Picture miles of pristine sandy beaches, waves gently caressing the shore, and the sun painting a perfect sky above—a scene straight out of a dream. Myrtle Beach, nestled on the southeastern coast of South Carolina, embodies this dream. This coastal gem is a coveted vacation destination, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and sheer natural beauty.

To make the most of your Myrtle Beach vacation, packing smartly is crucial. The right items can elevate your beach experience, ensuring you have everything you need for a day under the sun or a night by the beach. Let’s take a deep dive into the essentials you should be packing for your Myrtle Beach vacation.

Beach Essentials

Sunscreen and skincare

The sun-kissed days at Myrtle Beach demand adequate protection. Don’t forget to pack a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to shield your skin from the sun’s rays. Additionally, carry skincare items like moisturizers and lip balms to keep your skin nourished and protected from the saltwater and sun exposure.

Beach towels and blankets

Whether you’re lounging on the sand or having a picnic, beach towels or blankets are a must. Opt for lightweight, quick-drying towels and versatile blankets that can serve as a comfortable base for your beach day adventures.

Beach umbrella and chairs

Seeking shade from the sun is essential for a relaxing beach day. Bring along a portable beach umbrella to create your own cozy retreat. Comfortable beach chairs are also a must for lounging and enjoying the ocean views without a worry.

Swim and Beachwear

Swimwear options and choices

Choose swimwear that suits your style and comfort, whether it’s a classic bikini, a one-piece, or board shorts. Having a variety allows you to change your look and feel your best throughout your vacation.

Cover-ups and beach dresses

For a stylish transition from the beach to a casual outing, pack cover-ups or beach dresses. These lightweight and breathable garments offer both comfort and fashion as you head to a beachside brunch spot or stroll along the boardwalk.

Flip-flops and beach-friendly footwear

Leave your fancy shoes at home and opt for flip-flops or other beach-friendly footwear. Easy to slip on and off, they’re perfect for sandy adventures and provide the freedom your feet need.

Surfboards or boogie boards

For the surfing aficionados, packing your surfboard or boogie board is a no-brainer. Ride the waves and feel the adrenaline rush as you conquer the mighty ocean.

Beach-friendly games and toys

Fun at the beach knows no bounds. Pack beach-friendly games and toys like beach balls, frisbees, or paddleball sets for endless entertainment by the waves.

Safety and First Aid Kit

Safety always comes first. Assemble a compact first aid kit containing band-aids, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need. If you’re on any medication, ensure you have enough for the duration of your stay, along with a copy of your prescriptions. It’s better to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.

Beach Bag Must-Haves

Tote bag or beach bag

A spacious tote or beach bag is a lifesaver for carrying all your beach essentials. Opt for a water-resistant bag to keep your belongings safe from unexpected splashes.

Reusable water bottles

Staying hydrated is key under the sun. Carry reusable water bottles and ensure they’re always filled to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day.

Snacks and light refreshments

Pack some light snacks, fruits, and refreshments to energize yourself during the day.

Entertainment and Electronics

Reading materials or e-books

If you’re a book lover, bring along your favorite reads or load up your e-reader with captivating e-books. The rhythmic waves make for the perfect background to get lost in a good story.

Portable speakers and music

Create a beach playlist and bring a portable speaker to set the mood. Music adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your beach experience.

Camera or smartphone for capturing memories

Preserve the memories of your Myrtle Beach adventure by capturing stunning photos. Whether it’s a dedicated camera or just your smartphone, ensure you have a device to freeze those memorable moments in time.

Clothing and Apparel

Casual clothing

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for daytime adventures—shorts, t-shirts, hats, and sunglasses. Comfort is key when exploring the beautiful Myrtle Beach area.

Evening wear for beachfront dining

Myrtle Beach offers charming beachfront dining options. Bring a few outfits suitable for a nice dinner by the beach, perhaps a sundress or casual button-down shirts.

Extra sets for unexpected plans

Always have an extra set of clothing handy. Unexpected plans might pop up, and being prepared ensures you’re ready for any adventure that comes your way.

