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A MESSAGE FROM OUR TEAM
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February has long been one of the months I favor most. Deep winter, it’s the time when Mother Nature is at her most still and quiet— unapologetically abstaining from all her usual displays of gracious hospitality. I visualize her message to be rather like knocking on someone’s door and receiving the blunt no-nonsense reply: “Do not disturb. I’m taking time off.”
I delight in this nature imposed time-out as it reminds me to tune into my own needs for rest and rejuvenation and opt for more hibernating activities— curling up with tea and a blanket and an enticing book or journal; building a fire; going for a moonlit stroll.
And then of course, there’s Valentine’s Day— a holiday I’ve always enjoyed. Pink and red are two of my most favorite colors, and the profusion of their brightness and vitality against the backdrop of winter’s grays couldn’t come at a more fitting time. But aside from the cheery visuals, (and the hedonistic headiness resulting from the profusion of extra cookies, chocolate and flowers) Valentine’s Day has a special place in my heart precisely because it’s the one day that we celebrate matters of the heart.
We all have our own personal definitions and experiences of love. But at the core of love’s variegation resides the common theme of relating and the happiness that arises from that connection. Whatever it is we feel affinity for— be it a person, an animal, or a place— when we relate, we connect and feel a sense of happiness because we have the experience of not being alone. Here at the Insider, we always knew that building, supporting, and connecting with our community was important— we’re happiness junkies! And it shows in every page of our publication.
This month, we share a few of our area’s most Valentine’s date-worthy restaurants. And Celebrating Our Veterans is a perfect story for the month of love— as it illustrates how passion, commitment and heart really can make a difference in the world we inhabit. This month and Valentine’s Day, we celebrate our community and the love and happiness that it brings. Here’s to the love that we all embody, and all the love that we are capable of.
Melissa LaScaleia
September on the Grand Strand: The Events Worth Adding to Your Calendar
From Labor Day fireworks and fall festivals to local traditions and beach music, September is packed with reasons to get out and explore. Summer may be winding down, but September brings a full calendar of reasons to keep the fun going. From fireworks over the water and live music by the beach to cultural celebrations and longtime local traditions, here are some of the biggest events happening across the Grand Strand this month. Labor Day Weekend Goes Out with a Bang September 3–6 | Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach Labor Day weekend offers several ways to celebrate before summer slips away. Hot Summer Nights concludes at Plyler Park on September 4, while the Waves of Praise Gospel Festival brings three days of music to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area from September 3–5. The Myrtle Beach Pelicans also play their final regular-season home series September 1–6, giving baseball fans one last chance to visit the ballpark this season. When the sun goes down, fireworks take over. Barefoot Landing hosts its Labor Day display on September 5, followed by fireworks at Broadway at the Beach and the End of Summer Fireworks Festival at the Surfside Beach Fishing Pier on September 6. Fords at the Shore Rolls Across the Grand Strand September 5–13 | Various Grand Strand locations Classic Mustangs, vintage favorites, modern performance vehicles and Ford trucks will take center stage during Fords at the Shore. The nine-day automotive celebration includes car shows, cruises, gatherings and activities across Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach and Murrells Inlet. Whether you are a dedicated enthusiast or simply appreciate an impressive car, there will be plenty to see throughout the week. The Grand Strand Comes Together to Remember September 8–12 | Myrtle Beach and Little River This September marks 25 years since the attacks of September 11, 2001. Community members can participate in the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb at Crabtree Memorial Gym from September 8–12. Myrtle Beach will also hold its September 11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Unity Memorial in Warbird Park on September 11. On September 12, Little River Patriots Day will honor military heroes, first responders and community service members at Little River Landing. Gullah Geechee Heritage Comes Alive at Brookgreen Gardens September 12 | Brookgreen Gardens Brookgreen Gardens’ Gullah Geechee Junkanoo Festival celebrates the connections among West African, Caribbean and Gullah Geechee cultures. The festival brings music, dance, storytelling, food, art-making and cultural demonstrations to the Wall Lowcountry Center Complex. It is a colorful and meaningful opportunity to experience the living traditions of the African Diaspora while spending the day at Brookgreen Gardens. Shag Season Returns with SOS Fall Migration September 18–27 | North Myrtle Beach North Myrtle Beach will once again become the center of Carolina beach music when the Society of Stranders returns for SOS Fall Migration. The 10-day celebration fills the Ocean Drive and Main Street area with live bands, DJs, shag dancing, lessons and social events. Even newcomers can enjoy the music, energy and unmistakably local atmosphere. SeptemberFest also comes to Barefoot Landing on September 19 with live music, family activities and the Duplin Winery Grape Stomp. Aynor Welcomes Fall with a Longtime Local Tradition September 19 | Aynor Town Park The 46th Annual Aynor Harvest Hoe-Down Festival brings a full day of small-town fall fun to Aynor. The celebration begins with a parade and continues with musical entertainment, children’s activities, arts and crafts, hundreds of vendors and plenty of festival food. Admission is free, making this an easy day trip for families looking to welcome the season together. September Ends with One Very Busy Weekend September 25–27 | Throughout the Grand Strand The final weekend of September gives visitors several completely different ways to spend the day. The Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally begins September 25 and continues through October 4, bringing motorcycle rides, vendors and entertainment to locations across the Grand Strand. At Huntington Beach State Park, the 51st Annual Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival showcases more than 100 artisans around historic Atalaya Castle from September 25–27. On September 26, the new NMB Live! The festival fills Main Street in North Myrtle Beach with live entertainment, interactive experiences and more than 150 vendors. Coastal-Carolina Con also takes over the John T. Rhodes Myrtle Beach Sports Center on September 26 and 27 with comics, collectibles, cosplay and gaming. Find Your Reason to Get Out and Explore September offers a little bit of everything: the last celebrations of summer, the first signs of fall and plenty of local traditions in between. Choose a favorite, invite a few friends and make the most of another event-filled month along the Grand Strand. Dates and event details may change. Confirm the latest information with each organizer before attending.
