1. Martini’s (Casual Dining & Piano Bar), 98 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (843) 249-1134. I was going to talk about Martini’s lunch offering BUT looks like we will have to wait until after Labor Day on that one. However, since this is one of my favorite restaurants on the Strand, I am going to tell you to check out the free buffet on Wednesday nights from 6-7pm in the Piano Bar, as part of their Customer Appreciation program. Live entertainment is featured and just a two drink minimum is required. Check it out!! Mondays enjoy $5 martinis from their expansive list of martinis – this is $2 off the regular price. Drink up! Tuesdays feature a prime rib dinner special for just $14.95 per person! For more info, http://www.martinisfinedining.com/

2. La Belle Amie Vineyard, 1120 St. Joseph Road, LittleRiver, SC 29566 (843) 399-WINE (9463). This is an operating vineyard featuring complimentary vineyard tours on Tuesdays at 11am, wine tasting room, music and festival events, and wonderful gift shop. A tobacco barn still exists on the property which is a former tobacco plantation. Grab a bottle of wine and share a picnic at one of the picnic tables available on the grounds. The Vineyard is open year-round and hours are Monday through Saturday 10am-6pm. CLOSED Sundays and major holidays.

3. Grab your sea legs and head over to Barefoot Landing to board the Barefoot Princess Riverboat for a scenic sightseeing cruise (lunch and dinner cruises also available) along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Barefoot Princess is a130 passenger, climate-controlled 3 deck riverboat – complete with entertainment, snack bar, full service bar and restrooms. Note this is a non-smoking vessel. You can hop on-board at 4932 Route 17 S, North Myrtle Beach at the Barefoot Landing Marina (back of Barefoot Landing next to the Greg Norman Australian Grille). Public parking is located in front of Greg Normans. Schedules and info at www.mbriverboat.com or call 843-272-2140. Reservations are required for ALL meal cruises.

4. What I like about Barefoot Landing is the plethora of small businesses to visit and support. One of the businesses I would like to highlight in this My Five is “Straight From the Heart”, owned and operated by Sherrye Sammons. Straight From the Heart is a charming boutique featuring wonderfully crafted unique and different jewelry, art and apparel; much of which are heart-themed. Many new items have just arrived so stop by and check them out at 4844 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582 (843) 427-4661

5. Did you know there is a huge salt water aquarium at the Myrtle Beach Bass Pro Shops? I just love the Puffer Fish. Stop in and see him! Fish feedings, featuring interesting info on the aquarium and the fish in it, are Monday and Friday night at 7pm and Wednesdays at 11am and last about 20 minutes. The aquarium is located in the back of the store to the right of the Fishing Department. Come out and help feed the fish! Bring the kids too! Bass Pro Shops is located in the Myrtle Beach Mall at 10177 North Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC. (843) 361-4800

Don’t feel bad if you don’t know the answer. It’s a question employees in the vacation rental industry hear on a daily basis.  While the majority of people have heard of Myrtle Beach (no, not in Florida), North Myrtle Beach is a whole other city on its own, leads to visitor confusion every year — and understandable so. Hopefully, though, after reading this blog visitors will be able to navigate the Grand Stand easier and get from point A to point B with less difficulty.

North Myrtle Beach is approximately a 10 mile stretch of beautiful Atlantic coastline. It is also referred to by the initials “NMB” and was created in 1968 when four area communities united – Windy Hill, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive Beach and Cherry Grove. It is the hometown of Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White and the birthplace of South Carolina’s official dance, the “Shag” (a more laid-back and creative version of the Jitterbug).

The most important distinction is Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are two SEPARATE entities. Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach border each other. North Myrtle Beach starts at about Barefoot Landing (House of Blues, Alabama Theatre), if you are traveling on Kings Highway (Route 17), and is approximately a mile north of Myrtle Beach Mall.

Where street addresses are concerned, it is important to take note whether the address is foremost – in North Myrtle Beach or Myrtle Beach. This sounds simple enough but where the confusion often occurs. The second guideline is whether the address contains a “N” (north) or “S” (south). There are addresses in both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach that contain a north or a south. North and South streets in NORTH Myrtle Beach are determined by whether the street (Avenue) is located north or south of Main Street, North Myrtle Beach. When you reach NORTH Myrtle Beach, the first street you will encounter on Kings Road (Route 17) is 46st Ave South. The numbers will continue to go DOWN, the further north you travel, until arriving at Main Street and then they go UP and change to North – 1st Ave N, etc.

In Myrtle Beach, the streets (Avenues) are numbered – the further north you go, the higher the number. Conversely, the further south you travel, the LOWER the numbers. Addresses are “N” (north) and change downtown. 1st Ave S will follow 1st Ave N, and will proceed higher – 2nd Ave S, 3rd Ave S, etc., the further south you travel.

Still confused? There are loads of maps in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach. Most of the coupon handouts have them when you stop at visitors centers. It sounds more confusing that it really is, I promise!

Also be aware there are TWO Route 17′s… one is BUSINESS 17, which is where numerous “businesses” are located and drivers will encounter more traffic. BYPASS 17 skirts around Business 17, with exits periodically along the way that are well-marked. The Bypass “bypasses” the high traffic areas enabling drivers to travel quicker along longer distances in Myrtle Beach. The Bypass starts at the point where Carolina Opry and Pirates Voyage are located.

