North Myrtle Beach

Has anyone satyed at the Cyprus INN?? is it worth it?

is the cottage nice? and is it far away from all the action?

North Myrtle Beach

When you say action, for seniors majority of kids are in Myrtle Beach, not North Myrtle Beach, although there will be plenty of kids here. Cherry Grove is as far north in North Myrtle Beach as you can go before North Carolina state line. You will be about 25-30 miles from Myrtle Beach (';strip';) Ocean Blvd.

Not sure about Cyprus Inn-what is the exact street address I can drive by on my way home from work tonite.

North Myrtle Beach

210 31st Ave N.

Cherry Grove, North Myrtle Beach

sorry it took so long to reply but thats the adress to the house on cherry grove...most of the people from our schhool are goin to be on ocean drive but we are on cherry grove

yeah thats pretty far from action...are you looking for action or trying to stay away from it?

College Spring Break Advice!

I am going to Myrtle Beach in March for college spring break with a few friends. We want to get a room that is on the beach and is in walking distance to bars and clubs. We are all 21 years old. Can anyone tell me where college spring breakers usually stay and what the nightlife is like? I have never been to MB so any advice at all would be very helpful. Thanks!

Ashley

College Spring Break Advice!

Being 21 may be an issue renting from a lot of places since a lot of the big resort type buildings require 25 and older. There are places that will rent to 21 year olds, but be ready to place a deposit if the place requires it.

Broadway at the Beach has a ton of night life, bars, clubs, places to eat, etc. From Ocean Front around 21st Ave. North to Broadway is a little over a mile and a half across a busy road and along a pretty well travelled street, not an easy walk especially if you have been drinking. Other may be able to give some suggestions as MB has its fair share of bars and nightlife. The only issue is you may need to drive due to the distance and the place you find to stay.

College Spring Break Advice!

If you are a college student you may have a problem staying at a resort due to the age restrictions. You can try Holiday Inn near Broadway. It is not ocean front but you can walk to Broadway and if you are in for exercise you can walk to the beach.

A lot of the bars and clubs are not within walking distance from hotels. You can either do a taxi but I strongly suggest getting a rental car for shopping and site seeing; of course not for drinking and driving! Of course my first suggestion is Broadway at the Beach it is a lot of fun. We would usually just find different bars to go to we didn%26#39;t really plan it. I can never remember the names of them. You might enjoy Club Kryptonite.

http://club-kryptonite.com/

Have a great trip!

not too sure on where your staying...but when we go down here for spring break in the past we stayed at my families condo up in north myrtle an cabbed it everywhere...wasnt too bad when your spliting the fare a few ways...plus no worries about drinking and driving. Broadway at the beach is always happening for spring break. there are a handful of clubs down there so if one isnt your style hop to the next. try senior frogs at broadway, that was a pretty good time

I am thinking of staying around the 21st Ave area because I have read good things about it on this forum. Which hotel is your favorite?

The Breakers website says that the hotel is divided into the breakers resort, paradise tower, breakers seaside, and sailfish tower. What is the difference between these sections? Any recommendations?

Also, what are good bars/clubs around that area?

Thanks so much!

I am thinking of staying around the 21st Ave area because I have read good things about it on this forum. Which hotel is your favorite?

The Breakers website says that the hotel is divided into the breakers resort, paradise tower, breakers seaside, and sailfish tower. What is the difference between these sections? Any recommendations?

Also, what are good bars/clubs around that area?

If I%26#39;m not mistaken 21st ave isnt too far from Broadway...which is where your going to want to be for night life. It is just a short cab ride and between a few of you should make that a pretty cheap fare. lots of clubs down there and 4 of them are together so you only have to pay one cover for 4 clubs. As far as bars/clubs in walking distance I%26#39;m not sure. We always stay at my families condo up in North Myrtle and take a cab down to broadway. I have heard good things about Breakers but I have no personal experience.

Unless they have changed their policy, Breakers does not rent to under 25. This is also the case at most properties that have privately owned units (and that%26#39;s a long list!).

Be up front about your ages right from the git-go; you will likely be asked for ID when you check in %26amp; that%26#39;s when many spring breakers with reservations are often left scrambling for ';plan B';. Also know that a security deposit (per room or per person) is routinely charged to under 25, %26amp; some places even require you sign a ';conduct contract.';

If you want to be on the beach, I%26#39;d try Atlantica, Boardwalk Beach Resort, possibly the Yachtsman or either Sandcastle (south one for sure).

Of course there are many smaller, mostly not quite on the beach places, like Sea Dip, Cadillac Court, Court Capri, Days Inn, Super 8, etc.

If you can consider ocean view instead of oceanfront, Sheraton at the convention center is 2 blocks from the beach %26amp; 2 blocks from Broadway at the Beach. Beautiful place (4 diamond) that welcomes 18 %26amp; up with no deposits or restrictions if you have a credit card.

Lastly, if you end up in the area you hope to, check out Bumzzz, right on the beach with live music.

Murrells Inlet marshwalk is also a great (%26amp; scenic) place for ';happy hour hopping.'; Have a blast!

So I made some calls and have narrowed it down. We will either be staying at the Breakers Resort, Boardwalk Beach Resort, or Sandcastle at the Pavilion. Maybe Atlantica but prolly not. Which hotel would be the best?? We were thinking Breakers (which changed their policy to renting to 21 and over). Also the other hotels require a deposit of around $200 but I dont think that Breakers does. However Breakers is the most expensive of the group. Any suggestions would be helpful! I cant wait to go!

Sandcastle at the pavillion sent me this email. Stay 2 nights in our oceanfront room with rates starting

at $68.00 plus taxes and fees.

Valid February 16 - April 9, 2009

Sandcastle is a dump. Literally. it is so rundown and filthy. I would never stay there again. Breakers Resort changed there policy to 21 and older but all the ppl in the room would need to be 21. It is a great spot and as long as your not rowdy and don%26#39;t make it uncomfortable for the actual families staying it shouldn%26#39;t be a big deal. There close to broadway but You would need to take a taxi. Its a mile away and i%26#39;m sure you don%26#39;t want to walk that especially drunk.

good miniature golf for 3 to 5 year olds?

we don%26#39;t want a very challenging course - does anyone have any suggestions? thanks, lisa

good miniature golf for 3 to 5 year olds?

I don%26#39;t have a specific course for you, but in my experience you can usually just tell from driving by. Just let them pick out if the want to go where the volcanos are or if the like planes ect. Even if it%26#39;s a little too hard for them they can still take there time. I have never seen anyone get annoyed by waiting on a child. If it%26#39;s a small group and they catch up to you just let them go first. Then you can take your time and let the kids enjoy it. I don%26#39;t have kids so many some other posters can help you more! Have a great trip!

good miniature golf for 3 to 5 year olds?

We went to one closer to North Myrtle Beach last summer, I believe it was right next door to Cheeseburger in Paradise. I can%26#39;t remember the name of it but it was animal-themed. It was the closest to the hotel we were staying at (Marriott Grande Dunes). Oh, and our kids last year were 2 and 5, and we had no problems at all, it was an absolute blast, and very cheap.

I think the pp%26#39;er is right, any mini golf area will work out just great, your kids will just love it. Have fun!

Just driver around as mentioned and look for some of the flatter courses.

Capt. Hooks Mini Golf is one of the better ones in my opinion. The kids are familiar with the story line/characters and can relate to the scenes as they play through either of the 2 courses. None of the many courses we have played are particularly easy for kids though. Just let them ';cheat'; and have a good time and don%26#39;t worry about the rules or if they lose interest after a while. If you go during the day day the rates are lower and there are no crowds so you can take your time and not feel rushed. Unfortunately it can be pretty hot during the day.

tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g54359-d63…

I agree with taking them in the day....or morning when they first open..usually around 10am.

There are so many to choose from. Some look pretty elaborate. The Captain Hook..Peter Pan one is pretty nice...fun.

But drive around first....before picking one...or two.

SeaPines vs Palmetto Dunes

Read your great ';Plantations'; advisory . We are 2 Sr.couples going to HH for the 1st time for one week Aug. 27. We want to stay in a 2b 2b condo/villa on or near a sandy beach with a pool closeby. We can walk to the beach if necessary but a short 5-10 minute walk. Our price range is up to $1200. I%26#39;m having a difficult time figuring out SeaPines%26#39; beachfront properties (no map) and if all their condo complexes have a pool right in the complex or they use ';community pools???';.

Are the ';Beachside Tennis'; villas located at South Beach in Seapines on a sandy, swimmable beach or near a harbor area ...or is it better (beachwise)to stay on the ';ocean side'; of SP near the Sea Pines Beach Club? Or is it better to stay at Palmetto Dunes in the condos on the beach. (Villamare, Windsor,Capt%26#39;s Walk, etc.) Which beach is better and which Plantation has more to offer, ie: condo units, golf, fishing, shops, restaurants. Thank you.

SeaPines vs Palmetto Dunes

When you get there, the summer peak season will be over and rental rates are in a shoulder season, so your budget will get you something nice.

While SeaPines is the largest actual resort on the island, it is lacking in oceanfront villa facilities. Only ';Turtle Lane';, ';Beachside Tennis';, and Marriott%26#39;s Monarch Timeshare meet that standard.

There is a lot more choice and variety in Palmetto Dunes. So I would look at PD first.

