Posts Tagged ‘Murrells Inlet’
Area Lifestyle, Vacationing
 To many, the Myrtle Beach area has been known for its’ award winning golf courses for many years. People continue to return to challenge themselves on the rolling vast fairways of the Grand Strand. However, there are several highly ranked courses located just to the south of Myrtle Beach; in Surfside Beach, Garden City, Murrells Inlet, and Pawleys Island. Spend the day on one of these beautiful and challenging courses while on your vacation in Garden City or Surfside Beach.
Prestwick Country Club, a Pete and P.B. Dye 18 hole course, was previously voted “5 Best Kept Secret Courses in America” by Golf Digest. Continue with the beach-like feel on this course, offering sand dune berms, meandering streams, lakes, and stairway bunkers. This course also has six sets of tees to offer a challenging, but enjoyable game to all skill levels. Located on the north side of Surfside Beach, off of Hwy 544. Rates starting at $55.00.
These two courses are located minutes from Garden City or Surfside Beach vacation homes. In Garden City, Indian Wells Golf Club offers a recently renovated club house, and what is said to be one of the most challenging 18th holes in the Myrtle Beach area. Rates here are starting at $44.00. Just down the road, is Indigo Creek Golf Club, which was built on the former Indigo Plantation. Giant oak trees and meandering creeks add to the natural beauty, and decorate the fairways of this 18 hole course. Rates starting at $39.50 make this course very affordable, as well as enjoyable at any skill level.
Murrells Inlet also offers excellent choices in courses to play, easily accessible from Hwy 707 or Hwy 17 Business. Blackmoor Golf Club, Gary Player Signature Course, is located in Murrells Inlet just off of Highway 707. This is the only course in Myrtle Beach that was designed by a world renowned golf course architect. This course offers a challenging and enjoyable game to players of all ages  and abilities. Rates starting at $62.50. International Club located in Murrells Inlet, on International Club Blvd. This William Byrd designed course, offers five sets of tees, natural beauty, and challenging layout. Rates starting at $66.50. Tournament Players Club is located in Murrells Inlet off of Hwy 707. Designed by architect Tom Fazio, TPC is the only course in the Myrtle Beach are to have been awarded 5 stars by Golf Digest Magazine. This course has hosted the Senior Tour Championship, and is ranked one of the top courses in the country. Previously awarded “Top 10 Courses in South Carolina” by GolfWeek, and Top Courses You Can Play” by Golf Magazine. To update and improve the course, the greens and bunkers were recently replaced and refurbished. Rates starting at $90.50. Located a little farther south in Murrells Inlet, and just off of Hwy 17 Bypass is Wachesaw Plantation East, which received 4.5 stars by Golf Digest Magazine. With five sets of tees throughout the course, a challenge is offered to various golfing abilities. This Clyde Johnson designed course offers rates starting at $49.50.
If you head down to the Pawleys Island and Litchfield Beach area, you will find more beautiful, challenging and enjoyable courses. True Blue Golf Plantation has won several awards; “#1 in the Myrtle Beach Area”, “Top 25 Courses in the South” and “Top 100 America’s Greatest Public Courses” by Golf Digest. Proud of their beautiful surroundings, incredible elevations, and vast fairways, this course is sure to give you a good game. Rates starting at $89.00. Caledonia Golf and Fish Club, True Blue’s sister course, is known for it’s historical landmarks from being built on an 18th century rice plantation. Also, a winner of “Top 100 America’s Greatest Public Courses” and “Top 100 You Can Play” by Golf Magazine. The beautiful oak trees and winding streams add a challenge to the course. Rates starting at $104.00. Pawleys Plantations Country Club, a Jack Nicklaus course, offers the unique scenery of the Pawleys Island marsh, and challenging obstacles at every hole. Rates starting at $72.00. Heritage Golf Club designed their course around the century-old oaks, freshwater lakes, and marshes. Winning the award for “50 Best Public Courses in America” by Golf Digest, these lush, rolling greens are a must. Rates are starting at $79.50.
Whichever course you choose, you are sure to have a challenging, yet enjoyable game. After spending your day on the greens, return to your vacation beach home and relax to the sounds of the waves rolling in as you sit on your back porch enjoying the ocean view.