The Take Away:
North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach are two different places. There are North and South addresses in BOTH NORTH Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach. You will need to know whether the address is a NORTH Myrtle Beach address or a Myrtle Beach address. Then use the guidelines regarding the north and south street addresses above to arrive at your destination.

Of course, don’t forget, the vacation rentals differ between the two beaches as well.

Myrtle Beach Local Chris Moore During A Late April Swell

While Myrtle Beach may not be the surfing capital of the East coast due to it’s average size waves, that doesn’t mean you can’t come to Myrtle Beach and surf though. When visiting Myrtle Beach, I recommend bringing a body board, swim fins, a longboard, and some sort of fun shape you can ride in waves up to chest high.

On an average day in Myrtle Beach the waves are probably about knee high, and you can probably ride a body board, longboard surfboard, or do a little body surfing. Most days start out fairly clean with light winds, and around noon, the wind turns sideshore at about 10-15 knots South East. But if you want to come to Myrtle Beach and surf fun sized waves, your best bet is to keep an eye on the swell charts on websites such as www.swellinfo.com and visit during a South East swell with light West or North West winds. The best season is late summer to fall, during the East Coast hurricane season. If you play your cards right, you could find yourself surfing a few days of fun surf and if your lucky you could catch one of the rare days in Myrtle Beach when the waves reach overhead.

So why aren’t the waves that big in Myrtle Beach?  Well, if you look at the shape of the east coast, Myrtle Beach is in a semi-bay, and also is also quite a distance away from the Continental Shelf.   (The closer you are, the more energy a wave has before it hits the coastline.)  The longer the swells travel through shallow water from the open ocean, the smaller the waves will be.

As you can see, Myrtle Beach is tucked back a bit, being blocked from the heavy waves.

If you find yourself in Myrtle Beach, and the waves aren’t up to your standards, I recommend taking a little trip down south to Folly Beach, SC. Folly Beach has a better average day of waves, and after a surf you can grab lunch in Charleston before heading back to Myrtle. It’s close enough that a day trip is easily doable, but far enough down the coast that the waves are probably better.

Another place many natives to Myrtle Beach frequent is Wrightsville Beach, NC. Hop in the car, ride about an hour and a half north and you’ll find Wrightsville Beach, a fun little beach town with tons of young people and normally a fun little knee to waist high wave.

Condolux Employee Coleman Brown in Myrtle Beach

The truth is, Myrtle Beach and the areas surrounding Myrtle Beach aren’t known for epic waves. Although we probably surf some of the smallest waves in the world, we get our monthly good session, and we make do with what we have.

MAY 8 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500
Web: info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com

MAY 8 – Golf Tournament, True Blue Golf Club, Pawleys Island
12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Golf tournament benefiting Honor Flight Myrtle Beach program to sending World War II veterans to Washington, DC.
Phone: 843-357-4470 or 843-236-9504
Web: www.honorflightmyrtlebeach.com

MAY 8 -The Urban Sea Turtle, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn the fascinating natural history of SC’s state reptile, the loggerhead sea turtle, and how you can have a positive impact on their nesting and feeding
habitats. There will be no live turtles at this program. Appropriate for ages 6 and up
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 9 – Battleship Alive, Battleship North Carolina, 1 Battleship Road Wilmington, NC 28401
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Requires regular Battleship admission. Watch and interact with World War II living history interpreters as they bring the Ship to life by reenacting daily
duties & drills. Free with regular Battleship admission.
Phone: 910-251-5797
Web: www.battleshipnc.com

MAY 9 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500
Web: info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com

MAY 9 – ANTHONYS PIZZA CAR CRUISE-IN by HOT ROD PROMOTIONS, CORNER OF GLENNS BAY ROAD &HWY.17,BYPASS SURFSIDE BEACH SC
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
CAR CRUISE-IN.OLDIES MUSIC,GREAT FOOD,DOOR PRIZES TO CAR ENTRANTS
Phone: 843-503-8245

MAY 10 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500
Web: info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com

MAY 10 – Tale of a Whale, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn how to eat like a whale, hear what whales sound like, find out how big whales and dolphins are, what species are found off our coast, and much more.
(45 minutes)
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 11 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500
Web: info@myrtlebeachpelicans.com

MAY 11 – *Summer Soundfest* featuring : Kings County at House of Blues Myrtle Beach, Sugar Shack Deck, 4640 Highway 17 S., N. Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Doors: 08:00 PM
Show: 08:00 PM
Price: Free
Ages: all
PHONE: 843-272-3000

MAY 11-20 Myrtle Beach Bike Week, Various Myrtle Beach Locations
Web: MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.Com

MAY 12 – Rivertown Music and Arts Festival, Downtown Conway, SC
10:00 AM to 9:00PM
Great music, art and a variety of cuisine choices will celebrate this annual event. Local and regional bands will provide music ranging from jazz to gospel to steel drum ensembles.
Festival-goers are encouraged to bring a chair to enjoy the musical acts. Local artists, crafters and merchants will line the downtown streets offering an assortment of wares including pottery, wood, glass, photography, jewelry and paintings. gourmet food, hotdogs and local cuisine will also be available in the food court area. No coolers.
Website: conwayscchamber.com
Phone Conway Downtown Alive at (843) 248-6260 for more details.