4 Things Your Home Could Use After a Myrtle Beach Summer
The kids may be heading back to school, but your home could use a little August reset too August tends to feel like a reset button. Vacations wind down, school starts back and schedules finally begin settling into a routine again. But after a Myrtle Beach summer filled with sunshine, humidity, afternoon storms and plenty of time spent outdoors, your home may be ready for a reset too. Window Genie of Myrtle Beach offers several exterior home services that can help freshen things up before fall rolls around. 1. Give Your Windows Their View Back Summer can leave plenty behind on your windows, from everyday dirt and grime to the residue that comes with coastal living. Window Genie professionally cleans residential windows using techniques including purified water and water-fed poles to create a clean, streak-free finish—because those coastal views are a lot better when you can actually see them. 2. Refresh the Spaces You Used All Summer Patios, driveways, walkways and siding see a lot of action during the warmer months. Window Genie’s pressure washing services can remove dirt, grime, algae and buildup from many of these exterior surfaces, helping the spaces around your home feel fresh again without turning it into another weekend project. 3. Don’t Forget What Summer Storms Leave Behind Those quick summer downpours can make properly functioning gutters especially important. Leaves, twigs and other debris can interfere with drainage, which is why Window Genie offers professional gutter cleaning as well as annual and semiannual maintenance options. 4. Get Ahead While the Weather Is Still Warm August is a good reminder that home maintenance doesn’t have to wait until something looks noticeably dirty—or becomes a bigger project. Taking care of the exterior now can help you head into fall with a cleaner home and a much shorter maintenance list. Give Your Home a Fresh Start for Fall Summer may not be over just yet, but getting back into a routine is the perfect excuse to give your home one too. From windows and gutters to siding, patios and driveways, Window Genie of Myrtle Beach can handle the exterior projects you’d rather cross off the list than spend your weekend doing.
5 Grand Strand Events Worth Checking Out This August
From local art and live music to a waterfront fire show, these events are worth adding to your calendar. August may be the final full month of summer, but the Grand Strand is not slowing down. Whether you are looking for handmade finds, live music, a fun morning run or an evening by the water, these five events are worth putting on your calendar. 1. Craftsmen’s Summer Classic July 31–August 2 | Myrtle Beach Convention Center Start the month by browsing pottery, jewelry, artwork, photography, home décor and handcrafted goods from talented makers across the country. With plenty of styles and price points represented, it is an easy place to find something you will not see in an ordinary store. 2. Dog Days of Summer 5K August 8 | Tidal Creek Brewhouse Runners and walkers can start their Saturday with a summer-themed 5K beginning at 8 a.m. The event benefits South Paw Rescue, making it a fun way to get moving while supporting a local organization that helps animals in need. 3. Island Night August 12 | Big Chill Island House Spend the evening along the Intracoastal Waterway with island-inspired drinks and a live hula and fire performance. The show begins at 8 p.m., and outdoor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 4. Summer Sunset Sessions August 21 | The Market Common Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy live music outdoors as the sun goes down over The Market Common. Gates open at 5 p.m., with music running from 6 to 8 p.m., plus food and drinks available throughout the evening. 5. Sunday Funday on the Town Green August 9 & 23 | Downtown Conway Spend a summer Sunday in Downtown Conway with food trucks, live music, games and plenty of space to relax on the Town Green. With two August dates to choose from, it is an easy outing for families, friends or anyone looking for a laid-back way to enjoy the weekend. Recurring August Events Around the Grand Strand Myrtle Beach Every Saturday: Farmers Market at Valor Park North Myrtle Beach Every Monday: Fireworks over the lake at Barefoot LandingEvery Thursday: Music on Main at the HorseshoeEvery Friday: North Myrtle Beach Farmers Market at 925 1st Avenue South Surfside Beach Mondays through August 10: Hula and Fire Dancer Show at the Surfside Beach PierEvery Tuesday: Farmers Market at Surfside Drive and Willow DriveEvery Thursday: Half-price banana splits at Ole Fashion Ice Cream ParlorEvery Sunday: Live Music in Memorial Park Murrells Inlet Wednesdays and Saturdays through August 22: Summer Light: Art by Night at Brookgreen Gardens Pawleys Island Every Tuesday: K-Bar Farmers Market at the Tidelands Health Pawleys Family YMCAEvery Saturday: Small Business Saturdays at 74 Litchfield Drive Conway and Aynor Every Monday: Cornhole at Pin Point Indoor Pickleball & GolfEvery Saturday: Conway Farmers Market under the Main Street Bridge Event dates, hours and availability may change, so check with the venue before attending.
