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Myrtle Beach in South Carolina has a lot to offer for every type of traveler. The beaches are absolutely first rate, stunningly beautiful with white sands, blue waters, and lots of beach activities.
If you aren’t the sun and surf type, then maybe you want to try some golf. The golf courses in Myrtle Beach are among the best in the world.
In fact, this city is often called the gulf capital of the world and for good reason. And to top it off, the shopping and restaurants are first rate as well.
There are a wide range of Myrtle Beach accommodation options for every travel and budget. And best of all, they all offer a reasonable level of service and cleanliness.
So, you really can’t put a food wrong when you’re choosing the best places to stay in Myrtle Beach. All you have to do is choose the right neighborhood, one that offers easy access to everything you want to do and see.
You can do that easily by following this Myrtle Beach neighborhood guide.
- Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
- Myrtle Beach Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Myrtle Beach
- Join our entrepreneurship retreat in Bali!
- 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Myrtle Beach
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Myrtle Beach
- What To Pack For Myrtle Beach
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Myrtle Beach
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Myrtle Beach.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Private Condo in Gated Community | Best Airbnb in Myrtle Beach
This is one of the coolest places to stay in Myrtle Beach. It offers one bedroom and a private bathroom with space for 3 people.
There’s an indoor and outdoor pool in the community, a tennis court, walking trails, and a basketball court. The condo is located a short distance from the beach.
We have lots more of our favorite Myrtle Beach accommodations in our Airbnbs in South Carolina post.
Sea Crest Ocean Front Resort | Best Hostel in Myrtle Beach
This snazzy oceanfront resort in Myrtle Beach offers a great mix of convenience and easy access to the city and the beach. It has spacious rooms that come in a variety of sizes and an outdoor pool for you to enjoy as well. Plus, it’s within walking distance of local shops, restaurants and cafes.
Dunes Village | Best Hotel in Myrtle Beach
This hotel has rooms that come in a range of sizes, so it’s a great choice if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach for families. It also houses Palm Water Park, an attraction aimed at keeping the kids entertained.
The beach is close by and the rooms are bright, cheerful, and fully equipped with everything you’ll need for your stay.
The Market Common
If you want to be close to everything but not in the middle of the main tourist area, then look for the best places in Myrtle Beach to stay in The Market Common. This area has everything you could want for your stay.
South Myrtle Beach
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach on a budget, then South Myrtle Beach is a good choice. It’s often geared towards family and business travelers and the accommodation options tend to be a little more budget-friendly.
Central Myrtle Beach
The Central Myrtle Beach area stretches from the Boardwalk to more residential areas of the beach. So, if you don’t like spending time in the heavily touristed parts of the beach, you can always head towards where the locals live and swim.
Arcadian Shores
Arcadian Shores is almost like an island of peace after the busyness of the main beaches. It boasts a great mix of nature and the attractions of the city, with lots of camping grounds and areas where you can do outdoor activities.
North Myrtle Beach
Located north of the main beach, North Myrtle Beach has a lot of charm of its own. It’s ideal when you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach with kids as this area offers lots of condo-style accommodation options with multiple rooms.
Most people who visit Myrtle Beach want to enjoy the beach, which is why many of the hotels are along the shores. But you’ll still need to choose the right beachfront neighborhood for your travel tastes and preferences.
Myrtle Beach neighborhoods are bright, cheerful, and packed with interesting attractions, shops, and restaurants. So, all you must do is choose the one that suits you best!
The first area to think about is The Market Common. This is a mostly local area that’s close to the beach and offers all the charms and conveniences of urban living.
You’ll find amazing restaurants and shops in this area as well as a quieter vibe that includes fewer tourists. It’s a great choice whether you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach for one night or for a longer visit.
South Myrtle Beach is another great area to stay in. It offers a quieter vibe than the main beaches as well as more budget friendly accommodation options. And the restaurants and shops are just as good as in other parts of the city!
Travelers who enjoy a more local feel can find great accommodation options in North Myrtle Beach. This is the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay in if you prefer to enjoy the beach without the crowds.
