I first discovered what a cozy little coastal town Myrtle Beach was when I traveled to Myrtle Beach for a golf tournament while in high school. Little did I know that just a year later, we would move here just in time to start my junior year. What a perfect time to move. 😊
In those days, the town pretty much came to a standstill after Labor Day Weekend, and we locals had the place to ourselves. These days, Myrtle Beach stays busy all year round! Sure, Summer is still our peak, but now, there are endless things to do here in Myrtle Beach all year round.
1. How to Hang Out Like a Local
Karen and I love eating and walking along Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. We have also been known to end our day with a relaxing sunset at Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. This scenic boardwalk offers stunning views, fresh seafood, and live music, making it a favorite spot for locals to unwind. The MarshWalk is popular with tourists, but locals can’t stay away even in Summer. Drunken Jack’s holds a special place in my heart as it was the first restaurant I ate at in Myrtle Beach, and I had just fallen in love with the food and the views. They have been serving great food since 1979, so you know they are doing it right!
2. Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens is renowned for its stunning sculptures. Anna Hyatt Huntington, one of America’s foremost sculptors, and her husband, Archer Milton Huntington, founded the gardens in 1931. Their vision created a unique blend of art, nature, and history. You’ll find over 2,000 works by more than 400 artists, making it the largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture in the country.
Walking through the gardens, you can’t help but feel a sense of tranquility and inspiration. The sculptures are thoughtfully placed amidst lush greenery, vibrant seasonal flowers, and ancient live oaks draped with Spanish moss. Spring and fall are particularly beautiful times to visit, with blooming azaleas, camellias, and other colorful flora.
Throughout the year, Brookgreen Gardens hosts a variety of events that draw locals and tourists. “Nights of a Thousand Candles” is a magical event during the holiday season where the gardens are illuminated with thousands of hand-lit candles and sparkling lights, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland.
The gardens also offer educational programs, art classes, and horticultural workshops. These programs make Brookgreen a place where you can continuously learn and engage with both art and nature.
3. Myrtle Beach Arts & Gallery Trail
The Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum features a variety of art exhibits showcasing both regional and national artists. It houses permanent collections, a library, and classroom space. Originally a historic home built in 1924, the building was relocated to its present site. The museum offers free admission, with rotating exhibits throughout the year, ensuring there is always something new to explore. Don’t miss the opportunity to see Karen’s work online at the StemmleGallery.com.
Explore 60 Miles of Art Galleries on this Trail!
Discover 14 unique communities with over 100 locations across the Grand Strand. On this tour, you’ll encounter exceptional galleries, distinctive museums, and art-filled attractions like Brookgreen Gardens, home to the largest collection of figurative sculpture in the U.S. You’ll also uncover some of The Beach’s best “hidden gems,” including breathtaking oceanfront sculptures, expansive alleyway murals, and secret underground passages brimming with art.
4. Downtown Conway, South Carolina
The historic and charming town of Conway, SC, lies 15 miles west of Myrtle Beach along the Waccamaw River. Founded in 1732, Conway is one of South Carolina’s oldest towns and retains its southern river town allure. The Horry County Museum, located in the 1905 Burroughs School, showcases a variety of artifacts and exhibits that narrate Conway’s history, from Native American heritage to the Textile Era and the early days of Myrtle Beach vacationers.
5. Georgetown’s Historic Riverfront
Nestled along the scenic Winyah Bay, Georgetown, South Carolina, is a treasure trove of Southern charm, historic allure, and natural beauty. As the third oldest city in South Carolina, Georgetown boasts a rich history and a vibrant waterfront district.
One of Georgetown’s most beloved attractions is the Harborwalk, a picturesque boardwalk that stretches along the Sampit River. This charming promenade offers stunning views of the water, historic homes, and a variety of boats docked in the marina. As you stroll along the Harborwalk, you’ll encounter quaint shops, inviting cafes, and galleries showcasing local art. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely walk, romantic sunset viewing, or simply soaking in the coastal ambiance.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Like A Local
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers a variety of experiences that extend far beyond its sun-soaked shores and golf courses. By exploring the local culture, savoring authentic cuisine, exploring hidden gems, and partaking in community events, visitors can uncover a richer, more nuanced perspective of our local area.
Embracing the local viewpoint enhances your visit but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the vibrant spirit and warm hospitality that define Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, seeing Myrtle Beach like a local promises a memorable and genuinely enriching adventure.
Dennis Stemmle is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and lecturer at Coastal Carolina University. He writes about travel, college success, and entrepreneurship.