Both offer Golf and Tennis, though SeaPines is home to the Harbortown Course which is the venue for the PGA Heritage Classic Tournament.

Palmetto Dunes shopping, marina, and restaurant district is across rte 278 in Shelter Cove, where SeaPines is more enclosed. Only Grocery is located outside the gate.

Stan (hhiguy)

SeaPines vs Palmetto Dunes

Thank you for your prompt response.

Beachside Tennis is where I was looking but it appears to be located on the ';intercoastal'; more than the Atlantic and I noticed Seapines%26#39; Beach Club is over on the Atlantic...that%26#39;s why I became doubtful of the quality of the beach %26amp; sand at Beachside Tennis...and the SeaPines Resort rates are high for Beachside Tennis.

Do you recommend any particular complex at Palmetto Dunes... golf seems to be everywhere so any good course will do %26amp; we can drive to that. But it doesn%26#39;t look like we want to drive to a beach every day and if we didn%26#39;t stay on or near the beach we%26#39;d have access problems and then have to deal with public beaches and parking, right?

Is that the only grocery store on the island?

There are many great oceanfront villas to stay in Palmetto Dunes. Villamare, Captain%26#39;s Walk, Hampton Place, Wendover Dunes, Barrington Arms, Windsor, All located right on the beach.

You will find a Piggly Wiggly in Sheltor Cove across the street from Palmetto Dunes.

Sorry, about that. I have no idea why Wendover Dunes is highlited in blue. They are all nice.

My family and I are booked for our 4th trip to Hilton Head in April, the first time we stayed in Hilton Head using family time share that was traded we stayed at Marriots Sunset Pointe in Shelter Cove which is part of Palmetto Dunes Plantation. We just happened to pick this resort from the directory as the description appealed to us. All our subsequent visits including our 2 upcoming visits in 2009 have been booked in Shelter Cove as we enjoy staying in this part of the island. It is mid-island close to everything. Although not beach front we either bike to the beach or go to the beach via car in Palmetto Dunes using our beach passes from the resort. Shelter Cove has great dining, shopping, sunset sails, fishing and dolphin watches and is quite peaceful, although we do not grocery shop at Piggly Wiggly unless it is something quick as we prefer Publix which is a little further up island near Walmart. We are not fans of Sea Pines and partly because you have to pay to enter Sea Pines Plantation. For our trip in April we have rented a villa thru Island Getaways and in October we are using time share again at Sunset Pointe

Big Palmetto Dunes fan here. Have stayed in Sea Pines and Shelter Cove. Shelter Cove is just that - it is not on the ocean or walkable to it. Lots of shops and restaurants, but i would rather walk to the beach. We do not care for Villamare that much - an older property. We like the Windsor properties, but the rest are fine as well.

There is a nice restaurant on site in PD (can%26#39;t recall the name) the ocean is right there, bike rentals are right there (next to the restaurant), easy kayaking, the complexes have nice seldom used pools, etc. Really no downside to PD.

if you do want to stay in sea pines, these are nice and on the water. you are just a ways to anywhere.

beach-property.com/sea-pines/sea-pines-three鈥?/a>

';...There is a nice restaurant on site in PD (can%26#39;t recall the name) the ocean is right there, bike rentals are right there (next to the restaurant), easy kayaking, the complexes have nice seldom used pools, etc. Really no downside to PD.';

That would be Alexanders. Also, check out the great breakfast across the street at the Palmetto Dunes convenience store.

Has anyone stayed at a 2B 2B at Beachside Tennis in Seapines? If so, how is the beach there? Is it within walking distance and is it a wide, sandy beach? How far of a walk from Beachside Tennis Beach to the Sea Pines Beach Club -- is that the same beach that the Beachside Tennis condos are on? I%26#39;m trying to compare the Seapines beach to the beach at Palmetto Dunes as we%26#39;ve never been to HH and we plan to visit in late August for 1 week and are trying to chose between SP and PD. Thank you!

blush color

proxy server setting

say it isn't so....

Finally got my husband talked in to taking a quick trip to the beach this weekend and I just looked at the weather and it says it%26#39;s supposed to be rainy Fri - Sun?? The temps look good, but RAIN!! =( Hopefully it will change over the next 48 hours...

say it isn't so....

We haven%26#39;t had much rain here in the past month. My husband is coming in for the weekend and I hope it doesn%26#39;t rain either. But considering it%26#39;s only about 10º where he is he will not care about rain!

say it isn't so....

Same thing happened to us when we went to the Outer Banks (first timers) in the fall. It felt like monsoon season!

Our first (and last) trip to Maine we were drenched. I know many people love Maine but my husband said he felt like he was in the movie Groundhog Day. We had a full week exchange through RCI and we left after the 2nd night. He absolutely hated it there. I think it%26#39;s because the weather was so bad!

Now it%26#39;s up to 80% rain, so we%26#39;re going to wait a couple weekends... =)

dmw4444

Ah, so jealous of you! We can%26#39;t really make last minute plans to come to the beach due to the distance. The weather is sure to change here quickly to warm and sunny!

Thinking about buying investment condo

I just met with a long time realtor friend here 2 days ago. Prices have taken a dive here. Many sellers are listing their units for less than they paid for them. Including the newer ones.

Cover costs? Not likely. Take into consideration POA%26#39;s, insurance, maintenance before signing. Rent will help offset costs but not cover them.

It%26#39;s too early to say how rentals will be affected by the economy.

Rentals are at their peak between late May and Labor Day. Before and after can be very spotty.

With the many rentals to choose from you%26#39;ll need to make sure your unit is top notch and well maintained. Much will depend upon the area you are considering purchasing in.

Also take into consideration escalating insurance costs and that South Carolina has a personal property tax as well as regular property taxes.

We%26#39;ve been owners and rent out our homes but have always had to supplement to cover expenses.

Do yourself a favor and find exactly what your expenses will be before purchasing. We have no regrets but had a lot of experience with real estate before making our purchase.

Don%26#39;t let your emotions make the decision! It can be great but only if you can afford to make it work.

Good luck with your search and your decision! Hopefully it will all work out for you!

Thinking about buying investment condo

Above poster covers most bases. One factor to consider is how much you want to use it yourself. We have 2 condos in MB and use each of them3-4 weeks each year. We rent in the summer and have winter renters (90 day) in the winter and use ourself primarily spring and fall. In a ';good year'; we will cover all expenses , but have no mortgage. Some years we have to supplement some. The tax depreciation helps some, but will eventually have implications when we sell. We have owned for 11 years and appreciation has been good overall despite the recent past. If you have $ to invest and do not have to have an immediate return on it, I think now might be a good time to buy. People will make an effort to have a vacation even in tight economy and like the stock market, the values will eventually go back up. We also thought with the idea of retiring into one of them, but after staying 30 days at a time, we decided we would not be content with our set up of 2BR, 2BA since it would not allow us to ave extended family visit without really crowding.

Thinking about buying investment condo

Very well said, lillious........

There was a thread not that long ago about this subject if you do a search.

Yes, prices are down way more on condos than single family homes, in part because there%26#39;s a glut on the market. You could buy them at great deals all day long.

Talk to owners first, %26amp; do the math. Know up front that insurance %26amp; owner fees will escalate. These two alone can equal a typical mortgage payment. Personal property tax will not impact you (beyond your belongings in the condo) until you retire to the condo, but in the meantime, you will pay a higher real estate tax as a non-resident. Last but not least, if you allow the property management to rent your unit for you, their take is often staggeringly high (at some, close to half of the rental rate).

No doubt, prices have dropped, but a budget of $90K to $120 still will not get you on the ocean or 2nd row. Most renters will want to be on the ocean or across the street, so renting anything else could be difficult because there are so many ocean front/2nd row options. Next best thing may be on a golf course at that range??

Thanks to all!

Wow! I%26#39;m glad I asked. It doesn%26#39;t sound like this will work for me. I guess I%26#39;ll wait a few more years(I%26#39;m 55).

I used to love the idea of retiring in Florida but with the congestion, crime, rising cost of living and the fear of hurricane damage, I have crossed Florida off my list.

How about Texas?

It%26#39;s a buyer%26#39;s market. In 5 years, that may not be the case.

Remember there was a hurricane that took out Galveston Island this past summer/fall.

My suggestion and I have my real estate license, buy because you love and you CAN AFFORD IT without depending on rental income. Too few vacations chasing way too many rentals-not a good combination for someone who wants to cover their costs. Yes there are good deals out there but you have to be able to carry those costs in case you don%26#39;t get renters.

All those things you mentioned about FL you might want to be sure you check it out here as well, there is no Garden of Eden anywhere. Myrtle Beach experiences all the same things any vacation area does or any city does

Homestead Studio Suites

I have reservations at the Homestead Studio Suites by the Airport for April 4 for one night for around $60. Can anyone tell me anything about the hotel? How far is it from the historic district? I need a room that sleeps five and the HSS has two doubles and a sleeper sofa.

Thanks.

Homestead Studio Suites

It is near the airport - so if you%26#39;re sensitive to extreme airplane noise I wouldn%26#39;t stay there. It%26#39;ll be about a 20 minute drive to the historic district if you know exactly what to do (it%26#39;s pretty easy). There isn%26#39;t anything especially nice around this hotel. The closest thing to nice is the Outlet mall but you%26#39;re probably not coming to Charleston to go to the outlets.