But if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach for nightlife, then make sure you stay right in the center of all the action. This area is known as Central Myrtle Beach and it has everything from clubs and restaurants to great shopping. And lots of people, mustn’t forget that one.
The final area to consider is Arcadia Shores. This is north of the main beaches and is popular among families and foodies for the range of activities available and the many great restaurants.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Myrtle Beach
To have the best holiday possible, book your stay at one of the coolest places to stay in Myrtle Beach below.
#1 The Market Common – Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach First Time
If you want to be close to everything but not in the middle of the main tourist area, then look for the best places in Myrtle Beach to stay in The Market Common. This area has everything you could want for your stay.
It’s close to the beach, so you can head out and enjoy the sun and the sand. And it’s located in an area that’s filled with shops and restaurants, so you can take advantage of the air conditioning.
The Market Common is a great choice if you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach with kids too. It’s a mostly local area, filled with picnic areas, dog parks, and fitness centers.
There are also some great trails nearby if you enjoy hiking as well as high-scale and budget shopping options.
Red Roof Inn Myrtle Beach Hotel – Market Commons | Best Hotel in The Market Common
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach on a budget, this is a great choice. It’s close to the Market Common area and has an outdoor pool, rooms with attached private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
There’s also a BBQ and a golf course on site as well as lots of restaurants and eateries close by.
Holiday Inn Club Vacations South Beach Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in The Market Common
Located in one of Myrtle Beach’s best neighborhoods, this hotel offers comfortable accommodation and easy access to the beach. It’s close to the Market Common and offers a delicious breakfast, massage services, a kids’ pool, and a golf course.
There is also a BBQ area you can use on warm evenings.
Family Fun! Glow Arcade Aquarium Rm Walk to Beach | Best Airbnb in The Market Common
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach for nightlife, you can’t miss this apartment, literally. It’s not every day that you get to stay in a Vibrant Aquarium-Themed Airbnb with a full games room. It’s located just a short walk from the beach and offers easy access to local restaurants and shops.
With enough space for seven guests and a fully equipped kitchen, this truly is one of the best Airbnbs in Myrtle Beach for the whole family to enjoy.
Things to See and Do in The Market Common
- Play a round of golf at the nearby Grande Dunes Golf Club.
- Try the local restaurants and eat like the locals eat.
- Hire a bike and try one of the nearby bike paths for a fun and active afternoon in the city.
- Grab some snacks and have a picnic in the local park.
- Go shopping for souvenirs or just something new to wear!
- Find a restaurant with an outdoor area and eat outside on warm days.
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View on Osprey#2 South Myrtle Beach – Where to Stay in St. Myrtle Beach on a Budget
When you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach on a budget, then South Myrtle Beach is a good choice. It’s often geared towards family and business travelers and the accommodation options tend to be a little more budget-friendly.
Obviously, you will enjoy easy access to the beach when you stay in this part of the city as well as to top attractions.
And you won’t go hungry either. The restaurants and cafes in Myrtle Beach are absolutely top rate, and that extends to the South Myrtle Beach area too.
For the best meals possible, look out for seafood restaurants. Because it’s right on the beach, the seafood is amazing in this part of the world, and you can’t miss out on the tasty treats.
David’s Landing | Best Hotel in South Myrtle Beach
Located in one of Myrtle Beach’s best neighborhoods, there are 20 rooms available here for travelers who want to be close to the beach. It’s close to Myrtle Beach Pavilion and the state park and the rooms are comfortable and contain everything you’ll need during your stay.
DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront | Best Luxury Hotel in South Myrtle Beach
This hotel in Myrtle Beach offers a good combination of luxury and a great location. It’s right on the beach and offers stunning views over the water.
The hotel has a fitness center, outdoor pool, and a private beach. It’s also a great choice if you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach for families as it has a kids’ club, kids’ pool, and lots of recreational activities.
Mermaid Manor | Best Airbnb in South Myrtle Beach
This townhouse is one of the best places to stay in Myrtle Beach to be close to everything. It’s right across the road from the beach and close to local attractions.
You get your own private bedroom and bathroom as well as use of the kitchen, living area, laundry and patio.
Things to See and Do in South Myrtle Beach
- Stay in one of the area’s luxury resorts or go for more budget-friendly options.