Miscellaneous and Personal Items

Cash and cards for local expenses

Although digital transactions are prevalent, having some cash and your cards handy is always a good idea.

Identification and travel documents

Keep your IDs, reservations, and travel documents organized and in a secure place. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth journey.

Any special requirements or preferences

Consider any special requirements you might have, such as dietary restrictions, allergies, or mobility aids. Ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable vacation.

Beach Bliss Awaits

With your bags packed and essentials in tow, you’re all set for an unforgettable Myrtle Beach vacation. From lounging on the sandy shores to exploring the many area attractions, Myrtle Beach promises a delightful experience.

A Better Way to Explore Vacation Rentals Like Us

We are excited to announce that we are a proud member of The 100 Collection ™ – an insider’s guide to the best vacation rental stays.

The 100 Collection today reflects an exciting collaboration of more than 40 beautiful vacation destinations spanning three countries – with more amazing places continually being added.

Industry experts have personally vetted the vacation rental companies in this collection to ensure they are following safety and cleanliness best practices, as well as meeting world class hospitality standards. Not to mention, these properties are stunning!

We are thrilled to be recognized and included in this amazing international collection. We believe in providing an excellent guest experience and we know that the other brands in this collection offer the same memorable stays.

Like Family

Your friends and family have, over the years, become our friends and family. When guests ask us for recommendations, we make sure they are well taken care of. Finding that local insider who is known and well-respected so guests are treated well is a crucial element for travelers. Now, when our guests travel to other destinations, we can offer top tier recommendations of where to stay with confidence because of this new collection.

We believe vacation rental guests should feel confident that the brand they are entrusting with their stay is going to deliver. Until now, there hasn’t been a free, exclusive network of reliable companies. The fastest and easiest way to search has also been the biggest gamble. But having a great vacation rental stay isn’t about finding a room, or even a whole home – it’s about the entire experience.

If our family wanted to travel to a top destination, we would choose a property within this collection knowing it will be well cared for and the service will be best in class.

Vacation rental companies, like ours, that are in The 100 Collection are there because they scored…

• 100% on standards of excellence
• 100% on safety and cleanliness
• 100% on delivering the best experiences
• 100% on representing their community

5 Reasons to Explore The 100 Collection:

1. Curation Salvation – You no longer need to have a million property tabs open. What has been feeling like an endless sea of options, now resembles a curated shopping experience. Not only did we spend a year finding and vetting the best vacation rental companies, but each one showcases its own sampling of properties best representing the destination.
2. Honored Guests – You’re clearly a discerning customer. We believe you should be treated as such. You’re an honored guest from the moment you book your reservation. This collection was put together thoughtfully, knowing that you have exceptional taste.
3. Concierge Services – In order to be a part of the collection, these vacation rental companies must offer a direct line to a helpful person on the other end of the phone. Whether you get locked out at 2 am or need hard-to-get dinner reservations, these companies have your back.
4. Book Direct Savings – We assume everyone knows they are paying a premium when they book on sites with all the inventory in the world. We assume, as a current or previous vacation rental guest, you know that you pay the least, or even get a discount, when you book directly on the company’s website, right? <wink>
5. Local Insider Perks – Believe it or not, there are still some things you can’t find online. There are perks and shortcuts that only local insiders know. The professional managers in the collection have the relationships needed to deliver exceptional experiences. All you have to do is ask for recommendations for the best vacation rental stay.

As professionals in the vacation rental industry, we know the inside “trade secrets” for getting the best vacation rental stay, and now, together with our esteemed peers around the world, we are sharing them with you.

We are proud to be included in this trusted source for finding the best vacation rental companies. Visit our destination on their website, and check out all the other places where you book with confidence and get the same amazing experience you had as our guests.

Come along as we join an international movement to bring trust to the vacation rental industry. View The 100 Collection™ website here. To view our curated collection of properties included in The 100 Collection™, click here.

Golfweek has published their list of the top residential golf courses in the US, and four Grand Strand area courses made the list!

