Myrtle Beach Frequently Asked Questions

By Shane Sharp,
Contributing Writer

What is the Grand Strand?

A coastal region that extends from Brunswick County, NC to the north and Georgetown, SC to the south. The area includes Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island and Horry County. Per Capita, the Strand possess more golf courses than any other stretch of beach in the world.

What's the weather like?

Some of the best you will find - a long, balmy spring and a pleasant fall (average temperature 75 degrees F - understandably, the favorite golfing seasons), short, cool winters (temperatures average 56 degrees F - with Winter snowbirds our most enthusiastic golfers), and short, hot summers (temperatures 89 degrees F - and family time).

What is the beach like?

While its no Gulf Coast, the beach is clean, firm, level and made of fine white sand. It is one of the world's broadest, and longest uninterrupted beaches. In the summer the seawater temperature reaches the high eighties (F), which makes for some comfortable swimming.

As of July 2003, there are approximately 120 (depending on how you deal with the temporary closures of Robbers Roost, Marsh Harbour and Ocean Harbour) - despite the fact that the Grand Strand has more golf courses than most of Europe, there are still a number of new courses planned and under construction.

Also see our Myrtle Beach Golf Course Guide.

What accommodations are available?

Better than 60,000 accommodations units, ranging from modest motel rooms to magnificent luxury oceanfront penthouses. Unlike most golfing destinations - there's something here to suit every wish, and every wallet. That goes for courses and accommodations.

What is a "Golf Package?"

Developed in Myrtle Beach, a "Golf Package" is a way to schedule a golf vacation for your entire group. All you need do is let your accommodations' Golf Director know your arrival and departure dates, and the courses you'd like to play (and if you aren't familiar with the courses, he or she will offer sound suggestions). Your schedule, with specific tee times, will then be confirmed, and sent to you. The pre-set per person charge generally covers accommodations, breakfast, and golf. To arrange your golf package through our panel of experts simply call 866-409-2177! A word of caution - some golf directors know more than others, or are tied to certain courses, so be sure to consult check out our golf course reviews for more information.

Does each hotel have its own golf course?

No - Unlike other areas of the country, where play is limited to on-site courses, most of our area's accommodations facilities can schedule play for you on virtually all of the area's 100+ courses. The downside is that if you don't plan carefully, you could be stuck in traffic for half the day.

Can I get objective reviews of golf courses, resorts and restaurants?

Yes, right here at MyrtleBeachGolf.com!

Does the Strand host any major golf tournaments?

In addition to recreational golf, the Strand is becoming a hotbed of competitive golf. Among the tournaments are the 'Monday After the Masters'; theDuPont, and the world's largest on-site amateur golf tournament, with more than 5000 players, the Dupont World Amateur Handicap Championship (played on more than 60 of the area's courses in late August)!

What can I find to eat in Myrtle Beach and its environs?

There are close to 1,800 restaurants, you'll find everything from familiar fast-food chains and major theme venues to elegant, one-of-a-kind dining establishments; from Calabash-style seafood to Continental creations - whatever your taste buds crave. The most prevalent eating theme on the Strand is no doubt the ubiquitous all-you-can eat establishments that are peppered all over US Highway 17.

Also see our Dining Directory & Reviews.

Can I catch some public transportation near my hotel?

Negative - public transportation is somewhat limited here. There are buses to major shopping centers, and a number of our accommodations facilities do have shuttle service to and from the airport or beach. And all major car rental agencies are represented here, offering very competitive rates.

Can I fly into Myrtle Beach?

If you wings let you down, then US Airways, Delta, Comair, Pan Am, Continental, Spirit, Vanguard, Air Tran, Northwest, and Hooters Air can get you to the Myrtle Beach jetport.

Also see our information page on the Myrtle Beach Airport.

Is getting around Myrtle Beach by car getting any easier?

Yes, with the recent opening of the Conway Bypass (Highway 22) and Highway 31. It's now possible to stay in Little River or North Myrtle Beach and get out to the myriad of courses off of Hwy. 501 in less than twenty minutes.

Are there any good places to shop?

A rhetorical question, for sure. Here's how the beach sets up in terms of shopping op's: Enclosed malls; nature-friendly centers like Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach featuring dozens of delightful stores (together with restaurants and dining venues); groups of major factory outlets; one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops - everything from souvenir Ts to designer home furnishings - you'll find it all here. Good news for golfers - there is a discount golf merchandise store on just about every corner.