I read the TA reviews - they seemed OK for the price.

Blue Ridge State Parks

Will be heading to South Carolina on a family ';State'; trip. We only have time to visit one state park near the mountains. Was wondering if anyone had an opinion on which is best to visit. We have three boys 6, 11,13.

We are not the camping type but do hike. I would like them to get a feel for the moutains/lakes of south carolina. We have been discussing the following but are open for suggestions - Devils Fork, Caesars Head, and Table Rock.

Thanks for any guidance

Moving Grandparents to Myrtle Beach Area - Best towns/area?

My father-in-law and his wife is planning to relocate to the south carolina area (they like the mild weather and feel it is a good balance between Florida - too hot, and further north, too cold). They like the beach and want a place where the grand-kids will want to come and visit, but also a place where they can enjoy themselves in the %26#39;off season%26#39;. We thought that the Myrtle Beach area would be good because some research indicates they can still get reasonable priced housing and low taxes. Most of their kids and grandkids live up and down the east coast, so it is pretty good central location for them to move to.

So, we are planning on going down there in a few weeks to ';scout out'; the area for them and look ata bunch of condos. From what I have read online so far, it looks like they would do better outside of Myrtle Beach itself, either in North Myrtle Beach, or somewhere south. Also read a bit about Conway, but don%26#39;t really know anything about it. Maybe there are other areas that are nice as well..

THey want a nice condo (2 or 3 bedrooms for guests) and want to be reasonable walking distance to either a nice little town for some shopping, or to the beach. They do NOT want to be ON the beach...

Looking for anyone from the area that could give me ideas about where the ';nice mellow'; neighborhoods are that are outside of ';nice little towns';...

They want to avoid ';the strip'; type areas and away from the spring break / summer tourist traffic if they can, although they realize that this comes with living on a beach town.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Michael

Moving Grandparents to Myrtle Beach Area - Best towns/area?

Not wanting to start a battle for bucks here, but am just suggesting they may want to look a little farther south in the Charleston area.

There%26#39;s more residential type neighborhoods there than in the MB area. You can be close to the beach and still have all the advantages of not having to deal w/tourists all summer.

My parents retired to the Charleston area 20+ yrs. ago and never regretted a day of it. Plenty of culture, restaurants, things to do all year round, even as a resident, not as a tourist.

Just something to consider in your search.

Moving Grandparents to Myrtle Beach Area - Best towns/area?

Charleston is lovely, especially my favorite-Mt. Pleasant.

Conway is very quaint but the traffic is horrid! Seriously it%26#39;s a nightmare!

Carolina Forest (off of 501) has many neighborhoods but again the traffic getting in and out is very difficult. However, they are trying to get some new roads in and around there.

I do hope you%26#39;re going to contact a realtor. They will be able to save you lots of time and give you the information about each neighborhoods ';personality';.

Don%26#39;t be afraid of them-they%26#39;re not all vultures! I would make some phone calls first and set up some appointments. If you don%26#39;t know where you%26#39;re going you will spend way too much time in traffic and driving in circles.

Now is a good time to be looking as there are many for sale signs.

You will want Horry County for less taxes, avoid living directly in City of Myrtle Beach or Ciry of North Myrtle Beach. We live in Little River and like it, we are about 10 mins to Cherry Grove Beaches. There are condo developments every where and so much for sale. Now is a good time to buy, so many people bought high and now are trying to sell - they can%26#39;t afford taxes, hoa fees, little to no rental income, you can find some bargains for sure. I have a 3 bdrm house I will sell you :o)

dog

Water temp in Mid May

How warm is the ocean in Edisto Beach in mid-May? It%26#39;s been a long time since I%26#39;ve been on the Atlantic side and can%26#39;t remember if it%26#39;s warm enough to get in.

Water temp in Mid May

The ocean water along the SC barrier islands is warmed by the gulf stream. By mid-May, I find the water still cool enough to be ';refreshing';, but warm enough to stay in for a swim.

How warm the water will be near shore depends on how warm and sunny the weather has been over a period of several days. In addition to warming the surface of the water, the sun heats up the sand. When the tide comes in over the hot sand, the water warms as well.

Water temp in Mid May

Thank you. I think that sounds perfect.

It depends on your personal taste. The water temp will be around 70 degrees then. Being a native of the Lowcountry, I find that too cool for me (I generally don%26#39;t get into the water until June). However, I have seen lots of folks from the northern climes who think that it is great.

Very true, Edistotiger!

My family members who live in England think our water is fine in mid-March, when I can%26#39;t get in further than my toes!

It%26#39;s all a matter of perspective.

I agree with EdistoTiger. I find the water too cool for me, yet I see people getting in the water like it%26#39;s the middle of summer. Depends on where you%26#39;re from. I%26#39;ve seen people in Minnesota laying out in the sun when it%26#39;s 50 degrees outside and I had a coat on.

blush color

Closest motel to House of Blues

Hello! I am coming to town for a concert at the House of Blues. I have already booked at Towers on the Grove, but is there anywhere closer that is nice AND affordable? I was thinking that Ton the G was pretty close, but it turns out that it is several miles away. Can somebody help? I would like to know the first and second closest places to stay, and the closest oceanfront. Thanks for any and all help!

Closest motel to House of Blues

Straight in from House of Blues to the beach is Windy Hill beach section. Probaly less than a mile.

Number of oceanfront places in Windy Hill.

Beach Cove is right at the end of the road as you approach the beach. Shore Crest is near by. Probably newer and a bit nicer. Many more in all price ranges. Depending on dates it might be hard to book less than a week oceanfront.

Few miles north in Cresent Beach section there is an oceanfront Best Western Ocean Sands.

Found this one. Not oceanfront but very close to HOB.

http://cityguide.aol.com/myrtlebeachsc/business/towers-at-ocean-creek/v-110025890/?query=motels%26amp;area=North+Myrtle+Beach%2C+SC

Closest motel to House of Blues

Thank you so much for the advice -- I will be checking these out!

Closest to House of the Blues would be the Fairfield Inn and Courtyard by Marriott....both are just on the other side of Barefoot Landing. You could walk to them. My nephew often goes to HOB and these are his motel destinations. Both are on Hwy. 17 and you save over beachfront....unless that%26#39;s what you%26#39;re looking. Both are owned by Marriott.

marriott.com/hotels/…

marriott.com/hotels/…

Thanks, gonefishing!

Oceanfront I would choose Beach Cove or the new North Beach Towers. North Beach is not renting out yet but should be soon.

Tee Times by Fore'n Shore......

i recently returned from hilton head, sc and played golf three days in a row...i played the ocean course at sea pines, old south and jones course at palmetto dunes....

i obtained the number for tee times at fore n shore phone number from the bartender at a great local watering hole called jump and phils....he suggested Tee Times by Fore n Shore for all of my golf needs - - 866-870-4653 (golf)....

when i called, they had all of the course and rate information for all of the public courses - and even had a few private options....

they gave us fantastic information and rates with one call....we gave them our credit card and when we arrived at t he course, they were expecting us....it was a most smooth and pleasurable expperience...

....

Tee Times by Fore'n Shore......

thanks for the feedback artieboy...we were glad to help you out...spread the word....866-870-4653(golf) for all of your information and tee time needs....

Pinnacle condo

my husband and I are going to north myrtle beach for the first time where do you suggest we stay. Looked at pinnacle condo. Husband likes to fish.

Pinnacle condo

We have stayed next door the pinnacle at Crescent towers, it%26#39;s o.k. it would just depend on which condo you rented as far as how nice/clean it is. It is a little older but that%26#39;s not all bad. It doesn%26#39;t have alot of amenities but if you don%26#39;t need them there%26#39;s no reason to pay for them. I know the Prince Resort is right in front of a pier that might be a good choice then he could just walk out there. If not there are several piers in the area he could drive to. I have seen people fishing off the beach but never seen them catch anything, my husband was at the pier last year and caught several fish and saw several small sharks.

Pinnacle condo

Prince Resort is right in front of Cherry Grove Pier. If you choose the building across the street, you will get a better rate and some of those units on the upper floors you would have a great ocean view.

get time from datetime

Myrtle Beach VIP Card

Does anyone have any info on the MBVIP Card that is offered on the web. Is it worth it? Or is it a scam? It costs $10 and advertises 10% off meals or free appetizers for food, and discounts for attrations and gift shops. Do any of the popular places accept it?

Myrtle Beach VIP Card

I know it is not a scam but, as far as IS it worth it? IMO no as there are tons of coupons for free around MB. So unless something listed is a must then yes.

Here is who honors the card per website here

www.myrtlebeachvipcard.com/allDetail.cfm…

Myrtle Beach VIP Card

Our family purchased the card last year. We only used it once (Wild Water and Wheels), but it paid for itself. It is true, discount books can be found almost anywhere. But, the discount we received at Wild Water was more than any coupons we found in MB.

Can you use the VIP card for each adult at Wild Water?

MB VIP card is REAL and does work at any of the businesses indicated.

But I will say that for $10-most of these offers are not exclusive for MBVIP (there may be a few in there), but basically are generic offers that you can find in any tourist publication such as Monster Coupon, Myrtle Beach Bucks and Sunny Day for FREE.

Yes, we got the discount for each ticket we purchased at Wild Water.

