Caribbean Beach Resort

Can anyone give me an update in the construction? Will it be ALL done by Aug?

Thanks.

Caribbean Beach Resort

I%26#39;m interested in that question too. I really like the Caribbean. Just got their new brochure in yesterday%26#39;s mail %26amp; it looks great!

Caribbean Beach Resort

Bump

I got the flyer as well...

I am already booked somewhere else..

They really look like they are getting close....I would think they would be up and operational (total) way before August (of course, depending on weather and all)...I would think by June or maybe late May??

:)

Holiday Inn Express - Broadway

We are visiting Myrtle Beach in early March and would like any feedback out there on the Holiday Inn Express at Broadway at the Beach.

Holiday Inn Express - Broadway

If you are okay not being on the beach, its a good location. I can%26#39;t vouch for rooms. We are fans of Broadway at the Beach, lots to do there, you are not far from the ocean if you want to drive down and look at it, too cold to swim and good possibility too cold to hang out on the beach in March.

Holiday Inn Express - Broadway

Ditto on what MagicKat said....just across the street to Broadway, so a number of places to eat drink and be merry! Also, Planet Hollywood and Club Kryponite are right next door!

Enjoy!

:)

Burke's Beach in Hilton Head--Out in the Boondocks?

We%26#39;ve been to Hilton Head a few times and have always stayed in the Forest Beach area. We%26#39;re going back in August and found a beautiful rental (at an affordable price) in Burke%26#39;s beach. On the map, this area seems pretty remote.

We%26#39;re not looking for a ton of activity, but would like easy access to restaurants (less than a 10 minute drive, or bike ride would also be ideal).

How much is there to do shopping, eating wise on this part of the island?

Thanks for your help!

Burke's Beach in Hilton Head--Out in the Boondocks?

Burkes Beach is just up from Palmetto Dunes on 278. If you are used to the action in the Forest Beach area, it might seem a little out of the way. It is not far from Shelter Cove with shopping %26amp; restaurants as well as the mall. I would consider it close enough to shopping %26amp; food for me. We have stayed a little farther toward the mainland from Burkes Beach %26amp; didn%26#39;t mind at all.

Burke's Beach in Hilton Head--Out in the Boondocks?

Thanks for the helpful info, Skicat!

Depending on what you%26#39;re looking for Burke%26#39;s Beach is a nice alternative to the south end of the island. Though it may look far on the map, it%26#39;s really only a 10 minute drive to the Forest Beach area.

Also, the beach tends to be less crowded than the ones on the south end of the island. Burke%26#39;s Beach has the biggest waves, so you can pass the time watching surfers (they come out for high tide).

As for biking, if it%26#39;s not too windy and you have enough stamina for a few-mile ride, consider biking north down the beach. Once you round the ';heel'; of the island, you%26#39;ll be in Port Royal sound, which is absolutely beautiful! Be sure to go during lowtide and you%26#39;re almost guaranteed to find starfish, conchs and other sea creatures gathered in the pools. Also a great spot to spy dolphins. Roundtrip the ride will probably take you about an hour, but it%26#39;s worth it. Once you pass the Westin, you%26#39;ll hardly run into a soul.

On Tuesdays, there%26#39;s free fireworks at Shelter Cove during the summer, a quick drive to where you%26#39;re staying. Also, since you%26#39;ll be closer to the north end, check out the shops and restaurants in Pineland Station, a minimall about three miles north of Burkes Beach. Have fun!

And don%26#39;t worry, nothing on the island is really ';remote'; nor is anything a far drive away (afterall, the island is only 12 miles long). If you%26#39;re from Iowa, you%26#39;re probably used to long drives to get anywhere.

Depending on what you%26#39;re looking for Burke%26#39;s Beach is a nice alternative to the south end of the island. Though it may look far on the map, it%26#39;s really only a 10 minute drive to the Forest Beach area.

Also, the beach tends to be less crowded than the ones on the south end of the island. Burke%26#39;s Beach has the biggest waves, so you can pass the time watching surfers (they come out for high tide).

As for biking, if it%26#39;s not too windy and you have enough stamina for a few-mile ride, consider biking north down the beach. Once you round the ';heel'; of the island, you%26#39;ll be in Port Royal sound, which is absolutely beautiful! Be sure to go during lowtide and you%26#39;re almost guaranteed to find starfish, conchs and other sea creatures gathered in the pools. Also a great spot to spy dolphins. Roundtrip the ride will probably take you about an hour, but it%26#39;s worth it. Once you pass the Westin, you%26#39;ll hardly run into a soul.

On Tuesdays, there%26#39;s free fireworks at Shelter Cove during the summer, a quick drive to where you%26#39;re staying. Also, since you%26#39;ll be closer to the north end, check out the shops and restaurants in Pineland Station, a minimall about three miles north of Burkes Beach. Have fun!

And don%26#39;t worry, nothing on the island is really ';remote'; nor is anything a far drive away (afterall, the island is only 12 miles long). If you%26#39;re from Iowa, you%26#39;re probably used to long drives to get anywhere.

Thank you so much for the great advice and recommendations! I especially appreciated the Port Royal Sound recommendation--I%26#39;d never been referred to that location but will definitely check it out. My five year old son is a true nature lover so he%26#39;ll be thrilled.

Can%26#39;t wait!

Plantation Resort

We haven%26#39;t stayed there before, but will let the forum know what we think when we get back home.

Plantation Resort

It has very nice amenities and I%26#39;ve stayed there around 10 times over the last 6 years. i stayed last year and the carpet and furniture all looked to be brand new...it must have been. We have always stayed in the Presidential Villas section which is a little newer and nicer than the other part.

Ashworth & Ocean Bay Club

What happened to the reviews of these 2 places ? They are totally gone , like they never existed . Does anyone have an idea ? Personally I think that they are both good places and in a very nice area . It would be a shame for people not to be able to read about them .

Ashworth %26amp; Ocean Bay Club

I know Ashworth is very nice having stayed there.

staying on Seabrook hourly bike rentals in Kiawah?

Could anyone tell me if bikes can be rented on an hourly or half-day bases in Kiawah? We are staying on Seabrook Island but would love to ride bikes in Kiawah. Would we be able to get on the Island, I heard that it is gated? Its our first visit to the area (Easter week) and like to be active. Any suggestions on either island for keeping busy. Thanks, Judy

staying on Seabrook hourly bike rentals in Kiawah?

It is possible to transport a bike onto Kiawah by car. For this purpose, park your car and enter Kiawah%26#39;s beach at Beachwalker County Park ($5 per day to park; open only on weekends until April). Once you are on the beach, you can bike wherever you wish and as far as you choose to go on Kiawah.

You can also drive onto Kiawah for a lunch or dinner reservation at one of the restaurants. The security gate will give you one day pass for that purpose. I do not know whether you would then be able to rent a bike on the island, but here is the information -

The only bike rental facilities located on Kiawah are connected with the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. There is one location at the Night Heron Park Nature Center (East Beach area, near The Sanctuary Hotel), and another a Cougar Point Golf Course (West Beach area). If you call the resort at 843-768-2121 and ask to be connected to one of these locations, the bike shop can tell you whether or not someone not staying on the island would have access.

Do NOT attempt to ride your bike to and from Seabrook. Biking on the causway out to Kiawah is dangerous (lots of fast traffic, and no shoulders) and strictly forbidden except for highly skilled bikers with special passes. After a new bike trail is completed, sometime in the next two years, it may be possible to bike between the two islands.

staying on Seabrook hourly bike rentals in Kiawah?

Sunlvr,

There%26#39;s plenty of biking to be done on SI without having to go to Kiawah. Seabrook Island Rd makes a seven mile loop around the island. Add the various side streets and you can chalk up some miles.

While SI doesn%26#39;t have all the bike paths that Kiawah does, it is a ';residential'; community. The speed limit is 25 mph (and if you go over by even one mile;-) ) . Grab a map, ride to the crab dock (Cap%26#39;n Sam%26#39;s Road by the Duneloft and Creek watch villas), then to the Equestrian Center. And don%26#39;t forget about Camp St. Christopher; there%26#39;s a nature trail.

We%26#39;ve owned a villa for two years. Everytime we visit we find a new street we haven%26#39;t seen before.

Have a great time.

Eliza

PS. There is supposed to be a bike path from SI to Fresh Fields. I believe I read that it would be complete in the spring.

Girls trip to Charleston in April

My girlfriends and I are planning a girls trip to Charleston the second half of April for 5 days. This is the first trip to SC for all of us. We are staying in the historical district. What are best tours for first time visitors? The best restuarants/clubs? We%26#39;d like to go to the beach for a day. Is late April beach weather?

Girls trip to Charleston in April

I suggest a carriage tour. You get to sit, take in fresh air [hopefully not after the horse has eaten;-)], and have someone %26#39;drive'; you around.

If you like Thai and/or Asian food, try Little Thai Too or Basil. Both are on King St, which you will want to walk and take in some window shopping. Oh, I almost forgot about Cupcake, a bakery that serves only cupcakes. Hey, it%26#39;s a girl trip and you%26#39;re on vacation.

For more off beat ideas, take a day trip out to Wadmalaw Island, You can take in a wine tour and tasting at Irvin-House Vineyards(charlestonwine.com) and visit the Charleston Tea Plantation(www.bigelowtea.com/act/). You can also visit Angel Oak.

