for golf lovers and those who want to spend a tranquil time under the sun in a trendy neighborhood.
This modern residential area is surrounded by golf courses and is next to the luxurious neighborhood of Grande Dunes. Central Myrtle Beach is only a 15-minute away!
One of the main characters in the area is the golf courses, and without a doubt, the Grande Dunes Golf Club is the star of the show!
Apache Pier is the longest wooden pier on the East Coast and one of the main attractions in the area! The pier is filled with restaurants, and they usually host events!
The entertainment never stops in Myrtle Beach. During the day, you’ve got all the beach fun, golfing, and waterparks.
If you are traveling with your family, everyone will love spending time at Current Water Park! After the sunset you can watch a fire show at the Polynesian Fire Luau Dinner Theatre, while the most amazing meal!
PRO TIP: If you find anything around The Dunes which is next to Arcadian Shores, book it without a doubt the area is gorgeous!
Luxury hotel
This 5-star hotel is one of the best places to stay in the area! It comes with all the fantastic amenities luxury resorts come with. Starting with a beachfront location, a spa center with sauna, 4 onsite restaurants, and 2 swimming pools!
Other accommodation options in Arcadian Shores
Mid-Range
Perfect hotel for a relaxing stay. It features tennis courts, and there are many golf courses nearby!
Budget
Relax on the terrace of this hotel that has many amenities, including an indoor pool and free parking
Airbnb
Cute condo with ocean views. It can host 4 guests. It comes with a swimming pool and beach club amenities
Things to do in Arcadian Shores
- Have fun with the kids at the Currents Water Park at Embassy Suites
- Enjoy a fun night at the Polynesian Fire Luau Dinner Theater
- Play a round of golf at Grande Dunes Golf Club
- Have a drink at the trendy Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar
- Relax and enjoy live music at Apache Pier
5. Surfside Beach – where to stay in Myrtle Beach on a budget
Located on the south end of Myrtle Beach, just 8 miles (15 km) away from the Central area, Surfside Beach is a quiet area and budget-friendly location to look for accommodation in Myrtle Beach.
Whether you’re traveling with families or you’re a backpacker, this cute residential town is the perfect place for a laidback stay! The beach in this area will be your private paradise, you can go for long morning strolls by the ocean or play water sports.
One of the finest golf courses in the area is Tupelo Bay Golf Center, which is why you should try a relaxing golf session under the sun during your time in Surfside Beach! For Shopping I would head to the iconic Hudson’s Surfside Flea Market (map) to start a treasure hunting adventure.
I would definitely recommend stopping by River City Café. Their burgers slap, and the views from it are stunning!
I highly recommend you check out The Pier at Garden City, which is only a 7-minute drive away from Surfside Beach. It nestles restaurants and fun arcade games!
There are many cheap Myrtle Beach hotels located in Surfside Beach, so let’s see the best ones!
Luxury hotel
If you’re not in the mood to go to the beach, why not head to the pool or lazy river and spend the whole day there! This resort has suites with fully equipped kitchens, but it also offers a seasonal breakfast buffet and other amenities such as free DVD rentals.
Other accommodation options in Surfside Beach
budget
Although it’s a budget hotel, this accommodation has many amenities, including a pool, a bar, and a hot tub
Budget
Simple and cozy oceanfront hotel. It comes with a pool, free parking, and family rooms
Airbnb
Feel at home in this apartment that has a great design, a pool, and it offers beach access
Things to do in Surfside Beach
- Sunbathe and catch a sunset at Surfside Pier
- Play some golf at the Tupelo Bay Golf Center
- Take your friends to the Surfside Bowling Center
- Catch a motorcycle rally at the Spokes and Bones Saloon
6. Cherry Grove – best place to stay in Myrtle Beach for couples
Located 18 miles (30 km) away from Central Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove is a peaceful paradise with amazing things to do in Myrtle Beach for couples, especially for those who love spending time in nature and eating at cozy restaurants!
Go for a walk at the beach and walk to the historic 1950s Cherry Grove Pier (map), which was rebuilt after a hurricane hit it in 1989. Here, you can have a drink while enjoying the views with your pattern.
I highly suggest Heritage Shores Nature Preserve is one of the best attractions in this area. Featuring all sorts of birds and animals, the park is perfect for those romantic hikes in nature!
We’re still in Myrtle Beach, so golfing is still very present in these parts as well! Check out Tidewater Golf Course and then have a lovely meal at Roca Roja Cantina. Their mojitos and hibiscus enchiladas are a delight.
Check out the best Cherry Grove hotels below and our article for the best Jacuzzi suites in Myrtle Beach for a romantic stay!
Luxury hotel
This cozy condo is one of the best places to stay in Myrtle Beach for couples! It comes with a homey interior and offers privacy for a romantic getaway! The property features a kitchen for homemade meals. The ocean views are unbeatable, and there is an onsite pool at the building.
Other accommodation options in Cherry Grove
Mid-Range
The best of Cherry Grove beach hotels by the oceanfront! Relax with your partner by the pool, or the jacuzzi
Budget
Enjoy the ocean views from the comfort of your room at this budget resort that has 2 pools and a bar
Airbnb
This condo is located near the beach, and it has 2 rooms, a kitchen, and offers access to a rooftop pool
Things to do in Cherry Grove
- Explore the surroundings of the Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
- Enjoy the view at the Cherry Grove Pier
- Swim all day and sunbathe at Cherry Grove Point beach
- Enjoy some time in nature at the Russell Burgess Coastal Preserve
Best apartments for getaways in Myrtle Beach
If you want something a little more private, and have a special local feel. I’ve got you, fam!