South Carolina Is the Fastest-Growing State in America
The Palmetto State leads the nation in population growth, with Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand continuing to attract new residents. South Carolina is growing faster than any other state in the country. New U.S. Census Bureau estimates released in January 2026 show that the state’s population increased by approximately 1.5% between July 2024 and July 2025—the highest percentage growth rate in the nation. The 10 Fastest-Growing States in America South Carolina Idaho North Carolina Texas Utah Delaware Washington Arizona Nevada Tennessee This ranking looks at overall population growth, not one specific group such as retirees, families or working professionals. It reflects everyone contributing to a state’s growing population. Why Is South Carolina Growing So Quickly? South Carolina added nearly 80,000 residents in a single year, and much of that increase came from domestic migration—people relocating to the state from elsewhere in the country. The reasons behind those moves are different for everyone, but the appeal is easy to understand. South Carolina offers a mild climate, access to the coast, growing employment centers, established communities and a pace of life that can feel more manageable than many larger metropolitan areas. Some people are moving for retirement. Others are searching for more space, a place to raise a family, remote-work flexibility or simply a fresh start somewhere closer to the water. The Grand Strand Is Part of the Growth Story Myrtle Beach and the surrounding Grand Strand continue to attract people looking for coastal living without giving up the conveniences they rely on every day. The region offers a wide range of lifestyles, from active neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach and Carolina Forest to quieter coastal communities in Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island and North Myrtle Beach. Buyers can find everything from new construction and golf-course communities to established neighborhoods, condos and homes near the beach. Horry County’s population was estimated at 427,551 in 2025, up significantly from its 2020 population estimate base of 351,036. That growth is visible throughout the area in new neighborhoods, expanding healthcare options, restaurants, businesses and everyday services designed to support a larger year-round population. More Than a Vacation Destination For years, many people thought of Myrtle Beach primarily as a place to vacation. Today, more buyers are beginning to see it as a place to build a life. The beaches and warmer weather may be what first get their attention, but the variety of communities, relative affordability compared with many coastal markets and relaxed lifestyle are often what make people stay. South Carolina’s No. 1 ranking confirms what many along the Grand Strand are already seeing: more people are discovering that life at the coast does not have to be reserved for one week of vacation each year.
What Do You Want Everyday Life Here to Feel Like?
9 Grand Strand Areas for 9 Different Lifestyles Ask someone where the best place to live along the Grand Strand is, and you’ll probably get a different answer every time. That’s because there really isn’t one “best” area. The better question is: What do you want everyday life here to feel like? Maybe you want to walk to coffee, dinner and the park. Maybe you picture weekends on the water, mornings overlooking a golf course or a little more space away from the busiest parts of the coast. From Myrtle Beach to Pawleys Island and everywhere in between, here are nine areas to explore based on the kind of lifestyle you’re looking for. 1. The Market Common For Walkability & a Neighborhood Feel If you like the idea of having restaurants, shops, parks, walking paths and everyday conveniences close by, The Market Common is an easy place to picture yourself. Neighborhoods to explore: Sweetgrass Square, Emmens Preserve, The Reserve and West Lake. Best for: Buyers who want activity nearby but still want a true neighborhood feel. 2. Carolina Forest For Newer Homes & Community Amenities Carolina Forest offers a little bit of everything, but it’s especially appealing if newer homes, neighborhood pools, clubhouses and plenty of community amenities are high on your list. Neighborhoods to explore: Clear Pond, Waterbridge, The Farm and Berkshire Forest. Best for: Buyers who want more than just a house—they want a neighborhood with plenty to enjoy close to home. 3. Prince Creek & Litchfield For Golf-Course Living You don’t have to be an avid golfer to appreciate life around the course. These areas are known for mature landscaping, open green space and communities that tend to feel a little quieter and more tucked away. Neighborhoods to explore: The Links at Prince Creek, The Bays, Litchfield Country Club and Willbrook Plantation. Best for: Buyers who appreciate golf, beautiful surroundings and a more relaxed residential setting. 