Trying to choose between North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach for your next vacation can make for a difficult decision. This article compares their beaches, nightlife, dining, and shopping options to help you decide which one best fits your needs.
Both destinations offer a slice of beautiful Atlantic coastline and a variety of attractions, but their atmospheres and amenities differ significantly. Understanding these differences can help you select the perfect spot for your next stay in the Myrtle Beach area.
Best Beaches
Winner: North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach offers a variety of beautiful, family-friendly Atlantic beaches. From the lively Cherry Grove Beach to the serene Crescent Beach, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. The iconic Cherry Grove Pier also provides fishing and scenic views.
Myrtle Beach, meanwhile, is known for its bustling beaches along the Grand Strand. The wide, sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports like jet skiing and parasailing, but can become crowded.
In the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach, Ocean Boulevard and the Boardwalk are lined with numerous oceanfront resorts and hotels, creating an energetic atmosphere that attracts tourists seeking to be at the center of the action.
Best Nightlife
Winner: Myrtle Beach
Nightlife is often a highlight of a vacation, and both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach have unique offerings. Myrtle Beach’s vibrant nightlife attracts a younger crowd with energetic entertainment. Venues like The Bowery host concerts and events, while local bars feature live music and themed parties, making it a hotspot for night-long partying.
In contrast, North Myrtle Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for families. The nightlife here focuses on relaxation, with venues like Fat Harold’s Beach Club offering dance events for all age groups, creating a fun, family-friendly environment.
Best Restaurants
Winner: North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach is a food lover’s paradise with a fair share of top-notch dining options. Greg Norman Australian Grille offers an upscale dining experience featuring fresh seafood and steaks, complemented by stunning waterfront views. Filet’s Waterfront is another favorite restaurant, known for its delicious seafood dishes like Calabash-style shrimp and crab legs.
With that said, Myrtle Beach also offers a vibrant dining scene with a wide range of diverse options for tourists to enjoy. The Sea Captain’s House, known for its fresh seafood and oceanfront dining, is a must-visit any day.
Myrtle Beach also boasts hundreds of restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, ensuring there is something to satisfy every palate in this coastal city.
Best Shopping
Winner: Myrtle Beach
Shopping enthusiasts have much to explore in both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach. Popular shopping destinations include Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, which features a variety of shops and dining options. Specialty stores in Barefoot Landing, like Ron Jon Surf Shop, offer unique beach-themed merchandise. Elsewhere, the Everything Under the Sun flea market provides an eclectic shopping experience, making it one of the best places to explore in South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach proper offers a dynamic and more varied shopping experience. Coastal Grand Mall offers a traditional indoor mall experience, featuring major department stores such as Belk and Dillard’s.
For an upscale, outdoor village feel, The Market Common features high-end boutiques and a stylish atmosphere. Broadway at the Beach is a large entertainment and retail complex with numerous specialty shops, while Tanger Outlets (with two locations) provide discounted designer brands. The iconic Gay Dolphin Gift Cove on the oceanfront is a must-visit for unique souvenirs.
Which Beach Will You Choose?
Our winner: North Myrtle Beach
Both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. North Myrtle Beach is ideal for those seeking a quieter, family-friendly environment with serene beaches, upscale dining, and relaxed shopping experiences. In contrast, Myrtle Beach is ideal for those who thrive in a bustling, energetic atmosphere, featuring vibrant beaches, lively nightlife, and diverse dining options.
Ultimately, the best destination for your vacation depends on what you’re looking for in a beach getaway. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach have something special to offer.
No matter which destination you choose, book your stay with Together Resorts to experience the best of what the area has to offer.
