Discovering the many sides of Myrtle Beach

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Often known for its miles of sandy shoreline and lively boardwalk, Myrtle Beach has much more waiting to be uncovered beyond the waves. As two Canadian girlfriends exploring its food and culture scene, we found ourselves constantly surprised by how this coastal city blends southern charm, vibrant flavours and unique local experiences. What we discovered was more than just a beach town; it’s a gem of a destination that deserves a spot on every traveller’s list.

Foodie finds by the beach

If Myrtle Beach had a love language, it would be food. Every stop along our trip brought a new flavour to the table along with tradition and coastal influence. We kicked things off at Swig & Swine, a spot that takes barbecue seriously. Their dry-rubbed wings and array of sauces were impressive but the real showstopper was the wood-smoked brisket that melted in our mouths, paired perfectly with their baked potato salad and beans.

Johnny D’s

For breakfast, Johnny D’s Waffles and Benedicts quickly became a highlight. With three locations across Myrtle Beach, this diner felt like a neighbourhood Cheers, where the staff know your name and your order by heart. Chef Jamie Daskalis and her team serve up a menu that’s massive yet intentional. The seafood omelette alone is worth the trip—rich, fresh and nearly impossible to recreate once you’re back home. And if you’re looking for indulgence? The cinnaroll pancakes are the stuff of legends. Don’t sleep on them!

Zeytin

If you’re craving something with a twist, Zeytin is a breakfast and lunch restaurant worth checking out. The vibe is warm and inviting, the staff are so pleasant and helpful and the menu balances traditional Turkish breakfast dishes with your go-to classics. It’s the kind of spot that surprises you in the best way—with flavours that take you on an adventure.

Our favourite dining experience had to be dinner at Hook & Barrel—elevated coastal fine dining at its best. Think fresh, sustainable seafood with a southern twist. The standout? Honestly, it’s hard to choose! For Kayla, it was the mahi mahi with coconut pineapple rice and for Steph, the starters stole the show. The candied bourbon bacon and the she crab soup are absolute must-orders. It’s safe to say these meals will be living rent-free in our minds for a long time. Myrtle Beach’s culinary scene is far richer and more exciting than many Canadians might expect from a beach town—and trust us, it’s worth diving into.

Beyond the beach blanket

It’s no surprise that most people visit Myrtle Beach for… well, the beach. But we were pleasantly surprised at how much there was to explore beyond its shoreline. Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet offered a completely different kind of escape. Strolling through the beautifully landscaped gardens, we admired centuries-old live oaks and the impressive collection of American sculptures. The combination of art, history and natural beauty made it one of those places that stays with you long after you leave.

Conway

We made our way over to Conway and visited the Horry County Museum, a fascinating peek into the area’s natural and cultural history, reminding us that every beach town has stories beyond the sand. And as Myrtle Beach is known as the golf capital of the world, we unleashed our competitive sides at PopStroke, a mini golf experience designed in partnership with Tiger Woods that was equal parts playful and challenging. Live music and big screens with misting stations to keep you cool made it the kind of activity that reminded us vacations are meant for fun and making memories as much as for relaxation.

Did you know?

Myrtle Beach is a Certified Autism Destination thanks to the work of the Autism Travel Club. Local hotels, attractions and restaurants receive training to create sensory-friendly experiences, making it possible for all families to plan vacations with confidence and create lasting memories together.

The heart of Myrtle Beach

What really set Myrtle Beach apart wasn’t just the food or attractions— it was the people. We spent most of our time exploring this beach town pretty incognito. Nobody really knew if we were locals or visitors writing about our experience. And yet, everywhere we went we were met with genuine warmth, kindness and an eagerness to make us feel right at home. Canadians may have their reasons for hesitating to head south right now, but Myrtle Beach deserves your consideration. It’s a destination where you can truly expect to be welcomed with open arms. Southern hospitality wasn’t just a phrase here—it showed up in every smile, every conversation and every small act of kindness that made our stay unforgettable.

Kayla and Steph’s favourites

It’s only fair we each share our standout memory from our trip.

Kayla’s Favourite: Our sunset ride on the SkyWheel overlooking Myrtle Beach and dinner at Hook & Barrel.

Steph’s Favourite: For me, it was early morning beach walks catching the sunrise and lunch at Swig & Swine.

Whether it was the mouthwatering food, the unexpected gems or the warmth of the locals, Myrtle Beach proved to be so much more than a seaside escape. For Canadians looking beyond the shoreline, it’s a destination full of flavour, culture and charm—a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

The perfect home away from home

Our home base in Myrtle Beach was North Beach Resort & Villas, and it couldn’t have been a better fit. Think spacious condo-style units perfect for us as a duo, but would easily suit a family or group of friends. Our balcony gave us just the right view of the resort’s pool area and the sparkling Atlantic just beyond. The perfect spot for your morning coffee. Best of all, the resort’s location put us just minutes away from Myrtle Beach’s top restaurants and attractions, making it both convenient and relaxing.

For vacation planning and inspiration: VisitMyrtleBeach.ca NorthBeachRentals.com