Think you know Myrtle Beach? Think again. Just up the coast, North Myrtle Beach moves at a different pace—a little slower, a little sweeter, and just the right amount of off-the-radar. It’s where mornings start with the sound of waves instead of alarms, and afternoons stretch long enough for a second round of cocktails.
While its well-known neighbor draws crowds and neon lights, North Myrtle Beach holds onto its quiet charm. It’s a destination for travelers who crave a coastal escape with a side of nostalgia—where beach cottages, family-owned restaurants, and wide-open shoreline create the kind of magic that sticks with you long after the sand is gone from your suitcase.
Here’s how to experience the best of North Myrtle Beach before everyone else catches on.
Stay in Style
Forget high-rises and hotel chains—North Myrtle Beach is all about embracing the beach town lifestyle. Rent a colorful cottage, where the porch is made for morning coffee and the ocean breeze rolls in like an old friend. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a solo retreat, staying in a home here feels like settling into your own little slice of the coast.
Savor the Flavor
The food scene here is as laid-back as the town itself—no frills, just really good eats. Whether you’re in the mood for down-home classics or coastal cuisine, come hungry, because you’re going to want to try it all.
Start your day at Main Street Bakery & Eatery, where the coffee is strong, the pastries are heavenly, and the locals greet each other like family. For a classic Southern breakfast, The Shack serves up all the fixings—pancakes, grits, and eggs. When lunchtime rolls around, grab a seat by the water at Boardwalk Billy’s and dive into a platter of fresh seafood (trust us, the crab legs are a must). For a taste of true Southern comfort, Hoskins Restaurant is a local institution, serving up hearty meat-and-three plates with a side of small-town charm. If you’re craving a dinner with a view, Big Chill Island House at Barefoot Landing offers the perfect setting to unwind over a sunset meal before strolling along the boardwalk. And for a more elevated dining experience, Bar 19 Twelve is the place to be—whether you’re sipping a craft cocktail at happy hour or indulging in a refined dinner.
While experiencing the unforgettable flavors of North Myrtle Beach, be sure to work in a trip to Duplin Winery to sip on muscadine wine. The tastings come with stories, laughter, and plenty of reasons to bring a few bottles home.
Find Your Adventure
You could spend all day lounging on the sand—and we wouldn’t blame you—but North Myrtle Beach is packed with adventures if you’re ready to explore. With nine miles of pristine shoreline, a leisurely beach stroll is the perfect way to start or end your day, and thanks to the mild climate, it’s an experience you can enjoy year-round. For something truly unforgettable, saddle up for a horseback ride along the coast with Inlet Point Plantation, where the rhythmic crash of waves makes the perfect backdrop. If you prefer to paddle your way through paradise, a kayak tour of Cherry Grove Marsh with Kokopelli Surf Camp offers a peaceful escape into the area’s rich ecosystem, complete with expert guides sharing fascinating local insights.
And no visit is complete without learning The Shag— the iconic dance that put this town on the map. Step into history with a lesson and let the music carry you into the heart of this charming coastal town.
There are so many reasons people come to North Myrtle Beach and never want to leave. Maybe it’s the salty air, the easygoing locals, or the feeling of stepping back into a simpler time. Whatever it is, this place has a way of working its way into your heart. So go ahead—visit take the trip, slow down, and savor every second. Just don’t be surprised if you start planning your next visit before you even leave!
Start planning now at explorenorthmyrtlebeach.com.