4. Grande Dunes For Luxury Coastal Living Grande Dunes brings together several different versions of luxury living, from golf and waterfront communities to newer homes and resort-style amenities—all with the coast close by. Neighborhoods to explore: Members Club, Bal Harbor, Waterside Pointe and Del Webb at Grande Dunes. Best for: Buyers who want the community, setting and amenities to feel just as special as the home itself. 5. Surfside Beach For Beach-Town Energy If you want the beach to feel like part of everyday life instead of somewhere you only visit on the weekend, Surfside Beach may be your speed. Think golf-cart rides, casual local restaurants and spontaneous walks toward the ocean. Areas to explore: Surfside Beach east of Highway 17 Business, Ocean Pines, Surfside Beach Club and Deerfield. Best for: Buyers who love that easygoing beach-town feeling and want to stay close to the action without being in the middle of Myrtle Beach. 6. Murrells Inlet For Laid-Back Inlet Living Murrells Inlet has a personality all its own. Here, life tends to revolve around the marsh, boating, seafood, waterfront dining and sunsets that make you slow down for a minute. Neighborhoods to explore: Collins Creek Landing, Creek Harbour, Wachesaw Plantation and Wilderness Plantation. Best for: Buyers whose idea of coastal living includes boat days, marsh views and a little less hurry. 7. Conway For Charm & a Little More Space Conway gives you a different side of life near the coast. Its historic downtown, Waccamaw River and quieter residential areas offer plenty of character, while moving farther inland can also mean more options when it comes to space. Areas to explore: Historic Downtown Conway, Wild Wing Plantation, Heritage Preserve and Shaftesbury-area communities. Best for: Buyers who don’t need to be right beside the beach and would happily trade a little drive time for more breathing room and small-town charm. 8. Pawleys Island & Litchfield For a Quieter Lowcountry Feel Live oaks, marshes, quieter stretches of coastline and an overall slower pace give Pawleys Island and Litchfield a feel that’s distinctly different from the busier areas farther north. Neighborhoods to explore: Pawleys Plantation, The Reserve, Litchfield Plantation and DeBordieu Colony. Best for: Buyers who want the beauty of coastal South Carolina with a quieter, more understated atmosphere. 9. North Myrtle Beach & Barefoot For Resort-Style & Second-Home Living For some buyers, the goal is simple: they want home to feel a little like vacation. North Myrtle Beach and the Barefoot area offer everything from condos and villas to golf communities and single-family homes, with plenty of entertainment nearby. Neighborhoods to explore: Barefoot Resort, Dye Estates, Tuscan Sands, Harbour Cove and North Beach Plantation. Best for: Buyers looking for a second home, a lock-and-leave lifestyle or a place where there’s always something to do. So, What Do You Want Everyday Life Here to Feel Like? Two people can move to the Grand Strand for exactly the same reason and end up happiest in completely different places. One might want to walk to dinner in The Market Common. Another wants room for a boat in Murrells Inlet. Someone else may be happiest with a quiet porch in Conway, a golf-course view in Litchfield or a place near the beach they can lock up and leave whenever they’re away. That’s why the right home search shouldn’t start with a list of houses. It should start with a picture of your life. Think about an ordinary Wednesday. What do you want outside your front door? How close do you really want to be to the beach? Do you want neighbors, amenities and activity nearby—or a little more room to yourself? Once you know what you want everyday life to feel like, figuring out where you belong along the Grand Strand gets a whole lot easier.
