When planning a family vacation, many factors go into the decision process. Family members likely have their own interests, which presents a challenge. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is a great destination that can provide something fun for each member of the family. Besides the beach, families may enjoy fitness activities such as surfing, golfing or exploring a maritime forest.
Area Information and Accommodations
Myrtle Beach consists of more than 60 miles of beaches. North Myrtle Beach is a quieter area that offers beach houses for rent, condos, resorts and campgrounds. Central Myrtle Beach, located near the Myrtle Beach International Airport, is home to many of the area's attractions, including the state park, Ripley's Aquarium and the Broadway at the Beach shopping area. South Myrtle Beach offers a large selection of accommodations, including oceanfront hotels and condos.
Myrtle Beach has hundreds of hotel and motel rooms, condos and beach houses available for rent by the night, week or month. To find condos or beach houses rented by the owner, visit Vacation Rentals By Owner, VRBO.com, and search for "Myrtle Beach." The Visit Myrtle Beach website has an extensive search tool that allows visitors to search by type of property, amenities, date range and price. For a more outdoorsy vacation, consider camping on one of Myrtle Beach's oceanfront campgrounds.
Dining
There are hundreds of types of restaurants throughout the area, ranging from large chains to local restaurants. Families with picky eaters need not worry; many restaurants cater to families and offer children's menus. The area's coastal location provides nutritious, fresh seafood at many local restaurants. For families staying in an accommodation with a kitchen, Myrtle Beach has many grocery stores available to create less expensive, healthful meals.
Water Sports
For families with older children, water sports can be a great daytime activity. Many local companies rent sailboats, kayaks, jet skis and scuba diving equipment. Ocean kayaking can be done in kayaks that seat one or two people, and they can be rented for a half-day or a full day. For another kayaking experience, families may explore North Myrtle Beach's bays or the Murrell Inlet, according to Visit Myrtle Beach.
Families with children interested in surfing can participate in a Myrtle Beach Surf Camp. Camps last for one or three days, or mini-camps are available. Campers will learn about ocean safety and surfing techniques while getting a good workout.
Myrtle Beach State Park
If you're looking for a less-crowded beach, check out the Myrtle Beach State Park. Located on more than 300 acres, the park has a maritime forest, fishing pier and picnic areas. At the nature center, families can learn about local sea and plant life. During the summer months, the family dog can play on the beach after 5 p.m. with a leash. Dogs are allowed on the park beach all day throughout the rest of the year.
Golf
Myrtle Beach is one of the premier golf destinations on the East Coast. The area has more than 70 courses with green fees ranging from $30 to $110, depending on the course and time of day. A day of golf provides a relaxing break for mom or dad, or the whole family can spend the day on the course. During the summer months, junior golfers under age 16 may play for free with a paying adult. Many courses offer clinics, camps and lessons.
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