I’ve gathered the best 4 apartments in Myrtle Beach to make your stay even more unforgettable!
- Vacation Condo: This beautiful condo is located a 20-minute car drive to central Myrtle Beach. This property is great for a relaxing stay. You can play tennis on site or adventure yourself and go on a hiking trip! The condo is super spacious and can host up to 9 guests.
- BIG Stylish Corner Oceanfront: What a gorgeous property located by the oceanfront! The condo is super modern and has everything you need for an amazing vacation. It can host up to 9 guests, making it perfect for a family stay at Cherry Grove!
- Tranquil 3BR Condo: Located a 10 minute car drive to Myrtle Beach, this 3 bedroom is surrounded by nature. If you are a golf lover, you’ll be happy to know this property is located near a golf course! There are 2 onsite pools and a barbecue area.
- Ocean Front Studio: Stay in a cozy studio near Market Common! The property features ocean views, a balcony, and a kitchenette. It can host 4 guests since it comes with a double bed and a sofa bed.
- Belle Vue: Located in Central Myrtle Beach, this beautiful apartment is located by the beachfront and features the most stunning Atlantic Ocean views. The accommodation is paw friendly, so you can enjoy beach time with your furry friends! The building comes with a pool!
- Absolute Beach (Pet Friendly): Enjoy a tranquil paradise in Central Myrtle Beach! The property is located steps away from Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf and by the beachfront! The apartment comes with a kitchen and it is pet friendly. It can host 6 guests AND your pets!
BONUS 1: Best luxury oceanfront hotels in Myrtle Beach
If you want to have a fabulous stay at a deluxe resort by the oceanfront, I’ve got you! I’ve just gathered the best luxury oceanfront resorts in Myrtle Beach for a royal stay.
If you want accommodation on the cheaper side, I’ve also added cheap oceanfront hotels at the end, still, very luxurious!
- Ocean Enclave by Hilton Grand Vacations – Get a cocktail and watch the sun setting over the ocean at the bar of this luxury resort. The suites have ceiling-to-floor windows, so you’ll be able to enjoy the ocean views perfectly from your bed!
- Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes – Wake up in the morning with the best sight of the ocean from the comfort of your room! This 5-star hotel 2 has swimming pools where you can hang out during the day, order lots of cocktails, and sunbathe on the lounges! This outstanding accommodation offers incredible complimentary amenities, you will feel like you are staying at all-inclusive resorts!
- Marina Inn at Grande Dunes – If you’re looking for a bit of intimacy during your holiday, you’ll be happy to know that this hotel offers a private beach area! Hit the pool during the day and relax in the hot tub after a busy day out!
- Sea Mystique Resort – If you are looking for the best Garden City hotels, this one will charm you! It features the most beautiful views of the ocean and comes with an onsite pool! It is one of the best cheap resorts in the area, offering great value for money!
Frequently asked questions about Myrtle Beach
🏖️ Which side of Myrtle Beach is nicer?
Both beaches are great for tourists, but Myrtle Beach is more crowded and attracts all kinds of people, and North Myrtle Beach is mostly for families and those who prefer a tranquil setting.
❓What side of Myrtle Beach is the boardwalk?
The Boardwalk is located in the Central Area of Myrtle Beach, and it’s perfect for long walks at sunset. If you want to be close to it you can stay at the Ocean 22 by Hilton Grand Vacations hotel.
🙅♀️ What are the bad parts of Myrtle Beach?
There aren’t any particularly bad areas of Myrtle Beach but the central and northern ends are the newer ones and have the best attractions.
💰 Where do rich people stay in Myrtle Beach?
🔒 What part of Myrtle Beach is the safest?
The north end of Myrtle Beach is generally considered the safest area.
🗺️ What is considered South Myrtle Beach?
South Myrtle Beach typically refers to the area south of 29th Avenue South and includes popular locations such as Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach, and Murrells Inlet.
💗 What makes Myrtle Beach a desired destination for travelers?
Myrtle Beach’s beautiful beaches, vibrant entertainment, and abundant attractions make it a highly sought-after destination for travelers.
⛔ Where not to stay in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is safe in general. It is recommended to be cautious in super crowded areas like Boulevard and south side Myrtle Beach can be a desolate and run-down area, so sometimes it is sketchy over there, and better to be extra cautious.
🕺 Where to stay in Myrtle Beach for a bachelor party?
Definitely, the best area to stay in Myrtle Beach for nightlife is Central Myrtle Beach. That is why you should stay here for a bachelor party!
🗓️ How many nights should you stay in Myrtle Beach?
You should stay at least for 3 days to be able to relax and enjoy the beaches and the nice restaurants around.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap for today, sweet angels! What an amazing location! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach!
I know there are tons of amazing hotel options here, but I’m going to give you some extra help and tell you which are my 2 favorite ones:
Just remember to book your favorite one in advance, that will save you some money, and you won’t have to worry about those last-minute booking issues.
Which of these areas where to stay in Myrtle Beach was your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
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