April is a good time for the beach. Pack a sweater just in case.

Eliza

Girls trip to Charleston in April

I agree with ';OurGreatEscape%26#39;s'; suggestions for an excursion to Wadmalaw. You will be deep into the lowcountry and seeing things that many visitors miss.

On your way out to Wadmalaw, stop at the 1400-year-old Angel Oak (http://www.angeloaktree.org/} which is just off the Maybank Highway (route to Wadmalaw) on Johns Island. Be prepared: There are no restaurants on Wadmalaw Island, so you might want to take a picnic with you.

For your beach day, try Beachwalker County Park, which is the public beach access on Kiawah Island. You can park your car for $5 per day.

The beach at Kiawah is twelve miles of packed sand, and is extremely uncrowded. Once you are on the beach you can walk as far as you want and view some of the beautiful beachfront properties on Kiawah.

Beachwalker Park has well-maintained shower, toilet and changing facilities, as well as a snack bar. You can also rent chairs and umbrellas.

Thanks for all of the great tips!!!!

Gullah Tours is the best, most interesting tour. It is in a nice, climate controlled bus. Also the Gibbes Museum of Art is a nice attraction. Don%26#39;t miss the great food at Sermet%26#39;s Corner on King Street!

Hi girls, my cousins and i are talking about the same thing. only in early april. where are you staying. if we pick charleston, i%26#39;ll send you some must do%26#39;s. thanks

For lunch, go to Joseph%26#39;s, on Meeting Street near the corner with Queen. Great Fried Oyster Po%26#39; Boy, or Shrimp and Grits. Very low key, low ambience, low prices.

The Gullah Tour is outstanding. Alphonso Brown is a fabulous guide. Reserve in advance. Check the website at www.gullahtours.com

One of the girls belongs to a timeshare group so we%26#39;re staying at Lodge Alley Inn in the Historical District.

Thanks to everyone for their great advise, especially the tipon a winery. I have relatives who own a winery in Missouri so I try to hit the local wineries when I travel.

I hope 5 days will be enough!

Seascape??

We%26#39;re planning our first trip to NMB in August. There are 3 families going...we%26#39;re staying at the Seascape 2601 S. Ocean Blvd. Anyone know anything about this place? And the area? Since we%26#39;ve never been there, I have no clue as to what to expect.

Thanks!!

Seascape??

First time to NMB or Myrtle Beach in general?

Seascape??

POP2748, this is actually our first time in SC!! So, yes, very first time to the area in general. We usually go to the beach in NJ or MD, but decided to venture further south this year since it%26#39;s supposed to be much nicer down there. Any info on the area or places that we need to see, would be much appreciated.

Thanks!!

You%26#39;re in for big surprise. No seawalls or breakwater jetties like at NJ beaches. Sister married and moved to NJ shore and was very disappointed when she saw what they called a beach. Much larger area than Ocean City, MD.

First thing would be to get your bearings. Not that it%26#39;s confusing but it does help to get an idea before getting down there.

The Grand Strand extends approx. 60 miles depending where you want to draw the boundaries. It%26#39;s made up of several small cities and communities and dozens of beach sections.

Doesn%26#39;t matter where you stay. Most visitors referr to the entire area as Myrtle Beach. Stay to the south of MB or to the north. Area attractions are an easy drive.

The city Myrtle Beach is pretty much the center of the Grand Strand. City of North Myrtle Beach is a seperate city approx. 10 miles north of MB.

Pull up a map of the area. Rt 501 meets the beach in the middle of Myrtle Beach. Scroll to the north. Rt 22 and Rt 9 pretty much are the north and south boundaries for NMB. (Before somebody jumps on me. I know Rt 22 isn%26#39;t the true boundary but it%26#39;s close enough for directions.)

MB and NMB have the same series of Ave numbers. Both have a 30th Ave north and so on and so on. This does cause some confusion with some first timers. Keep this in mind as you hunt for attractions.

Getting around is fairly easy. Everything is pretty much north and south. Main Route is Rt 17. Just one Rt 17 in NMB. When you get into MB it splits into Business and By-pass 17. Pretty much self explanatory.

Your rental is in Cresent Beach section of NMB. Pull up your map again. Main Street is center of Ocean Drive. 2601 Ocean Blvd will be 26 blocks to the south of Main Street.

Do a Google Earth search or go to Elliott Realty site. Elliott has a Map It feature where you can see pic of condo from the ocean side.

Get your bearings.

When you%26#39;re ready we%26#39;ll work on grocery stores and area attractions. LOL

Oh Yeah. Forgot to add. There are four beach sections in NMB. Windy Hill, Cresent, Ocean Drive and Cherry Grove. Each section is approx. 3 miles in length.

There is a 5th section called Atlantic Beach. Officially it%26#39;s a seperate town. Story behind it.

Windy Hill is the southern most section. It%26#39;s cut off from the rest by Atlantic Beach. You can walk up the beach but Ocean Blvd dead ends at Atlantic Beach boundary. Cresent Beach begins at north Atlantic Beach boundary. You have unobstructed drive up Ocean Blvd through Cresent, Ocean Drive and Cherry Grove sections.

Wow! Thank you for such a detailed response. Can I hire you as our tour guide!! LOL

Seriously, I really appreciate all the info. As I mentioned, we%26#39;re totally new to the area. I%26#39;m one of those people that always has to research before I go somewhere b/c I hate to get somewhere and then not know where to go. I also hate to miss out on something that is a ';must see%26#39; in the area just because I have no clue where to go. (I actually drive my husband crazy...he%26#39;s more of a go with the flow kind of guy.)

Anyway, I%26#39;m very excited to see the beach down there. Although we%26#39;ve been going to NJ and MD, I%26#39;m definitely not a huge fan of the Jersey Shore. It%26#39;s better than it used to be, but I always find that it is very dirty and well, it%26#39;s just not very nice. Also, I%26#39;m not sure how it is in SC, but in NJ you actually have to pay to go on the beach! I think that%26#39;s a crime!! In MD, the beach is free...is it that way in SC? (I assume it is...) I can see why your sister was disappointed.

So, sorry if I%26#39;m full of questions, but how big are the blocks down there? You had mentioned that Rt. 17 is the main road. It looks like we%26#39;re a few blocks from 17. Is this a short walk? It doesn%26#39;t look too far...but, I%26#39;m not good at estimating these things.

Is there anything else that you can think of that we must see while we are there? (I feel like I owe you a fee for all of your advice!!)

Thanks again! I really appreciate it. I can%26#39;t wait for our visit..

Sister joined NJ beach club site unseen. Climbed over large hill between road and ';beach'; and about died. No waves. Like swimming in a lake.

We went to RI a couple of times for soccer tournaments. Tried to hit beaches south of Providence. Ran off of one because it was private. Only pubic access we found was very similar to a river bank. Waves not much more than wake off passing speed boat.

Grand Strand beaches are public. Most areas have life guards on duty during daytime in the summer. There are a few rules but nothing major. Main thing as long as you don%26#39;t bother others you%26#39;ll have no problems.

There isn%26#39;t any boardwalk along beachfront in NMB. Walk out of rental and across the dunes. Sometimes a bridge like wooden walkway. Sometimes just a path. Be sure and use it. Dunes are sacred. They were pretty much washed out in early 80%26#39;s by storms. Big bucks spent rebuilding them and they do protect them now. Sea grass is growing and you shouldn%26#39;t bother it.

At low tide you should have 50 to 100 yards of flat surface between dunes and water. High tide varies up and down the beach. You might have a few feet of beach at high tide and in someplaces you have none. There always seems to be that one day during the week when high tide as at mid-day and you have little beach during the day. We always plan ahead and use that day as our day to do away from beach activities.

For NMB I used Main Street as a reference point. Zooming in on MapQuest, Main Street shows up before any Ave numbers. Just about any Ave will run you out to Rt 17. Right by Seascape is 25th Ave south. Should be one of the main stop sign free Aves out to Rt 17.

Ball park figuring I%26#39;d say blocks are rectangle. Maybe 100 yards long along Ocean Blvd. Maybe 150 yards along Aves heading out towards Rt 17.

Rt 17 and Ocean Blvd don%26#39;t run in a perfect parrallel. I%26#39;d say approx a mile give or take depending on which Ave you take. Might be shorter in places. Might be farther in others.

I%26#39;m more familiar with area above Main Street so I%26#39;m still trying to visualize things in Cresent section. LOL. Gonefishin can bail me out if I%26#39;m wrong on anything.

For some reason I%26#39;m seeing a grocery store in Cresent section of Rt 17 on south bound side of road. Strip mall with Baskin Robbins, Subway and Gold%26#39;s Gym. Either it%26#39;s there or it used to be.

I do know if you head north a mile or two on Rt 17 there%26#39;s a Food Lion on the right. Another half mile is Main Street. There%26#39;s a Krogers and Bi/Lo on opposite sides of Main Street.

Another mile or two up Rt 17 is Super Wal Mart. There is a Wal Mart to the south of Cresent at the Rt 22/ Rt 17 intersection. Very busy area. Store reminds me of Christmas shopping with all the crowds. NMB Wal Mart isn%26#39;t much busier than ones here at home.