These cards are a bit popular, I ordered one the other day and it is on backorder.

2-days in Charleston with 7-yo & 9-yo

We are headed to Hilton Head week before Memorial Day. I%26#39;ve heard good things about Charleston, SC as it comes up typically on the annual ';top cities'; lists from various travel publications (along with cities like Santa Fe, NM, San Francisco, etc. - we%26#39;re from Seattle and Charleston is one of the few ';top cities'; we haven%26#39;t visited yet.)

Was thinking of driving up and spending a couple nights. I see the drive to HH from Savannah is 40 min and from Charleston, just over 2 hrs so actually thinking of flying in/out of Charleston instead of Savannah as it will save at least an hour total driving time for the trip. I heard Savannah was not as kid-friendly?

Sure is not cheap to stay in Historic District I see but it sounds like the Holiday Inn is the best deal in that area. We%26#39;ll have a car of course. Seems a lot of people recommend staying in the Historic District though, but in this economy we%26#39;re on a budget so not sure if we can afford it.

Always wondering what the ';must see'; things are. We have IMAX and a world-class Aquarium already in Seattle. Done a Ghost Tour in Williamsburg before. Harbor Tour sounds like a good idea and maybe the Fort?

Any recommendations on where to stay and must-see things considering we have a 7 and 9-yo would be appreciated. Mainly wondering if we%26#39;ll regret staying outside the Historic District to save $100-$150 total over 2 nights. I heard there is free parking and traffic isn%26#39;t bad, but this will be Memorial Day weekend! Keep in mind we%26#39;ll have already had our %26#39;beach time%26#39; at Hilton Head.

Thanks in advance!

2-days in Charleston with 7-yo %26amp; 9-yo

Well after doing some more reading, I see that Savannah is charming in it%26#39;s own right. I also read there is some big festival Memorial Day Weekend in Charleston - no wonder a lot of the Historic District hotels are already booked. Considering Savannah is an 1.5 hours closer to Hilton Head and we have kids with us, maybe it would be wiser to just visit Savannah for 2-nights and save Charleston for a couples-only trip at a later date? At this age, much of the historical significance will not be retained by the kids anyway. Seems it would be best to do what is more convenient and cut out 3 hours total of driving time and maybe have more options as far as reasonable priced accomodations downtown? Charleston definitely sounds like the better city at night, but our kids will be going to be about 9 PM anyway so that%26#39;s not a big consideration.

Help!

2-days in Charleston with 7-yo %26amp; 9-yo

I would stay in Savannah, and make Charleston another trip. I do not think Fort Sumnter tour is a good option of the children that age--really not much for them to see/do since it%26#39;s really all about the historical significance. You will enjoy Savannah as much as you would Charleston.

Looking for venues with good live music?

I%26#39;m trying to find information on any venues that have live music in the evenings. Also, are there any dives that someone would recommend for dinner and drinks? Thanks.

Looking for venues with good live music?

What kind of music? Rock,Jazz,Pop? Any particular days of the week that you%26#39;ll be here? Dives as in inexpensive? A little more info could help.

John

Looking for venues with good live music?

Best spot for music is the Jazz Corner in Wexford. The food is not bad either.

Go to www.hhidining.com for more spots.

Stan (hhiguy)

Any type of music and the nights of the week will be Sunday through Tuesday. As for dives, yeah some lower priced places that are little diamonds in the rough.

Thanks so much Stan for the restaurant guide!

buffsfan: There is the Big Bamboo:

http://www.hiltonheadisland.com/history.htm

This is at the Forest Beach area of the island in Coligny Plaza.

This might interest you as well:

http://hiltonheadcomedyclub.com/

D in Muskoka.

Sorry: I provided the wrong link to the Big Bamboo:

http://www.bigbambooofhiltonhead.com/

D in Muskoka.

History is good too!

Thanks D in Muskoka! I checked out the website of the Big Bamboo [and the history :)] and the place looks unique and awesome! I appreciate your feedback.

The XO lounge at the Hilton Hotel (Palmetto Dunes) has great live music (in addition to the places already mentioned). I especially like the group Deas Guyz who play both at the Jazz Corner and at the Hilton.

Also, for those of you planning to be on the island mid-March, the Savannah Music Festival is a great option for music lovers. I think it starts around March 14th for 10 days.

Hey Bearsfan: We are leaving for HHI tomorrow for a week. XO Lounge was under construction when we stayed overnight at the Hilton Oceanfront prior to our villa check-in. I have downloaded the entertainment schedule for XO and HHPrime as I thought it might be nice to take our friends there for drinks one night. They are first-timers to the Island. Anyway, the Simpson Brothers are playing there. As well HHPrime has: Jim Harper and Dean St. Hillaire. Did you get to hear any of them? Deas Guyz are playing at the Jazz Corner on Mar 8, the night after we arrive.

Who would you suggest?

Have you heard of J. Howard Duff? He%26#39;s playing at Myrtles in Bluffton on Mar 11 and 13th.

This will be the first time we will be going out for drinks with friends and so have never been to hear any of them. Suggestions?

I like the write-ups about Deas Guyz but don%26#39;t really want to have dinner there prior to the show.

Thanks so much,

D in Muskoka.

I think we might check out Big Bamboo on Friday they are a Beattles type band.

D.,

All of the performers you mentioned are worth while.

-Deaz Guys- great rythmn %26amp; blues %26amp; motown on Sundays at the Jazz Corner.

-Bobby Ryder- headlines the Jazz Corner on Wed.with swing %26amp; big band.

-Jim Harper- plays a little bit of everything on acoustic guitar. He reminds me of an old hippie but I love the guy.

-Howard Duff-guitarist with variety, plays at Myrtles.

-Chris Paul-Plays Thurs. at Okatie Ale House on the deck. What a great voice!

-Target- at Mesaluna on Thurs,Fri,Sat (I believe)

-John O%26#39;Gorman and sometimes with his band B%26#39;town Playas- great rock. John plays at the deck at Okatie Ale House,which he owns with his brother, on Friday nights.

-Dave Wingo- keyboardist %26amp; pop at British Open Pub Sun City Hilto Head on Friday night.

-Pepper%26#39;s Porch in Bluffton have some kind of entertainment going just about every night of the week.

- And The Headliners %26amp; The Great Pretenders play occational engagements at different places %26amp; are must sees.

P.M. me if you have questions on when %26amp; where they are performing.

John

acne scars

Best Beach Town for Body Surfing

We are considering a week at the beach in June. We are originally from California, living in Texas and we need a beach fix! Our 13 and 11 year old will be in the ocean, catching waves, the whole time. What are the waves like on the South Carolina coast? Is body surfing with boogie boards popular?

We would like to do a beach front villa, condo or house rental and have looked at Kiawah, Hilton Head, Folly among others. We also like to bike and hike and just want to relax?. So here are my questions:

1. Where should we look?

2. Which is the nicest beach with the best waves for body surfing.

3. Is having pool access a must?

4. Reliable rental companies for villas or condos that are beach front or a very short walk.

Thanks for any info you have.

Dansmo in Austin

Best Beach Town for Body Surfing

SC does not have waves like CA does, unless you have a tropical storm coming then we might get some decent waves, otherwise, they are minimal.

Best Beach Town for Body Surfing

1. Charleston has lots of very nice beaches, including Folly, Sullivans Island, Isle of Palms, Kiawah or Seabrook Islands, I%26#39;m particularly partial to Kiawah. Kiawah has miles and miles of bike trails and your kids are old enough to give them a bike, cell phone and a map and just check back in, as necessary. There are 3 towers on the island that they could spend some time looking for.

If you%26#39;re interested in marsh kayaking, PM me and I can give you some information.

There are also evening activities for teens which start about 9:00 at Night Heron Park, something to keep in mind (for both things to do and looking for location).

2. As stated above, you won%26#39;t find waves as in CA (grew up out there), but my son was able to take a surfing class at Folly Beach a few years ago (they do surf there) and hubby and I have had fun in our kayaks in the surf there, as well.

3. Depends on your wants and needs.

4. For Kiawah, if you must have a pool, look at the Resort or watch for info when looking at individual units on VRBO, some of them will have pool access. If a pool isn%26#39;t so important then there are several other rental agencies you could consider, but I%26#39;d first go to VRBO, some very good properties there.

Best all-round beach for swimming and (occasional) body surfing: Kiawah Island.

鈥iu.edu/nhbc/鈥iawah_island.htm

Kiawah%26#39;s beach is south facing, so it does not get the direct Atlantic waves. Do not expect waves like California (or like Cape Cod, where I used to body-surf in my youth); but the beach is great for enjoyment of the water, and it gets full sun all day. If you are truly beach people, you probably do not need a pool on Kiawah.

Best beach for board surfing: Folly Beach.

Sand Dunes Resort...(Smith Rentals)

We have read several horrible reviews about Sand Dunes Resort and are now extremely nervous about our upcoming stay there. (July 24 - July 29) We booked a 2 bedroom 2 bath condo through Smith Rentals and were promised that it is clean and newly renovated unit. I am hoping that maybe by booking through another agency we will be lucky and it will be nice. These reviews have us very scared... Anyone with information on Smith Rentals or Sand Dunes, PLEASE share it, good or bad. Although we are passed the point of receiving a full refund it may be worth it for us to try and book elsewhere. Please help!!