The Grand Strand Restaurants You Might Miss If No One Told You About Them
Five restaurants hiding in plain sight—from a glamorous wine bar off Highway 17 to a waterfront rooftop most visitors never think to look for There are plenty of restaurants along the Grand Strand that are impossible to miss. You know the ones. Giant signs. Packed parking lots. Waterfront locations you see all over social media. But some of the most interesting places around here are a little less obvious. Maybe you’ve driven past them a hundred times without realizing what was inside. Maybe you know the name but have never discovered the part everyone really loves. Or maybe they’re just far enough away from the usual tourist stops that you wouldn’t find them unless someone pointed you in the right direction. These are five Grand Strand restaurants we think are worth knowing about. Bin 2004 North Myrtle Beach From Highway 17, you probably wouldn’t guess what’s waiting inside Bin 2004. Step through the doors and the busy beach highway suddenly feels very far away. The space is moody, glamorous and unapologetically over the top in the best way, with chandeliers, plush seating, gold accents, dramatic artwork and cozy lounge areas. It feels more like something you might stumble across in a much larger city than a wine bar tucked along the main road through North Myrtle Beach. Wine is the star here. Bin 2004 has an extensive collection with hundreds of bottles from regions around the world, along with a wine tasting concept that lets guests explore different selections at their own pace. The food is designed for sharing, with charcuterie, tapas, pastas and desserts that make it easy to settle in for the evening rather than rush through dinner. It works just as well for date night as it does for a girls’ night or a drink somewhere that feels a little more special. Why you might miss it: Because nothing about driving down Highway 17 really prepares you for what’s behind the front door. Bar 19 Twelve North Myrtle Beach A former wedding chapel probably isn’t the first place you’d expect to find one of North Myrtle Beach’s coolest cocktail spots. And that’s part of what makes Bar 19 Twelve so interesting. The atmosphere is sophisticated without feeling overly formal, with intimate indoor spaces, an upstairs bar and outdoor seating overlooking Azalea Sands Golf Club. This is the kind of place where you can come for one cocktail and somehow still be sitting there a couple of hours later. The bar is known for its craft cocktails, bourbon selection and creative drinks, while the food leans toward elevated shareable plates rather than typical bar fare. Depending on the menu, you might find everything from cheese boards and made-to-order deviled eggs to seafood, risotto, scallops, crab cakes and more substantial dishes. It feels polished, but still relaxed enough that you don’t need a special occasion to go. Why you might miss it: You could easily drive past without realizing that a former wedding chapel has been transformed into a cocktail bar with an upstairs lounge and golf course views. 42nd Street Bar & Grill Myrtle Beach Don’t let the words “Bar & Grill” fool you. 42nd Street is much more interesting than the name might suggest. This intimate Myrtle Beach restaurant has a quiet, understated feel that stands apart from many of the larger, busier restaurants around town. It’s polished without being stuffy and feels equally right for a date night, anniversary dinner or one of those evenings when you simply want really good food without a lot of fuss. Then you look at the menu. Instead of standard bar-and-grill staples, you’ll find more creative dishes like ahi tuna, mussels, scallops, grouper, duck, lobster mac and cheese and thoughtfully prepared steaks, along with craft cocktails and wine. There is an attention to detail here that you might not expect if you were judging the restaurant by its name alone. That might actually be part of its charm. 42nd Street doesn’t need a massive waterfront patio or a flashy concept to make an impression. The experience speaks for itself once you sit down. Why you might miss it: Because the understated name and setting don’t immediately tell you how ambitious the kitchen actually is. The Quay Seafood Grille Murrells Inlet When someone says waterfront dining in Murrells Inlet, your mind probably goes straight to the MarshWalk. But there’s another view worth knowing about. The Quay Seafood Grille sits at Marlin Quay Marina, giving diners a completely different perspective of the inlet. Located on the upper levels of the marina facility, The Quay combines seafood-forward dining with views over the boats and surrounding water. There’s also a rooftop bar, which is exactly where you want to be when the weather is good and the sun starts going down. The atmosphere is coastal and relaxed rather than overly formal. The menu leans into seafood, with options like seared tuna, coconut shrimp and other coastal favorites alongside heartier entrées and shareable plates. But honestly, part of the appeal is simply where you are. Instead of being in the middle of the busiest stretch of Murrells Inlet nightlife, you’re tucked into the marina watching boats come and go. Why you might miss it: Because most people automatically head toward the MarshWalk when they want waterfront dining and never think to look a little farther down the water. Frank’s & Frank’s Outback Pawleys Island Calling Frank’s a secret would be a stretch. Pawleys Island locals have been gathering here since 1988. The real surprise is what’s hiding out back. The original Frank’s has an old-school, polished atmosphere with white tablecloths, candlelight, hardwood floors, vintage artwork and a beautiful antique mahogany bar. It feels classic. Then you head outside. Frank’s Outback is an entirely different experience. Behind the original restaurant is a sprawling garden-like setting filled with trees, decks, lounge areas, covered spaces, outdoor bars and a large fireplace. It feels less like an extension of a restaurant and more like discovering an entirely different
7 Scenic Date-Night Restaurants Along the Grand Strand
