Love it or hate it, Myrtle Beach, S.C., is a major hot spot for North American sun-seekers. Enjoy hot dog stands, palm-lined beaches and plenty of kitschy ways to spend the day.
Where I’d Wake Up
Marriott
In the most luxurious beach villas you can find on this part of the Atlantic coast. After a lengthy breakfast on your private terrace overlooking the ocean, make the most of the onsite spa and swimming pool — and delicious room service coffee. The beach is minutes away, so once you’re done go for a walk along the shore before you hit the sun lounge.
Spend the Morning
Myrtle Waves Water Park
If you have spent enough time already soaking up the sun and feeling a little sleepy, a trip to a water park will wake you up. Discover your inner surfer dude in the wave pool or go down the “volcano,” one of the world’s tallest tubular slides. When its time to relax again, head to the lazy river for a slow water ride around the park.
Where I’d Lunch
Collector’s Café Gallery and Coffee House
Tuck into the tastiest best black bean or jumbo crab cakes, followed by pan-fried scallops. Whether you have white chocolate cake and Tahitian vanilla frappuccino in the coffee house or tuck into the Cuban black bean cakes in the dining area, it ticks all the boxes.
Spend the Afternoon
Sea Fishing and Ripley’s Aquarium
One of the grandest aquariums in the U.S., expect to be surrounded by 10-foot sharks — happily confined by a massive tank. Stop by the Rio Amazon exhibit where you’ll see piranhas and other brightly coloured fish from the Pacific. Try sea fishing in the afternoon. Captain Ricky Long organizes trips for up to 12 people.
Where I’d Have Dinner
Frank’s & Frank’s Outback
The chef draws in flavours from all across the globe, creating an eclectic atmosphere and attracting diners in search of something a little more out there. For more intimacy, choose to sit nearer the candle lit back. Order anything from the wood-fired pizzas to the seared tuna.
How I’d Spend the Night
Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede
The Dixie Stampede is for those that want total immersion into the night’s follies. Owned by Dolly Parton, the show is all about singing southern belles, jumping horses, rodeos and pirouettes along with lots of food (think barbecue ribs and buttered corn on the cob). If you’re early, grab a daiquiri drink at the Dixie Belle Salon.