MAY 12 – Mayfest on Main, Where: Main Street, North Myrtle Beach, SC
10:00 AM to 6:00PM
The 7th annual Mayfest on Main festival will feature some of the best live musical acts, art, craft and food vendors, a community stage and a children’s area.

Bring a beach chair to this family event to enjoy a day on Main Street. Browse local shops while strolling the street for one of a kind beach memories.
The Main Stage is located at “the Horseshoe” and begins performances at 12:30 pm.
Website: parks.nmb.us

MAY 12 – Sew a Sweetgrass Basket! by Ultimate Gullah, 900 3rd Ave., Conway, SC
10:00 AM to 2:00 AM
Ms. Vera Manigault, of Mt. Pleasant, will demonstrate the techniques and share her knowledge of the art form. Students will be able to sew and weave, create their keepsake sweetgrass baskets.
Phone: 843-488-4885
Web: ahop.ultimategullah.com

MAY 12 – 25th Annual Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach golf tournament, Helping Hand of Myrtle Beach, River Oaks Golf Plantation
Captain’s choice. $80 per person entry fee includes golf, cart, continental breakfast, on course refreshments, lunch, and door prizes. Raffle tickets for great prizes will be sold
Phone: 843 448-8451

MAY 12 – Lloyd B. Bell Memorial Golf Tournament by North Myrtle Beach Rotary Club, Eagle Nest Golf Course
9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Rotary Club of NMB is holding their Annual Golf Tournament at Eagle Nest Golf Course in Little River. All proceeds will be used for annual scholarships to be presented to NMB High School students.
Phone: 843-446-3087
Web: www.facebook.com/pages/Rotary-Club-of-North-Myrtle-Beach/121209884624726

MAY 12 – Sonata to Mothers – Afternoon Tea for Mothers by Long Bay Symphony, Eagle Crest Gracious Retirement Living
2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Join us for an afternoon tea for mothers with music performed by the Long Bay Symphony Youth Orchestra Woodwind Quintet
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-448-8379
Web: www.longbaysymphony.com

MAY 12 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 12 – *Summer Soundfest* featuring : Kings County at House of Blues Myrtle Beach, Sugar Shack Deck, 4640 Highway 17 S., N. Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Doors: 08:00 PM
Show: 08:00 PM
Price: Free
Ages: all
PHONE: 843-272-3000

MAY 12 & 13 – Myrtle Beach Lacrosse Challenge, City of Myrtle Beach, Grand Park at the Market Common
Youth Lacrosse Tournamanet for boys and girls. Free admission and public welcome.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-918-2284
Web: www.myrtlebeachlax.com

MAY 13 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
3:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY15 – The Urban Sea Turtle, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn the fascinating natural history of SC’s state reptile, the loggerhead sea turtle, and how you can have a positive impact on their nesting and feeding habitats. There will be no live turtles at this program. Appropriate for ages 6 and up
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 17 – Tale of a Whale, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn how to eat like a whale, hear what whales sound like, find out how big whales and dolphins are, what species are found off our coast, and much more.
(45 minutes)

This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 17 – Integrating with PR and Social Media – Lunch and Learn Program by AF-Coastal Carolians, 9000 N. Ocean Blvd
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
This program will look at how advertisers can work with PR to make the most of emerging opportunities and develop programs that are greater than the sum of its parts.
Phone: 843-448-1123
Web: www.aafcoastalcarolinas.org/2012/04/may-program/

MAY 18 – Sounds of Summer Concert Series, McLean Park, North Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
The North Strand Optimist Club will offer food and drinks for sale. Feel free to bring a lawn chair, blanket, food or non-alcoholic beverages and make an evening out of the free concerts.
Web: http://www.myrtlebeach.com/myrtle-beach-events/venue/mclean-park/
Web: http://parks.nmb.us/pages.aspx?id=18

May 18 – BASS PRO SHOPS – Myrtle Beach Mall, Myrtle Beach, SC
Phone: 843-361-4800
Free “Outdoor Essentials Seminars”
6:00 PM Hiking Basics
7:00 PM Campfire Cooking
8:00 PM Kayaks and Canoes

May 19 BASS PRO SHOPS – Myrtle Beach Mall, Myrtle Beach
Phone: 843-361-4800
Free “Outdoor Essentials Seminars”
1:00 PM Life Jackets
2:00 PM Inflatable Life Jackets
3:00 PM Camping Essentials
4:00 PM GPS Tips and Techniques
5:00 PM Backpacking

May 19 – Touch-A-Truck by Childrens Museum of SC, 2501 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Come see AND touch trucks and other heavy equipment. We’ll have fire trucks and tractors and all sorts of cool vehicles, as well as special crafts. Reduced admission: $5/person
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-946-9469
Web: www.cmsckids.org

May 19 – Be a Pier Scientist by Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Have fun using real laboratory gadgets and field equipment to conduct pure science while gathering measurements. For ages 8 years and up. $3 program fee per person. Exact change appreciated. (1 hour)
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 832-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 19-20 Blue Crab Festival by Little River Blue Crab Festival Inc., 4484 Mineola Avenue, Little River SC 29566
Time: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
31st annual Blue Crab Festival, located on the Intracoastal Waterway’s waterfront in historic Little River. More than 200 arts and crafts exhibitors, lots of great seafood, children’s area, and terrific beach music
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-385-3180
Web: www.bluecrabfestival.org

