Avista Resort
Advantage
Beachfront location in North Myrtle Beach; 10-minute walk from the diner
Charming condos with kitchens, balconies, and flat-screen TVs
Indoor and outdoor pools, plus lazy rivers and hot tubs
Dining options include a seafood restaurant, lounge bar, and swim-up bar
Hot buffet breakfast served daily (for a fee)
Decent gym with cardio and weight machines
Free perks like DVD rentals and attraction tickets
Kid-friendly seasonal activities available
Free parking and Wi-Fi
Coin Operated Laundry Facility
Three fully equipped meeting rooms
Cons
Some condos are older than others (due to individual ownership)
Not all condos have safes or laundry machines
Linen and towels are replaced every four days
30-minute drive to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Boardwalk
Summary
Avista Resort is like many of the three-pearl beachfront hotels in Myrtle Beach. The 326 individually owned condos vary in age, and some lack washers and dryers, though all are charmingly styled with kitchens and balconies. It has indoor and outdoor water features, a restaurant, a lounge, a gym, and meeting rooms. However, the hotel’s location- a 30-minute drive from the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Boardwalk in North Myrtle Beach- separates this property from many others. Travelers looking to be closer to the busy hub of Central Myrtle Beach might consider Carolinian Resort, which has a few condos, similar amenities, and a complimentary breakfast.
Shore Crest Vacation Villas
Advantage
Both buildings are within 10 minutes of area attractions
Building one is on the beach (all guests have access)
All rooms have kitchenettes, plus balconies with ocean or marsh views
Outdoor pools and hot tubs with beautiful ocean views
Indoor pools and hot tubs with charming glass ceilings
Open-air Cabana Bar with a wide selection of drinks
Fitness centers with cardio and weight machines
Game rooms with arcade machines
Free parking on site
Free WIFI
Cons
lacks restaurant
Bedroom windows are small, and some bathrooms lack privacy
Guests must park on the street when the parking spot is full
Front desks have limited hours
Summary
Shore Crest Vacation Villas is a large club resort with mid-range, timeshare condominiums on the beach. Both buildings, one and two, are within a 10-minute drive of Barefoot Landing, the House of Blues, and the Pirate’s Cave. Because the units are individually owned, decor varies. Still, all have fully equipped kitchens with stainless steel appliances, lots of living space, granite countertops, and balconies with ocean or wetland views. However, room windows are small, and some bathrooms lack privacy. The property has hot tubs, as well as indoor and outdoor pools, and lazy rivers as well. There is a modern gym and game room with arcade games. Parking and Wi-Fi are free.
Prince Resort
Advantage
The complex is right on the beach
Multi-bedroom condominiums with private furnished balconies; some with beautiful sea views
All condos have full kitchens, living rooms, couches, and washers/dryers.
Multiple outdoor pools include a lazy river, a kids’ pool, and hot tubs.
Two restaurants: casual dining and seasonal restaurant
The Fitness center has beautiful views of the ocean
Bait and Fishing Rental Shop
Wi-Fi and free parking
Meeting/event space
Cons
The property is dated and shows some wear.
There isn’t much in the immediate area; the car is necessary to move
One of the restaurants is open seasonally
Summary
This resort is on the oceanfront in a quiet area of North Myrtle Beach. Overall, it’s a three-pearl property, but it offers a decent selection of features and spacious accommodations. The property has several outdoor pools, including a lazy river, a children’s pool, and hot tubs. There are two dining options: one is open seasonally, while other features include a gym and, unexpectedly, a bait and tackle shop. The property’s 259 one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos are dated and could use a few updates, but they’re outfitted with full kitchens, washers and dryers, separate living rooms, and furnished balconies — some with lovely ocean views. Travelers looking for a more central location (Central Myrtle Beach is a 35-minute drive away) might consider the Captain’s Quarters Resort instead.
