Ultimate California Pizza, Myrtle Beach, SC

Pizza as Unique as the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | July 25, 2010

There is something about the sand and the surf that makes a pizza even more delicious. While we may not have Chicago deep dish or New York style pizza we do have “beach style” pizza.  Myrtle Beach Area chain Ultimate California Pizza serves up this unique approach with lots of tasty specialty options.

My family’s favorite is the CALIFORNIA WHITE PIZZA (Large $15.99) herbed extra virgin olive oil is the base of the pie …

The Children’s Museum of South Carolina, Myrtle Beach, SC

Explore Educational Exhibits On The Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | July 19, 2010

A non-descript building in the heart of the Grand Strand holds the key to adventure for children needing to beat the heat (or a rainy afternoon) at the beach. The Children’s Museum of South Carolina is committed to teaching through interactive exhibits and programs. The hands on facility has exhibits that focus on South Carolina such as Discover South Carolina, It's Electric, Discovery Lab Classroom, and South Carolina Fossil Hunt. Their shell collection is …

Grand Strand Farmers’ Markets, Myrtle Beach, SC

Local Food is Offered Across the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | July 09, 2010

Nothing screams Summer like the words “Farmer’s Market”. On the Grand Strand we are lucky to have a extensive amount of farmer’s markets to choose the freshest local foods. These markets are a great way for vacationers to stretch their dollars or take some South Carolina back home.

My go to market is the Wednesday morning Farmer’s Market located in Pawley’s Island. Last week I loaded up on delectable tomato pies made by

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, Myrtle Beach,SC

Blow Into Margaritaville for a Good Time

by Laura Barnett | July 09, 2010

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville holds a special place in my heart because when we were house hunting in preparation for our move to the Grand Strand we would stop mid day for a snack and a drink to discuss our progress. I am convinced that the Bama Breeze ($7.00) kept my move stress free. The frozen concoction is made with Margaritaville Premium Jamaican Silver Rum, Cruzan Vanilla Rum, orange juice, mango and coconut. A tasty way …

4th Of July Fireworks, Myrtle Beach, SC

Light Up the Night On the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | June 25, 2010

The great thing about a holiday in the Grand Strand is you can always find fantastic fireworks no matter what section you are located. Here is a sampling of the best places to watch the sky light up this July 4^th:

North Myrtle Beach

• Cherry Grove pier, 3500 N. Ocean Blvd., fireworks begin at 9 p.m.

Myrtle Beach

• Broadway at the Beach, between 21st and 29th avenues North …
  

Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC

The Grand Strand's Entertainment Mecca

by Laura Barnett | June 24, 2010

Looking for somewhere exciting to spend an hour or the whole week while on your vacation? Broadway at the Beach is the destination. The 350 acre entertainment complex is located in the center of Myrtle Beach and is easily accessible from any part of the Grand Strand. The region's most popular destination has it all! Don’t believe it? Here is a small glance:

Need to buy a souvenir? More than 100 specialty stores await …

Tupelo Bay Golf Center, Garden City, SC

Swing Into a Good Time

by Laura Barnett | June 13, 2010

Golf is a must on the Grand Strand; over 100 courses cater to every type of golfer. Our favorite family golf destination is Tupelo Bay Golf Center. The executive course at Tupelo Bay is great for all age ranges and ability levels. The Bermuda grass course features Par 3s and Par 4s that can be challenging for the experienced player yet not discouraging for beginners.

The 9 Hole Par 3 is perfect …

Let’s Get Married! Myrtle Beach, SC

Take The Plunge On The Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | June 01, 2010

Nothing screams romance like a beach wedding. The Atlantic Ocean over your shoulder; the last rays of sunshine on your face and the sand between your toes make a stunning scene for a destination wedding. Myrtle Beach has many options for the young or young at heart.

Local event coordinators can work with any budget (large or small) to make your wedding or vow renewal dreams come true.  They can also work out details …

Ripley’s Aquarium Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, SC

Get Up Close With The Sharks In Myrtle Beach

by Laura Barnett | May 24, 2010

Even the most ardent beach lover needs a break from the sun occasionally and the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is a perfect spot to cool off. Conveniently located in the Broadway at the Beach complex, the Aquarium is open 365 days a year!