May 20 BASS PRO SHOPS – Myrtle Beach Mall, Myrtle Beach, SC
Phone: 843-361-4800
Free “Outdoor Essentials Seminars”

1:00 PM Dutch Oven Cooking
2:00 PM Inflatable Life Jackets
3:00 PM Tent Set-Up
4:00 PM Smoker (Grill) Tips and Techniques
5:00 PM Backpacking

May 20 – Myrtle Beach Divas Half Marathon by Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, North Myrtle Beach
Grab a tiara and run like a diva. This half marathon is a fun-filled ladies weekendat the beach.
Phone: 843-916-7264
Web: www.runlikeadiva.com

MAY 21 – Georgetown Harborwalk Festival, Georgetown, SC
Annual Harborwalk Festival. Events range from harbor boat tours, to a bass fishing tournament and is topped off by a street dance until midnight with live music.
Web: http://www.theharborwalk.com/

MAY 22 – The Urban Sea Turtle, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn the fascinating natural history of SC’s state reptile, the loggerhead sea turtle, and how you can have a positive impact on their nesting and feeding habitats. There will be no live turtles at this program. Appropriate for ages 6 and up
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 22 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 23 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 24 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 24 – Tale of a Whale, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn how to eat like a whale, hear what whales sound like, find out how big whales and dolphins are, what species are found off our coast, and much more.

(45 minutes)
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 24-27 Temptations Revue – A Tribute Featuring Nate Evans at Calvin Gilmore Theater, 8901 North Kings Hwy. MB SC / The Carolina Opry
7:30 PM
Witness the re-creation of one of the most legendary Motown acts of all time, featuring the fabulous Nate Evans, who sang lead for the Temptations, recognized worldwide for their silky choreography, distinct harmonies and definitive style.
Phone: 843-913-4000
Web: www.cgp.net/Temptations

MAY 25 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 26 – 2nd Annual Dirty Myrtle Mud Run by Festival Promotions at Waterbridge @ Carolina Forest
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Obstacle race through water, sand, mud and much more. Last year we had over 600 participants. We will sell out at 1,000 this year.
Phone: 843-712-2618
Web: www.dirtymyrtlemudrun.com

MAY 26 – A Crabby Experience at Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Try to catch a variety of crabs, fish and other critters from the pier. Catch and release only. Limited traps available on a first come, first serve basis for arental fee of $5 per trap. Exact change is appreciated! Bait is sold at the pier.

This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 26 – May Day Planting of May Pole by Tree of Life Ministries of Myrtle Beach, 9526 Hwy 707, Myrtle Beach, SC 29588
10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Tree of Life Ministries is sponsoring their 1st May Day Festival. This is a kid friendly event which is fun for the whole family. Admission is FREE. All day entertainment, planting of May Pole, food, sports,etc. Vendors may apply. Phone: 843-997-9845

MAY 26 – DELI ONE CAR CRUISE-IN by HOT ROD PROMOTIONS, 5702-A SOUTH KINGS HWY.MYRTLE BEACH SC.(SOUTH OF PIRATELAND CAMPGROUND ON RIGHT)
6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
CAR CRUISE-IN.OLDIES MUSIC,GREAT FOOD,DOOR PRIZES TO CAR ENTRANTS.
Phone: 843-503-8245

MAY 26 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
7:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

May 26 & 27 – BASS PRO SHOPS
Phone: 843-361-4800
1:00 PM Family Activities
2:00 PM Tent Set-Up
3:00 PM Sleeping Bag Race
4:00 PM Metal Detector Treasure Hunt

Crafts (While supplies last)
Photo Download – families get a fun camping photo taken
Photo Contest – open to kids 13 years old and younger

Enter for a chance to win an outdoor Maui Adventure. See associate for details.

MAY. 26, Myrtle Beach Memorial Day Parade, Downtown Myrtle Beach
10 AM to 12 PM
Major General Robert E. Livingston will serve as Grand Marshal for the event. The parade will begin at 27th Avenue North and continue down Ocean Boulevard to 9th Avenue North in Myrtle Beach. Visit the website if you’d like to register to be a participant.
Downtown Myrtle Beach is home to a brand new boardwalk, shops, restaurants, entertainment and fun. Don’t miss the Myrtle Beach classics while you stroll along the street!
Web: http://www.myrtlebeachmayfest.com/memorial_day_weekend_parade.html

MAY 27 – Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game, 1251 21st Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
6:00 PM
Myrtle Beach Pelicans Baseball Game. Single “A“ advanced affiliate of the Texas Rangers.
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 877-918-8500

MAY 28 – Memorial Day Service, Town of Surfside Beach, 410 Surfside Drive, Surfside Beach, SC 29575
2:30 PM to 3:30 PM
The Town of Surfside Beach Memorial Day Service will be held at the Veterans Memorial in Fuller park.
Phone: 843-650-9548
Web: www.surfsidebeach.org

MAY 28 – 47th Annual Memorial Day Observance at Battleship North Carolina, 1 Battleship Road Wilmington, NC 28401
5:45 pm FREE. Remember those who gave their lives in service by honoring veterans at the Battleship’s traditional Memorial Day Observance.
Phone: 910-251-5797
Web: www.battleshipnc.com

MAY 29 – The Urban Sea Turtle, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn the fascinating natural history of SC’s state reptile, the loggerhead sea turtle, and how you can have a positive impact on their nesting and feeding habitats. There will be no live turtles at this program. Appropriate for ages 6 and up
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

MAY 31 – Tale of a Whale, Myrtle Beach State Park, 4401 S. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, SC
3:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Learn how to eat like a whale, hear what whales sound like, find out how big whales and dolphins are, what species are found off our coast, and much more.
(45 minutes)
This is a “Kid Friendly” Event
Phone: 843-238-0874
Web: www.myrtlebeachsp.com

For years, Myrtle Beach has been a favorite amongst real estate investors as well as those looking for a vacation condo as a second home. Owners tell us they choose Myrtle Beach because of the many attractions, restaurants, shopping, sandy beach and the affordable prices of real estate. There are not many markets around the country where you can buy an oceanfront condo for under $90,000.