Tidewater in North Myrtle Beach came in at number 157, along with DeBordieu in Georgetown at 178, The Reserve in Pawley’s Island at 182, and Long Bay Golf Club in Longs at number 190.

Homes in these communities are highly sought-after, with their stately exteriors and luxurious interiors. Often featuring private pools, large lots, and available golf club memberships, these golf course communities are in close proximity to all that the Myrtle Beach area has to offer its residents.

Have you been thinking about relocating to the area? Contact us today at 843-315-3444 and let one of Saltwater Grande Realty’s experienced real estate agents help you find the perfect home.

Click here to read the full Golfweek article.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (October 27, 2020) — South Carolina REALTORS® (SCR) today released its September 2020 statewide real estate market data. It’s proving to be another unusual season as the state continues to see record sales and strong buyer activity into the fall.   Statewide there was a 15.4% increase in one-year closed sales during September. Areas along the coast including Hilton Head (+65%), Beaufort (+49%) and Charleston (+49%), continue to lead the state in sales, with the Pee Dee area following closely at (+30%).   Homes are selling at an even faster rate, with the average being 72 days on market — an almost 8% decrease compared to this time last year.   In areas like Charleston inventory data show 46% fewer homes for sale over the last 12-month period, with 3,375 homes listed as “active” for sale in the CHS Regional MLS database at the end of September.  “Normally we see a gradual decrease in sales this time of year, but nothing has been normal in 2020. Our summer sales mirrored spring and our fall is looking a lot like summer,” said Owen Tyler, SCR president and broker in charge at The Cassina Group in Charleston.  Home sale prices continue to rise across South Carolina with an increase of almost 16% from $219,000 to $254,000. Buyer competitiveness also continues with a 32% decrease in inventory.  The Upstate area of South Carolina also is experiencing a continuation of record sales with the Greater Greenville area up 21% and the Western Upstate area up 31%. Declining inventory however, continues to be an issue and could be for the foreseeable future.  “We began seeing an inventory shortage in 2008. As families started moving again, builders just couldn’t keep up with the demand. Demand has grown even more and we are experiencing an influx of buyers from more populated areas. I do not see the inventory issue going away anytime soon,” said Donna Smith, broker in charge of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices C. Dan Joyner, REALTORS® in Greenville.  Statewide and local data reflect much of what is happening across the nation. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) recently released its September reports which reflect a 21% increase in existing home sales from one year ago, a 15% increase in median existing-home prices, and record low inventory, with the average home on the market for less than a month.   “Home sales traditionally taper off toward the end of the year, but in September they surged beyond what we normally see during this season,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “I would attribute this jump to record-low interest rates and an abundance of buyers in the marketplace, including buyers of vacation homes given the greater flexibility to work from home.”   Up-to-date and archived reports are available at screaltors.org/marketreports. Source: Crist, Michael. “Record home sales continue into fall season.” South Carolina Realtors, 10/27/2020, https://www.screaltors.org/record-home-sales-continue-into-fall-season/

Sales of newly built single-family homes in August reached their fastest pace since September 2006, the Commerce Department reported Thursday. They also attained another landmark: topping 1 million sales, to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.01 million units. That marks a 43% jump when compared to last year.

“Already, more new homes have sold in 2020 than did in all of 2019,” says Danielle Hale, realtor.com®’s chief economist. “With the number of existing homes for sale down consistently and considerably from a year ago, new homes are an important segment of opportunity for home shoppers.”

But inventory levels of both existing and new homes may be preventing sales from stretching even higher. Housing inventories of existing homes is down 18.6% compared to a year ago. New-home sales fell to a 3.3-month supply in August.

“More construction is needed,” NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz says. “The challenge will be whether material and labor are available.”

As new-home sales continue to surge, existing-home sales are too. The National Association of REALTORS® reported this week that existing-home sales in August also reached 2006 levels, up 10.5% compared to a year ago. Read more: Existing-Home Sales Hit 2006 Levels, ‘Continue to Amaze’

Higher lumber costs and the limited availability of building materials in some markets is leading to higher prices in new-home construction. Lumber prices are now up more than 170% since mid-April, adding more than $16,000 to the price of a typical new single-family home, according to the NAHB.

