The Grand Strand is “the East Coast’s ultimate vacation hub”, according to the Travel Channel. Miles of golden beaches offer a unique combination of past and present, rustic seclusion with the dynamism of the city.
Visitors can stroll through a world-famous sculpture garden (Brookgreen Gardens) or attend a live theatre production (Carolina Opry, the Palace, and Alabama Theatre); shag the night away at the place where shag was born or scuba dive for Blackbeard’s treasure following a round of golf at more than 100 courses.
This is historic land stretching from Brunswick County to Georgetown. It was founded by the Spanish in 1526 and claimed two centuries later by the British who named it for their king, George II. Today the land abounds with fascinating tales of derring-do, past and present.
It is here that outdoor sportsmen come from around the world, attracted by the abundant waters from five major rivers that connect with the Atlantic Ocean. They reel in bass, bream and crappie in fresh water and flounder, black drum, and winter trout in the tidal creeks.
North of Georgetown is DeBordieu, one of the oldest beachside colonies on the Atlantic coast. Lafayette gave it its French name (“God’s border”) in 1777 when he landed on its golden shores. Continuing north are Pawleys Island and Litchfield, sharing their low-country charm with Huntington Beach State Park, one of the best birding sites along the eastern seaboard.
And then comes Murrells Inlet, Seafood Capital of South Carolina, and 20 miles further, Calabash, Seafood Capital of the World. If you don’t get the message, seafood is king along the Grand Strand, but a sophisticated clientele has demanded a wide variety in restaurant fare.
Some of the 1700 restaurants are world famous; others are hidden treasures to be discovered. Enjoy a romantic dinner in a seaside bistro, pig out on pizza and barbecue, or dine in a family-style restaurant on cuisine from around the world.
To some vacationers, shopping is what it’s all about. Shop ’til you drop at neighborhood shopping centers or at dozens of great shopping malls.
For other vacationers, it’s the arts. There are dozens of art museums, including Brookgreen Gardens, where 500 sculptures by famous artists are on permanent display. Live shows at Carolina Opry and the Palace and other venues provide professional entertainment year-round. An arts and events calendar is packed with festivals, tournaments and concerts.
It’s a year-round sports haven where average monthly temperatures never dip below 55 degrees. Golf is the heartbeat of the Grand Strand economy like computer chips are to Silicon Valley. Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Greg Norman are among the big-name architects of the 100-plus courses. Last year Golf Digest named Myrtle Beach the No. 1 golf town in the United States, based on cost of living, weather, home prices, crime rate, 2,178 golf holes, and other attractions.
Besides all of the water sports, from fishing and boating to snorkeling and skiing, the Pelicans, an affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, provide a thrilling game to fans of all ages.
From the pristine beaches of the Brunswick Isles to the tranquil marshes around Georgetown, the Grand Strand is the great diverse family destination with something for everyone.