Of course, these properties are still looked at as investments and over the past 5-6 years, condo owners have had to figure out ways to make their condos more profitable so they could ride out the real estate storm. When the going gets tough, you have to figure out ways to survive and that is exactly what has happened.

How did they generate more profits from their condo investment?

There are three critical factors in vacation rentals that impact your net profit:

1. The marketing and exposure of the property via Internet and other means.

2. The amount of times the unit is booked.

3. The amount you pay in management fees.

Condo owners have figured out that they cannot control the marketing, they cannot control the bookings yet they CAN control what they pay in management fees.

Myrtle Beach real estate investors have been taking control and negotiating better deals with rental management companies. The days of paying 40 and 50% to onsite companies are over. Condo owners in Myrtle Beach have discovered that their are companies that specialize in oceanfront rentals that only charge 20% management fees.

As you can imagine, reducing your expenses from 45% to 20% of your revenue will dramatically increase your ‘net profits’. In most cases, these same companies offer more exposure on the Internet which leads to increased bookings. In addition, the maintenance, house keeping and customer service is the same if not slightly better.

Prices of real estate in Myrtle Beach are at an all time low making investments in the area a wise choice. Now that investors have cracked the code to increasing net profits, the number of sales will pick up pace and we will likely see a rebound of the market.

This is the time to make a great investment, generate additional revenue and enjoy the benefits of condo ownership.

While it does restrict smoking in a few areas, the new ordinances do not touch on smoking at the beach.

This would interest you if you are coming to North Myrtle Beach any time soon. Breathe easy, the big news here is that all public places are declared “Smoke-free” area from this Wednesday. The North Myrtle Beach City Council approved an ordinance called “Smoking in Public Places” to regulate and restrict smoking in the city. The rule makes all public establishments as non-smoking areas.

This non-smoking ordinance restricts smoking in facilities like bars, pubs, restaurants, city buildings and hotels and the Mayor Marilyn Hatley gave the final stamp of approval to the law. Even before this ordinance, several businesses already made the switch to smoke-free section or timings long back itself. Some restaurants like Plantation Pancake House will be enforcing the new ordinance from this Wednesday.

As expected, smokers and non-smokers in the city have a lot of opinions in support and against the rule, but most smokers agree that it’s something they’ll just have to live and adjust with. In effect, smoking has not been banned from North Myrtle Beach, but it is just restricted.

The Rules:
* Smoking will not be permitted inside any of the restaurants, pubs, bars, all public places, public transport, common areas in hotels and motels, athletic stadiums, hotels, motel rooms and campgrounds and any place that is near a door or a window.

* Smoking can be done at designated outside areas of the establishments.

* This ordinance does not restrict smoking at retail tobacco stores and existing cigar bars.

* Smokers and Business owners will be fined $100, $200 and $500 for the first, second and each additional violation within an year.

* Reference to E-cigarettes has been removed from the ordinance.

While smokers will have to adjust their ways like moving out to the outside smoking area, businesses are expected to benefit from catering to the many non-smokers who may become the new patrons. Also establishments like pubs and bars will save on frequent carpet cleaning, changing air filters and plenty of air-fresheners. The City council’s immediate task would be to educate people and businesses about this law first before seriously enforcing the fines on violators.

Learn more about smoking and efforts to control it Horry County at SmokeFreeHorry.org

So you’ve heard the buzz about the new zipline in Myrtle Beach opening soon. And you may or may not heard of the zipline in Broadway at the Beach that’s been adding thrills for the last year.  Well you’re in luck, because we have all of your questions answered right here.  Ziplining in Myrtle Beach is getting popular and is a great way to get a cheap thrill of flying through the air and view the beautiful scenery that Myrtle Beach has to offer!

Soar & Explore Zipline

Soar and Explore Zipline at Broadway at the Beach

Soar and Explore is the prime place to go ziplining! Located in central Myrtle Beach at Broadway at the Beach, this zipline hangs 50 feet over the central lake and travels 1,000 feet from tower to tower! It is owned by WonderWorks, the new upside down building in Myrtle Beach, SC. The company claims to have a great zipline and promises a “smooth zip” with intense fun! All of this fun and it isn’t even costly. It costs $19.99 but combo packages are available. Closed shoes are required, and you must be 54″ tall to ride. There is a minimum weight requirement of 80 pounds and a maximum of 300. The course is lit up at night to ensure a safe and fun ride on the zipline for everyone! Soar and Explore is located near other attractions including the IMAX Theater, Myrtle Waves and Ripley’s Aquarium. It is about 25 minutes away from North Myrtle Beach and 15 to 20 minutes away from the South end.

