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Your Myrtle Beach Vacation: To Plan or not to Plan

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Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for beachgoers, golfers, shopaholics, foodies, fishermen, sightseers, thrill-seekers and more, but there are really only two types of vacationers: Those who like to plan every detail, and those who like to go with the flow.

It takes both types to pull off a fun vacation. Put too many planners in the same party and it becomes a power struggle over the daily itinerary. Put too many followers together and nothing gets accomplished. A healthy balance between the two approaches usually makes for a vacation that is both entertaining and relaxing.

So for you control freaks who want a well organized, surprise-free vacation, and for those free-spirited spontaneous types who like to let things happen, here's a few suggestion for some fun things to do that may be right up your alley – whether you planned it that way or not.

Attractions: The lines can get long at some of Myrtle Beach's more popular attractions during the summer months, but there are a few places where you can beat the rush by making reservations. T.I.G.E.R.S. Preserve offers a full day getaway to a local animal preserve, which offers personal encounters with chimps, lions, tigers, elephants and more. More laid-back visitors should go to hot spots like Broadway at the Beach or Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and pick from the abundance of attractions with the shortest lines.

Dining: Most restaurants in Myrtle Beach do not accept reservations but the ones that do offer the best fine dining in town. Book a table and time at The Library, New York Prime, 21 Main or any of the upscale eateries on the Grand Strand. For those who prefer places that don't accept reservations, there are a few tricks to beating the dinner rush. Have an early or late dinner to avoid the biggest crowds, or go to places where you can kill some time while your party is on the waiting list. Caribbean guests can hang out on the resort premises while waiting for a table at the Sea Captain's House next door.

Entertainment: Myrtle Beach is famous for its theaters, and there are five where you can buy your tickets in advance to guarantee your party seats. Alabama Theatre, Carolina Opry, Legends In Concert and The Palace Theatre offer family friendly performances, and Medieval Times and Pirates Voyage provide a dinner and show combo. For non-planners, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk offers free live music five nights a week during the summer months, and free fireworks displays are held throughout the Grand Strand – no tickets necessary.

Golf: If you are planning to play golf during your trip to Myrtle Beach, the Caribbean staff can help book your tee time at any area course and also offer discounted package plans. If you have a particular layout you want to play, book your package early and lock in that tee time. For more flexible golfers, you can save money on last-minute tee times, or play one of several nearby courses that accept walk-up play. 

Watersports: Book a deep-sea fishing trip, a dolphin-watching cruise or even scuba lessons at one of the many local outfitters. Sightseeing tours, horseback riding excursions and backwater canoe and kayak tours are also available when planning your outdoors getaway. But if you don't mind a short wait, you can get in line for a parasailing adventure or rent a boat or jet ski at most Grand Strand marinas. Or spend a day at Myrtle Beach or Huntington Beach State Parks and explore nature at your own pace.

 

(Posted: 7/14/15)