Courtyards, rooftops and waterfront tables worth leaving the house for Not every date night needs rose petals, a violinist or a reservation made three weeks in advance. Sometimes all you really need is good food, a table with a view and a setting that makes an ordinary evening feel slightly more important. Along the Grand Strand, that might mean watching the sun settle over the marsh, having dinner beneath a canopy of trees or following dessert with a walk beside the water. From Pawleys Island to Calabash, these restaurants give you a reason to look up from your plate every once in a while. Frank’s and Frank’s Outback | Pawleys Island Best for: A special evening that still feels relaxed Frank’s is the kind of place that makes a Tuesday-night reservation feel like you planned something impressive. The original Frank’s dining room is the dressier choice, with low lighting, white linens, candlelight and the energy of a busy neighborhood bistro. Frank’s Outback is slightly more casual, offering covered garden dining beneath the trees, expansive decks, an open-air bar and a large fireplace that becomes especially inviting once the weather cools down. The Courtyard is an alfresco extension of the original restaurant and accepts walk-ins when the weather cooperates. Farther back, the Way Back is part of the Outback and has a tall tin roof, a long bar, lounge seating and another fireplace area. Inside Outback, despite its name, is currently used as a private dining room rather than a regular two-person dinner venue. The helpful thing to know is that you can order from either kitchen regardless of the venue. In other words, the real decision is not what you want to eat—it is whether you want candlelight, a courtyard or dinner in what feels like a very polished secret garden. Gulfstream Cafe | Garden City Best for: Catching the sunset Some restaurants happen to have a sunset view. Gulfstream Cafe has practically built the evening around it. This longtime Garden City restaurant overlooks the water and has become a popular choice for anniversaries, birthdays and other nights when dinner is supposed to feel a little more memorable. The rooftop deck is the place to be as the sun begins to drop, especially when the sky decides to cooperate and put on a full production. Try to arrive before sunset rather than during it. That gives you time to order a drink, settle in and enjoy the view without spending half the evening wondering whether you missed the best five minutes. The Wicked Tuna | Murrells Inlet Best for: Waterfront views with a little more energy Not every date night needs to be quiet enough to hear the ice melting in your glass. Sometimes you want a beautiful view and a place that still feels like something is happening. The Wicked Tuna sits directly on the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk and pairs broad marsh views with cocktails, seafood, steaks and sushi. It feels more social than secluded, making it a good choice for couples who want waterfront scenery without committing to a hushed, formal dinner. An earlier reservation will generally feel more dinner-focused, while the area becomes livelier as the night goes on. Either way, leave time to walk along the MarshWalk afterward because going straight back to the car would feel like stopping the date halfway through. The Cypress Room | Myrtle Beach Best for: An understated oceanfront dinner The Cypress Room is easy to overlook because it is located inside Island Vista Resort, but that is also part of what makes it a good date-night option. It feels removed from the louder oceanfront restaurants while still providing floor-to-ceiling views of the Atlantic. The restaurant serves Lowcountry-inspired dinners in surroundings described as casual yet elegant, so it works when you want the evening to feel elevated without feeling overly formal. It is the kind of place where the ocean remains the main attraction, even after the entrées arrive. For the best experience, request a table near the windows when making the reservation. An oceanfront restaurant and an ocean-view table are not always the same thing. Greg Norman Australian Grille | North Myrtle Beach Best for: Steaks, wine and Intracoastal Waterway views Greg Norman Australian Grille sits along the Intracoastal Waterway at Barefoot Landing, giving its patio and waterfront seating a steady backdrop of boats passing by. The restaurant leans more polished than casual, with wood-grilled steaks and seafood, an extensive bourbon collection and an award-winning wine program. This is a good middle ground when one person wants a serious dinner and the other mostly wants to sit outside with a drink near the water. It is upscale without requiring everyone to whisper, and the surrounding Barefoot Landing area gives you somewhere to wander once dinner is over. Clark’s Seafood & Chop House | Little River Best for: A quieter marina setting Clark’s overlooks Coquina Harbour in Little River, where the view is less about crashing waves and more about boats, docks and marina lights reflecting across the water. Window tables and outdoor seating provide the strongest views, while the menu covers fresh seafood, steaks and familiar chophouse favorites. The atmosphere feels calmer than many of the larger waterfront destinations farther south. That makes Clark’s a strong choice when you want scenery but would still like to have an actual conversation without competing with a rooftop crowd or live band. The Oyster Rock | Calabash Best for: A date night that earns the drive The Oyster Rock sits a little beyond the traditional Grand Strand boundary, but the setting makes a convincing argument for expanding the map. The restaurant overlooks the Calabash River and its estuaries, with both indoor and outdoor seating positioned to take advantage of the water. Seafood and raw-bar selections are the natural choices here, although the menu also includes steaks, chicken, pork and other options for the person who came for the view but remains suspicious of oysters. The riverfront setting feels peaceful and unhurried, particularly
Moving to Myrtle Beach With Pets: Beaches, Parks and Local Favorites