These should keep you busy for a few days.

http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/

http://www.bflanding.com/

http://www.dixiestampede.com/myrtlebeach.php

http://www.myrtlebeachscrestaurants.com/

http://www.myrtlebeachtv.com/

http://www.medievaltimes.com/

www.hob.com/venues/clubvenues/myrtlebeach/

http://www.cgp.net/

http://www.townofcalabashnc.com/

http://www.callahansgifts.com/

Might also try YouTube and type in Myrtle Beach. Several videos from vacationers to give you an idea of what beaches are like.

Choices for dining are unlimited. Main rule of thumb......More popular the place, the longer the wait. You can figure if you see a place advertised in all the coupon books or it has a fifty foot tall neon sign out front, it will have a long line.

Three choices.......... Eat early. Before five you can beat most of the crowds.........

Eat at the condo. We have started doing that more and more through the years. Not only does it save some money but it%26#39;s much quicker and relaxing not cleaning up and standing in line..........

Eat at less popular places. We have found a couple that suits our needs. Might sacrifice a little on quality. ( I don%26#39;t think so but some critical people might) What you lose in quality you gain in convenience.

Where should we stay?

My husband and I are planning a trip to MB for 4 nights, the first full week of June. Our daughter will be 10 months old. We have been to MB 5 or 6 times for summer vacation and stayed at a different hotel each time. I have spent hours researching a place for us to stay and would like some opinions.

We are on a budget, looking for about $550 for 4 nights. Would like to have bedroom and living room, so the baby can nap in quiet. We like to spend a lot of time at the beach, but will be spending a lot of time at the hotel for naps, etc.. Location isn%26#39;t a big issue, we don%26#39;t mind driving. We always take a trip to Cherry Grove and go to Broadway at the Beach almost every day. Would like to stay somewhere clean with nice views, maybe even somewhere newer.

I have been looking at Monterey Bay Suites, the price is right. I think it has just been updated? But it is like #60 on the hotel list. Also, Long Bay Resort looks nice. It seems to be a little outdated with the furnishings, is this right?

Any opinions or suggestions would be appreciated!

Where should we stay?

I can%26#39;t answer the hotel questions, I usually leave that to MB Conceirge, she is the expert, but I do advise as soon as you decide something, you better call, that is Senior Week and while majority will be in Myrtle Beach, they do seem to be ';everywhere'; and even though hotels SAY they don%26#39;t rent to anyone under 25 in most cases, it is amazing how many ';seniors'; are down here w/o parents.

Where should we stay?

I would say if you found that price at Monteray Bay Suites...BOOK IT soon! Thats a great rate for there for that time of year....and I think the way the suite is laid out will really fit your needs with the youg one. The balcony and living room is off to the front of the unit, with the bedroom area as you come into the unit.

It has just underwent some major renovations and looks wonderful! Plus you get a breakfast buffet and an evening dessert reception in your room rate...cant beat it, IMO!

:)

Thank you! I will be booking in the next day or two for sure.

Sea Mist?

Is The Sea Mist Resort 1200 S OB, In a bad location just reading Some of the post on here about NORTH OB and SOUTH OB and wondering if we made a mistake by making reservations for a week in June we have 4 small children Is this a safe area? THANKS

Sea Mist?

That area is safe. If you would ahve went north about another 10 blocks then I would be concerned.

I don%26#39;t think that you made a safe choice on where to stay due to the lack of cleanlyness.

Sea Mist?

Read the thread that is above yours ';Best Water Park'; you will get some info from other people regarding this resort. I assume when you say 4 small children you do not intend to let them walk up and down Ocean Blvd by themselves, many parents do and I suggest that is not a good idea. South Ocean Beach has areas that are not so stellar. If you drive around the Blvd you will see what areas are more run down than others. SeaMist is a much older resort been there for years, I have not stayed there I can not comment on the condition of the rooms. That is what reviews are for. If the majority of the reviews are not so good, you may want to reconsider. There are other hotels that have water parks and areas for children.

I agree with cbrguest...the area around Sea Mist isnt a ';bad'; area, and in the summer months its a very active area at all times of the day. We used to stay just a bit north of there when vacationing (South Seas) and never had a problem...granted that was a few years back, but during the day and early evening hours..everybody is out and about. Of course, as with anywhere you travel...I wouldnt head out alone along the Blvd (anywhere along OB for that matter) by myself or let the kids late in the evening.

I would tell you to be aware that the resort is an older place and is under going some much needed and pretty extreme renovations...so I am sure that their rates will reflect that...I%26#39;m just hoping that they are being honest and upfront with folks planning for vacation when they are making reservations!

:)

MB Con is so PC, where I am not. She gives great reviews and anything she recommends or not recommends is usually on the mark. I hope you have read the other Water Park thread, as there are more comments about the resort there. I will tell you MY opinion, which is never in short supply, SeaMist reminds me of a very old MOTEL 6, at best.

Thanks so much for the information

I agree...find another place...not because of location. You can find a nicer, more modern resort in MB.

College Spring Break in Charleston/Savannah

A group of college friends and I are coming down from Indiana for our spring break, which runs from March 11-17. We plan on spending St. Patrick%26#39;s Day in Savannah, but thought about Charleston for earlier in the week. We have one couple and two or three additional people. Can anyone recommend space to accommodate all of us on the cheap? We%26#39;re poor college kids who plan to sleep on floors once we reach Savannah. I stayed in the Holiday Inn Historic District last summer and loved it. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

College Spring Break in Charleston/Savannah

You may do best to try to book a hotel outside of downtown, or to rent a cottage or condo at one of the beaches. (March may not be great beach weather, but you could luck out with some temps in the 70%26#39;s.) Assuming you have a car, you can easily drive into Charleston and park for the day. Garages are not expensive and are readily available.

Check ';rent from owner'; sites like www.vrbo.com for rentals on Folly Beach, which is very convenient to Charleston and has restaurants and activities that might interest you. (N.B. - Some owners will not be ';wild'; about renting to a college group, so you wil have to reassure them that you are neat and responsible.)

College Spring Break in Charleston/Savannah

The chances of finding a place in Savannah this late are pretty slim. And it will be expensive! I hate to tell you, but the hotels/motels really jack the prices up for the St Patricks weekend. However, you can sure try. Just start calling and hope that you luck up on something.

I%26#39;m from Indiana but I live in Charleston now!

Check out this link:

http://www.notsohostel.com/

It is a hostel that is in the downtown area. Beds start at $19 per night, or you can look into private rooms that start at $55 per night. I live in the neighborhood-it is great during the day but you have to use caution at night, so if you are going out to the bars you would want to use cabs, but the cab ride would be short and cheap. The hostel also rent bikes.

Notsohostel sounds like a great place. Thanks to TroubleDoll for mentioning it!

It looks like there is a CARTA bus stop at Spring and Ashley. See:

ridecarta.com/shared/鈥?0maps.pdf

TroubleDoll, do you have any experience with using these buses? Do they run close to schedule, and are they safe and understandable for tourists?

I have never personally used CARTA. I walk everywhere because I like the exercise. I do know that the buses are frequented by people traveling from the downtown neighborhoods to the Historic District for work. They are never crowded.

Hotels beside the Reef Resort

I have askeed this before but I have forgot the answer. They were building two new hotels beside the Reef in March and I know the one to the north of the Reef is The Gran Atlantic. To the south there was Mystic Seas Then another one being build beside Mystic Seas. Does anyone know what it is called and its web address?

Thanks

Hotels beside the Reef Resort

Does anyone know?

Hotels beside the Reef Resort

I Figured it out by looking at the stay and play guide.

Starting at the North hotel 2007 South Ocean Blvd. Myrtle Beach 1.Grand Atlantic Resort 2.The Reef Resort 3. Mystic Seas 4. 2201 S Ocean Blvd Paradise Resort

Graduation

does anyone know of nice hotels for high graduates?... me and my friends just want to get away for a while...

Graduation

Majority of hotels only rent to 25 yrs and older. The ones that might rent to someone younger are not any you would want to stay in.

Graduation

There are a number...in fact the Sheraton at the Convention Center rents to those 18 and up. Just a few pages back on this forum...anything under ';senior week';...that should give you a good starting point...I do know midtown inn (www.midtowninn.com)

Good Luck!

:)

Camelot By The Sea - Any thoughts???

Can anyone give me any info about Camelot?

Thanks very much,

Rob

Camelot By The Sea - Any thoughts???

The reviews seem to be pretty good, its in a good location, outside looks very nice. I read someones reply to a question on here that they were alittle disappointed with Camelot, but you will find that with any hotel. There is not a perfect one, if the price range suits, it is ocean front, its not a dump I can tell you that much, you should be satisfied.

Camelot By The Sea - Any thoughts???

I haven%26#39;t stayed there before but we stay next door in the Breakers.

From what I can tell from looking from the outside.

Pros:

-Location

-Fairly New (5 years I believe)

-Pools are ok (from what I could see from next door)

CONS:

-Some of the rooms are set-up weird. You enter the room from the garage area and then your bedroom is right there. I personally don%26#39;t like to enter my hotel room SUITE with the bedroom right there first. I prefer it to be the other way around.

-From what some have said it%26#39;s sort of getting dirty in the rooms and they already need refurbishing. I haven%26#39;t seen the actual inside of the rooms but check out this site for any pictures.