Myrtle Beach Zipline Adventures Zipline

The 65-foot towers are being constructed for the zipline at the old Pavilion.

If you drive past the two lots where the Pavilion once stood, you will see construction taking place of the new massive zipline attraction in Myrtle Beach. Poles have already been placed for the 65 feet towers, where guests will shoot 600 feet on a “very fast” ride, says the owners of Myrtle Beach Zipline Adventures. The Zipline construction is moving forward quickly and is expected to be complete by April 1. It will be open just in time for summer! So tourists get ready for one of the best attractions to ever come to Myrtle Beach! The companies constructing this project are Miller Design Services and Adrenaline Adventure Courses. They are leasing the land from Burroughs and Chapin Company and also own another lot on South Ocean Boulevard where they plan on putting a second zipline. It will have a Carolina Beach Shack Theme and will most likely be called Myrtle Beach Adrenaline Adventures.

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Learn about other attractions in Myrtle Beach, SC.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most rapidly growing family and holiday destinations in the United States today. As of 2012, Myrtle Beach draws about 15 million visitors each year as well as many thousands of new residents. Fondly called “The Grand Strand” by both visitors and locals, Myrtle Beach’s population has grown over 35 percent in the last ten years. As we move into the year 2012 and beyond, this all-new Myrtle Beach continues to ramp up its attractions, events, and quality dining and accommodations. Following is a look at what is expected for the Myrtle Beach for 2012.

The Grand Park Athletic Complex

The The Grand Park Athletic Complex is slated to open its doors in early 2012. Three full sized multipurpose fields and two junior sized multipurpose fields along with a roller hockey facility will comprise the new complex.

Adrenaline Adventures Parks

In the spring quarter of 2012, the new Adrenaline Adventures Park will be erected in the place of where the Pavilion Amusement Park was once situated, on on some acreage at the end of south Myrtle Beach. The park will host zip-line courses for young people and adults alike. Two distinct themes are planned for these amusement parks: a “Shabby Shack” theme and a “Tiki-style” theme ala Swiss Family Robinson.

Myrtle Beach Golf Courses get new greens

For the avid golfer out there, the Barefoot Dye and Barefoot Love golf courses are getting new greens in 2012, switching to Champion Ultra-Dwarf from Bent grass.  Some courses have already made the switch and have received rave reviews because of the change.

The Myrtle Beach Art Museum Year-Round 15th Anniversary

The Franklin G. Burroughs/Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is having a 15-year anniversary that will last for the whole year of 2012. The “I Heart Art” celebration is meant to get people engaged in the art world in a variety of ways and is planned as a highlight for myrtle beach for 2012.

Pat Boone Family Theater

The Pat Boone Family Theater plans a winter 2012 debut. The theater, built on the prior site of the NASCAR Cafe, will now host 600 people for concerts and a range of other entertaining shows including comedy shows, gospel concerts, and much more. The Pat Boone Museum will be on-site and will showcase memoribilia from Boone’s entertainment career, which started in the 50s and continues with great success today.

South Carolina Warriors

The South Carolina Warriors are a Myrtle Beach based semi-pro basketball team that play as a part of the ABA (American Basketball Association). Warriors home games are currently held at the Carolina Forest Recreation Center, and team has gone undefeated so far in their 2012 season.

New Electric Vehicle Charger Stations

The “Plug In California” non-profit organization has placed EV (Electric Vehicle) charger stations around the Grand Strand area. Eventually, 80 stations are planned across the state. Each station can charge two vehicles at once.

HWY 17 Interchange: Back Gate

This new Interchange will remove the traffic light and help allow for unimpeded movement on HWY 17. This is expected to lower unnecessary traffic delays. A new U-turn,on the Northern end of the Interchange, will be part of the project.

Boat Ramp At Kings Road

The Kings Road Boat Ramp, parking lot, and public restrooms is a two million dollar project expected to be ready for use in myrtle beach for 2012.

ITAP Park

The Technology and Aerospace park is a 460 acre large technology park at the Myrtle Beach International Airport and will be completed in 2012. The Market Common district hosts the ITAP public park entry. Guests can enjoy eclectic shopping and eateries, and are only a mile from the Atlantic Ocean.

Airport Extended

Since more Myrtle Beach visitors than ever arrive via air in 2012, the airport has started an expansion that includes new aviation and passenger terminals. The passenger terminal will grow to 12 gates in size, allowing for increased speed and efficiency in handling Myrtle Beach International Airport visitors.

The Springmaid Pier

The Springmaid Pier is being revamped for myrtle beach for 2012. The pier restaurant, Barnacles, will undergo a facelift and will add additional seating areas outside. A new bar that serves drinks plus a full menu will be added outdoors as well. New live music is planned weekly. The “Hurricane Simulator” attraction will be added, as will a massive chair in which guests can take photos.

New Target

Myrtle Beach will welcome a Target store in 2012. The SayeBrook Town Center, located close to US 17 and SC 544, will include homes as well as shopping like the new Target. Target is projected to be around 135,000 feet in size.

Peaches Corner Restaurant Restyling

The Peaches Corner Restaurant, a historic landmark in the area, will undergo some changes in myrtle beach for 2012. The remodel will include a fresh facade and a massive spinning peach perched upon the building. A new countertop will show dozens of years of Myrtle Beach history in photographs.