What pet owners should know before making the move. Moving to Myrtle Beach with a pet can make coastal life even more enjoyable. Morning walks near the water, afternoons at the dog park and patios that welcome four-legged guests make it easier to include pets in everyday plans. Living here with a pet is still different from vacationing here with one. Beach access changes during the summer, community rules vary and the coastal heat may affect when your normal walks happen. Knowing what to expect before the move can help everyone settle into Grand Strand life more comfortably. Start With the Home, Not the Beach A property may look perfect until you consider how it will work for your pet each day. Before purchasing a home or signing a lease, review any rules involving the number, size or type of animals allowed. Condominium buildings, homeowners associations and rental communities may each have their own policies. Think beyond the written rules, too. One household may need a fenced backyard, while another may prioritize sidewalks, an elevator or easy access to a relief area. Cat owners may be more interested in quiet interior spaces, secure windows and a screened porch where their pets can safely enjoy the coastal air. Learn the Local Beach Rules The general rule along the Grand Strand is straightforward: dogs are welcome on many beaches, but their hours are limited during the busier summer season. In Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach, dogs are allowed on the beach before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m. from May 1 through Labor Day. North Myrtle Beach restricts dogs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. from May 15 through Labor Day. Outside those seasonal hours, leashed dogs are generally welcome, and owners are expected to clean up after them. Myrtle Beach State Park follows the same 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. summer restriction. Huntington Beach State Park welcomes leashed dogs year-round in designated outdoor areas, including the southern portion of the beach. Because the rules depend on the municipality or park you are visiting, check the current guidelines before heading out. Tidal Creek Brewhouse Sneaky Beagle Crooked Hammock Brewery King Street Grille Bring Your Dog Along for Dinner The Myrtle Beach area has plenty of restaurant patios, but a few local businesses take the pet-friendly experience a step further. TIDAL CREEK BREWHOUSE Tidal Creek Brewhouse in The Market Common is one of the area’s best-known gathering places for dog owners. Its outdoor beer garden offers plenty of room to spread out, while the enclosed K-9 Korral gives dogs a place to play off leash among agility features and toys. Dogs should remain leashed around the main brewhouse and beer-garden areas. The relaxed setting makes it easy to stop by for morning coffee, weekend brunch, dinner or a locally brewed beer without leaving your dog at home. THE SNEAKY BEAGLE The Sneaky Beagle in Carolina Forest fully embraces its canine theme. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor dining area, and the restaurant even offers a separate dog menu alongside its selection of tacos, sandwiches, sushi, craft beer and cocktails. It has the feel of a casual neighborhood hangout, making it an easy choice for lunch or dinner after a walk around Carolina Forest. CROOKED HAMMOCK BREWERY Crooked Hammock Brewery at Barefoot Landing feels more like a backyard gathering than a traditional restaurant. Its outdoor area features hammocks, lawn games, casual seating and plenty of room to enjoy the atmosphere with a dog beside you. Pets are welcome in the backyard area. It works particularly well when you want an outing rather than just a meal, especially for groups that plan to stay awhile. KING STREET GRILLE King Street Grille offers a large pet-friendly patio in The Market Common, complete with televisions for watching games. Its broad sports-bar menu makes it a practical stop for groups with different tastes, and the surrounding district provides plenty of sidewalks for a walk before or after dinner. Restaurant pet policies can change because of weather, staffing or local requirements, so calling ahead is always a good idea when visiting somewhere new. Put the Pet Events on Your Calendar The Grand Strand’s pet community has several events that give dogs and their owners a reason to get out together. MYRTLE PAWS Held at Grand Park, Myrtle Paws brings together vendors, music, entertainment, pet photos and a canine costume contest. The event also begins with the Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound walk around the lake, with raffle proceeds supporting the Grand Strand Humane Society. LEASHES AND BEACHES North Myrtle Beach’s Leashes and Beaches K9 Skills Competition features activities such as agility courses, scent-based challenges and speed competitions. The 2026 event marked its third year at the North Myrtle Beach Park and Sports Complex. WET NOSE WEDNESDAYS During baseball season, Wednesday home games at Pelicans Ballpark welcome dogs in designated seating areas. Dog-ticket proceeds benefit local charities and organizations that work with animals, turning a night at the ballpark into an easy pet-friendly outing. Dates and event details can change each year, so check the organizers’ current calendars before making plans. Handle the Practical Details Before Moving Day Transfer your pet’s vaccination and medical records before relocating, and identify both a regular veterinarian and an after-hours emergency option. Animal Emergency Hospital of the Strand is located on Beaver Run Boulevard and provides overnight emergency care during the week, continuous weekend coverage and 24-hour service on major holidays. Pet planning should also be part of your household’s hurricane preparations. Ready.gov recommends creating an emergency plan and keeping food, water, medications, medical records, identification and travel supplies together in an accessible pet kit. Update microchip and identification-tag information as soon as your telephone number or address changes. On moving day, keep pets secured in a quiet room, carrier or trusted caretaker’s home while exterior doors are repeatedly opening. Give Your Pet Time to Settle In A new home brings unfamiliar sounds, smells and routines. Dogs may benefit from short walks