The median price of a new home in August was $312,800. New-home sales were up on an annual basis in all four major regions of the U.S. The Northeast and Midwest each posted a 23.6% increase in August. The South saw sales rise 13.9%, and the West posted a 12.4% gain.

Source: National Association of Home Builders and “New Home Sales Surge to Highest Level Since the Great Recession,” MarketWatch (Sept. 24, 2020); National Association of Realtors Official Magazine: “New-Home Sales Top the 1 Million Mark” (September 25, 2020)

Years ago, it seemed as if the Grand Strand area simmered down after Labor Day. Children were back to school, keeping families close to home until Spring Break. But over the last several years, we’ve seen more and more fall activity in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding beach towns. This year, with a pandemic keeping many home over the spring and summer seasons, and many children participating in virtual learning, the Grand Strand may see even more visitors this fall than usual. Of course, you’ll still find there will be more elbow room, great shopping, golfing and fishing, and temperatures that stay in the mid-seventies through October.

Golf Capital of the World

Fishing Coastal Waters

When the temperatures cool down, the fishing heats up along the Grand Strand. In the fall, tarpon travel south through coastal waters, cruising the beaches along the way. Speckled sea trout also congregate during the cooler months, making them fairly easy targets for the knowledgeable angler. Red drum are one of the most popular game fish in the area and can be reeled in from any number of piers, in the inlets, and even from the surf. Even those without experience can get in on the action by booking a fishing charter, whether private or a head boat. Saltwater Grande offers this and more as part of our extensive concierge service.

Lower Accommodation Rates

Luxury condo and home rates drop by 35% mid-August, and another 15% heading into late-September. These lower prices on accommodations make for a more affordable vacation. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront condo or a large waterway home, Saltwater Grande offers luxurious vacation rentals that you’re sure to fall in love with! Keep the savings for yourself or use that extra cash to splurge on the activities we’ve mentioned here. Either way, the vacation experience and memories made will be worth every penny!

Buyers are finding greater selection in their house hunt as new listings increase above pre-pandemic levels, according to realtor.com®’s latest Weekly Recovery Report, reflecting the week ending Aug. 8. The increase in new listings now brings all four major components of housing activity tracked on the index—also including housing demand, asking prices, and pace of sales—above the pre-pandemic baseline of January 2020.

“Seller confidence has been improving gradually after reaching its bottom in mid-April, and now it appears to have reached an important recovery milestone,” says Javier Vivas, director of economic research for realtor.com®. “After five long months, sellers are back in the housing market; while encouraging, the improvement to new listings is only the first step in the long road to solving low inventory issues keeping many buyers at bay.”

The realtor.com® Housing Market Recovery Index reached a reading of 105.6 nationwide for the week ending Aug. 8, 5.6 points above the pre-COVID-19 baseline. The index uses 100 as its baseline period to compare the housing market’s recovery to January 2020, before the coronavirus outbreak hit the U.S.

While new listings growth has recovered to pre-COVID-19 levels, it still remains down 6% year over year, realtor.com® reports. “The small number of homes for sale has been a key limited factor for buyers in the market, so continued recovery in new listings bodes well for home sales in the coming months,” realtor.com® reports.

Meanwhile, homes are selling four days faster than a year ago, and median listing prices jumped 9.9% over a year ago, realtor.com® reports. “The combination of eager buyers, low mortgage rates, and dwindling for-sale homes set the stage for further price increases,” realtor.com® notes in its report. “But the tide could be turning as sellers come back to the market and new construction picks up. This could help price growth move back to a more normal rate of increase.”

Source: realtor.com®

It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone, but 2020 will be here before we know it! What better way to celebrate than to ring in the New Year in Myrtle Beach? From fireworks shows and concerts, to an all-out party, there’s no shortage of New Year’s Eve events!