Want to learn more about items in this article?  See the original about the upcoming changes to Myrtle Beach or see another blog post we have about renting a condo in 2012.

It’s a common question faced every year. You’re browsing around the websites in Myrtle Beach (or any area really) and you are looking for deals — the “best bang for the buck” as they say.  You are faced with a quandary though. What is the BEST way to save money?  Should I reserve now, 6 to 8 months before our vacation? Or should I wait until it gets closer to time and book with a last minute deal of some sort?

Both have their pros and cons, let’s explore.

Booking Your Rental Early

You’re a planner, aren’t you?  Your quest is to find the ultimate vacation rental in Myrtle Beach for your vacation next summer. You want to make sure your trip is all set up and ready to go so you don’t have to worry about the stress of planning a last minute vacation. You have to make sure your family has scheduled time off work and you are going to have enough funds to pay for it at the time.  Sound familiar?

The pros of booking early opens you up to getting the best selection of availability.  Reserving a condo in Myrtle Beach isn’t like booking a hotel.  Hotel rooms are all decorated the same most of the time, so it doesn’t matter if you get unit 101 or 103.  Condos, however, are all individually owned. Each owner decorates their condo differently. Some take the time to really deck out their condo rental (like our Showplace Rentals), and you see some MAJOR differences between two units in the same building. (Read more about Condos vs Hotels) And truth be told, the best condo rentals book up quickly, every single year because of their “diamond in the ruff” mentality.

However, also keep in mind, that condos in general (no matter what or where) have been more sought after over the years in Myrtle Beach, as opposed to hotels.  So reserving early guarantees you your favorite rental unit.  While there may be no specials, deals or price breaks on early bookings, you ARE guaranteed availability and a booking for peace of mind.

Booking Your Rental Late

There is really only one true pro of booking your Myrtle Beach rental later in the season — discounts.  When it’s getting close to summer time,  there is still some availability left at condo rentals, not much, but it IS there.   Condo owners would rather have SOME income though, at a discounted rate, rather than no income at all, so that’s when specials appear.  Keep in mind though, you are NOT going to get pick of the litter when you wait until the last minute.  The longer you wait, the less likelihood that your condo choice will become available.

Final Thoughts

So, you should ask yourself, “What is more important to me? Price or pick?” Would you rather make sure you have secured and booked your vacation rental for next year? Or would you rather risk the chance of availability in order to get a deal closer to vacation time?  Either way you have it, you can always check our availability live by doing a search or start browsing our condo rentals.

Let’s face it, Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are quite peaceful in the off-season. No traffic, nobody on the beach, no lines at attractions or restaurants, but you still get to take in everything the Grand Strand offers! You snowbirders know these little tid-bits, don’t you?  Ok, maybe I won’t spill ALL of your secrets of a successful winter vacation in Myrtle Beach, but even so, for those who haven’t yet tried North Myrtle Beach during the off-season, you’re missing out!

First off,  the term “snowbirders” refers to those who “flock south to Myrtle Beach for the winter” because of the mild climate, area activities and relaxed atmosphere. Some come every year and stay in the same condo, making sure they are booked for the next year before they even leave to go back north.  Some stay for only a month, and others stay from October to March (which is when our condos rent monthly for off-season winter.)   Yet, ALL of them take advantage of Myrtle Beach in the off-season.

The CondoLux winter monthly rates start at $800 for a month for a 1 bedroom condo, and include all the amenities you need to stay for the entire winter. The full kitchens are nice for staying home and preparing meals, and you can always sit on your oceanfront balcony and sip on hot chocolate under a blanket for those romantic evenings where the moon is reflecting on the ocean.

We could go on all day about what makes Myrtle Beach so wonderful in the winter, but wouldn’t your rather try it?  Take a minute to check out all the monthly winter rentals we have to offer in North Myrtle Beach, and if you want to be closer to the attractions in Myrtle Beach, you can view the winter monthly rentals in Myrtle Beach as well..  Who knows, maybe you’ll fly south to Myrtle Beach once a year as well!

Yep, the internet is growing faster than any tech buffs could ever imagine, and with the recent announcement that Myrtle Beach is top Googled destination, it’s no wonder there are so many Myrtle Beach websites out there.  Here are a few you may not even know about!  These websites we picked out were based on INFORMATION only. They may not have the best design out there, but the info is amazing.

Myrtle Beach Remembered

www.myrtlebeachremembered.com

If you like nostalgia, then this is your spot! It’s a simple website with one main page, but is full of everything that Myrtle Beach used to have to offer (and things that are even still around).  It has plenty of information about each of the different attractions and restaurants that used to dot the area. The author put quite a bit of work into this site and it is worth checking out, even just for a minute, especially if you are local.

Fun Beaches

www.funbeaches.com

One of the largest and most thorough directories to EVERYTHING Myrtle Beach that we can find. Wikipedia can’t hold a flame to this site.  The owner still actively updates it with new information as well. You can get lost in here, finding different websites you didn’t think existed. Contains information from lodging to campgrounds to fishing piers to state parks to live entertainment. There is even an article on the best place to find sea shells! Don’t forget to check out the message board as well.

The Digi-tel

myrtlebeach.thedigitel.com

News FOR the community BY the community. If you are looking for an alternative news source for the Myrtle Beach area, this is the ticket.  What makes this site appealing is how clean and easy-to-use it is.  They didn’t try to cram as much information in and put 30 links in their navigation bar.  A simple, unique, modern web design. The best part is how users can interact with the site but submitting news of interest.  It brings the “people” back into news.