Where to Live Along the Grand Strand Based on Your Personality
Find the coastal community that feels most like you. The Grand Strand stretches across roughly 60 miles of coastline, but it does not offer one single version of coastal living. Its communities range from lively entertainment districts and walkable urban villages to historic river towns, fishing communities and peaceful stretches of beach. Each has its own rhythm, which means choosing where to live here is about much more than deciding how close you want to be to the ocean. The better question is: What do you want your everyday life to feel like? Your answer may point you toward a place you had not originally considered. You Want to Walk to Coffee, Dinner and Everything in Between Your Match: The Market Common You like having plans, but you do not want every outing to require getting in the car. The Market Common places restaurants, cafés, shopping, entertainment, parks and community events within a compact, walkable setting. It has a polished, social atmosphere where a morning coffee run can easily turn into lunch, shopping and an evening stroll around the lake. This area may suit you if convenience matters as much as proximity to the beach. Homes range from residences above the commercial district to townhomes and single-family neighborhoods surrounding it, giving buyers several ways to be close to the activity without necessarily living directly above it. View Homes in Market Common You Like Having Everything Organized and Close By Your Match: Carolina Forest You appreciate coastal living, but your daily routine still needs to run smoothly. Carolina Forest offers a more suburban environment with established neighborhoods, shopping, restaurants, recreation and direct access to both Myrtle Beach and Conway. It is inland from the ocean, but that tradeoff can bring more residential options and everyday conveniences closer to home. This is a strong match for someone who wants neighborhood amenities and room to settle into a routine. You may not hear the ocean from your backyard, but groceries, dinner plans, golf and weekend activities are rarely far away. View Homes in Carolina Forest You Want the Classic Beach-Town Lifestyle Your Match: North Myrtle Beach Your ideal coastal life includes mornings near the water, casual restaurants, live music and traditions that have been around for generations. North Myrtle Beach stretches across several distinct beach communities, including Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach and Windy Hill. The area balances relaxed beach living with entertainment, waterfront dining and the beach-music culture surrounding Main Street. This may be your match if you want a place that feels lively without carrying the same energy as central Myrtle Beach. You can spend one evening shag dancing or listening to live music and the next fishing, walking the beach or staying close to home. View Homes in North Myrtle Beach Your Perfect Evening Includes Seafood, Sunsets and Live Music Your Match: Murrells Inlet You rarely turn down dinner near the water, and you prefer places with personality over places that feel overly polished. Murrells Inlet has deep roots as a fishing village, while the MarshWalk gives the community an energetic social center filled with waterfront restaurants and live entertainment. Boating, fishing and other outdoor activities remain a major part of the area’s identity. Living here can feel casual and active at the same time. It is a natural fit for someone who wants coastal scenery and outdoor recreation but still likes having somewhere lively to go when the sun sets. View Homes in Murrells Inlet You Prefer Easygoing Beach Days Over a Packed Schedule Your Match: Surfside Beach or Garden City Beach Your version of living at the beach is less about constant entertainment and more about actually using the beach. Surfside Beach is known for its community parks, public beach accesses and relaxed coastal atmosphere, while neighboring Garden City adds fishing, watersports, inlet views and the familiar activity surrounding its pier. These communities may appeal to you if your favorite plans are the simple ones: walking to the beach, riding around town, grabbing dinner nearby or spending an afternoon on the water. The atmosphere is casual and familiar, with enough activity to keep life interesting without making every day feel like a vacation itinerary. View Homes in Surfside Beach You Believe Quiet Is a Luxury Your Match: Pawleys Island or Litchfield You are not looking for the busiest stretch of coastline—and you do not mind being farther from the center of Myrtle Beach to find something quieter. Pawleys Island is known for its historic character, natural beauty and deliberately unpretentious pace. Nearby Litchfield carries a similarly peaceful coastal atmosphere, with established communities, golf and a more understated approach to beach living. This end of the Grand Strand tends to suit people who value privacy, scenery and slow mornings. Dinner may be at a longtime local restaurant, the beach may feel less hurried and the landscape often becomes as important as the house itself. View Homes in Pawleys Island You Would Choose a Historic Downtown Over an Ocean View Your Match: Conway You love the coast, but you also want oak-lined streets, older architecture and a downtown that feels like a genuine community rather than a vacation district. Conway sits along the Waccamaw River and offers local restaurants, shops, events and a Riverwalk connecting the water to the historic downtown area. It delivers a noticeably different pace while still keeping Myrtle Beach within reach. Conway may be right for you if you want more of a traditional hometown experience. It is particularly appealing to buyers who would rather drive to the beach when they want it than make the beach the center of every day. View Homes in Conway You Would Rather Be on a Boat Than Sitting on the Sand Your Match: Little River Your idea of coastal living has more to do with marinas, fishing and open water than beach chairs and boardwalk attractions. Little River is one of the oldest communities along the Grand Strand and retains much of its fishing-village identity. Charter boats,