Sea View Large
Advantage
Quiet beachfront location in North Myrtle Beach
Spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and up to four bedrooms
Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs; plus a lazy river
The seasonal poolside bar for snacks and drinks
Common area with kitchen, flat-screen TV, and outdoor fire pits
Spacious gym with modern equipment and flat-screen TVs
A small spa offers services on demand
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout
Free parking at the hotel
Cons
Far from downtown Myrtle Beach (pro for some)
No reception or lobby services are available
No full restaurant on site
Summary
The three-pearl Mar Vista Grande is a vacation rental property with individually owned condominiums. Its oceanfront location on North Myrtle Beach is quiet, but there are a handful of restaurants and shops within a 10-minute walk. The 160 condos feature individual interiors with fully equipped kitchens, separate bedrooms (up to four) and living rooms, private balconies, and free Wi-Fi. While there isn’t a full restaurant on-site, there is a poolside bar by the pool and a common area with a full kitchen and barbecue facilities. In addition, there’s an indoor and outdoor pool and hot tub, wading pools for kids, and an outdoor lazy river. The gym and small spa are a plus for this type of property. Travelers looking for a more traditional resort might consider Island Vista Resort, which includes two restaurants and kid-friendly activities.
Bahama Sands Luxury Condominiums
Advantage
Oceanfront location in North Myrtle Beach
Spacious condo units with kitchens that come with cookware and dishes
Some rooms have whirlpool tubs and balconies with great views
There is also a children’s pool, an oceanfront deck with a hot tub, a heated pool, and a lazy river.
Free Wifi in the entire hotel.
On-site parking (in a well-lit area)
Gym with ocean view, weights, and cardiovascular machines.
Free unlimited admission to the water park, free miniature golf, greens fee at top zone golf courses
Children under 18 years free in their parent’s room.
Business center and meeting rooms on site.
Cons
It is not a smoke-free environment.
No bar or restaurant on-site
Not within walking distance of Central Myrtle Beach’s main activities/sites
Summary
A 90-bedroom beachfront condo built in 2008, Bahama Sands Luxury Condominiums is a mid-range property for families in North Myrtle Beach. Privately owned condos can vary significantly from each other, and it’s a good idea to request photos before you book. Most units have kitchens with cookware, dinnerware, glassware, and utensils and can accommodate large groups of people. While the beach is the main draw, there are a variety of pools, including a heated oceanfront pool, a lazy river, a seasonal heated indoor pool, and water activities for kids and adults. The town of Waikiki is another budget option, but the beach is across the street.
Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort
Advantage
Ocean-view rooms available with balconies
direct access to the beach
Indoor heated pool and hot tub
Outdoor lazy river, heated pool, and a tiki bar
free continental breakfast
Free WIFI
small gym
Cons
The breakfast room fills up
There is only one elevator in the tower building
Overflow parking lots are inconvenient
Cons
This beachfront dated Best Western, is an affordable option in North Myrtle Beach. The hotel has 116 rooms in separate buildings, so access to standard amenities such as complimentary breakfast and free parking can mean dealing with crowds. However, an ocean vacation is what it’s all about, with direct beach access, an outdoor pool, and a lazy river. Some rooms face the sea and offer incredible views. However, it may be worth comparing rates with the Beach Cove Resort, where there’s a lively beach bar, and all rooms face the ocean.