Sometimes I wonder when reviews say dirty I wonder if the traveler has checked in after a particularly high occupancy time, like bike weeks and 4th of July, where I doubt the staff can keep up with turning the rooms, much less cleaning the lobbies. NO excuse but its very possible. The most mess I have ever seen on the outside of hotels was Ocean Blvd on Memorial Day morning, more trash on the ground then after Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Sometimes there are worst times to check in then others.

Keep in mind too that all of these units are individually owned...meaning one unit might not be in as good as shape or furnished as nice as the next one....I do like the location...close to the 21st Ave N area...and Bummz is right next door!

:)

lip chap

HELP - softball coach needs help for April spring break

My team is coming to MB for spring break on April 10th and we%26#39;re very excited. The good news is that all 11 girls have their families coming with them. I would love to get a very reliable rental agent and to tell families to call and arrange condo rentals with them so I don%26#39;t have to handle that end of the trip.

My family always go the condo route and we%26#39;re looking for the following:

- Mostly 2 bedroom units, with full kitchens, W/D, on the beach with heated pools (sounds like we%26#39;ll need the heat).

- We%26#39;ll likely need a couple of 1 bedrooms and one 3 bedroom (for me).

- a bigger place would be good so lots of different types of lodging and lots to do for the girls and their families.

- looking to pay about $800-900 a week for the 2 bedrooms.

I don%26#39;t mind paying up a little for an agent to take all of the individual reservations. We%26#39;re playing at Pepper Gedding Rec Dept on 3300 North Oak Street (33rd ave. n) and at the old air force base near the airport. I just need someone that I can trust as ultimatly, families will come back to me with problems.

I%26#39;ve heard good things about Kingston Plantation, but would like one agent to handle to take me off the hook. Assume they%26#39;d give us a break for 10-12 units. Any other advice would be appreciated.

I need some help on lodging and other things to do with the kids. Thanks.

HELP - softball coach needs help for April spring break

Try Myrltewood condo%26#39;s, they are on Hwy 17 Bypass and 38thN-48thN. We lived there last year waiting on our house to be ready, the Cal Ripkin Experience apparently worked out a deal and the complex had many baseball teams. ITs very large, they are nice 1-3 bed units on a golf course. The location is perfect and not far from where you want to be. Check out the left side of the column for Hotels/deals/packages I saw Myrtlewood listed. They have 3 different condo complexes in same unit. I pretty much think it would be all you need. They do have a rental office.

HELP - softball coach needs help for April spring break

Really hoping to stay on the beach. Looked to me like Kingston Plantation fits the bill, the question is --- who do I contact? An agent? On site management?

Thanks.

That will be quite a distance to drive for the games. But obviously, everyone has their own opinions. Go to the left side of this forum board and type in Kingston Plantation and read the reviews. I read a few and you might be intersted in what others who have stayed there have said. This hotel is basically in North Myrtle Beach close to Barefoot Landing. You are playing softball in MB south basically. Read the reviews from the hotels and check the maps. You want to see location. Broadway at the Beach is a huge complex with shopping (girls love shopping) restaurants, night life across the street is NASCAR Park, great place for families to go. Barefoot Landing in North Myrlte Beach is similar but not as much family stuff or night life there.

Pepper Geddings is located in the heart of MB...just up the street from the convention center....I would say some of the beachfront places that you may want to look into would be the Breakers (paradise tower), Chelesa Place (across the street from the beach) or even the soon to open Caribbean (torn done the old building so will be brand new). You may want to contact Myrtle Beach Trips...they do some wonderful packages that would include accomodations and a few attractions at a really resonable rate.

There are a few companies that do handle the leasing of condo units...I might try one of the local realty companies..maybe Prudential or Century 21..most of them do handle short term condo rentals....I know Booe Realty has had some issues on this forum in the past, but I have used them personnally and never had a problem (www.booerealty.com)

As far as staying at Kingston...it would be a pretty good drive to the rec center from there....otherwise, wouldnt be a bad option...but, knowing young ladies...I would think being somewhat close to Broadway at the Beach would be a better option.

Hope this helps....let me know!

Cathy

:)

Coach: Last year our HS team went to the Myrtle Beach tournament and stayed at the ';Sands resort';

www.sandsresorts.com/resorts/sanddunes/

I included the ink since there are 3-4 different sands resort location. The team stayed in 3 beedroom condos which were excellent. New and very nicely furnished. The parents had the choice of a hotel type room or 1 bedroom condo with bedroom kitchen and rec room. 2 tv%26#39;s and ocean front. The prices were good and the best part is its right on the beach and covered parking. Its located around 75th street and the games are around 35th street. Only about 15 min drive.

We like the location and will be staying there again this year. We go down the first week in April and play that week. Were the Robinson Rams from Northern VA. We won the tournament last year looking to repeat. :)

Best of luck and let me know if you want any more info or have any questiuons.

Home email is - softballfools@aol.com

Gary

looking for good location inMB for bachelor party???

about 20 guys from ny, alot of firemen.

looking for a hotel that is not family oriented, more of a late night crowd that plays golf all day.

We are looking some time from mid may to early june 5-6 nights of fun.

never been there so I am hoping for some suggestions.

and is the nightlife entertaining enough for a bachelor party!

Thanks

looking for good location inMB for bachelor party???

First, are you kidding, enough nightlife! NO problem. I am sure you are aware of the ';gentlemens'; clubs up and down Grand Strand. I will also recommend Crocodile Rocks at Broadway at the Beach as a good stop, always many bachelor/bachelorette parties, from there you have access to several night clubs. It is in a great location. I would totally avoid the month of May, unless you come first week, as the 2nd week, which kind of rolls into the 3rd week, then the last week which continues from 3rd week are all Bike Weeks, and it is a different atmosphere then usual and the traffic is pretty bad. The first week in June is Senior week, you might like that time better. But if May it is, DO not come May 23 thur Memorial Day, odds would be very slim of you finding a room on Ocean Blvd, or one you could get to with your car, nothing but motorcycles. You can head up to North MB, but more nightlife is found in MB. Girl I work with her husband is former NYFD, broke his back several years ago in a fire, now lives here. You will find NY is represented quite well down here.

MB Conceirge can give you good hotel suggestions. We don%26#39;t really have ';adult'; hotels. You could give Marriott Grande Dunes a try, its a pricey hotel, which might limit large families. OR you can rent a condo somewhere.

looking for good location inMB for bachelor party???

Great place for a bachelor party! Alot to do...daytime golf, nite time...wow, you name the limit! As MagicKat says, we have a number of ';club'; options. Broadway at the Beach with all the clubs there, and Club Kryptonite, the Red Rooster complex right there on Kings Hwy just south of 21st Ave N, 5 O%26#39;Clock Somehwere...just to name a few...of course the ';gentlemen'; clubs are numerous...the more popular ones would probably be The Masters Club (real popular with the locals and the workers in the hospitality industry) there on 10th Ave N, just off Grissom and the Doll House there on the Bypass at Lake Arrowhead Road. There are others...some just as good...and some pretty raunchy.... LOL Bummz Beach Bar is a great little ';get the party started'; kind of place...and do leave room for a night down to Murrells Inlet to hit some of the places along the Marshwalk...especially Hot Fish Club (www.hotfishclub.com)

You might look into the club tour at one of the local limo companies...I know a comapny that I have used numerous times offers passes to a number of these clubs as part of that package...this way you dont have to worry about getting from point A to point B, everyone always wants to know who%26#39;s pulling up in the limo (LOL!!), no DUI%26#39;s, and you can transport up to 16 of your closest friends! Check out www.scextremelimo.com

As for accomodations....you didnt say how many in your group, but if you do have a large group, you might think about renting a condo, or even a house...check out www.vrbo.com. If you want a really nice resort, OF, I%26#39;d try Southwind Villas (also on vrbo and they do have their own website www.thesouthwind.com), The Mariott at Grande Dunes, or even some of the golf community complexes --- Myrtlewood, Marina Inn and Villas or Barefoot Resort...especially in late May early June...these may be your best deal on the beach!

:)

NyRoofman, my friend I work with, her husband retired 10 yrs ago from Fire House 332.

As far as accomodations, you can rent a house on the ocean, 2nd row, channel, or further back depending on you budget. North Myrtle probably has biggest selection. I just skimmed through it, and seems that have about 50 houses (or more) that sleep 18 or more people in all price ranges. North Myrtle has easy access to golf courses. Not much to walk to for night life (Harold%26#39;s on the Beach), but not too far of a limo ride to Myrtle. Of course there is a Hooter%26#39;s 5 minutes away from the beach. Try Elliott realty web site to view these beach houses.

lip chap

Kris Pa...

Kris... I am also from Pennsylvania... I have a feeling

I know you...

hmmm....A friend of mine.. named Kris.. was looking into

info.. on M.Beach.. and I am wondering if you are her..