As you enter a photographer snaps a picture of your group that you may (or not) purchase at the end of the self guided tour. I always say …

11th Annual Dixie Chicken Funament, North Myrtle Beach,SC

Prizes Galore At Memorial Day Fishing Tournament

by Laura Barnett | May 23, 2010

In North Myrtle Beach, Memorial Day Weekend brings the 11^th Annual Dixie Chicken Funament.  The prize filled fishing tournament is May 28-30, 2010, at Harbourgate Marina.

Sponsored by Damon’s Grill, North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, Marine Service Center of Little River Inc. and Sparks Toyota, the event is an annual mixed species fishing tournament and fundraiser that attracts fisherman throughout the United States. The multi-day tournament features …

Horry / Georgetown Home Builder’s Association’s 30th Annual Home Show, Myrtle Beach, SC

Build a great home on the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | May 16, 2010

One of the Grand Strand’s most popular events has returned to the Spring season. The Horry-Georgetown Home Builders Association will host the 30th Annual Home Show on May 21-23, 2010.

Everything you could want or need for your home will be showcased at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. This year’s show will highlight “going green” and the three day affair will be completely powered with Santee Cooper Green Power.

Over …

Memorial Day 2010, Myrtle Beach, SC

Blast Off To Summer On The Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | May 16, 2010

After several years of Memorial Day Weekends that were considered less than family-friendly, Myrtle Beach is hosting a vast amount of family oriented events.

The sixth season winner of “American Idol”, Jordin Sparks, will headline a May 29 concert that will also include tween favorites Savannah Outen (Radio Disney) and Drake Bell (Drake and Josh). The concerts will take place on the former site of Myrtle Square mall. There will …

Coastal Uncorked, May 16-23, 2010, Myrtle Beach SC

Uncork A Delicious Time On The Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | May 10, 2010

May is a fantastic month to be a food lover in Myrtle Beach. Although several food events are taking place along the Grand Strand, the largest will be Coastal Uncorked. The brainchild of local restaurateurs this event is going to be a showstopper. It would be easier to tell you what is NOT going to happen during the week of May 16 -23, 2010!

 The star of the celebration will be the wine …

Taste! Gourmet Trade Show & Expo 2010, Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Myrtle Beach, SC

Food Lovers Expo Is A Real Treat

by Laura Barnett | May 04, 2010

Food is taking center stage in Myrtle Beach this month with several tasty affairs. The most buzzed about is the Taste! Gourmet Trade Show & Expo that will be held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center May 14–16. The event will feature more than 200 exhibitors, live cooking demos, and educational seminars for professional chefs, as well as people that just love to eat.

The expo will be a mix …

Body & Soul Spa and Fitness Center Myrtle Beach, SC

Pamper Yourself At The Grand Strand's Most Visited Spa

by Laura Barnett | May 03, 2010

Ladies, are you looking a little tattered after taking care of everyone’s needs except your own? If so, it is the perfect time to escape to Body & Soul Spa and Fitness for some pampering.

Start your experience with a private trainer consultation to devise a workout that fits your busy lifestyle. The state-of-the-art fitness center boasts various exercise and training equipment, but the star of the show is the extensive classes …

Little Pigs Bar-B-Q, Myrtle Beach, SC

Southern Staple Shines On The Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | April 25, 2010

In the South barbeque is serious business and Little Pigs Bar-B-Q means business. The smoky aroma assaults your senses before you even open the door at the corner of Bypass 17 and 62nd avenue North in Myrtle Beach.

Of course you could have a cheeseburger ($3.29) or corndog ($1.99) but the chopped pork is the star of the show. Tender and lean with just the right amount of smokiness, the pork doesn’t need sauce, …

Family Fitness Festival & Fun Run 2010, Myrtle Beach, SC

Spend The Weekend With The Whole Family At Market Commons

by Laura Barnett | April 18, 2010

Looking for a family-friendly festival to kick off the spring? The Children’s Museum of South Carolina is hosting the inaugural Family Fitness Festival and Fun Run April 30 through May 2, 2010. The three-day event will be held at Grant Park in The Market Common. “All Action” wristbands will be on sale for $5.00. The festivities will begin at 5:00 pm on Friday with a family fun walk around the lake. …