*Prices of golf rates are listed by the individual courses as of May 2010, and are subject to change.
Tags: Garden City, Golf, Litchfield Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, Surfside Beach
Area Lifestyle, Vacationing
While vacationing in your Garden City beach house, venture down the road a little and see what Murrells Inlet, SC has to offer.
 Living up to its title of “Seafood Capital of South Carolina”, Murrells Inlet offers several restaurants, with breathtaking views of the saltwater marsh. Many of which have an outside patio to enjoy the saltwater breeze and beautiful sites.
Located behind the restaurants is Murrells Inlet’s famous Marsh Walk stretching from Bovine’s to Spud’s, allowing you to take a family walk and take in the sites of the boats on the beautiful saltwater marsh, or even a romantic after dinner stroll to watch the sunset.
Restaurants located along the Marsh Walk include; Divine’s Fish House, Bovine’s, Spud’s Waterfront Dining, Dead Dog Saloon, Drunken Jack‘s, Dave‘s Dockside, and Creek Ratz. With Creek Ratz grassy area and live bands, it is an excellent choice for young children. A little further down the road you will find Hot Fish Club, also offering delicious seafood and other choices. You are sure to find dinner in the inlet very pleasing, but don’t stop there. The nightlife is just as impressive. At Wahoo’s and Hot Fish Club you can sit at one of the outdoor bars and gathering areas, to enjoy the view of the marsh and amazing sunset. While you sip your beverage, you can also enjoy the entertainment from the live bands that play at either location several nights a week.
If fishing, boating or any other water activity sparks your interest, Captain Dick’s has something for every water-lover. Some of their fishing excursions include deep sea fishing and near shore fishing, or you can even charter your own fishing boat. Another option is the Wave Runner tours that are guided through the inlet and into the ocean. For the adventurer, parasailing is a great way to get a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Brookgreen Gardens is a historical landmark, offering an outdoor museum of sculptures, gardens, and zoos. There is always a festival or new exhibit to enjoy. The Butterfly House exhibit is open through October. They also have several activities for the kids, as well as tours for the whole family.
Huntington Beach State Park offers several attractions, including the historic Atalaya castle, freshwater lagoon, saltwater marsh, 3 miles of sandy beach, and various wildlife including birds, alligators, and dolphins. Huntington also has guided kayaking or canoeing tours of the saltwater marsh. To take a break from your busy day, there is a sheltered picnic area to stop and enjoy lunch.
So, pack a lunch and take the family for a fun-filled day at Brookgreen Gardens, Huntington Beach State Park, or both.
There is so much to do in Murrells Inlet before returning to Garden City to relax in your vacation beach home.
Tags: Murrells Inlet, things to do
Area Lifestyle, Vacation Rentals, Vacationing
Making a journey to the beach each Summer is something of a tradition for many families. But a tradition isn’t a rule, it’s an idea. We are always able to amend them, build on them and make them better. Finding new traditions is just one way we keep our families growing, learning & loving. This year, we invite you to start a new tradition: treat your family to a beach vacation this Winter!
It’s pretty easy to see why folks flock to the Carolina coast during the winter. These “Snowbirds” enjoy an incredibly mild climate ~ average highs for December-thru-February are over 60°. Seriously! Ask any local, and they’ll tell you with a smile that we regularly see January days reach into the 70s. This temperate climate allows locals & visitors alike to enjoy the local parks and beaches year-round. And there’s plenty to do during the holiday season. Here are a few of our favorite holiday events & happenings in & around the Garden City and Surfside Beach area…
 Nights of a Thousand Candles ~ Brookgreen Gardens
Sculpture garden & preserve Brookgreen Gardens hosts this event each December 4-5; 11-12 & 17-19. The event features live entertainment: concerts, theatre, and performances of all kinds take place on the beautiful garden grounds. The sculptures & their surroundings are decorated for the occasion ~ candles & colored lights adorn the gardens, enchanting visitors each season. Voted one of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeastern Tourism Society, Nights of a Thousand Candles will renew the magic of the holidays for you & your family.