Kris Pa...

hmmm, I see you are from Wilkes-Bare, I can%26#39;t say I know anyone from there (with 4 boys)

Need Help

I will be traveling across the US with my husband this coming summer. He鈥檚 a long haul truck driver and me and my son plan to join him for a few weeks every now and then. I have no clue where well end up stopping in your state so I was hoping you could all help me by telling me cool kid friendly places to see. I know there will be times where we鈥檒l be waiting a day or so to pick up or drop off and I鈥檇 love to use that free time to explore areas. I鈥檓 the kind of person who likes to plan as much as possible. So any and all recommendations of places to stop and see would be greatly appreciated

Thanks so much for all your help

Lisa

Need Help

Columbia SC has a great zoo and wonderful museum and childrens museum. I recommend both of those. Columbia is in middle of the state, with several interstates running thru, depending on where you are going, it might be on your trip(I-26, I-20, I-77) Otherwise,you have I-85 from Atlanta thru Anderson, Greenville, Spartanburg SC (I can%26#39;t say there is a ton of things for children to do, I lived there in that area almost 20 yrs and I am trying to think what is there). You also have I-95 from FL/GA thru SC close to the coast up to NC/VA. Coastal route will bring you close to Charleston lots of history and Myrtle Beach (putt putt, water parks, ocean, IMAX theater, Nascar Park, Family Kingdom Amusement park) Myrtle Beach is a great family destination.

Best Golf Packages

Hello All,

Can somebody give me some ideas on who to work with for the best packages..We would like to come down in April and don%26#39;t have a clue were to start.

Thanks

Best Golf Packages

Willie, if you don%26#39;t get alot of response, go back couple pages and read what has already been posted. This is a very common question. There are many packages to chose from, there are people on here who have alot of knowledge about the courses, which are the best, which are the worst. You have many courses, may lodging options, you can stay in North Myrlte Beach, you can stay in Litchfield, what do you want to pay, you want high end, budget, that will be a consideration. Barefoot Resorts in North Myrtle Beach offers some good golf courses and good accomodations and in a good location. It is not directly on the beach but on the Intracoastal Waterway.

Best Golf Packages

I have a friend who brings down 20 or more golfers every year and he seems to like Breakers,Long Bay and Crown Reef. If you call Crown Reef ask for Dave Mc Clean at their golf desk.

';The Golf Desk';is a private packager that will set up golf and lodging for you ,ask for Brian Noblin.

My advice ,go ocean front.Play at least one marsh course.Funbeaches.com is a web site with some good golf course photos.

Make sure you have a package that includes cart fees if possible.Be more exact as to what type of courses youwould like to play and we can suggest some.Example, difficult or easy to play, high end or mid price range, scenic, no housing etc.

Good luck

I agree with MagicKat....just thumb back thru the pages....but TonyMK, Soprano and Pop are all good at giving some great golf advice.....especially for April which will be peak spring season for golf. Do you have any ';dream'; courses that are must plays? If so, you should look at booking them soon as to be assured to have a tee time.

A number of resorts have some great golf packages....Breakers REsort, Grande Shores, Mairna at Grande Dunes, just to name a few....

:)

We have a group of 15 going the first week of May.

Grande Shores is charging us $460 for:

Six nights

Five rounds with carts

Hotel

Breakfast buffet

We%26#39;re playing: Panther%26#39;s Run, Diamondback, Sea Trail Jones and Byrd and MB National West

Grande Shores had cheaper rooming options that the oceanfront, two-to-a-room efficiency units we chose.

Kevin

Toronto

My advice would not necessarily be to get a golf package that included accomodations. Reason I say this is you can get very affordable hotels/condos directly on the ocean. It is still off-season for the beach goer. You will be teeing it up all day, so a nice break would be to hear the waves crashing from your balcony. If you want to go through 1 company for everything, try Elliott in North Myrtle.

Willie, I see that 4 of the courses you are playing are NORTH of Myrtle Beach, one is in Loris, Diamond Back, which from where you are staying now is a good distance, the Sea Trails and Panthers Run are in North Carolina, a good hour drive from where you are staying. The MB National Course is in Conway, about 1 mile from where I work and it is located on Hwy 501 the road from ';He double hockey sticks!';. You have a good location for a hotel room but not so good for golf. You will have some long driving times in traffic. From your location you can hop on Hwy 31 N, to avoid tons alot of traffic but you will still have probably an hour to SeaTrail, DiamondBack and Panthers Run. Shame, as you will pass many other golf courses. Gator is giving you some good advice, you would be better off staying in North Myrtle Beach, having shorter driving times to the 4 courses. The one in Conway, you can still get to on Hwy 31 S to 501.

While I hate admiting I am wrong, and for me, I am not wrong, but my husband said that if it was him he would not mind the driving distance, if on vacation, to play golf. This from a man who hates driving 1 mile out of his way and if there is traffic we might as well stay home. But I did want to give you the opposing view of mine.

Rte.31 is the golfers best friend.Unless the planned North Myrtle Beach connector to 31 has been completed,you would have to backtrack to 22 to get to 31 anyway.Would not advise going North on 17 as there are many traffic lights.

From Grande Shores to Diamond Back and Sea Trail is about 45 minutes.

The NMB connector is no where near ready, will be long time. What is the drive time from Grande Shores to Panthers Run?

To Uacturbo,

You might consider replacing M.B. National West course with Possum Trot,Man O War or even Wizzard.The drive all the way up 501 can be brutal at certain hours.

If you take Grissom Parkway over the Intra-Coastal and make a left on to River Oaks Blvd. and then a right to Carolina Bays Parkway you can get to wizzard and Man O War and avoid 501 altogether.

I think Panthers Run can be made in just under an hour.Check out Holden Brothers farm market on the way back.Great jams and jellies.

North Myrtle-House HELP!!

We are looking for;

-6-8 bedroom house

-for 11 maybe 12 people

-saturday to saturday 7/7-7/14

-with a pool

-looking to spend roughly $4K before all the fees

We know we want NMB but have not been in a long time and even then we did condos.

Now that we want a house we are dizzy with options and location variables. It seems waterfront is out due to cost.

Concerned about walkig across beach blvd with a couple small kids. Whats with Villas and sharing pools?

We are looking at the Cherry grove section because its quiet and less dense.

I have some of the rental web sites so I%26#39; m looking more for reassurance that crossing the road is %26#39;ok%26#39;, that the beach doenst disappeat at 39th st, and we are not too far from everything.

North Myrtle-House HELP!!

You will get many replys to use Elliott Realty, we agree, have friend that works there. You should not have alot of problems crossing the street up there, there will be some traffic but not like MB. There are many homes w/ pools and shared pools, I think you will find something to fit the bill. I know last year friend stayed Cherry Grove, ocean front w/ pool, slept 22, can%26#39;t remember exactly what she said she paid, but I think you should have no problem if you are okay 2nd row. Not sure what you mean by far from everything, North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove pretty much run together, if you haven%26#39;t been in while you will be surprised.

North Myrtle-House HELP!!

Thanks

Here are the two top NMB sites. Elliott and Thomas Century 21.They have large oceanfront houses plus some large channel houses maybe three blocks off the beach. Channel houses are less expensive than oceanfront.

Something to keep in mind. Most bedrooms will sleep four. Usually a master bedroom will have one king or queen bed while the others will have two doubles. Plus almost every rental has hide-a-bed sofa. Four to five bedrooms would handle 11-12 easy. Small kids seem to enjoy sleeping on floor at the beach. It%26#39;s an adventure to them.

One way to increase your options would be to look at duplexes. An upper and lower or two side by side. Rent both units to get all your bedrooms.

northmyrtlebeachtravel.com/book/query.html

http://www.century21thomas.com/sitemap.htm

grand strand vacations

The week you have chosen is the second most expensive week of the year regarding rates. Elliott will give you largest selection. If you stay 2nd row, crossing the street not that big a deal....the further north you go in Cherry Grove (higher the address), the less traffic. With little kids, I wouldn%26#39;t go further back than 2nd row as it can be a hassle getting everything ready and hauling it to the beach w/ little ones.

Was just wasting time and went to Elliott site to search large houses. Small glitch in Elliott site today. Each rental is listed something like fifteen times. First glance I thought they had really grown with all the new listings.

Questions about Charleston weather and must see tips...

I realize the following could be a stupid question. We are planning a trip the end of Feb-beginning of March. I know it won%26#39;t be typical beach weather but will there be green grass and leaves? I lived in S FL and always had green and then N IN and rarely have green so I%26#39;m not sure what to expect.

I have also looked at the prices for tours in the area and they were more than I expected so we have to pick just one or two. Which would you suggest?

Any other must see ideas? From all the info I have seen (the visitors guide they just sent was last yrs :( ) there isn%26#39;t really anything going on at that time. I have seen mentions of great architecture and history, dolphins, starfish, beautiful gardens, and gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. So any tips (best locations, times, whatever) that help with those would be fabulous!

Questions about Charleston weather and must see tips...

There%26#39;s always some green in Charleston. You never know exactly what the weather will be like in spring, but it should be warming up by then-maybe in the 60s?

I%26#39;m going to stick with my favorites and recommend Gullah Tours, the Original Charleston Walks Art Discovery Tour and the Gibbes Museum of Art. If you do the Art Discovery tour you get the Gibbes Museum and the tour for one price. I would also recommend Waterfront Park, the South Carolina Aquarium, and if you want to check out a beach, Folly Beach.

Enjoy!

Questions about Charleston weather and must see tips...

Charleston is sub-tropical. In late Feb., spring will be just getting started. The peak blooming season is March through mid-April (Festival of Houses and Gardens begins in mid-March), but you will see greenery and some flowers, especially in protected gardens. The marsh grass will still be brown, but the marsh is beautiful at any time of year. The live oaks will probably be pushing off there old growth; palmettos and pines will be as always; deciduous trees will be leafing out. The stage depends on what the weather in February has been like.