2010 SHOWTIME Southern 500, Darlington Raceway, Darlington, SC

Rev Up For A Good Time At The Track Too Tough To Tame

by Laura Barnett | April 18, 2010

Years before I became a resident of South Carolina, I was lucky enough to have annual passes to the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway. Although the Labor Day race was scuttled after the 2004 season, it has been replaced with a new tradition of racing each May on Mother’s Day weekend: the SHOWTIME Southern 500. For more than 60 years the “Track Too Tough To Tame” has hosted some of the most exciting …

El Cerro Grande, Murrell’s Inlet, SC

Enjoy Mexican Food On A Tree-Covered Patio

by Laura Barnett | April 11, 2010

In our last hometown we had a superb Mexican restaurant. We were so infatuated with this place, that it wasn't uncommon for us to eat there two or three times a week. Since we moved to the Myrtle Beach area we had not had a single Mexican food outing. So last week we decided to start the search for a local Mexican joint to call our own.

El Cerro Grande is located on Hwy …

Tastes at Pawleys 2010, Pawleys Island, SC

Local Chefs Serve Up Delicious Food To Benefit Organizations That Feed The Hungry

by Laura Barnett | April 11, 2010

Pawleys Island restaurants and businesses are preparing to showcase their talent in the 4th annual Tastes at Pawleys. The event takes place in the Life Center at Precious Blood of Christ Church located on Waverly Road. The festival will be held from 4pm to 8 pm on April 25, 2010.  Advance tickets for admission are now on sale for $4 (ages 13 and up).The tickets will be $5 (12 and under will still …

Thomas Cafe, Georgetown, SC

Start Your Day Off With Breakfast From A Lowcountry Favorite

by Laura Barnett | April 05, 2010

After a productive morning visiting the Farmer's Market in East Bay Park we were famished. We ventured into historic Georgetown in search of breakfast. Thomas Cafe is located on the waterfront and is a local gem.

After 75 years in business, this tasty restaurant is still going strong. On this unseasonably warm April morning, the place was packed. We made our way into the rear of the establishment to the only empty table. …

Brookgreen Gardens, Murrell’s Inlet, SC

Spectacular Hidden Garden in the Lowcountry Welcomes Spring

by Laura Barnett | April 05, 2010

One of the most beautiful gardens in the South is situated off hectic Highway 17 between Murrell’s Inlet and Pawley’s Island. Brookgreen Gardens is a tranquil escape from the bright lights of the Grand Strand.  Opened to the public in 1932, Brookgreen Gardens was the first public sculpture garden in America.  Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington founded Brookgreen Gardens to preserve the former lowcountry rice fields and display art in a natural setting.

…

Blessing of the Inlet, Belin Memorial United Methodist Church, Murrells Inlet, SC

Blessing of the Inlet in Lovely Lowcountry

by Laura Barnett | March 29, 2010

The first Saturday in May is a special day in Murrells Inlet, SC. Locals and visitors look forward to shaking off the winter with the annual Blessing of the Inlet hosted by Belin Memorial Methodist Church. The event was initially conceived by a Sunday school class and is now in its 14th year. The festival gets under way at 9 AM and concludes around 4 PM, but the highlight of the day …

F.A.M.E Festival 2010, Myrtle Beach, SC

Soak Up Some Culture in Downtown Myrtle Beach

by Laura Barnett | March 28, 2010

A new festival is coming to the Grand Strand this Spring, the first annual Myrtle Beach F.A.M.E Festival will feature what its letters stand for: food, art, music, and entertainment.The festival will run from 10AM until 10PM on Saturday, April 24, 2010.The event will be located in beautiful Downtown Myrtle Beach on Broadway Street between 4th and 6th Avenue. Local businesses decided a street fair reminiscent of the Fall for Greenville Street Festival …

2nd Annual Myrtle Beach Beer Fest, Myrtle Beach, SC

Spend the Weekend Sampling Beer at The Market Common

by Laura Barnett | March 21, 2010

Want to sample over 100 beers from around the world in a beautiful setting?