 Legends In Concert
Right in the heart of the South Strand is Surfside Beach, SC. Known as the “Family Beach”, this part of the greater Grand Strand area has much to offer. Among our favorite spots is the famous Legends In Concert theatre. Legends offers visitors to experience a one-of-a-kind live show: backed by a full orchestra & band, expert ‘impersonators’ help re-create legendary concert experiences. This season, they’re featuring Elvis Presley, Whitney Houston, Alan Jackson, Frank Sinatra & Blues Brothers tributes. The show is family-friendly, and children ages 3-16 can receive a discounted admission. This is a no-miss event, and a certain hit with your family this holiday season!
So why haven’t you made your way down South for the Winter? The weather’s great, there’s plenty to do, and did we mention rental rates are generally at their lowest during this time of year? Some restrictions will apply, but contact us to find out how we can help you plan your family’s next best Winter vacation!
Tags: Brookgreen Gardens, Legends In Concert, Murrells Inlet, Surfside Beach, Vacation Home Rentals, Vacationing
Area Lifestyle, Our Favorite Things, Vacationing
 A South Carolina vacation means many things to families. Fun in the sun, on the beach & in the ocean brings us together. Camping trips made to one of our many beautiful parks becomes a story told year-round. But few will make the journey to the Carolina coast without grabbing a couple of fishing poles, doing our best to catch dinner. The Beach Realty family knows that going home empty-handed is no fun for anyone, so we’ve done our best to find you the best fishing charter in the Surfside, Garden City & Murrells Inlet area. Get ready to fill your cooler with the best catch the Atlantic Ocean has to offer!
Welcome aboard the Offshore Account, which docks conveniently at the Marlin Quay Marina in Murrells Inlet. Captain Joseph Dunway is a Coast Guard certified Master Captain, and his vessel is also certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. Featuring the latest in seafaring technology, the Offshore Account is a 36′ Express well-stocked with top-of-the-line Penn International tackle. Dunway shares his passion for fishing with families each year, leading folks to the abundant waters just off the coast. You will have the opportunity to catch Sailfish, Marlin, King Mackerel, Tuna, Wahoo & more.
Several charter packages are available, ranging from half-day trips to a full-day Gulf Stream deep-sea experience. Be sure to call ahead and ask about the deep-drop Swordfish expeditions as well. Here are basic rates* for an Offshore Account adventure:
- Half Day ~ $795
- ¾ Day ~ $1150
- Full Day ~ $1500
- Gulfstream ~ $1995
*It is customary to tip the crew as you would anyone in the service industry (ie 15-20%)
Be sure to pack a lunch, plenty of sunscreen & refreshments ~ when you board the Offshore Account, you’re sure to work up an appetite while building lasting memories with your family. A day on the ocean is known to have therapeutic properties, and every family deserves an experience that will bring them closer together. Beach Realty is committed to helping you create the perfect vacation for you & your family. Let us find the vacation home that fits you best, and let a day on the ocean take care of the rest!
Offshore Account Sportfishing Charters
@ Marlin Quay Marina
1508 S. Waccamaw Dr.
Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
843.651.4444
864.238.0871
Map it »
Tags: Charter Fishing, Fishing, Murrells Inlet, Vacationing
Area History, Area Lifestyle, Vacationing
 Vacation home owners on the Grand Strand are uniquely positioned to enjoy a variety of coastal living. Just a few miles south of the Garden City/Surfside Beach communities is Murrells Inlet. This historic area of the Carolina coast has attracted visitors from around the world for centuries, and continues to thrive as a Lowcountry niche community. Though tourism is its main industry today, Murrells Inlet’s past is checkered with the exploits of pirates, plantations, explorers & adventurers.
Spanish sailors were the first to rediscover the inlet that had been home to several Native American tribes. These 16th century pioneers made their way down the East coast of the continent, all the way to the Bahamian islands. Yet something attracted them to what would become the Murrells Inlet area, and many would follow. Later, pirates loved the area for the clandestine salt marshes, where they hid & waited to plunder exporting ships on their way to England. These ships carried cotton, dyes and especially rice, the main cash crop of the Lowcountry.