City Data

www.city-data.com/city/Myrtle-Beach-South-Carolina.html

If you are statistics kinda person, you won’t find a better source for information about the Myrtle Beach area —  or North Myrtle Beach, for that matter. We are talking basic information from population and medium income to more advanced statistics like temperatures to natural disasters, even air quality, religious designations. At the bottom, it even shows the “most common last name for deceased individuals.”  Granted some of these statistics are a bit old (5 years in some spots), but even so, it’s a very interesting read.

Myrtle Beach Bay

www.myrtlebeachbay.com

Another website like Fun Beaches mentioned above that has a good diverse list of things to do and places to see in Myrtle Beach. It is not a comprehensive list, but you sure will have plenty to do on your vacation here! It contains information on restaurants, mini-golf, pet friendly hotels, and even sandcastles. Be sure to check out the blog too for other little tid-bits.

Myrtle Beach Restaurants

www.myrtlebeachscrestaurants.com

The name is in the title! If there is a restaurant in Myrtle Beach, you better believe this site has a review on it! Amazing user interaction and participation on this website, which makes it a perfect spot for getting honest reviews from PEOPLE. It is very user-friendly as well, breaking down restaurants by food type and area.  What makes it better is that you do not need an “account” to submit a review. You can just pick the restaurant, review it and be on your merry way!

Myrtle Beach Jet Ski Rentals Directory

http://www.myrtlebeachjetskirentals.net

This was a nice hidden gem that we found, during a mission to find a customer some information on jet ski rentals in Myrtle Beach. For vacationers, finding a place to rent a jet ski in the Grand Strand can be a daunting task, but this website not only allows you to see WHICH companies offer rentals, but their current RATES as well. This allows for the visitor to make an informed decision on which jet ski rental company fits them best.

Of course, if you have any other submissions for websites, please comment below and let us know!

You do realize you are vacationing in the “Golf Capital of the World”, right?  Though the Grand Strand may have enticed you with the large plethora of family vacation attractions, from aquariums to sandy shores to shopping, golf in Myrtle Beach isn’t anything to just pass by. CondoLux and our NorthMyrtleBeachGolf.com division books over 80 golf courses in the area, so you are bound to find one near you and within your price range.

So let’s say you are on vacation and you feel like playing a round of golf in the Myrtle Beach area.  Then what?  You think it’s too late. Nope, there are even special last minute golf rates for such an occasion. Or you might realize you can’t play golf without a set of clubs. You can rent clubs, we can tell you where. This supposed to be a “family” vacation? Well, there are courses that have junior rates or even free plays for kids depending on the time of year.  And let’s face it, your spouse might very well want a morning to just sit on the beach and read a book.

So there you are, no excuses.

But how do I choose what course to play?  Well first, you need to ask yourself, do you care about course condition?  Difficulty?  Price?  Maybe you don’t really care, but just want to get out there? Well, we’ve made it as easy as possible for you.

Golf Courses Sorted by Area

North End Golf Courses
Central Golf Courses
South End Golf Courses

Or…  View All Myrtle Beach Golf Courses and sort them by budget!

Or… View all Golf Course Rates.

Don’t feel like looking?   Or maybe you need to find out what is even available at the last minute?  Call the CondoLux golf department at 843-272-2073. Our Myrtle Beach golf directors have the inside scoop on the courses down here and can tell you exactly what is available and will find something for your price range.

There’s been an explosion of golf cart usage in the Myrtle Beach area within the past year. With gas prices steadily increasing, it’s no wonder people are choosing this alternate form of transportation. Before you decide to hit the streets in your newly rented or purchased golf cart, familiarize yourself with the golf cart laws in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Those of you coming on vacation this year to North Myrtle Beach should be aware of the new Main Street Connector, aka Robert Edge Parkway that comes off of Hwy 31 and goes right into the heart of North Myrtle Beach (ehrm, Main Street.)  While it isn’t new to the locals, (been open for a year and a few months now I believe) those who do not regularly come to North Myrtle Beach will be surprised on how much time it saves.

If you are heading into North Myrtle Beach coming from Hwy 9, you can hop into Hwy 31 from Hwy 9 and then take the next exit (pictured above). OR, if you are coming in from Hwy 22, take Hwy 31 North until you get to Robert Edge Parkway. Either way you shake it, you will be heading over the Intracoastal Waterway and in North Myrtle Beach, SC before you know it!

This little addition not only makes the daily commute for locals easier, but divides up the vehicles from the busy incoming traffic on Saturdays to the North Myrtle Beach area.

View Larger Map

The Poop & Scoop Pro/AmTM was conceived by David Hackney as a sister event to the highly successful Pet Food Pro/AmTM which generates over nine tons of pet food for the Humane Society of NMB. The fellowship and camaraderie associated with this event will strongly outweigh the competitive nature of the tournament. The format will welcome local PGA Professionals and amateurs. Entry fee for this unique event will be 50 pounds of cat litter and one gallon of bleach per player. Only a minimal registration fee will be required from the contestants.

This event is limited to competitors who have a love for animals and a passion for golf.  To learn more about entries, prizes, and the fun, please download the entry form and send it in!