Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach — Neighborhood Guide to the Grand Strand
The Grand Strand stretches 60 miles from Little River to Pawleys Island. Where you stay determines your entire experience. Central Myrtle Beach is the tourist hub — highest prices, most amenities. North Myrtle Beach is quieter and 20–30% cheaper. South Myrtle Beach / Surfside Beach is where locals go to actually relax. Murrells Inlet is the seafood capital. Pawleys Island is the undeveloped gem.
Neighborhoods at a Glance
| Area | Vibe | Price Range | Best For | Local Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Myrtle Beach | Laid-back, family-forward, local flavor | $–$$ | Families, couples, shag dancing fans, repeat visitors | Stay in Cherry Grove for the most authentic NMB experience. The pier at sunrise is something special. VRBO condos often 20–30% cheaper than Central MB. |
| Central Myrtle Beach / Boardwalk | High energy, tourist central, never sleeps | $$–$$ | First-timers, families with young kids, groups, thrill seekers | Book a hotel directly on the ocean and get a high floor. The view from floors 10+ is worth the splurge. Avoid motels on the south end of Ocean Blvd. |
| South Myrtle Beach / Surfside Beach | Relaxed, residential, genuinely local | $ | Locals at heart, budget travelers, couples, anyone who hates crowds | Surfside Beach is called the 'Family Beach' — clean, quiet, gorgeous. Hotel rates 25–35% lower than Central MB. Myrtle Beach State Park is right here (best beach on the strand). |
| Murrells Inlet / Garden City | Fishing village charm, MarshWalk magic, pure coastal soul | $–$$ | Seafood lovers, fishing enthusiasts, couples, anyone seeking authentic SC | Stay within walking distance of the MarshWalk if you can. The sunrise over the tidal marsh is one of the most beautiful natural scenes in SC. Dolphin sightings are common. |
| Pawleys Island / Litchfield | Understated, old-money, deliberately undeveloped | $$–$$ | Couples, honeymooners, golfers, anyone wanting to escape the tourist strip | Pawleys Island has been a beach resort since the 1700s. The island itself has no chain restaurants or high-rises by community choice. Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort is the best resort on the entire Grand Strand. |
Hotel Recommendations by Area
Central MB: Marriott Grande Dunes Resort (best overall), Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort, Sheraton Broadway Resort. Book oceanfront, high floor.
North MB: The Tides Hotel (boutique, rooftop bar), Ocean Drive Beach & Golf Resort (shag dancing hub), Avista Resort (Cherry Grove).
Pawleys Island: Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort (best resort on the strand), The Inn at Litchfield.
Vacation Rentals: VRBO and Airbnb condos in North MB and South MB are 20–35% cheaper than hotels and give you a kitchen, laundry, and more space for families.