Sand Dunes Resort...(Smith Rentals)

sorry...I just found the Sand Dunes topic...but still would appreciate info on Smith Rentals...Thanks!

Sand Dunes Resort...(Smith Rentals)

I just stayed at the Sand Dunes Resort last week (July 13th - 17th) in a one bedroom suite and it was very nice - clean and renovated. Here was the problem - I was booked at the suite, but did not get into it for 2 days.

When I checked in (late at night), I went to the room and it was just that - a standard room! I was told that they were oversold and I would not get my suite until Friday (2 days later) - even though I was paying for a suite! The front desk was not helpful at all that evening. Also, I had booked an oceanfront suite and ended up with an oceanview suite. I was just so frustrated at that point I stayed put.

Please note that if you check in at night, the staff there is clueless. I had to wait until the next day to talk to management about switching. I am now in the process of being refunded for those two nights (difference between a room and a suite). I was told I would be credited, but when I checked out, nothing had changed. They charged the whole stay to my credit card when I checked in, so I have a feeling it is going to be a nightmare to get it adjusted.

Also a note - the lines to check-in are long long long!!! Don%26#39;t buy groceries until you get into your room!

Towels - They do not provide enough towels for the guests. I had two adults and one child in my party - they provided two towels, one washcloth and one hand towel. I figured that this may be an issue, so I brought my own.

Cleaning - I read where this was an issue, but my room was cleaned every day without a problem. However, they never bothered to empty the trash and when they did, it sat in a bag outside of my room the whole day.

Pool - The oceanside pool is tiny and finding a chair requires that you get down there very very early. The waterpark did look very nice though! The lazy river is ok as well.

Beach - The beachfront is also very very limited at high tide. I spend a lot of time in Myrtle Beach (business and pleasure) and usually stay along 34th Avenue in a house...there is plenty of beachfront there - so it may have just been this stretch that was experiencing this.

Hotels that I have stayed at that are awesome for future reference - Embassy Suites Kingston Plantation and Hilton Resort on the beach. A little pricey but wonderful accomodations.

I have also rented a condo through Chicora Real Estate a couple of times. I stayed at Shipwatch Point across the street from the beach near the Sands Ocean Club Resort. Nice condo%26#39;s and a huge price break from the beachfront hotels and condos.

Another note for the future - do not stay in any of the hotels in South Myrtle around the Pavillion area. These hotels are very rundown and the strip area is seedy at best.

Overall, the one BR condo was worth $175 a night - but I will not stay here again because of the problems above. I spent entirely too much time at the front desk trying to get in the right room! People I talked to while standing in line had the same problems - having to constantly swtich rooms, no towels, etc...you may have better luck renting a privately owned unit since the hotel does not control that.

I travel for business weekly and have found if you stay with the national hotel chains - Hilton / Hyatt / Holiday Inn, that the service is much better. They want to keep your business.

I am returning to the Embassy Suites mentioned above in August. It is wonderful!

Let me know how it works out for you!

I would have Smith Rentals send you pictures of the exact unit your in. There horrible...........

This post is almost 4 years old:-)

Wedding at Wild Dunes

I am interested in planning a wedding at Wild Dunes...Obviously I am in the very early stages of planning, but would like to know if anyone has any idea of a range of cost to rent out the Grand Pavilion? Also, is it possible to do this during the summer months like May/June or do you have to do it off season? Thanks!

Wedding at Wild Dunes

Your best bet would be to contact the people at Wild Dunes to get the most accurate information. I%26#39;m sure they will be happy to tell you, whether you end up booking with them or not.

Wedding at Wild Dunes

My daughter and fiance are also thinking about this venue--did you or are you having it here? Any info would truly be appreciated--thanks!

high school next year

Any unsafe areas to walk in???

Hello all! The hubby and I are looking forward to our trip down to your beautiful town in April and I have been reading up on everything that has anything to do with Charleston! :)

I was reading the health and safety section and it points out different areas not to walk in either in the day or night.

We are staying at Holiday Inn on Calhoun St. I noticed it said not to walk much past Calhoun St after dark. We are staying in a safe part of town there arent we?

Any unsafe areas to walk in???

Typically there arent many problems in the historic district. You could get into some areas you wouldnt want to be in if you walk away back to the north from Holiday Inn Historic...but you would have to go a good ways. I would say that you are good to go 4 or 5 blocks to the north, and really as far as you would care to walk to the south (towards Market St.)

Any unsafe areas to walk in???

Indeed - stay on Meeting Street if you go south (towards Market).

Perfectly fine to cross Meeting at the park (that%26#39;s called Marion Square) to get to King Street. You can walk a few blocks up King and the whole length down King (south) and rest assured it%26#39;s as safe as any other part of the historic district. If you go out partying at night, before you leave, put a cab%26#39;s number on your cell phone (ask concierge) in case the weather changes or if you just don%26#39;t want to walk.

acne scars

Gas Prices

What is the average price of gas right now in the US?

Gas Prices

$2.00 for regular unleaded

Gas Prices

I paid $1.60 this a.m. here in Georgia. I would imagine it%26#39;s going to be a little higher in the touristy areas but I think South Carolina has some of the lowest gas prices in the south east.

Here is a good website for gas prices in the USA.

http://www.gasbuddy.com/

$1.57 Sayreville N.J.

$1.79 here in Pawleys Island SC; $1.59 in Georgetown SC, about 15 miles away. I guess we%26#39;re getting designer gasoline.

It is from ranges from $1.50 to about $1.70 here in Rock Hill.

if you are in Ashland , Ky you can pay around $1.70- $1.75 if you are in Huntington, WV or Chesapeake, Oh you will be paying more like $1.94 all within 15-20 mins of each other oh and did I mention a Marathon oil refinery in the middle of it all.??? lol go figure

Looks like gas is the most expensive here in Pittsburgh, PA Some gas stations are over $2.00 a gallon now.

Myrtle Beach weather in May

Is the weather at the end of May generally nice enough for laying out on the beach and swimming?

Myrtle Beach weather in May

Beach will be great. Ocean still pretty cool at end of May, water temp close to 70. Too cold for me to swim, most indoor pools will be good.

Myrtle Beach weather in May

I have laid out many times in may, it just gets a little cool at night.

We were there end of may/first week in June a few years back and it down right HOT during the day, you might want to bring a light jacket or hoodie once the sun goes down.

We were there last year at the end of May and first of June. It was nice, very warm for laying by the pool and we swam in the ocean. We are from Mississippi so we are use to very hot weather. We wore shorts even at night, and did not get cool at all. We%26#39;re going again this year, May 28 - June 6. It seems less crowded during this time. I think some schools do not get out until the first week in June, we visited relatives in NC after our trip last year and their kids were just finishing school.

I%26#39;m used to cold weather and cold lakes so from what I%26#39;m reading, we%26#39;ll be just fine. Thanks for the input!

Best Driving Route? ... coming from Atlanta

Should we go up through Columbia? Or cut-through at some point?

Thx.

Best Driving Route? ... coming from Atlanta

When my sister lived in Atlanta, I think going via Columbia was their preferred route.

Enjoy!

Best Driving Route? ... coming from Atlanta

We used to live in the N. Atlanta suburbs and have taken all the known routes. Hwy 20 is a good one; if you take shortcuts to save distance you%26#39;ll definitely see some interesting little towns but it won%26#39;t save you time. The Columbia route is a good one; but if you%26#39;re convenient to I85 then I%26#39;d go up 85 to I26.

We have tried several different ways but I-20 to I-26 is the best. You change highways in Columbia.

using priceline to book air and hotel........

I was checking out Priceline because I would really like to stay in the Historic District and stay within my budget. I did some research and say only 2 4 star hotels that they work with, the Harbourview and the Francis Marion. I started with 50 for my name your own price and the red thing popped up, but when I upped it to 65 it went away. Im going to try that, it would be amazing to stay at the Harbourview for 65 a night!! ANy tips from other Priceline users? I might also use Priceline for my airfare!

using priceline to book air and hotel........

I use priceline all of the time and now all of my friends do too. The deals are outstanding. You can bid for rooms once every 24 hours ( I don%26#39;t think you can bid on air travel from Canada so I don%26#39;t know anything about that ).If you want to learn nmore about bidding( there are some tricks) go to

'; betterbidding';

Good luck!!

using priceline to book air and hotel........

Thank you! So do think that a 4 star in the historic district at 65 a night in mid april is unheard of?? I checked out betterbid and they said that sometimes priceline is conservative and you can get away with lower prices than you think.

I would say you%26#39;d probably get the Francis Marion at that price, but do let us know if you get the Harborview. THey are on opposite ends of the Historic District but each has its advantage. Make sure you look at a map and are happy with either one before you bid - and if there is any way to make sure you%26#39;re not getting one of the hotels near MUSC/Hwy 17/Joe Riley Stadium (out of the way - though technically walkable, not advised).

Renaissance, Planters Inn, and French Quarter Inn should also be 4 Star on the site. If they werent showing up when you were searching they might be full. This hotel is not the Harbourview Inn. Most likely the Francis Marion. Priceline is a great site and frequently saves you a good bit of money. If you are using Priceline for airfare too I would use their feature that allows you to book a ';package.'; When you do this on Priceline it grabs the most aggressive (name your own price) rate, but actually allows you to pick the hotel and the flight information. You won%26#39;t know specifically what you are paying for hotel, and what you are paying for airfare, but the best prices will be combined in the package. This might be your best bet for the lowest rate on Priceline if the Harbourview is what you are after. I hope this makes sense. I feel like I am getting a bit jargony.

