Planning your first Myrtle Beach trip starts with understanding the different areas along the Grand Strand. Each part of the coast offers a different experience, from busy entertainment districts to quieter beaches and waterfront dining.
Choosing the right location can also help you narrow down Myrtle Beach vacation rentals and build an itinerary that works for your group. Here is a closer look at several popular areas to consider.
Central Myrtle Beach
Central Myrtle Beach puts you close to many of the attractions first-time visitors want to experience. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk runs for about 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, with restaurants, shops, entertainment, and the SkyWheel nearby.
This area is a strong choice for groups that want an active vacation with plenty happening nearby. Broadway at the Beach, downtown attractions, entertainment venues, and restaurants give you a long list of things to do in Myrtle Beach without traveling far.
For a calmer setting that remains close to central attractions, consider the Golden Mile. This largely residential stretch between 31st and 52nd Avenues North is known for wide beaches and fewer oceanfront hotels.
North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach is a separate city made up of four historic beach communities: Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill. Together, they cover nine miles of coastline.
The area works well for groups that want beach time paired with shopping, dining, golf, and entertainment. Cherry Grove is known for its beach and pier, while Ocean Drive has strong ties to Carolina Shag dancing.
Barefoot Landing is another major draw. This waterfront complex features shopping, restaurants, entertainment, special events, and boardwalk-style walkways surrounding a 27-acre lake.
South Myrtle Beach
The southern end of Myrtle Beach can be a good fit for travelers who want easy access to outdoor recreation while staying within reach of the city’s main attractions.
Myrtle Beach State Park is one highlight. Visitors can enjoy the beach, fishing, hiking, biking, and nature activities at the park. The Market Common area also adds shopping, restaurants, and community spaces to this part of town.
Groups searching for the perfect Myrtle Beach house rental may appreciate this area’s mix of recreation and convenient access to other parts of the Grand Strand.
Murrells Inlet
Travel farther south, and you will reach Murrells Inlet, a historic fishing community known for seafood, salt marsh scenery, and outdoor activities.
The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is one of the area’s best-known destinations. This half-mile waterfront boardwalk follows a natural saltwater estuary and is lined with restaurants and live entertainment. Visitors can also spot public art and local artists along the route.
Murrells Inlet is worth considering if your group wants a more relaxed coastal atmosphere while remaining within driving distance of Myrtle Beach.
Which Myrtle Beach Area Is Right for Your Group?
Start by thinking about what your group wants to do most. Central Myrtle Beach provides quick access to classic attractions and entertainment. North Myrtle Beach combines several distinct beach communities with dining, shopping, and nightlife.
South Myrtle Beach offers convenient access to outdoor recreation, while Murrells Inlet is a strong option for seafood, marsh views, and a slower pace.
For reunions, golf trips, retreats, weddings, and extended-family vacations, our group rentals in Myrtle Beach, SC, can also help everyone stay together instead of splitting the group among several hotel rooms.
Plan Your Visit
Plan your first trip to Myrtle Beach and book directly today!
Final Thoughts
There is no single best part of Myrtle Beach for every visitor. The right area depends on your group’s priorities, preferred pace, and planned activities.
First-time visitors who learn about each community before booking can spend less time driving and more time enjoying the coast. Once you know which part of the Grand Strand fits your plans, you can choose accommodations that give your group the space and location it needs.
Book Your Myrtle Beach Vacation Rental with Together Resorts
Together Resorts specializes in large private vacation homes designed for groups. Our properties offer the space and amenities needed for family reunions, golf trips, corporate retreats, church groups, weddings, and vacations with friends.
Browse our Myrtle Beach properties and book a home that keeps your group together. With the right rental as your home base, you will be ready to explore the Grand Strand your way.
