There are two kinds of people: those who have been going to Myrtle Beach every fall since they were kids, and those who wish they had. There’s something about this South Carolina getaway that manages to keep Canadians coming back. Canucks have been the top international visitors to the region for years. Whether you’re looking for constant action or laid-back chill, you’ll find plenty to fill (or not fill) your time away from clients and courtrooms.
> Golf: Bring your clubs. There are more than 100 championship courses in the Myrtle Beach area and more than 50 of them have earned a four-star rating from Golf Digest. Designs by Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman and Robert Trent Jones will test your skills. Need help with your swing? The Classic Swing is among the top 25 golf schools in America (Golf Magazine). Family with you? Myrtle Beach is the mini-golf capital of the world. Courses range from rumbling volcanoes at Hawaiian Rumble to Tinker Bell advice at Captain Hook’s.
> Grub: New York Prime is a top-rated steak restaurant with aged cuts of beef and impeccable service. Looking for more casual seafood dining? Drunken Jack’s feels more like a backyard get-together than a fancy night out, but the food is fantastic. For brunch, don’t miss Croissants Bistro and Bakery. Chef Bradley Daniels uses fresh local ingredients to their finest.
> Groove: You’ll be swaying in your seat and singing along at one of the shows at the Carolina Opry. Good Vibrations offers hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s and a laugh or two in between. For bigger thrills, head to the Nascar Speedpark, where rides range from an easygoing Kiddie Speedway to Thunder Road. (You’ll need a valid driver’s licence for the latter.) Those who prefer their action in the form of a credit card swipe will enjoy the area’s low-tax shopping.
> Getting on the Beach: Stay at the gated Kingston Plantation condos on Myrtle Beach and you’ll have access to all the amenities of a hotel with the convenience of a private condo. Full kitchens and luxury amenities will impress, as will the 50,000-square-foot fitness centre. www.kingstonplantation.com
Heather Greenwood Davis is a lawyer and award-winning travel writer. Reach her at www.globetrottingmama.com.