We got the Francis Marion for two rooms, two nights starting Wednesday, March 4 for $90 per room, if that helps. We used Priceline.

90 per night?

You will be staying directly across from all the action - the Charleston Food and Wine Festival is going on Mar 5-8 right in Marion Square. www.charlestonfoodandwine.com

Actually the Francis Marion and the Harbourview were the only two that showed up as 4 star in the historic district when i tried just looking at hotels on Priceline. All the others I thought were 4 star actually only rated a 3 star on priceline. Im confused though, it wont let you name your own price when booking packages on Priceline. Did you mean Hotwire?

I see Francis Marion as 3.5 on Priceline, French Quarter is 4, Market Pavillion is 4, Harbourview is 4, at least for the dates I searched...Priceline is very finicky with their star ratings. You don%26#39;t use the name your own price program on Priceline if you are bundling airfare and hotel or rental car. In order to ';negotiate'; you have to do each separately. No worries though, the package side actually uses the same aggressive rates (at least for hotels) as the name your own price program. If this doesnt make sense please send me a private message and I will be happy to clarify further. I knew when I started this that it might get jargony and complicated. The Harbourview Inn doesn%26#39;t currently participate on the Name Your Own Price program so your offer will have to be accepted by someone else.

Oh, shoot -- the Food and Wine Festival sounds great, but I had my dates wrong -- we have the rooms for the 2nd and 3rd and we leave the 4th -- but yes, $90 per room per night.

Well we decided to try out Priceline. Im going to try for the 4 star first but whats driving me crazy is that we REALLY want to stay at the Elliot Inn, but its a 3 star on Priceline and there are way too many 3 stars to know i would have a decent chance at getting it. Maybe ill just call them direct and see what the best deal they can give me.

i own a problem near my computer

april vacation

I am considering a week in MB with husband and kids 13 and 16. we like the pool and the beach. I am looking for a resonably priced effic. close to attractions. I have looked at the SeaCrest and the Sandcastle...I am in need of recommendations.

april vacation

wont you feel cramped in an effic? I would atleat go for a 1br with a pullout and a murphy bed.

april vacation

sorry thats what i meant four in one room would be too much!!!

What dates are you considering?

Some other places you might want to look at are Dunes Village Resort, Anderson Ocean Club, Roxanne Towers, The Carribean Resort, Long Bay, Ocean Reef and Beach Colony. They all seem to be pretty popular on this Forum.

Also Compass Cove..

You can get a 2BR condo for nearly the same price.

nana is right, i just checked some prices and you can get a 2br for around the same price.

Skip the Sandcastle!.

Rates that time of year should be pretty good...you should be able to afford a larger..2 bedroom condo in a nicer resort/hotel. Look at something with the address of 5300 North Ocean Blvd..and up towards

76th Ave. Thats the best area.

We are going in April as well and found a good deal at Sandy Beach. I love that area - not everyone does - but it is close to things for teens to do. Go look under their specials and they have great deals on 2 bed condo. From what I have read Plametto building is the newer building and nicer accomodations. This will be our first stay there. It looks like they have heated outdoor pool, indoor pool and lazy river and hot tubs. We went to MB in the fall and walked there and looked at it and Oceans One and both looked great from the outside!

rental advice - disabled traveler

I am looking for a HHI beachfront rental for a week in April or March (dates are flexible). A member of our party is disabled so we are limited to properties that are either ground level or have elevators. It does not need to be ADA compliant - just no long flights of stairs. An excellent unobstructed view of the ocean from the living space is the most important selection criteria. Our disabled traveler enjoys watching the dolphins, birds, etc from inside the condo. We%26#39;d prefer 2-3 BR, but can live with a 1 BR with a sleeper sofa if it has an outstanding view.

We are currently considering 2BR villas in the Captain%26#39;s Walk complex - I believe they are on the third or fourth floor. Would this be a good choice? What other possibilities should we consider? We have never visited HHI so advice from a Hilton Head Island resident or frequent visitor would be much appreciated.

rental advice - disabled traveler

Can%26#39;t help you with Hilton Head, but your situation struck a chord with me.

If you are ever traveling to Kiawah Island, consider renting a condo in the ';Shipwatch'; villa complex. After my mother had broken her femur, my parents rented a corner unit on the fourth floor. The ocean views were amazing, even from the sofa in the living room, where my mom spent most of her time. The building has a ramp (gradual incline) to the elevator.

rental advice - disabled traveler

Kiawahvilla

Thank you for your reply. We are currently planning a two week trip - one week in IOP, Charleston, one at HHI. I am going to post a similar question on their forum.

How far is Kiawah from Charleston?

Kiawah is south of Charleston; IOP is on the north side. The island is a 40 minute drive on scenic country roads from the historic district. (We frequently drive in and out of Charleston for lunch, dinner, shopping, etc.) IOP is 20 minutes from downtown.

Kiawah is very convenient for visiting sights west of the Ashley (i.e. the Ashley River plantations, and tea plantation and winery on Wadmalaw Island.

erhfeg:

I recommend Shorewood or better yet Ocean One. Both of these facilities have first floor walk-out condos. We stayed in them when my Grandfather used to travel with us. He could sit on the patio and see the ocean/pool and enjoy life.

I like Kiawahvilla noticed your posts and thought I would throw in my 2 cents worth...

I can also recommend Kiawah ';Shipwatch';, stayed there several times in the past when we would go to the beach at Christmas and take my parents out with us.

My dad didn%26#39;t get around very well, we rented him a wheelchair (it was delivered to the villa) and he managed since there is an elevator at the building. We also got one of the corner units w/a fantastic view of the entire 10 mile long beach. Father was totally happy to spend time on the balcony or sitting in a chair in the living room where he could see out while we went out biking, etc.

We are property owners now, ours is one of the lower styled houses, one row back from the beach and we have six steps.

Kiawah is beautiful and peaceful, but there is plenty to do for those who are more active (biking, fishing, kayaking, etc.).

I own an apartment at Captains Walk. We have Ramps in each building and elevators. It would be fine for you. The units have the best ocean views on the island. each and every unit has a full oceanview from both the master bedroom and the living room.

As a member of the POA board, we have just started work to rebuild the ramps, so it will be easy for someone in a wheel chair to navigate.

Stan (hhiguy)

Stan:

Thank you for your reply. The information is very helpful. It appears from the google satellite images that there are three buildings - one overlooks the pool - the other two do not. (Let me know if I have that wrong.) Do you know if there is a complex map posted online somewhere? I think we would prefer a unit in one of the buildings that is not overlooking the pool. Sometimes this is obvious from the photos, but sometimes not. Floorplans would also be nice.

We have a handicapped sticker, but how far is the parking from the building? (Our disabled traveler can walk - though not long distances so we may need to bring a wheelchair if it is a hike.)

We%26#39;ve been looking at units on islandgetaway.com and vrbo.com. I%26#39;m sure there are many others. Do you have any recommendations as to the rental company?

One last question - we plan to come in March or April - does anyone know when the azaleas bloom in SC?

Thanks so much for your help. We appreciate your time in answering our questions.

Kiawah folks:

Thank you for the suggestions. Kiawah sounds great so we%26#39;ll keep it in mind for the future.

I live in Barrington Arms, just down the road. That entire area of Palmetto Dunes is very nice.

Also wanted to add: When your looking at different properties, keep in mind many owners list their properties on both the VRBO sites and with rental agencies as well.In many cases when you go through the VRBO owners you will find a better discount. The rental company still manages the property. The owner lets the Rental company know the agreed price.

Enjoy your trip.

erhfeg -

Peak blooming season in the Charleston area is mid-March through mid-April. At that time, you can enjoy the House and Garden Tours offered by the Historic Charleston Foundation - historiccharleston.org/news_events/festival.…

The Hilton Head/Beaufort/Savannah area may start blooming a bit ahead of Charleston; however, I suspect that we are all pretty much on the same schedule. You are coming to the lowcountry at a beautiful time of year.

As you are planning your trip I thought it might be helpful for you to know that there is now a company on Hilton Head that exclusively rents beach wheelchairs..wheelchairs designed specifically to go on the beach.

My husband and I are both physical therapists and last summer we started a business renting beach specific wheelchairs. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy Hilton Head%26#39;s spectacular beaches as much as we do. I am in no way trying to solicit your business but rather just wanted you to be aware that such a service does now exist. Best wishes for an enjoyable vacation!

acne scars

Ocean Plaza

Hello everyone,

Coming down for MB bike week in May 08. Never been to Muryle Beach before so a little nervous on the hotels....I need a bike friendly hotel but not looking for an excutitive suite or anything. Something that is clean and somewhat middle class. I am with my hubby so no kids....

I booked with Ocean Plaza. Can anyone tell me anything about this hotel....ie cleaness, location, service

I thank everyone in advance for advise. If you have any other hotel suggestions I would really like to hear them....I don%26#39;t mind canceling this one even if there is a fee. I just want a great hotel... :)

Ocean Plaza

Do you mean Ocean FOREST Plaza? IF so...I stayed there about 6 years ago. Don%26#39;t know if it has changed much since then. Great location if you want a quiet, not so busy area. Don%26#39;t know if it is ';biker friendly'; You might want to call and check. Our condo was perfect! (but we rented thru a private owner...not the hotel itself.)