North Beach Plantation
Advantage
Luxury condos have balconies and full kitchens
Huge cabins offering the privacy of home
First sea line
high-end spa
The large pool area, including a swim-up bar and indoor pool
Accommodation for all size groups
Well-regarded steakhouse on the property
Cons
25-minute drive to the boardwalk
Summary
North Beach Plantation is one of the few luxury properties in Myrtle Beach — and it’s undoubtedly the best of the bunch. The accommodations are impeccably configured as condominiums and houses and are clean and tidy. Sizes range from one-bedroom apartments to five-bedroom townhouses, making this a convenient option for groups of any size. A high-end spa, a famous Myrtle Beach restaurant, oceanfront locations, and multiple pool options mean plenty to do on the property. Remember that it’s about a 25-minute drive to the boardwalk; those who prefer a more central location may want to consider the Anderson Ocean Club & Spa.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort
Advantage
Beachfront eight-minute drive to Tanger Outlet
Spacious two-bedroom suites have separate living rooms, balconies, and wet bars
Indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, plus access to the water park
Casual and upscale restaurants, a cafe serving Starbucks, and a poolside bar
room service available
Massive modern gym with a snack bar; fitness classes available
Lovely spa with a tranquility garden and steam rooms
Freebies include daily breakfast and nightly happy hour
The resort fee covers Wi-Fi, self-parking, and use of the gym and pools
Cons
Mandatory daily resort fee
The decor is bland and chain-like
Is there a fee for valet parking
Off-site spa and fitness complex
Summary
Part of the Kingston Resorts complex and occupying a beautiful beachfront location on North Myrtle Beach, this upper-middle-range hotel offers a solid set of features and spacious two-bedroom suites. There are indoor and outdoor pools, and guests can access a water park. Wellness options include an attractive spa and an impressive gym, but it’s not on-site and requires a short walk. There is also ample meeting/event space here. The 255 suites are spacious and have separate living areas and balconies, but the decor is bland as a chain. Expect to pay a daily resort fee that covers Wi-Fi and self-parking. Families who prefer to be closer to the hubbub of downtown Myrtle Beach might consider the Captain’s Quarters Resort, which has a bowling alley, arcade, and water park.
Sea Watch Resort
Advantage
It is located right on North Myrtle Beach, a five-minute drive from the Tanger Outlets.
Condominiums include kitchens and up to three bedrooms, with some ocean views.
Six oceanfront pools (some heated), ten hot tubs, and two lazy rivers
Family entertainment includes a poolside DJ, scavenger hunts, and movie nights
Captain’s Cove for buffet breakfast and a la carte lunch
Oceanfront Tiki Bar and Indoor Cafe
Indoor game room and outdoor patio
Fitness center with cardio equipment
Free parking and free Wi-Fi
Coin-Operated Laundry Facilities
Contemporary fire pit in a covered area
Cons
Condos are individually owned, so quality and decor vary
Some features and entertainment are seasonal
breakfast not included
The gym is dated
25-minute drive to Central Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
Summary
The mid-range Sea Watch Resort consists of two gated towers on North Myrtle Beach, a five-minute drive from the Tanger Outlets. The 275 studio, one, two, and three-bedroom condos are individually owned, so decor and upkeep vary, but all have full kitchens and ocean views. Families love the six oceanfront pools, ten hot tubs, and two lazy rivers. Captain’s Cove serves a warm breakfast buffet (not included) and occasionally a la carte. There’s also an oceanfront tiki bar and cafe with gourmet coffee drinks and grab-and-go snacks. Entertainment consists of a poolside DJ and family movie nights, but some features are seasonal. This place is geared toward families, so couples may want to check out the luxurious North Beach Plantation House, though rates are higher.
Wyndham Vacation Resorts Towers on the Grove
Advantage
On a clean, quiet stretch of North Myrtle Beach
Within a five-minute walk of a pizza restaurant, seafood restaurant, grocery store, and a liquor store
Condos can feature multiple bedrooms, laundry facilities, full kitchens, and ocean views.
An indoor and outdoor pool and outdoor hot tubs
Seasonal lazy river and water slide
Gym with Cybex equipment and weights
Business center with personal computers
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Free Parking
Cons
Push-time-share presentation reports
No breakfast, bar, or restaurant
Occasional cleaning and maintenance issues
Lazy river and slide closed during low season
30-minute drive to the SkyWheel
Summary
Wyndham Vacation Resorts Towers on the Grove is a generic mid-range option on a quiet stretch of North Myrtle Beach. Its 232 suites are individually owned timeshare apartments and can include multiple bedrooms, laundry facilities, full kitchens, and ocean views. They can also have maintenance and cleaning issues. There’s no restaurant or breakfast served, so guests can use their kitchens or walk five minutes to a cluster of seafood restaurants and a grocery store. The beach is the main draw, but guests can enjoy the covered outdoor pool and a seasonal lazy river and waterslide. Wi-Fi and parking are both free. However, past guests have complained of aggressive timeshare introductions. For something with a buffet breakfast and a restaurant, check rates at Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark.
