Planning your coastal getaway and trying to figure out the best area to stay in Myrtle Beach? Each part of the beach has its own personality and vibe, and the right fit really depends on the kind of vacation you want.
Think of this as friendly advice from someone who knows the area well. And when you’re ready to book, be sure to check out the resorts at Vacation Myrtle Beach for great options across the entire city.
Below, you’ll learn what makes South Myrtle Beach, Central Myrtle Beach, and North Myrtle Beach unique, along with favorite VMB resorts in each spot.
No matter where you stay in Myrtle Beach, you’ll be close to attractions, restaurants, shopping, and the beautiful South Carolina coast.
South Myrtle Beach
South Myrtle Beach is where the beaches stretch wider, and the pace slows just enough for you to actually feel like you’re on vacation.
Locals love this area for its easygoing vibe, tucked-away restaurants, and quick access to both family fun and quiet shoreline escapes. If you’re choosing the perfect place to stay, South Myrtle Beach gives you that “best of both worlds” home base.
Why Parents and Families Love It
If you’re visiting with young kids or you want an easy, no-stress trip, south Myrtle Beach is a great choice. It’s located near the airport, which keeps traffic simple when you arrive.
This part of the beach is generally more laid-back, more economical in price, and packed with fun for travelers of all ages. Many hotels and resorts here offer efficiencies and suites that help families feel right at home.
Where to Stay
VMB accommodation options in south Myrtle Beach include:
- Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark (a favorite for kids, thanks to its giant waterpark)
- hotel BLUE
- Captain’s Quarters Resort
- Landmark Resort
- Palace Resort
What to Do
Families love this area because everything feels easy and relaxed, and you can still reach central Myrtle Beach quickly when you want more entertainment and dining options. You’ll be just a short drive from these top attractions.
- Family Kingdom: A classic seaside amusement park with thrill rides, kiddie rides, and games that keep kids and families smiling all day.
- The Market Common: A stylish district filled with restaurants, boutiques, parks, and walking paths, perfect for a relaxed afternoon of shopping and dining.
- Myrtle Beach State Park: A peaceful stretch of protected beach, nature trails, and a fishing pier where you can enjoy beautiful views and quiet moments by the water.
- The south end of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively oceanfront walkway with easy access to the beach, casual eats, arcades, and great places to watch the waves.
- Best Place to Eat: Near Myrtle Beach State Park, Damon’s Grill is a casual oceanfront spot serving ribs, burgers, and comfort food with relaxing views of the beach.
Central Myrtle Beach
Central Myrtle Beach is the heartbeat of the Grand Strand—the place where oceanfront fun, walkable attractions, and that classic beach-town buzz all collide. Stay here, and you’re steps from the Boardwalk, top dining, lively nightlife, and miles of sandy shoreline. It’s the ideal home base for travelers who want to be in the center of everything.
The Best Area for Variety and Convenience
If you want a little bit of everything, central Myrtle Beach is often the best area. You’re right by the lively Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, yet close to quieter residential zones that are perfect for couples, groups, and families who enjoy a nice balance of action and relaxation. It’s also a great fit if you want to stay in Myrtle Beach and explore the whole town without long drives.
Where to Stay
Popular VMB resorts in the central area include:
- Palms Resort
- Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront
- Carolina Winds Resort
- Forest Dunes Resort
- Beach Colony Resort
- The Caravelle Resort
What to Do
In central Myrtle Beach, you’ll be right near some of the most popular attractions in the city.
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: A lively oceanfront strip with shops, snack spots, arcades, and plenty of great viewing points for the beach.
- SkyWheel: A soaring observation wheel with climate-controlled gondolas that give you beautiful, relaxing views of the coastline.
- Broadway at the Beach: A huge entertainment district built around a lake, packed with restaurants, shopping, shows, and fun activities for all ages.
- WonderWorks: An interactive science attraction inside an upside-down building where kids and adults can explore hands-on exhibits and optical illusions.
- Legends in Concert: A high-energy tribute show where talented performers bring iconic artists to life with music and costumes.
- Ripley’s Aquarium: A favorite stop for families, featuring shark tunnels, glowing jellyfish, and close-up encounters with sea creatures.
- Myrtle Beach Pelicans: A laid-back, family-friendly baseball outing with promotions, fireworks nights, and plenty of ballpark fun.
- Best Place to Eat: RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar is a fun oceanfront spot on the Boardwalk known for fresh coastal dishes, a lively atmosphere, and unbeatable views from its rooftop deck.
North Myrtle Beach
North Myrtle Beach is where the Grand Strand opens up into wide, peaceful beaches and a more easygoing, residential vibe. Travelers who know the area come here for quieter mornings, roomy vacation rentals, and a slower pace that still keeps you close to great dining and attractions. It’s the perfect spot if you want a coastal escape without losing convenience.
A Beautiful, Relaxed Option for Space and Comfort
The town of North Myrtle Beach offers a calmer pace while still keeping you near great shopping, dining, and attractions. Many travelers consider it one of the best places to stay in Myrtle Beach if they want extra space and a more laid back experience.
Where to Stay
These resorts offer condo-style layouts, which are perfect for families, groups with children, or anyone who wants multiple bedrooms and the comfort of home. VMB favorites in and near North Myrtle Beach include:
What to Do
This area blends a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of entertainment and shopping. Visitors love that they’re close to plenty of things to do without being in the center of the busiest areas. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a relaxed pace with easy access to golf, shopping, shows, and all kinds of coastal activities. Top picks include:
- Barefoot Landing: A waterfront village with boardwalk paths, boutique stores, live shows, and great spots to grab dinner and stroll by the water.
- House of Blues: A go-to for concerts, events, and live music in a vibrant setting that appeals to couples, groups, and music lovers of all kinds.
- Alabama Theatre: Known for high-quality productions, comedy shows, and seasonal performances that make for a perfect night out.
- Tanger Outlets: A shopping favorite with big brand names and great price deals, ideal for a rainy day or a break from the beach.
- Alligator Adventure: A wildlife park filled with alligators, exotic animals, and live feedings that both parents and kids love to watch.
- Best Place to Eat: Greg Norman Australian Grille is an upscale waterfront restaurant at Barefoot Landing offering premium steaks, seafood, and a warm, relaxing atmosphere perfect for a night out.
Which Myrtle Beach Area Is Best for You?
No matter which area you choose, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful water, great dining, and plenty of ways to enjoy your trip. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
- South Myrtle Beach: Best for families, parents with kids, budget-friendly trips, and anyone who wants to be near the airport and classic beach fun.
- Central Myrtle Beach: Great if you want the full Myrtle Beach experience, easy access to major attractions, and plenty of restaurants and entertainment.
- North Myrtle Beach: Ideal for couples, larger groups, travelers who want a quieter area, and those who enjoy nice condo-style stays near great shopping and shows.
Book Your Perfect Myrtle Beach Stay with Vacation Myrtle Beach
Now that you’ve zeroed in on the best area for your getaway, it’s time to find the resort that truly fits your style. Vacation Myrtle Beach offers one of the largest and most diverse selections of oceanfront resorts along the Grand Strand—think beachfront balconies, pool complexes, lazy rivers, on-site dining, family suites, and amenities that make vacation effortless.
Whether you want the laid-back charm of South Myrtle Beach, the energy and walkability of the central strip, or the wide, tranquil beaches of the north end, you’ll find a stay that feels tailor-made for your trip.
Browse the full collection of Vacation Myrtle Beach resorts and book your next unforgettable Myrtle Beach escape today.