Just be sure to request a room on one of the higher floors...maybe 10 and up. Much better views!

I know some of the reviews on here regarding OFP have not been so great...but I would stay there again.

Ocean Plaza

If you mean Ocean Plaza down near 10th Ave South then it%26#39;s cheap I can say that for it. From driving by it looks like a bit of a dump and it doesn%26#39;t get good reviews here.

I agree with MBGal, it even looks like a dump from the internet pictures.

During bike week some hotels that don%26#39;t usualy allow bikes allows them during bike week. You may want to call and check around first.

Hi. Saw your message and thought I would pass on what I found out. We are also coming down for that week and are staying at the Caribbean Resort and Villas. They had some of the best prices that I could find. They are on the ocean and have a parking garage across the street for the trailers, motorcyles and cars. We got a two bedroom suite, angle oceanfront for 4 nights and are paying about $650. They have great reviews on this site so I hope all is well with the hotel as we have never stayed there. Hope this helps. Have a great trip.

If its Ocean Forest Plaza at 55th and Ocean Blvd it does not allow Motorcycles. All the condos there are privately owned. Some you can rent on site, some you go through vacationrentals.com

Check out Grande Shores.

I know it is bike friendly and it%26#39;s reasonable.

For five nights during Bike Week, in a King suite, it%26#39;s an average $98 a night.

Close to lots of restaurants.

Kevin

Toronto

If you can afford something else, I would check around a bit. I don%26#39;t know about bike friendly, but an earlier poster mentioned a good deal at The Caribbean. I don%26#39;t think you would be disappointed in staying there at all. We%26#39;ve stayed at many places in MB %26amp; it%26#39;s still my favorite.

I notice you said you don%26#39;t need an executive suite, but you might be surprised at what is considered an executive suite in Myrtle Beach. It doesn%26#39;t mean it%26#39;s fancy or anything, just usually has a full kitchen, separate living %26amp; sleeping areas. We are definitely middle-class people but in MB, I always try to get an executive suite.

This post is over a year old.

Motorcycles on Edisto Beach

I understand that Edisto Island is a quite peaceful vacation spot. We have 2 families staying at the Wyndham Ocean Ridge Resort. We will be trailering 2 motorcycles to tour other areas off the Island. After reading many reviews we are a bit intimidated about riding harleys around Edisto Island. We are adult riders and respectful of other vacationers. Has anyone else taken motorcycles to the island and I was wondering if there is any place to park an enclosed 2 place motorcycle trailer? I sent an email to the chamber of commerce of Edisto Island but I never got a response. Any help and advise would be appreciated.

We will arrive in Edisto Island April 10th.

If you would like you could respond to my email at

dpriddy@wi.rr.com

Thank You Don Priddy

Motorcycles on Edisto Beach

I don%26#39;t know what the town ordinance for motorcycles is. I do know that Edisto has a quiet time from around 10:00 pm to 8:00 am. I%26#39;m only telling you this because some motorcycles are quite loud. You don%26#39;t sound like someone that would be out running around the island, making noise, at 2:00 am (plus there%26#39;s nothing to do on Edisto at 2:00 am!). I%26#39;m pretty sure that if you rent a house on the island you can%26#39;t park a camper or anything like that on the property. Since you%26#39;re staying at the Wyndham, contact them and find out it they will accomodate a trailer. I think it%26#39;s pretty much up to the rental agency.

Motorcycles on Edisto Beach

dpriddy,

I%26#39;d suggest you call the Chamber (your email to them via the aol address may not have gotten through) or the Town of Edisto (Telephone: (843) 869-2505).

A quick google search hinted that some areas do NOT allow for motorcycles and/or trailers. (http://www.kapplyons.com/faq_rentals.htm)

I know Seabrook Island and Kiawah do not allow motorcycles. In fact, SI does not allow for any small motorized ';transportation'; i.e. scooter, moped, skateboard.

As long as you are respectful (not roaring around at all hours), I don%26#39;t think you will get any hassles from the local townfolks. HOWEVER, Wyndham does have some very strict rules about trailer parking at some of their condo complexes (due to limited available parking). I would contact the Wyndham Ocean Ridge office directly and ask them. There is a place on the Island (right before you reach the beach) that rents space for trailer parking (I see many boats %26amp; trailers there) but I can%26#39;t recall the name. Someone at the local Wyndham office can probably offer some suggestions.

Plantation Resort-Hotel

Hi,

Does anyone know anything about the hotel at Plantation Resort?

We booked the villas last October but our rep (RCI) made a mess of our booking and has given us a hotel unit and we don%26#39;t have any information on it. If not suitable we may cancel.

Plantation Resort-Hotel

Are you referring to Kingston Plantation. If so there are many properties there. Do you know which one you are booked at?

Plantation Resort-Hotel

It%26#39;s probably this:

http://www.plantationresort.com/

They do RCI exchanges.

This resort is located in Surfside. I%26#39;ve never been there but hopefully someone else can help.

Thank you for this information. I agree this is probably what RCI have done (downsizing us!)We will reconsider our options. Thanks again.

Hi, it%26#39;s not Kingston Plantation but we have found out more info and I am correct in thinking that RCI have downsized us!

That is the resort we are heading to in a couple of weeks. From my understanding the hotel units are quite small, we are booked into a a 1 bedroom 6/4 which if I am guessing is probably actually a 1 bedroom 4/2 (good old RCI)!

My sister-in-law and husband stayed there for three weeks and just left this past Sunday, 22 Feb. We were at their RCI condo, a one bedroom with kitchen and living room, several times during that period. It was quite nice.

However, hubby-in-law likes to poke around and had a look at the hotel unit. He was not impressed. He basically stated that it was a hotel room. If I were you, I would hold out for a one-bedroom condo unit.

Hi,Thank you all for this information and we will definately be holding out for a one bedroom!

They are villas and nothing like a motel or hotel room. I have not stayed in the Plantation Resort villas in a few years but I%26#39;ve stayed in the Presidential Villas section of Plantation Resort many times. I stayed there 3 weeks ago and it was excellent! The interior looked better than it ever had. It was a villa for up to 12 but can be divided into one for up to 8 and another for up to 4; it has what is called a lockout. It had a new HD 42';-46'; TV in the living area, new paint, new couches, chairs, drapes, carpeting and tile floors. It was very clean and everything was in great shape. A large whirlpool and separate shower in the master and whirlpool tub and shower combination in the other 2 baths. 2 coffee pots, 2 refrigerators, 2 microwaves, 2 dishwashers, 2 washers, 2 dryers, 1 stove, 1 hot plate, 2 kitchen sinks, 8 free coffee samples, plenty of stater toiletries. Very nice!

How do I bind a quilt

Shark fishing or fishing charters ???

First I want to say thank you soooo much to everyone who has replied to my million and one posts!! :):) You are all making the planning of our dream trip so much easier!

My husband wants to take a day and go charter fishing. He would love to catch a shark or go deep sea fishing, does anyone have any experience with the charters there or any suggestions as to the best ones? Thanks again!!

Shark fishing or fishing charters ???

have been off shore fishing here a few times, but never with a charter. Check out the website below. I have been inshore fishing several times with this captain%26#39;s brother. They have been fishing these waters since they were kids. Tons of sharks off our coast...aim higher, mackerel, mahi mahi, and grouper are the real prizes off shore.

Shark fishing or fishing charters ???

Forgot to post the link...

http://www.charlestonfunfishing.com/

And another that leaves from Shem Creek ...http://www.aggressorsportfishing.com/

I know a charter captain, who has been doing this for years. Although I do not go fishing, I feel very comfortable recommending him. (I%26#39;m from Saginaw originally).

Tree's. flower's and garden's

Hello,

My husband and I will be traveling through Georgia

and South Carolina. I was wondering if Aiken S.C. has

Palm Tree%26#39;s and Live Oak Tree%26#39;s like Charleston

and Savannah have. Have there every been any

Hurricane%26#39;s in Aiken or North Augusta?

We will be traveling toward the end of March.

Thank You,

Luckystars88

Restaurants

We will be looking for buffet type restaurants in MB. Suggestions? We have 3 generations to feed/ please, and 2 teen boys.

Also, we would like at least once to eat fresh seafood in a restaurant w/a good water view.

Thanks for input.

Restaurants

This topic has been extensively covered here, a search would turn up dozens of threads + you can check the ';sticky'; thread at the top.

No shortage of buffets, If you want crab legs included, the Original Benjamins is a favorite; some like Crabby Mikes. Watch for coupons.

For non seafood type food, the best buffet at the best price IMO is Ryans. The Chinese buffets are also good for the price (we go to the one in Surfside) for about $10. For ';southern cookin'; try Magnolia%26#39;s (26thN I think) or Tar Baby%26#39;s in NMB.

For your waterside fresh seafood dinner, I%26#39;d head to Murrells Inlet or Little River. Just ask what is fresh LOCAL CAUGHT (otherwise, ';fresh'; just means never frozen but not necessarily local). Plenty of choices at these two places, most all are good.

Restaurants

One of our favorites is Sara J%26#39;s in Garden City. They have a good view over a tidal creek, a lot of times there are fishermen or people with cast nets.