There are many wonderful tours of Charleston, and some of the best are walking tours. Take a carriage tour to start out and get the lay of the land. Then, you can create your own walking tour of the historic district with a map and a guide book. Save your money for admission to historic homes and for dining at one of the many great restaurants.

Myrtle Beach - Vacation property or Condo?-July 2007

Hi All;

Hoping you can help me. I%26#39;m planning a vacation this summer for 4 Adults and 4 children under the age of 9.

Any ideas where I can find a nice vacation rental for 2 weeks or do you know of any Condo%26#39;s that are clean on the beach and full amenities ie: kitchen, washer/ dryer, bbq etc..

Were thinking either Surfside Beach or Garden City. We do not want to encounter too much traffic. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

Myrtle Beach - Vacation property or Condo?-July 2007

We have been going to Myrtle Beach each summer for about ten years and we stay at Arcadia Dunes Condo%26#39;s. They have two swimming pools, tennis courts, bar/restaurant and they are a block and a half from the beach. The rooms are beautiful, clean and a good price.

Myrtle Beach - Vacation property or Condo?-July 2007

For Surfside/Garden City area, Dunes Realty and Garden City Realty both have lots of condo listings on the beach. Check out their web sites...you%26#39;ll see lots of pictures of the condos, and will have many options.

lip chap

Non smoking restaurants

Here in Pittsburgh they%26#39;re passing new laws to have all restaurants be non smoking. What are the laws in Myrtle Beach? Are there any places that are non smoking? (Not including bars)

We personally prefer to dine where we don%26#39;t have to breathe smoke. Non smoking areas are good too, but they always seem to have you walk through the smokers to get there or sit you right next to the smokers so even if you are in a non smoking area it still stinks.

Not trying to stir up the temper of the smokers out there. I just love the clean ';fresh air'; of the beach.

Any comments?

Ron

Saxonburg, PA

Non smoking restaurants

South Carolina is very smoker-friendly: other than in government workplaces, schools, and cultural/recreational facilities, there are no state mandates covering restaurants %26amp; bars (or private workplaces, stores, etc.).

Most restaurants bars in the MB area permit smoking in designated areas, a few are smoke-free but it%26#39;s up to each establishment to set their own policy.

SC has the lowest cigarette tax in the US (just .07 per pack compared to the nationalaverage of nearly $1.00)

The Carolinas have long been the epicenter of the cigarette industry %26amp; as such will probably be the last holdouts to crack down on smokers.

Non smoking restaurants

Correct, you will find few totally smoke free locations. I am a non-smoker, hate smoke, hate being subjected to it while I eat, but it is a fact of life here. Charleston I believe is discussing Non-smoking, but there is a lot of resistance to it. You won%26#39;t find a bar, that I know of, that is non-smoking, wish we could. We love night life and that is just a part of it. Maybe MB Conceirge knows of some place, I would like to know myself.

I know that there are others out there, but I do know for sure that Liberty Tap Room and Grille (not the one at Broadway at the Beach, but the one on Kings Hwy just past 76th Ave N) is totally non-smoking inside...they do have a fantastic outdoor beer garden that does allow smokers, but with the fans going and being outside, you really dont notice it...the inside bar and the restaurant are smoke free!

I do think the City Bar across the street is also non-smoking...but I do think they have cigar nights...so be sure to ask!

:)

Speaking of Liberty, I just heard they have couponless 2-fer-1 dinners on Thursday nights...might check it out tonight. (Not sure how long this is good for but I%26#39;d guess it%26#39;s only a winter special.)

They do! That special runs until the end of the month (Jan) so take advantage tonight! T-Bonz (all locations) also runs 2 for 1%26#39;s the month of January...I think on Mondays and Wednesdays....HOB does this too...not sure on which day of the week. Fire Island Grill (great little place up in Barefoot Landing) offers 2 for 1%26#39;s on Tuesdays during Feb. I%26#39;m sure there are a numrber of others...so check the local paper. Thats why its a great time to live or vacation here...some great deals on dining and the price of accomodations are more than reasonable!

:)

Yep, T-Bonz is Tuesday nites, 4pm-close.

We did got to Liberty Taproom last night...it was packed...what a huge place! Enjoyed it BUT...I had the Jambalaya %26amp; spouse had the Shrimp Diablo....I think they should put little fire extinguisher symbols next to those two entrees on the menu....WHOEEE...had flames coming out of our mouths, and this morning, the flames have moved a little further south!

Loved the place, though, the outside area is VERY well heated (I think it was warmer out there than inside!)

LOL!!! My hubby really enjoys the Jambalaya --- but I think he goes thru a pitcher or two of water while he%26#39;s eating! Maybe they do that to sell more beer?? LOL

I stick with the ';calmer'; entrees...I love the meatloaf sandwich...and the bleu cheese potato chips! Yum!

:)

Charleston for a Bachelor Party?

Hi,

I%26#39;m considering Charleston for a bachelor party in June because of its proximity to great deep sea fishing and golf. I would love to hear everybody%26#39;s opinion about Charleston for this purpose - we%26#39;re all in our mid 20%26#39;s, from NY, and dont know much about the area. If there is a better place you could think of, I%26#39;d be happy to have your suggestions.

Thanks!!

J

Charleston for a Bachelor Party?

Good choice. Also could try the Outerbanks which is a little closer to you if you are driving but (IMHO) harder to get to if flying.

Charleston for a Bachelor Party?

Charleston is a great town. Also, Myrtle Beach. Not sure if you read NYRoofmans question about Myrtle Beach and bachelor party, he got several responses. Myrtle Beach is definitely more PARTY atmosphere. Lots of night clubs, restaurants, deep sea fishing, many golf course, and quite a few ';gentlemen'; clubs. Charleston, has some of the same offering, just a different atmosphere. We see lots of bachelor/bachelorette parties down here, no shortage during the summer.

Thanks guys. I%26#39;ll be sure to check out those earlier posts.

J

Island Vista or South Wind?

My husband and I will be traveling with 4 of our children... girls - 18 %26amp;16 and boys - 8 %26amp; 5.

I am very interested in the South Wind or Island Vista Resort.

Does anyone have any pros or cons to offer, that could be the deciding factor?

Also, any info on the Bayview Resort?

All info appreciated. Thanks.

Island Vista or South Wind?

Island Vista and Southwind - same decor and same neighborhood. Can%26#39;t go wrong either way. Best wishes.

Island Vista or South Wind?

Island Vista has more of a vacation feel, while South Wind is more of a residential building, the condos are about the same, but the amenities at the Island Vista are far better, especially the pool area and Island Vista also has a restaurant on property while South Wind doesn%26#39;t. Hope this helps!

It does help... thank you for your reply.

Agree with the above post....but you really cant go wrong at either. Both are fairliy new (Island Vista just opened last year!) and they sit on of my favorite beaches! Close to grocery, ice cream and great places to eat!

I%26#39;d do Island Vista or Southwind way before Bayview.

:)

By the way I have a friend whohas a 2 bedroom condo available at Shorecrest in North Myrtle Beach.Its only from July 6th thru the 13th.Has 1 king, 2 twin and a large pullout sofa. Located on the 9th floor its direct oceanfront..

Has 3 tvs,2 full bath,washer and dryer and range.Barefoot Landing is less then a mile away.E-mail me at shorecrestking.com and I can give you details if anyone out there is interested.

Tony

Fairfield at Edisto Beach

After reading some of the postings Ihave several questions about the accomodations. I understand the beach chairs provided are uncomfortable plastic--do they come with umbreallas. Are there other chairs %26amp; umbrellas for rent? What unit is newest, quietest? Thanks for any input.

kbrac72935@bellsouth.net

Fairfield at Edisto Beach

Beach umbrellas %26amp; lounge chairs are available for rent during the summer months. However, you have to pay for them at the Recreation Office (by the main pool) at the resort before you go to the beach (They give you a slip of paper to give to the cabana attendant at the beach). The cabana attendant (generally a teenager) is not allowed to handle money or rent the umbrellas himself. If you rent an umbrella, you will get 2 lounge chairs (usually with the plastic looping as the webbing for seating; however, there are some plastic charis too). The cabana attendant will put them up for you anywhere on the beach in the general area of the cabana building.

There are white plastic lounge chairs on the sun deck (no shade) at the cabana available free on a first come, first serve basis; we usually use those. They are cable locked to the deck, so you can%26#39;t move them. No one in my family has ever complained about them being uncomfortable though.

I am not really sure which of the units are the newest. I think that most of them were built during the 1980s %26amp; early 1990s. We own a 2 bedroom unit in the Driftwood II section. We do get some noise sometimes from the unit above us, depending on who is in the unit; it is usually most noticeable in the early AM (if they are early risers).

The resort complex itself is pretty quiet. To minimize the extraneous noise, I would probaly go with one of the Summerwind or Magnolia Walk units; they are duplexes. If you are in a unit that is by a lagoon, you are going to hear the bullfrogs singing at night no matter what.

HELP!!! Family in need of R&R

I am searching for a family friendly area for our first visit to MB. I really loved Dunes Village web site. Is it located in the ';quiet'; area of MB? We are used to vacationing in Ft. Myers Beach. MB is a lot more action packed. We want to relax and have a blast. Are there any other options??? I have know idea where to start..