The 2nd Annual Myrtle Beach Beer Fest will take place at The Market Common on March 26-27, 2010. Last year was such a success the decided to add an additional day to this year’s merriment! The beer fest times are 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. on Friday, …

Dagwood’s Deli , Myrtle Beach, SC

Munch on a Tasty Lunch in Downtown Myrtle Beach

by Laura Barnett | March 21, 2010

My husband continually raves about his favorite place to grab a sandwich near his office in downtown Myrtle Beach. Last week I had to drop by my husband’s office to look at some blueprints; lucky for me it just happened to be lunchtime. Dagwood’s location is perfect for a quick lunch. Located on the corner of Mr. Joe White Avenue and one block off of Kings Highway, the restaurant features a good size …

Sandcastle South Beach Resort, Myrtle Beach SC

Refreshing Amenities at South Strand Hotel

by Laura Barnett | March 15, 2010

Looking for a hotel for your Spring Break getaway? Sandcastle South Beach Resort may be the perfect fit. This oceanfront hotel is located on the south end of Ocean Boulevard providing easy access to the airport and many Grand Strand attractions. The moderate priced hotel offers standard and efficiency rooms, as well as deluxe suites, each containing a private balcony that overlooks the ocean. A recent renovation lends a …

Rivertown Music & Art Festival 2010, Conway, SC

Historic Rivertown Celebrates the Arts with Annual Spring Festival

by Laura Barnett | March 13, 2010

On Saturday, May 1, historic downtown Conway, South Carolina will welcome Spring by hosting Rivertown Music & Arts Festival. The free annual event has been held on the first Friday in May for the last 22 years. Blankets and lawn chairs line the edges of the Waccamaw River as locals and visitors gather for entertainment from local and regional bands. The performances begin at 10:00 am and continue until dusk.

Jazz and Gospel …

Salt Water Creek Cafe, Murrells Inlet, SC

Savor Your Weekend with Brunch in Murrell's Inlet

by Laura Barnett | March 08, 2010

I love brunch and I love Salt Water Creek Café, so I am deliriously happy they found each other.  Salt Waer Creek Café, located in Murrell’s Inlet, is stunning.  A live oak tree shades the brick patio which features clothed tables and flickering candles.  Inside is casually upscale with coastal blue and antique white walls with brick floors.  Black and white beach themed photographs accent the walls.  If you look closely at the pictures you …

Flynn’s Irish Tavern, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Enjoy St Patrick's Day with Authentic Irish Food in North Myrtle Beach

by Laura Barnett | March 08, 2010

Myrtle Beach is always ready for a celebration and St Patrick’s Day is no exception. The area’s largest gathering is located on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. For the last 20 plus years  North Myrtle Beach has hosted a mid-morning parade followed by a street fair that consists of live entertainment, an arts and craft show, and food vendors.The event comes to a close around 4:00 but you can continue your merriment …

Spring Break Nightlife 2010, Myrtle Beach, SC

Join the party in Myrtle Beach for Spring Break

by Laura Barnett | February 28, 2010

For decades Myrtle Beach has welcomed college students for Spring Break, the unofficial beginning of tourist season. When the sun goes down on the Grand Strand, Spring Breakers can enjoy one of the many area nightclubs, dinner theatres, karaoke bars, and live concert venues.

Celebrations Nightlife includes four nightclubs located within Broadway at the Beach. Malibu's Surf Bar is the most laid back of the four and bills itself as “2010 …

The Art Museum’s 10th Annual Spring Tour of Homes , Myrtle Beach, SC

Support Local Arts While Touring Some of the Finest Homes on the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | February 22, 2010

Have you ever wondered what lies behind the doors of some of Myrtle Beach’s most posh addresses? Saturday, March 6^th is your chance to find out! The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum will be hosting its 10^th Annual Spring Tour of Homes from 10:00 a.m. until 5p.m. and will be featuring nine spectacular homes. Tickets for the event are $35 in advance, $40 the day of the tour and available for purchase …

Prosser’s Bar-B-Que, Murrells Inlet, SC

Local Favorite is Perfect For Stretching Your Vacation Budget

by Laura Barnett | February 22, 2010

From the outside, it looks unassuming, and the inside looks like a place you would expect to see Guy Fieri roll up in his convertible and shoot an episode of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. Prosser's Bar-B-Que sits on the corner of Hwy. 707 and Hwy. 17 Business in Murrell's Inlet.