For all you can eat crab leg buffett I prefer Crabby Mikes.

There are tons of buffets in Myrtle Beach. Most are good! Original Benjamin%26#39;s and Giant Crab are great!

Also, for a unique twist on dinner you could try Medieval Times Dinner %26amp; Tournament.

You get lots of food (more then most people can eat, and an awesome show that%26#39;s sure to please everyone in your group!

acne scars

Myrtel Beach for 1o year anniversary

We will be celebrating our 10 yr anniversary in Fall and I was looking into staying in Myrtle Beach. We are not looking for a ton of things to do, just a relaxing week of no kids, beach and a few good dinners, any suggestions?

Myrtel Beach for 1o year anniversary

What dates in the fall? What favorite dinner atmosphere ? Casual, Fine Dining, Seafood, Steak ?Knowing preferences will help with referrals.

Myrtel Beach for 1o year anniversary

I would suggest-Medieval Times Dinner %26amp; Tournament-for any celebration-just don%26#39;t tell the kids they will be MAD. Its North America’s longest running and most popular dinner attraction.

march dilema

I am taking my kids on a short vacation for about 4 days in the first week of march, with most of the amusement parks closed and the beach to cold to play in, hope some of you can help me with some ideas for some very active kidsI really don%26#39;t want this trip to be a dissaster. thanks

march dilema

What hotel are you staying at?

march dilema

Where are you staying? Does your hotel/resort have indoor pools?

Here are some fun places to explore as well as dining suggestions:

Barefoot Landing

http://barefootlanding.com/

Located on the Intercoastal Waterway Barefoot Landing offers many dining and entertainment options. Surrounded by a 27 acre lake and boardwalk paths it’s a great place to roam and enjoy the scenery.

Alligator Adventure

http://www.alligatoradventure.com/

Located by Barefoot Landing, on the left past Barefoot Landing entrance.

Adult Tickets $14.95

Children Tickets $8.95 (3 and under are free)

Senior Tickets $12.95

Second Day is Free!

(mid-April through mid-October)?Watch in awe as 15ft alligators leap out of the water and slam their powerful jaws down on their dinner. How high can they go? What do they eat? You’ll learn plenty of facts about alligators at Alligator Adventure

Broadway at the Beach

www.broadwayatthebeach.com

Amazing place with shopping, entertainment, dining, etc.

This is where Ripley’s Aquarium is as well.

You will find Hard Rock and Planet Hollywood here.

SUGGESTION-just get dessert at Hard Rock and Planet Hollywood-very expensive

and the food quality is not great.

Palace Theatre

http://www.palacetheatremyrtlebeach.com/

Le GRAND CIRQUE is the most amazing live show ever to appear on the Grand Strand, and is now playing at the famous Palace Theater, located at Broadway at the Beach, right in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Great Show for all ages

BUT-The Magical Spirit of Ireland is awful!

Dixie Stampede

http://www.dixiestampede.com/

A fun-filled, action-packed Dinner and Show extravaganza for everyone! It’s the perfect place for families, friends and groups to gather for spectacular special effects and amazing stunts by the most talented performers in the area. It’s the only place that brings together stunning performers, amazing horse feats, fantastic stunt riders, magic and audience participation with a delicious four-course dinner extravaganza for one amazing price! Plus, you won’t want to miss our exciting Opening Act in the Carriage Room 50 minutes before the main show. FUN!

Restaurants

Italian

Villa Romana

www.villaromanamyrtlebeach.com

Open 7 days a week 4:30pm-10pm

Live Accordian Music

Dinner includes Soup, dipping Sauce, Bruschetta,

Salad and Homemade Bread Rolls

707 S. Kings Highway Myrtle Beach

843-448-4990

RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED!

Villa Tuscanna

http://www.villatuscanna.com/

Open 7 days a week. Lunch available Mon. – Fri.

97 Highway 17 North-NORTH Myrtle Beach

843-280-2288

RESERVATIONS ARE ALWAYS NEEDED!

Luigi%26#39;s Trattoria

503 61st Ave North

843-497-7080

RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED!

Ciao’s-FANTASTIC!

5223 North Kings Highway

843-449-5700

RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED!

Continental

Croissants Bakery (Awesome Bakery and Bistro)

3751 Robert Grissom Parkway

Japanese Steak Houses

Miyabi Kyoto Japanese Steak and Seafood House

http://www.capitaljapan.com/Miyabi.html

9732 N. Kings Highway Myrtle Beach

843-449-9294

Reservations Recommended

Yamato’s

http://www.yamato-inc.com/broadway.html

Broadway at the Beach

(843) 448-1959

Reservations Recommended

May be made via their website

Hamburgers!

Hamburger Joe%26#39;s – we always go here at least once or twice!

809 Conway Street

North Myrtle Beach

Just a short drive. Simple food, great burgers.

No credit cards accepted. ATM inside of restaurant. Simple meal for about $7

BBQ

Little Pigs BBQ

6102 Frontage Road

Myrtle Beach

843-692-9774

Nothing fancy here but awesome BBQ!

Ella’s Seafood

http://www.ellasofcalabash.com/

1148 River Road

Calabash, NC 28467

910-579-6728

About ? hour drive but excellent seafood and very reasonable!

Also in Calabash: Ice Cream

Calabash Creamery (Near Ella’s Seafood) WORTH THE DRIVE!

www.calabashcreamery.com

9910 Beach Dr SW

Calabash, NC 28467

(910) 575-1180

Shopping

Tanger Outlets

Highway 17 (about 2 minutes )-turn right onto Kings Road when you leave Kingston.

Highway 501 (about 20 minutes from Kingston.

http://www.tangeroutlet.com/

Coastal Grand Mall

www.coastalgrand.com

Has the major chain stores

Fantastic Children’s Consignment Shop

Once Upon A Child

http://www.ouac.com/

(In the Walmart plaza in Surfside)

This is an amazing store if you have children! Many items are brand new with the original tags on the clothes. GREAT PRICES!

Movie Theaters

Colonial Twelve

www.carmike.com/showtimedetails.aspx…

10177 N. Kings Hwy

Broadway 16

Broadway at the Beach

www.carmike.com/showtimedetails.aspx…

IMAX

http://www.imax3dmyrtlebeach.com/

Broadway at the Beach

Cinemark at Coastal Grand Mall

www.cinemark.com/theater_showtimes.asp…

Plenty of Mini Golf!

Get a kite at Klug%26#39;s and have fun with it on the beach!

This is just the short list! Others will chime in with their favorites!

Here is a list of fun places for kids that will be open in March

www.nascarspeedpark.com/myrtlebeach.html

http://www.ripleysaquarium.com/

http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/

http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/

I am staying at dunes village

Dunes Village in itself should keep the kids entertained.Indoor water park on site.

They have a Basketball Court, Foosball tables, and

Pool Table, Ping Pong tables too.

Take the kids to Medieval Times for some great indoor fun.

Set in an 11th century style castle, this unique dinner/show is well worth the money and the food is great!

get time from datetime

Entertainment for 15 1/2 year olds

We%26#39;ll have a couple of 15 1/2 year olds with us on this years annual Myrtle Beach trip. With the Attic gone - where do this age group go to ';hang out'; and dance?

Entertainment for 15 1/2 year olds

Can I even tell you how relieved I am to have misread your subject? I thought you were either crazy or a saint to try to entertain 15, 1/2 year olds!!! Okay....it snowed in GA today and clearly I am not thinking straight!!!

Entertainment for 15 1/2 year olds

That%26#39;s funny...when I read your title, I was going to reply with ';good luck, I have a 15 1/2 year old and I am almost positive I could never PLEASE him.'; MY son never seems to enjoy our vacations. I don%26#39;t know what he expects. He always wants to go but is never satisfied. Yet, when we are home he is soooo ';bored';. I give up. LOL

Basket,

I totally agree my 16 year old is the same way. I guess it is so uncool to hang with us old folks. LOL

Well, one suggestion is to allow a kid that age to bring a friend. One of the two I mention above is my nephew, and he%26#39;s bringing a friend. When my own son used to join us - he always brought a friend and they were perfectly happy. Especially if we gave them a little ';space';. Expect to buy/bring a boogie board and/or a skim board and something to throw on the beach.

...or bring a brother and/or sister or two along for them to fight with....ours were all angels ;-)

Just watch what you suggest...';OHHHHH MOMMMMMM!';.

Has anyone seen the cruise ship commercial where the teen-aged daughter actually starts to enjoy herself but tries her best not to show it? Very realistic...

Even though the Pavillion is gone, that ';downtown'; area is still the hangout. Just drop them there or Broadway at the Beach and you%26#39;ll both enjoy the day.

Try finding a resort with a beach cabana/bar and a live DJ. That is very popular with teens at our resort, and they DO NOT serve alcohol to kids.

Where is ';your resort';?

I will reply to you by private mail. I do not want to seem to be advertising on this site.

COWtownchick,

Here are some resorts i know that has poolside entertainment as far as music

Coral beach resort

Sea Crest

Kingston Plantation

Bay Watch Resort

Paradise resort

and Myrtle Beach Resort i think does too.

Hope that helps.

Heard Sea mist does on certain days

Also heard that Coral Beach has entertainment, Kareokee and a bowling ally