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New Year’s Eve Fireworks Extravaganza

Broadway at the Beach

1325 Celebrity Cir., Myrtle Beach

Time: 8:00 PM

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Corey Smith – The Great Wide Underground Tour

House of Blues

4640 Highway 17 S., North Myrtle Beach

Time: 8:00 PM

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A Southern Times Square

The Market Common

4017 Deville St., Myrtle Beach

Time: 9:00 PM

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New Year’s Eve Party & Concert at Hard Rock

Hard Rock Cafe

1318 Celebrity Cir., Myrtle Beach

Time: 10:00 PM

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New Year’s Eve Bash at RipTydz

RipTydz Oceanfront Bar

1210 N. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach

Time: 8:30 PM

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New Year’s Eve on The Marshwalk

Murrells Inlet Marshwalk

Waterfront, Murrells Inlet

Time: 8:00 PM

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Roaring 20’s Party

Broadway at the Beach – Oz The Experience, Malibu’s Surf Bar, The Patio

1325 Celebrity Cir., Myrtle Beach

Time: 7:00 PM

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New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance at HOB

House of Blues

4640 Highway 17 S., North Myrtle Beach

Time: 7:00 PM

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Roaring Twenties NYE

Wicked Tuna

4123 U.S. 17 Business, Murrells Inlet

Time: 8:00 PM

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NYE at Margaritaville

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

1114 Celebrity Circle, Myrtle Beach

Time: 9:00 PM

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Celebrate 2020 Great Gatsby Style

Bandito’s Restaurant and Cantina

1410 Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach

Time: 8:00 PM

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Roaring Into the 20s New Year’s Eve Bash

Tin Roof

1410 Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach

Time: 6:00 PM

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Oceanfront NYE Party

Plyler Park – Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Entertainment District

Second Ave. N. to 15th Ave. N., Myrtle Beach

Time: 9:00 PM

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Whether it’s a champagne toast and a magical midnight kiss you’re looking for, or fireworks with the kids, celebrating the start of a New Year in Myrtle Beach is sure to be a good time!

For more information on these events or to book your last-minute getaway to ring in the New Year with us, give us a call at 888-472-6330 or book your stay online at SaltwaterGrande.com.

Happy New Year, friends!

It’s no secret that spending the holidays in Myrtle Beach is a treat. Ocean views, less crowds, parades, shows, shopping…there’s so much to do! We’ve broken down a few of our favorite events for the holidays in Myrtle Beach below so you can skip the snow and enjoy a brighter holiday season.

The Great Christmas Light Show

Each November and December, the North Myrtle Beach Park & Sports Complex is transformed into a wintery wonderland. The drive-through light show features over 2 million lights along a 1.5 mile stretch of winding road through the complex. Some displays are up to 55 feet tall and feature animated figures and holiday scenes where the lights come to life. Once your drive through the show is complete, park your car and enjoy a ride on the Santa Express Train Ride. Indulge in hot chocolate, s’mores, and even meet Santa!

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Nights of a Thousand Candles

Named the “Best Christmas Lights in South Carolina” by Travel+Leisure Magazine, Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens is a must-see. With more than 2,700 hand-lit candles and over 2 million lights, the gardens come alive in this spectacular display. Hear the sounds of holiday music with live performances some Thursday through Sunday nights, and a pair playing bagpipes roam the gardens between the live shows. Homemade hot apple cider, gourmet hot chocolate, and a complete low-country menu is available, catered by Inlet Affairs of Murrells Inlet.

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The South’s Grandest Christmas Show

Celebrate the holidays in Myrtle Beach with Alabama Theatre’s The South’s Grandest Christmas Show. Featuring local comedian Ricky Mokel, the show is filled with laughs, song and dance. The show is a combination of contemporary holiday music and traditional Christmas classics. The special effects are so amazing, you’ll want to see this show over and over again!

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Still looking for a last minute rental for the holidays? Saltwater Grande has a few properties available! Search availability and book online here.

How do you like to celebrate the holidays in Myrtle Beach? Saltwater Grande wishes you the best during the holiday season!