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The busy hub of South Carolina’s Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is widely recognized for its challenging golf courses, exceptional fine dining and premier shopping. A scenic beachfront town, Myrtle Beach is bustling with family-friendly attractions including the SkyWheel—a 187-foot Ferris wheel offering picture-perfect views of the Atlantic from climate-controlled gondolas—and Broadway at the Beach, the No. 1 shopping and entertainment destination in the area.
Choosing where you stay can help set the mood of your entire getaway, and Myrtle Beach has plenty of options for every budget and preference. From beachfront luxury resorts and cozy beach homes to hotels and campgrounds, it’s easy to find accommodations to suit your needs.
If you’re looking to enjoy some of the front porch sitting that Darius Rucker croons about, head to nearby Pawley’s Island. Part of the Hammock Coast region of the Grand Strand, Pawley’s Island is just a half-hour away from the bustle of Myrtle Beach’s many attractions. This enchanting seaside town features beautiful, undeveloped beaches, world-class gardens and some of the area’s most remarkable golf courses.
With attractions like Myrtle Waves, South Carolina’s largest water park, Medieval Times and a host of Ripley’s entertainment options, Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for family fun. If you’re looking for nightlife, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll find a bevy of bars, clubs and theaters along the Strand where you can take to the mic for karaoke, bust a gut at a comedy club or show off your moves on the dance floor.
Myrtle Beach is also one of Darius Rucker’s favorite places to play. He’s been playing local venues big and small since the early days of Hootie and the Blowfish, and the Carolina Country Music Fest, an annual outdoor country music festival that takes place at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, is one of Rucker’s favorite festivals. It’s also one of his favorite places to play golf.
One of the annual highlights of the Myrtle Beach golf calendar is the Hootie & The Blowfish Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am, a charity tournament that has “generated millions of dollars for children’s educational programs and the South Carolina junior golf program.” Rucker, who has professed to playing 250 rounds a year, has a long list of favorite courses throughout the Palmetto State. When it comes to playing a round when he’s in town, he heads to the Dye Course at Barefoot Golf Resort. Designed by legendary course architect Pete Dye, the Dye Course is both beautiful and treacherous, a sure combination for a memorable round.
Start your day with homemade Belgian waffles made with real butter for a crisp finish at Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts. Their extensive menu includes a selection of omelets, eggs benedicts, biscuits and gravy and massive He-Man breakfasts sure to satisfy even the largest appetites. Johnny D’s also offers some delicious (and boozy) milkshakes sure to keep your taste buds excited.
The Grand Strand offers a diverse range of cultural flavors, including Mediterranean at Abraham’s Gyros and fresh local seafood at Lee’s Inlet Kitchen. Savor authentic Southern barbecue at Simply Southern Smokehouse or go Texas-style with sliced brisket from Dickey's Barbecue Pit. Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Try Sweeties Sweets, home to the area’s most famous pralines, or one of the sweet dessert crepes at Crepe Creation.
Unwind at the end of the day with a relaxing view of the ocean at a waterfront restaurant. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll be sure to find it in the Grand Strand.
Click here to find out more about Darius Rucker’s favorite South Carolina adventures.