- Take the kids to the Family Kingdom for a day of fun.
- Spend some time at the Myrtle Beach State Park for a relaxing day in nature.
- Wander down the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and people watch.
- Try seafood at one of the many local restaurants.
- Spend a day relaxing on the beach or try some beach activities.
- Check out what’s on at the Freestyle Music Park.
#3 North Myrtle Beach – Best Neighborhood in Myrtle Beach for Families
Located north of the main beach, North Myrtle Beach has a lot of charm of its own. It’s ideal when you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach with kids as this area offers lots of condo-style accommodation options with multiple rooms.
North Myrtle Beach is technically a small town, with a population of around 14,000 people. Its small size means that you can enjoy the beach and its surroundings without the crowds of the main beaches.
North Myrtle Beach is home to a lot of high-end resorts. But it also offers more budget friendly options, as well some amazing beach-side cabins. And most of the hotels are located along the shore as well, which means you’ll never be far from amazing ocean views.
And if you’re just as interested in the city, you’ll find lots of shopping and restaurants around the beach as well.
Walk to Ocean North Myrtle Beach Townhome! | Best Hotel in North Myrtle Beach
Offering a nice mix of location and convenience, this cosy townhouse is the perfect place to perch up. Enjoy two large bedrooms with enough room for four guests, which is ideal if you’re travelling with friends or family. The property has a fully equipped kitchen, garden terrace for an evening wine, plus you’re walking distance from the beach, what more could you want?
If you’re looking for a home away from home that isn’t going to break the bank, this townhouse is perfect for you.
Chateau By the Sea | Best Airbnb in North Myrtle Beach
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Myrtle Beach for a quieter, more relaxing trip, this oceanfront condo is ideal for families or couples. It offers enough space for six guests, and you can literally hop over your balcony (if you’re on the ground floor, of course) and you’ll be at the beach. If you fancy a trip into town, you’re a short walk from Main Street with plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes nearby. For the price and the location, this Chateau by the sea is an absolute steal, and you should stop reading this and book your dates.
Club Wyndham Ocean Boulevard | Best Luxury Hotel in North Myrtle Beach
This fancy beachfront hotel has not one but five swimming pools, three outdoor, two indoor, just in case you get bored with one. I wasn’t joking when I said this hotel is beachfront, within steps, you’ll have the golden sand between your toes and a balcony that looks out onto the sea, not bad if you ask me. The rooms are spacious and come with a fully equipped kitchen, which is pretty handy if you fancy a home-cooked meal or a pot noodle.
The location is ideal for walking into town where you’ll find heaps of resturants, shops and cafes to enjoy. Overall, a snazzy place to perch up and enjoy some beachfront livin’.
Things to See and Do in North Myrtle Beach
- See what’s on at the Alabama Theater.
- Go to Barefoot Landing and spend time around the lake or enjoying the theater and entertainment facilities.
- See the best live entertainment in the city at the House of Blues.
- Spend some cash at the Tanger Outlets.
- See live shows and strange creatures at Alligator Adventure.
- Take a day out to relax on the beach.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Central Myrtle Beach – Best Area to Stay in Myrtle Beach for Nightlife
The Central Myrtle Beach area stretches from the Boardwalk to more residential areas of the beach. So, if you don’t like spending time in the heavily touristed parts of the beach, you can always head towards where the locals live and swim.
There are also lots of great Myrtle Beach accommodation options in this part of the city as well, so you should be able to find something to your tastes.
Although the main part of this neighborhood sees a lot of tourists, there are still small pockets where the locals spend their time. If you prefer a quieter time during your holiday, these are the best areas to stay in Myrtle Beach.
There are also lots of great restaurants and shops in this area as well as attractions that will appeal to every type of traveler.
4 BDR Home with Pool | Best Airbnb in Central Myrtle Beach
This apartment is an absolute steal. You’ll get the whole property to yourself, and there’s room enough for 11 people with four bedrooms and eight beds.
There is a heated outdoor pool, so no matter what time of year you visit, you can cannonball without freezing to death. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, living room and patio ideal for your morning espresso or evening wine.