Beach Cove Resort
Advantage
All units have ocean views and balconies
More secluded than other complexes
Each unit is equipped to sleep at least six people
Lively pool and beach bar
Kids’ room with arcade games and snacks
Lazy river, four heated outdoor pools, an indoor pool, an oceanfront, and three hot tubs
Free Parking
Cons
Far from most attractions in Myrtle Beach
limited appeal
small gym
antique decoration
Summary
Beach Cove Resort is where travelers book when they’re not too keen on venturing far from the resort. Located in North Myrtle Beach, the oceanfront resort isn’t in the thick of the Myrtle Beach action. But if you’re looking for seclusion, the Beach Cove Resort is a good option. The resort’s U-shape keeps it secluded, and the 320 oceanfront rooms invite ocean breezes instead of street traffic noise. With plenty to do at Beach Cove Resort — including multiple pools and a lively beach bar — there’s plenty here for visitors seeking a low-key Myrtle Beach vacation. For those who want to explore off-property, it’s a seven-minute drive to the shops and restaurants at Barefoot Landing.
Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center
Advantage
Beachfront in North Myrtle Beach near golf courses
All units have flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers
All units have private balconies, many with ocean views
Suites have full kitchens and washers/dryers
Indoor and outdoor pools with a lazy river and children’s pool
Three dining options: sports bar, casual restaurant, and beach bar
A small gift shop sells snacks, toiletries, and clothing
Fitness center with a handful of cardio machines and weights
Wi-Fi and free parking
13 meeting rooms
Cons
About a 30-minute drive to most Myrtle Beach attractions
The decor is bland and dated
Rooms are individually owned and differ in style; some need updates
A small gym doesn’t offer many machines
Summary
The tri-pronged Bay Watch Resort and Conference Center hotel is located on the beach in quiet, residential North Myrtle Beach, about a half-hour drive from Central Myrtle Beach attractions. It comprises 270 individually owned and rented condominiums, all with balconies and full kitchens, living rooms, and laundry machines. The decor is different throughout; some units are dated and need an update. The property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor water features, including oceanfront pools and a lazy river, plus three restaurants/bars to choose from. Fitness facilities are mediocre, but there’s plenty of meeting/event space here, with 13 meeting rooms. Travelers looking for something more central may want to check out the Caribbean Resort and Villas instead.
Ocean Creek Resort
Advantage
The 57-acre property offers privacy and seclusion
Just down the road from the shops and restaurants at Barefoot Landing
Clean if the basic decor
Tram to and from the beach
Screened in porches or patios in some units
Some units have ocean views
Cons
Do you need a car to get to many places of interest
gym is small
An oceanfront pool is not open to all guests
Summary
This North Myrtle Beach resort is a perfect spot for those seeking a quiet beach vacation. Guests need a car to get to most of the major Myrtle Beach attractions, but the resort provides easy access to the beach by trolley. The complex is located behind a 24-hour security gate and attracts a mix of families and winter visitors looking to escape the cold weather up north. Units are clean and tidy, and the decor has been updated throughout most of the property. Amenities, such as a tennis center and a barbecue area with live entertainment, provide on-site action.
Kingston Plantation Condos
Advantage
Free tourist transportation to navigate the 145-acre complex
Private balconies in all rooms, many large
The privacy of a home with all the comforts of a mega-resort
50,000 square foot Sports and Health Club with tennis courts, sand volleyball, and more
Nine pools, including a small water park
Many units have full kitchens and washers/dryers
Cons
Water park fee for those booking from individual owners
Decor varies drastically between units
Villas can be a long walk from the beach
Supplement for Wi-Fi and parking
Summary
This mid-range resort in North Myrtle Beach is partially owned and leased by individuals and partially by the Embassy Suites chain. Decor varies according to individual owners’ tastes, though views from units controlled by Embassy Suites are better, such as those on higher floors. It’s one of the nicer mid-range options in Myrtle Beach, drawing plenty of conference guests with its 70,000 square feet of meeting space. It’s a huge, sprawling property with a free shuttle to get around and tons of features, including nine pools, a giant fitness center, multiple restaurants, and a beachfront location. However, be aware the villas may be a bit far from the beach, and guests will have to drive to any outside dining property.