Rice plantations were the dominant sources of commerce in the area; the owners’ wealth far surpassed that of the famed cotton barons of the American Southeast. This era brought many to the area, and even after the Civil War (and the beginning decline of the rice plantations) visitors flocked to the inlet because of its beauty and seclusion. A train to Georgetown would lead folks to a steamboat at Wachesaw. Then a buggy ride to a rustic getaway began a legacy of rich memories that continue today as people keep coming back to the Lowcountry.
These days, visitors to Murrells Inlet come for the local culture, an authentic Southern experience. The tourism industry, which is steeped in coastal fishing expeditions, thrives today. Fantastic views of the inlet & marshes can be seen from the many great restaurants that dot Hwy 17, and state parks & sculpture gardens are just a few more miles south of the famous eateries. Check out our previous post on Brookgreen Gardens & Huntington Beach State Park for more info on these great getaway spots!
Murrells Inlet is also known for its unique vacation homes, and Beach Realty is proud to offer some fantastic properties in the area. Visit our featured properties page to see some of these great vacation properties. There are so many reasons families choose this special part of the Lowcountry for their South Carolina vacations. Be sure to check back with us for more featured blog posts on our favorite spots to relax, fish, eat & have fun in the beautiful Murrells Inlet community.
Tags: Brookgreen Gardens, Fishing, Huntington Beach, Murrells Inlet, Vacation Home, Vacationing
Area Lifestyle, Vacationing
Thousands of families visit the Carolina coast each year, each family cherishing their own favorite feature of our beautiful state. We’ve got the best shopping, dining, surfing, fishing, amusement parks & countless other ways to play. It’s no wonder these same families make the return trip year after year. We’d like to share with you two of our favorite places to play & relax: Brookgreen Gardens, and Huntington Beach State Park. These natural beauties have indulged families for years who want a little nature, a little art and a whole lot of fun!
 BROOKGREEN GARDENS
Just 15 minutes south of Garden City, this 9,200 acre preserve is the only accredited zoo on the Carolina coast. Founded in 1931 by Archer & Anne Hyatt Huntington, the gardens boast the spectrum of diverse flora & fauna found in the Carolinas. Also contained on the lush grounds are scores of sculptures ~ some as small as a few inches, while others top over 20 feet in height! $12 will get you an adult pass that is good for a full week (children 5 & under are free), and yearly memberships are only $60!
Brookgreen Gardens is more than a beautiful place to relax & enjoy nature; this multi-purpose venue hosts many events throughout the year, including this month’s Sculpture Exhibition (The Wild West in Historic & Contemporary Art) and participation in The Pawleys Island Festival of Music & Art. The events change with the seasons, and all are suitable for all ages. Visit Brookgreen Gardens online to see a full calendar of events, and find out how you can treat your family to the best of the Carolina coast’s natural beauty.
 HUNTINGTON BEACH STATE PARK
Located just a few miles from Brookgreen Gardens, this majestic 2,500 acre park has long been a favorite destination for families & nature enthusiasts alike. A variety of landscapes ~ salted marshes, freshwater lagoons & 3 miles of dune-protected beaches ~ can be found at Huntington Beach State Park. Over 100 dedicated camping spots (many with running water & some with electricity) are available for overnight stays, and you may want to do just that!
Visitors to the park have the opportunity to explore Atalaya, a spanish-style castle that was once winter home to the sculptor Anne Hyatt Huntington. Tours of the castle run year ’round, as do guided trips through the park itself. Boating, fishing & birding are popular ways to enjoy the area ~ in fact, the park boasts over 300 species of birds, and has long been an east coast destination for amateur ornithologists. September 25th-27th is the 35th annual Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival, which draws crowds each year for food, fun & art at the beautiful moorish castle grounds. What better way to enjoy an afternoon (or weekend) with the family?
These are just two examples of what our community has to offer by way of natural beauty. Part of what makes the Grand Strand, well, ”Grand” is the care we’ve taken to preserve the area we inhabit. So after you’ve exhausted our amusement parks, fabulous restaurants, outstanding shopping outlets & all the rest we have to offer, make sure to visit these natural getaways and give your family the true Carolina Coast experience!
Tags: Arts, Atalaya, Brookgreen Gardens, Huntington Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, Vacationing
|
Check back often to learn more about our DISCOUNTS OFF weekly advertised rates for available dates 