The location is perfect for walking into town and exploring the many shops, restaurants and cafes that Myrtle Beach has to offer. It may not be the cheapest, but if you grab some pals, book this place out and split the cost, it’s a bargain.
Bahama Sands Condos | Best Hotel in Central Myrtle Beach
This budget option is a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach for your first time. It’s right on the beach with balconies overlooking the crashing waves.
Each room has a fully equipped kitchen, living room and spacious bathroom, so you can prepare your own meals and enjoy a home-cooked dinner. Plus, it’s close to local restaurants, shops and cafes so you won’t have to go far for fun!.
Crescent Beauty | Best Luxury Hotel in Central Myrtle Beach
These beachfront apartments in Myrtle Beach overlook the ocean and have their own outdoor pool. With a comfy living area and fully equipped kitchen, you’ll soon find yourself feeling right a home. And best of all, you’re close to local restaurants, shops, bars and cafes.
Things to See and Do in Central Myrtle Beach
- Spend an afternoon on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk people watching and shopping.
- Go on the SkyWheel.
- Marvel at the oddities at Ripley’s Aquarium.
- Enjoy the food, entertainment, and shopping at Broadway on the Beach.
- Check out the science exhibits at WonderWorks.
- Watch the Myrtle Beach pelicans play a game.
- See a Legends in Concert show.
- Take the kids to the Family Kingdom Amusement Park for a day of fun.
#5 Arcadian Shores – Coolest Place to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Arcadian Shores is almost like an island of peace after the busyness of the main beaches. It boasts a great mix of nature and the attractions of the city, with lots of camping grounds and areas where you can do outdoor activities.
Basically, it’s the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay in if you want to be out in nature as much as you want to shop!
There are also some amazing restaurants in this area and it’s one of the best places in Myrtle Beach to stay for families who like to visit the same vacation spot every year. You can stay in the top-class resorts that are scattered along the beach or take advantage of the cheaper accommodation options.
But the real draw of Arcadian Shores is the golf. The entire area wraps around the Arcadian Shores Golf Club, which boasts one of the best and most beautiful golf courses in the world.
Boho Beachfront Condo | Best Airbnb in Arcadian Shores
This snazzy boho condo is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway or if you’re travelling with friends and family. Enjoy two spacious bedrooms with enough room for six guests. You have a balcony overlooking the ocean and a fully equipped kitchen ideal for whipping up a tasty feed and a cosy living room space ideal for kicking back after a day in the sun. The price and location, this Airbnb is tough to beat.
Wyndham SeaWatch Plantation | Best Hotel in Arcadian Shores
Located in the best neighborhood to stay in Myrtle Beach for easy access everywhere, this hotel is a real find. It has comfortable rooms with air conditioning and all the amenities as well as an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, and a fitness center.
There’s also a kids’ club and playground to keep the kids happy and an onsite restaurant where you can enjoy a meal after a long day.
Sands Ocean Club by Elliott Beach Rentals | Best Luxury Hotel in Arcadian Shores
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Myrtle Beach for one night or for a longer visit, this is a good choice. It has laundry facilities, an outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi and is close to the beach and to local restaurants and shops.
The apartments are well-appointed and contain everything you’ll need for a short or long stay.
Things to See and Do in Arcadian Shores
- Play a round of golf (or two) at the Arcadian Shores Golf Club.
- Head out at night to enjoy the area’s beach bars and dance clubs.
- Go shopping at the Apache Fishing Pier.
- Eat as much as you can in as many places as you can as this is the best neighborhood in Myrtle Beach for foodies.
- Take the ski lift across the Intracoastal Waterway to play golf at the isolated Waterway Hills Golf Club.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Myrtle Beach and where to stay.
What To Pack For Myrtle Beach
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Myrtle Beach
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach
This is just a Myrtle Beach neighborhood guide. It can help you find the best places to stay based on what you want to see and do and how much money you have to spend on your trip.
From there, you need to make your own trip. You need to get the most from the sun, sand, and sea that Myrtle Beach offers. Only then will you go home with great memories and some amazing photos.
So, get ready to enjoy every day when you’re in Myrtle Beach.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links, since we’ve decided to keep the site ad-free. So here it is!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