HELP!!! Family in need of R%26amp;R

You did not mention WHEN you plan on visiting, things book fast here. Dunes has received many favorable reviews from people who have stayed there. I think the location is good and puts you basically between N. Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach activities yet you are not right in the MIDDLE of everything. Plenty to do in MB. IF you are thinking about a summer vacation you better book today.

HELP!!! Family in need of R%26amp;R

We will be there the third week of June.

I am a local here in Myrtle Beach and can tell you that yes Dunes Village is located in a very quiet section of Myrtle Beach, I live just a few blocks north of there. Just a heads up though, there is construction going on with the hotel next door so it may not be so quiet, you may want to call the Dunes Village and find out if the construction is going to be completed before you get down for your trip! If not, the Island Vista just a couple of blocks north of the Dunes Village is very nice and is a stand alone hotel, with only residential homes on either side of it! Good Luck and I hope you enjoy your trip to Myrtle Beach!

Where do you buy beer and wine in Pawley Island?

Is it sold at a liquor store? Is it sold at a berr distributer? Should we bring our own? Sunday sales? And are grocery stores available?

Thanks much ...Will be visiting the first week in August

Where do you buy beer and wine in Pawley Island?

In South Carolina beer and wine are sold in grocery stores and liquor is sold only in liquor stores, which are also called ABC stores. Some grocery stores have a good selection, some do not. Some liquor stores also sell wine. Liquor stores are not open on Sunday and close at 7pm Mon-Sat. Grocery stores and restaurants may sell alcohol on Sun if they have purchased a special Sunday liquor license and if they are in a county that allows it.

Where do you buy beer and wine in Pawley Island?

Depending where you travel from, you may find that wine selection and prices are not so good in MB.

Two years ago, when we went, we could harldy find the wines we usually enjoy at home.

Also, even if some products carry the same brand name and label as what we purchase back home, they are different from the original product. One good example of this is Dubonnet Red. The bottle we had purchased was a product of the USA, under license from the French Dubonnet company. It did not quite taste the same, still good, but different.

As for wine, the selection was limited, in particular for French wine. Regular, run-off-the-mill Baron Rothchild Cabernet Sauvignon, a staple in any wine store back home, was nowhere to be found. Finally, we paid the same amount of US $ for most bottles as we would have had in CAN $ back home. Exchange rate was 1.25, so we ended up paying much more for wines we usually enjoy.

All of that being said, last year, we haul our own wine and liquor from Canada, much cheaper in Ontario or Quebec than SC. The only consolation is that beer is cheap and readily available

Hope this helps,

MGL

There is not much on pawleys. It is mostly residential. There are liquor stores off the island and grocery stores for beer and wine. You will probably want to gather what you need on the way.

we stopped on the way. we are wine drinkers and i must say the puggly wiggly had a nice selecction of reds and whites and of course, beer.

we had brought a bottle of absolute and sky w/ us as we drove.

lip chap

Most affordable time to travel to Charleston?

Our anniversary is March 18th, but we could take a trip whenever. I notice prices for lodging seems high in March. Is it better any later or only during the winter months?

Most affordable time to travel to Charleston?

Charleston is more expensive than it used to be. If you can travel during the week, the prices are generally lower. January is more affordable than March, and the high summer is more affordable, too. But there is a reason for that -- it%26#39;s HOT!

Most affordable time to travel to Charleston?

On the plus side ... March 18 is just at the beginning of the Festival of Houses and Gardens. Charleston, and the entire area, will be beautiful, and absolutely perfect for an anniversary. Lodging is expensive in March for the obvious reason ... Lots of folks want to be there at that time.

Summer is hot, but not too bad if you are prepared with light weight clothing and plenty of water. You might look at the rates for June. It will still be hot, but the breezes off the water are cooler. In late July and August, even the ocean is warm.

What about No. Charleston?

Visiting Charleston in May for a week. Want to see Historic District, Plantations and drive up and down the coast to other attractions. By the map, No. Charleston seems centrally located. Any comments? Hotel suggestions? Restaurants? Or. stay elsewhere for vacation atmosphere?

What about No. Charleston?

Staying in North Charleston is NOT a good idea. North Charleston is anywhere USA -- and you%26#39;re already so close to downtown Charleston! Downtown is one of the great walking cities anywhere -- stay downtown and endure whatever inconveniences you might experience.

What about No. Charleston?

Since you have posted this question twice, it is clear that you are not convinced! Here is another negative:

In No. Charleston you can get the smell from a paper mill that is located in North Charleston. In warm weather, that is not so nice. We even notice the smell when driving by the airport in a fully air conditioned car!

If you don%26#39;t want to pay the prices downtown, and you don%26#39;t want to stay at one of the beaches, you might be happier in one of the other Charleston suburbs like West Ashley or Mt Pleasant.

Traffic around Charleston is not bad except for brief periods at the rush hours. Anywhere you stay will give you equally good access for traveling to plantations and coastal attractions.

The hotels in North Charleston are popular with business travelers, who are on a strict budget and who need a quick in and out from the airport. The only reason to stay in No. Chas. on vacation is that you got an amazing deal.

best hotel water park

First timer to MB

I have 3 young children (8 and 4, twins)

I have read many bad reviews about the Sea Mist, but they seem to have the best package deal (on site water park, plus addt%26#39;l water park and amusement park)

Can anyone give me the real deal on this place? The reveiws are very divided. How can half the people love it and half the people hate it?

Is there/what are other hotels that have a great on site water park?

thanks!!

best hotel water park

Sea Mist has gone down hill. The outside needs renovations so I know the inside does. I want stay there unless they spend multi millions in renovations.

best hotel water park

Try Dunes Village,just opened last fall.

Our family just booked dunes village for may. The top reason we picked it was because of its large indoor water park,it looked really neat, lazy river, mushrooms, buckets, and slides. We have 2 boys(5 and 3) this place looked great for them, plus its brand new, if you book now and ask you can get a 30% discount, the prices can%26#39;t be beat. Check it out!

I know Sea Mist is in the process of HUGE renovations...so not sure that this would be the summer that I would choose to stay there...no matter how great the rates! Like CBR says...its renovation deadline is surely past due...

I%26#39;d take a look at Dunes Village, Sea Island (Island Vista), Breakers resort, or even Coral Beach....

good luck!

:)

I think that Compass Cove has some kind of pirateship thing.

Coral Beach is next door to Sea Mist. They don;t have a water park but they have many activites for kids.

-2 big outdoor pools -long lazy river -indoor pool -5 hot tubs- -and several kiddie pools

They also have a jungle gym -bowling alley -arcade -restaruants -and clean rooms.

hmmm, I must say I don%26#39;t get a warm fuzzy when I read reviews about Sea Mist. I see if you stay the 3rd week of Aug. it%26#39;s only $600-$700 depending on location, and maybe for that price I would put up with less then clean accomodations, but we travel in June. A family suite for a week would be close to $2000! This does not thrill me to put up with dirty rooms and cockroaches.

I have been checking out Dunes Village and Long Bay, which would actually be quite a few hundred less than Sea Mist for our travel dates, but of course there would be no free passes to the Family Kingdom places.

Any opinions????

I see Dunes Village has an indoor waterpark, at first I thought who would want to go to an indoor waterpark in the summer? I called the hotel and the guy said they take the walls down in the summer. Has anyone been to this kind of place? Do you still get the effect of summer, just without the sun beating down on you? I don%26#39;t think I would like an ';indoor pool'; kind of feel, you know how stuffy they can feel.

TIA

Long Bay is a great choice but they don%26#39;t have a waterpark, just an indoor kiddie pool with mushrooms %26amp; a nice indoor lazy river.

However the property just to the north of Long Bay (help me regulars, is it Ocean Dunes? This would be 73rd Ave. N) has a very impressive outdoor waterpark in the front (not oceanside).

In the south end Captain%26#39;s Quarters, Compass Cove %26amp; the Landmark all have new outdoor ';theme'; kiddie pools.

PS: I love to save money too but if your vacation is a bust because the hotel has problems, you may realize you did NOT get ';the best package deal.

-The Pirate Ship thing is at the Breakers Paradise Towers. It%26#39;s pretty fun for the kids there. We stayed there last year and my 6 year old still talks about the ';Pirate Ship';

-I saw that Dunes Village has a pretty nice water park.

-I would not sacrifice the cleanliness of my room and hotel just for a nice waterpark for the kids when so many other nice and clean hotels have similar activities.

Other Hotels:

-Compass Cove (www.compasscove.com)

-Dunes Village (www.dunesvillage.com)

-Breakers Paradise Towers (www.breakers.com)

-Coral Beach Resort (www.coral-beach.com)

-Sea Island Inn (Island Vista) (www.islandvista.com)

-Long Bay Resort (www.longbayresort.com)

I haven%26#39;t stayed in any of these places but whenever we go to MB or other vacation spots we always check out the other resorts but driving by and may stopping in there and looking at a room if possible. This way we can always have other options when in case the one we love is reserved.

http://www.kingstonplantation.com/

Ok.. there happens to be a water park on site...

Just make sure... its free to you if you decide to stay at

any of the on site hotels/condos...

We stayed at Brighton Towers.. and we were told we had

to pay .. to use the park... it was free to owners....