The restaurant is very clean and neat, but it is a dive nonetheless. Alas, I was not here for the décor, I was here for the …

Travel Guide to Myrtle Beach

Why You Should Visit Myrtle Beach

by Laura Barnett | February 15, 2010

With over fifteen hundred restaurants, a hundred-plus golf courses, and all types of entertainment opportunities, the Grand Strand is a very happening place. There is always somewhere to go and something to do.

 The Myrtle Beach area annually hosts over 14 million visitors, who also come for shopping, golfing, sightseeing, and dining. Myrtle Beach has grown from a summer vacation spot into a year-round destination due to a mild annual average temperature of 74º F and …

Total Wellness Expo 2010, Strand Spine Institute, Pawley’s Island SC

Get Healthy on the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | February 13, 2010

Have you already given up on your New Year’s Resolution to get healthier? The Grand Strand is offering the perfect event to get you back on track. Saturday, February 20^th more than a dozen natural health & wellness exhibitors will gather at the Strand Spine Institute in Pawley’s Island for free health screenings, giveaways, presentations & demonstrations. Vendors will also be offering healthy food and beverage samples. Health professionals will be on hand to share their …

Flo’s Place Restaurant, Murrell’s Inlet, SC

Let the Good Times Roll New Orleans Style in the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | February 08, 2010

Step inside Flo’s Place Restaurant and you realize you are in for a party. The atmosphere is pure New Orleans even though you are about a thousand miles East of The Big Easy. You are greeted with the sounds of live jazz music and a strand of Mardi Gras beads.  Hats adorn every conceivable space, left by former patrons that agree Flo’s is the perfect place “to hang your hat”. If weather permits take a seat …

Myrtle Beach Marathon, Myrtle Beach, SC

Scenic run brings thousands to the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | February 07, 2010

The Bi-Lo Myrtle Beach Marathon is more than just a race; it is a weekend-long extravaganza along the Grand Strand. The events start with the two-day runner's expo at the Myrtle Beach Convention center. Participants and the general public will find numerous booths filled with information and products that target the causal jogger as well as the more dedicated runner. The expo is free to those that wish to attend.

Friday focuses …

Overtime Sports Cafe, North Myrtle Beach, SC

Cheer for your favorite team in the largest sports bar on the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | February 01, 2010

Be prepared, once you enter the mega-establishment Overtime Sorts Cafe you will never want to watch a game at home. The Overtime caters to sports enthusiasts with a 12-foot video wall for the featured event that can range from college football to NASCAR. Throughout the spacious bar an additional 150 screens are available to catch your favorite team play. Want to watch a non featured sport? The Overtime will set you up in your own …

South Carolina Lifestyles Expo 2010, Myrtle Beach, SC

South Carolina's largest retirement expo strolls into the Grand Strand

by Laura Barnett | January 28, 2010

Over 50 years old and want to perfect your golf swing or speak to an interior designer about sprucing up your pad? Each January the Grand Strand welcomes members of the 50+ crowd at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center for the South Carolina Lifestyles Expo.  The expo, now in its 25th year, is a two-day event that offers participants a variety of lifestyle enhancing information.  Over 135 booths will feature golf instruction, cooking demonstrations, …

Habitat for Humanity Souper Bowl 2010, Pawley’s Island, SC

Fill your bowl for charity on Saturday, January 30.

by Laura Barnett | January 25, 2010

Want to warm your heart and belly at the same time? Habitat for Humanity’s annual “Souper Bowl” kicks off Saturday, January 30 at 5:30pm. This year’s event takes place at Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church and supports the Georgetown County branch.

Over forty local restaurants are participating with soup, stews, chowder, and other ladle ready creations.  My mouth is already watering over Salt Creek Café’s offering of creamy wild mushroom soup. Homemade bread will be …

Sea View Inn, Pawley’s Island, SC

Step Back Into Time For A Grand Strand Romantic Getaway

by Laura Barnett | January 24, 2010

Twenty minutes south of Myrtle Beach time stands still for romance seekers. No phones, No TVs, No computers equals no distractions for plugged in lovebirds.

The Sea View Inn has welcomed vacationers since 1937 with simplicity and gracious Southern hospitality. The beach basic rooms have breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Open windows allow the crash of the waves and the salty breezes to lull you to sleep. The Inn is classic Pawley's Island …