When I posted my comments here on Trip Advisor...some

told me it was free!!! owners or not...

krisPA....

re: your question about an indoor pool area that they take the walls down for summer...you would be surprised at the number of hotels that do this. Its a very common practice, and gives the resort the ability to market their pool area in the not so climate friendly months....once the walls were down and you didnt know aby better, you%26#39;d think it was an outdoor waterpark!

I agree with Ms Maryland...I wouldnt compromise a good clean room for any type of park pass, no matter how good the deal....a number of those measly pests like to pack luggage and make the trip back home with you....so do keep that in mind too! As for passes to the area attractions at a reduced rate...check out their websites, or the local paper....a number of attractions also run an after 1pm or after 4pm special rate....you might take a look at www.myrtlebeachtrips.com for a few of the attraction only packages.

:)

Cayman towers, what do you think???

I am soooo confused at this point on where to stay this summer(July) We are a family of 5 with older kids. I have tentatively booked a 3 bedroom angle oceanfront at the new Cayman towers. The reservationist assured me the construction will be complete and is actually ahead of schedule. The fact that it is brand new yet part of a well known resort (Caribbean Resort) makes it look like a perfect choice. Before I send my deposit, does anyone have any advice??? Thanks in advance.

Cayman towers, what do you think???

E-mail me at shorecrestking@aol.com.I know of someone renting the 2nd week in July (6th to 13th) at Shorecrest in North Myrtle Beach for below hotel cost. Ninth floor,2-bed and ocean front.

Cayman towers, what do you think???

I would think they would finish construction sooner than July, as it looks like the project is close to completed now, with the exception of landsaping and some minor ground work. Its a nice area of the beach, just north of the Caribbean is all residential for quite a few blocks, so a great place to walk, and your views arent obstructed...is the angleview on the northside of the tower? I would think it is, but if you have an option, I would ask, as this would be as good (if not better) than a direct oceanfront.

You have a great little restaurant, that stay extremely busy in the summer, called Sea Captains House. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and do offer a great lunch special everyday. You are within walking distance to the 21st Ave N area, which has a number of eating options as well.

:)

Cannot decide

We are planning on a 10 night stay in early July. Looking for a condo, 2Br, have 2 adults and 3 teenagers: 13,14, 16. We want oceanfront. Looking at Island Vista, and Hampton. Worried about Hampton location being too busy of an area? Have not been to Myrtle in 7 years, we stayed at ocean Drive then. Any info greatly appreciated. Also, want to make sure has a nice pool area and lazy river.

Cannot decide

If 7 nights would suit your needs ,see post '; timeshare week available';.

Pawleys Island question

I posted several things on a forum for Pawleys Island and didn%26#39;t get any responses so I%26#39;m asking here.

I%26#39;m interested in checking out and spending some time in the Pawleys Island area such as sight seeing, shopping, spending some time on the beach etc. We%26#39;re already planning on eating at Bummz Beach and Yacht Club in the Litchfield Beach area.

What is in that area and what is it like? Is there a place to go to the beach? Can you drive there? Are their any aligators to see? Is it more tropical looking than the developed areas north of there?

Any help you can give as an overview and what to see and do would be greatly appreciated. We have been down to Myrtle Beach many times but have never visited this area.

Thanks again for all of your help

Ron

Saxonburg, PA

Pawleys Island question

If you%26#39;ve ever driven down the Garden City beach ';peninsula,'; Pawley%26#39;s Island looks a lot like that...almost all beach homes, very uncommercialized, what little there is would be at the north end.

At the south end is a parking area where the back bay meets the ocean...very rustic %26amp; natural, especially on the other side of the back bay...lots of great driftwood. Great unspoiled ocen beach as well.

Pawleys Island question

The Pawleys Isle area is know as ';shabby arrogant';...and this title really shows itself when you cross over the causeway to the actual island...there are a number of beachfront homes (true lowcountry homes) that are VERY old...this area is a great area to walk and read a number of the signs in front of these old homes telling you of the history. The point (the south end of the island) is a great beach! Somewhat rugged (depending on the surf), but a great place to collect some pretty cool shells. And yes, you can drive there.

You can also cross over another causeway to get to Litchfiled Beach...I prefer the beach at Pawleys over Litchfield, but both are nice. Great little restaurant there on Litchfiled Beach called Austins On the Beach (used to be Calypso)...looks out over the ocean (inside Litchfield Inn).

A great place to see Alligators (and this isnt a guarantee, but there are a number there!) is Huntington Beach State Park. There is a huge marshy area there with a causeway, so as you drive or walk over, you can see quite a bit of the marsh wildlife! The park also has a wonderful interpretive center and does offer various seminars.

Pawleys and Ltichfield are areas that are both experiencing growth, but it is controlled growth, not like the MB and NMB area. They (community councils) have shot down numerous big-box stores and large resort projects to protect the image of the area....so yes, its not as developed, but I dont really consider it to be ';tropical'; looking...more lowcountry, or southern...kinda like ';Gone with the Wind'; feel....large oaks with the spanish moss, and some palms...lots of flowers...very peaceful.

I would deffinately make a trip to Brookgreen Gardens...great place to take the family! Alot to do there....(www.brookgreen.org). The Hammock Shoppes and the other little shopping place right across the street (I know it has a name, but its not coming to mind...where Island Deli -- great little place is) are great places to pick up some unique items to the area...and some great places to eat! Franks, The Hook, Pawleys Island Tavern (use locals call it the PIT), Litchfiled Beach Fish House, Gator Krawls, just to name a few! I%26#39;ll tell you --- you wont go hungry while your staying there! YUM!

You are just a short drive to Georgetown, which has a wonderful waterfront...a great little trip on a boat for the kids would be the Jolly Rover ----and again, alot of history and great places to eat and shop!

You might find this website helpful:

www.discoverpawleysisland.com

I think there is one on Litchfield Beach too...

Enjoy!

:)

Other than the seaoats is there anything else that you%26#39;re not allowed to take? How is the shelling? Are there any alligators in the area? How does the area compare to ';The Point'; at the end of S. Waccamaw Drive in Garden City?

Ron

Saxonburg, PA

Seaoats are somewhat protected...they hold the dunes in place along the oceanfront. The tops (heads) are what will reseed for the next years growth. Sea Turtles are also very protected...so if you would happen on a next or new hatchlings...they are wonderful to watch, but dont tamper with their progress back to the ocean. All the nests will be marked with like a construction tape, and if you are caught tampering with a nest, its a pretty hefty fine. Cant think of anything else....plenty of shells and sharks teeth for the taking!

As for gators...like I said...try Huntington Beach, and yes, there is a decent population there. They dont come out and look for people tho%26#39;...so dont let that worry you.

As for comparing Garden City Point and Pawleys ....very similar, but alot less building in Pawleys...less lights, so Pawleys is a better place to star gaze! And since its the last of the little islands in the area, you tend to get a pretty good collection of shells build up on that beach.

:)

Magicat and MBConcierge,

Thank you so much for all of your help and insight.

Is there a fee for Huntington Beach? I thought I remembered there being a charge to go there, or is the state park seperate from the beach? If there is a charge how much is it, and is it worth it?

Thanks

Ron

Saxonburg, PA

You are more than welcome! Yes there is a minimal charge to get into the park...but most of the seminars are free. Yes --- it is well worth it!

HOURS

Admissions: $5/adult; $3.25/ S.C. Senior; $3/youth age 6-15; Free for children 5 and younger.

Office Hours: 9am-4:30pm

Days and Hours of Operation: Sat-Th 6am-6pm; Fri 6am-8pm (hours are extended to 10pm daily during Daylight Savings Time)

You might want to check out their website:

southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/…1020.aspx

Enjoy!

:)

Huntington Beach SP is also home to ';Atalaya,'; the summer home of Anna Hyatt Huntington. It is a 55-room mansion that contains the sculpture studio where she created many of the sculptures that adorn Brookgreen Gardens across the street from the SP. Guided tours are available.

You could do both the Gardens and the SP in one long day, but passes to Brookgreen Gardens are good for seven days, so you could return as often as you like. Adult passes are $12. but look for $1. off coupons. They also have lectures, special programs and wildlife/history tours, so check the schedule for these. The current emphasis at Brookgreen is telling the story of the slaves who lived and worked there in the early 17th century. A new interpretive area that shows exactly where the ricefields and living quarters were was just dedicated this past spring.

Re seashells -

You may take away FOSSIL shells. (That is, shells that do not contain living animals.) The best time to find these is at low tide, and early in the morning, before lots of other shell-seekers have been on the beach

Removing the living animals depletes the population. Even if it is clear that the animal inside has died, don%26#39;t take an inhabited shell. These dead creatures on the beach provide food for the birds.

You will see varying sizes of whelks. You have to look inside the whelks (which resemble small conchs) to see if the whelk itself or a hermit crab is in there.

Living sand dollars and starfish are often found in shallow water and on the beach. Because these animals just lie there, you might think that they are fossils. If the sand dollar is dark in color and has a rough underside, it is either alive or recently deceased, so do not take it. Similarly, if the starfish is still flexible, do not take it.

If you DO take a shell inhabited by a living or dead animal (and, even with care, you may do so by mistake), you will regret it. The smell even from such small amounts of decaying matter is overwhelming and very hard to get rid of if your house or car. People who take these inhabited shells usually toss them out, which is a waste.

lip chap