North Myrtle Beach sits on a salty foundation of sand and shells. Dig a little deeper, though, and you’ll find deep roots in music and dance.  In April, the area holds its annual festival that celebrates Shag, a traditional dancing style popular along the Carolina coast.

The Society of Stranders (S.O.S) will host the Spring Safari festival from April 16–25. Each year, the event draws thousands of shaggers from up and down the East Coast. They come to display their moves and kickoff the official start of Spring.

Throughout the 10-day gala of tunes, food and dance, area lounges welcome visitors with various shindigs, long ago dubbed “tea parties.” The festivities usually include performances by popular beach-music bands, as well as instructors offering classes for everyone from novice to experienced shaggers.

Grand Strand Vacations, a North Myrtle Beach property rental firm, opens its more than 350 luxury homes and condos for the rhythmic guests. This year, Grand Strand is offering the gift of two free nights during a four-night stay.

“We love shag, and the folks who share in the boardwalk memories of couples dancing the night away,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “After getting down in the sand, we want to give our revelers a comfortable place to kick back, relax and catch up with old friends. There’s no better way to do this than at a Grand Strand property.”

When out-of-towners aren’t sipping cocktails and enjoying the ocean view from their seaside getaway, they’ll most likely be exploring the goings on at North Myrtle.

On Saturday April 25, the Spring Safari wraps up with the beloved parade down Main Street. The tradition is presented by the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs (ACSC). During the parade, floats wow spectators, competing for the most original design and best shag theme.  The street turns into a fairgrounds, with dancers and day-trippers enjoying food, entertainment and tunes.

S.O.S. started in 1980. That spring, the first festival drew roughly 5,000 people eager to compete in dance contests and listen to beach music. Over the years, the bash grew in size and events. Today, the Spring Safari marks a time for getting back to summer and reuniting with friends.

“We absolutely love this time of year,” Seddinger said. “This is a big coup for our region. We’ve become synonymous with something very special to people – beach dancing. It’s more than just the entertainment value. This is people’s memories of the past.”

Aside from free nights, Grand Strand Vacations also is offering golf packages with discounted green fees, as well as girls’ weekend deals. Pets are welcome.

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With ties to Southern rock and deep roots in the game of golf, the North Myrtle Beach area will merge both during the Hootie & the Blowfish Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am. Entering its sixteenth year, the tournament takes place April 12 at the Dye Club at Barefoot Resort. Gates open to the public at 8:30 a.m.

This year’s event tees off with pro links players like John Daly, Lee Elder, Kristy McPherson, Charlie Rymer and Spencer Levin –  just to name a few. Also in the mix, other famous sports faces such as former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon, NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, Football Hall of Famer Gale Sayers and MLB player Mickey Tettleton.

Rounding out the group of celebs, musician Edwin McCain, actor Kevin Sorbo, pro wrestler Ric Flair, musician Colt Ford and others will haul their clubs through 18 holes.

In a little more than a decade, the Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am has gone from a few big names to a high-caliber list of Hollywood regulars. Dubbed as one of the biggest goings-on in the area, the event draws hundreds of spectators from around the nation and continues to grow. As a result, area businesses have worked to accommodate the game’s visitors.

“It’s really a big part of this area’s rich music and sporting tradition,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations, a North Myrtle Beach property rental firm. “It’s a great reason to get away for a few days, check out the South Carolina coast and hit the greens with friends.”

To help welcome tourists to the festivities, Grand Strand Vacations will offer golf packages that combine discounted multi-night stays with reduced course fees. They also are giving away two free nights at their ocean front condos and homes during four-day getaways in April. With more than 350 properties, the rental agency views the upcoming golf tournament as the official start of tourist season.

“Hey, what better way to roll into spring,” Seddinger said. “Monday After the Masters kind of kicks it all off. We’re just following their lead and creating our own star-caliber experience for guests, so to speak.”

Money raised from the Celebrity Pro-Am goes toward children’s education through the Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation, as well as helps fund the South Carolina Junior Golf Association.

Since its start in 1995, the tournament has raised more than $2 million for charity. While it initially took place in Columbia, S.C. and later Kiawah Island Resort, Grand Strand became the event’s home in 2003.

This year, like in years past, the golf outing will wrap up with a performance by Hootie & the Blowfish.

“It’s just a fun time,” Seddinger said. “If you like golf, it’s great. If you don’t know anything about golf, it’s still great. Everybody loves to celebrity watch – that’s the real draw.”

A tradition that goes back nearly five decades, the Canadian-American Days Festival kicks off March 13 in the Myrtle Beach area. The weeklong celebration puts out the proverbial “Welcome Mat” for neighbors to the north, as well as spring breakers from around the United States. Activities include sporting competitions, cultural happenings, concerts and more.

Aside from specially-planned events, local businesses also offer deals on entertainment and food throughout the seven-day extravaganza. Visitors get a virtual goodie bag of bargains from companies like Grand Strand Vacations. The property rental firm in North Myrtle Beach plans to give Canadian-American Days’ goers discounted getaway stays. With more than 350 luxury homes and condos positioned along the coast, the firm will greet travelers with the red-carpet treatment, providing a selection of specials. Grand Strand’s deals include an entire weekend getaway for as little as $200 and 10 percent off three nights or more.

“Canadian-American Days really showcases the giving-nature of this region,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “We love when people come to our seaside community and share all there is to cherish. We’re very family-oriented, and this celebration epitomizes that quality.”

Some of this year’s Can-Am Days’ highlights include:

- The 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, taking place on March 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Main Street, North Myrtle Beach.

- The Carolina Opry Loves Canada, taking place from March 13 to 21 at 8 p.m. at The Carolina Opry, 8901 A Bus. 17 N., Myrtle Beach.

- South Strand Can-Am Reception, taking place on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Lakewood Conference Center, Surfside Beach.

- 3rd Annual Snowbird Games, taking place on March 16 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Holiday Sands South, 2411 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach.

- 2010 RBC Bank Canadian American Days Celebration Expo, taking place March 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C.

- 2010 Battle at the Beach Second Annual Canada vs. U.S.A. (Golf), taking place on March 18 at 11 a.m. at Pine Lakes Country Club, 5603 Grandaddy Drive, Myrtle Beach.

- Minigolf Tournament, taking place on March 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hawaiian Rumble, 32104 Hwy. 17, North Myrtle Beach.

- Original Drifters, Carl Gardner’s Coasters, Herb Reed & the Platters, taking place on March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Alabama Theatre, 4750 Hwy. 17 S., North Myrtle Beach.

Canadian out-of-towners and other travelers alike can look forward to discounts at Ripley’s Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum, Ripley’s Moving Theater, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze. In addition, major entertainment hubs like Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and Alabama Theatre announced price cuts on certain shows.

“Can-Am has been going on since the early ‘60s and every year it just seems to get better,” Seddinger said. “It gives folks from other parts of the world a chance to relax beachside and take in a taste of the Carolina coast. We’re excited to see old friends again, and make new ones as well.”

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North Myrtle Beach has long been labeled a family-friendly vacation destination. But what many people may not realize is that it also boasts a pet-friendly distinction. In fact, the area recently made BringFido.com’s list of Favorite Pet-Friendly Destinations in the World.

There are numerous accommodations in the North Myrtle area that allow pets. Grand Strand Vacations, a property rental firm in North Myrtle Beach, started lighting the open sign for pets before it became popular with hotels, motels and resorts across the country. Many of the company’s more than 350 vacation homes, condos and villas welcome travelers’ four-legged companions.

“We want everyone to feel at home here in North Myrtle Beach – that includes man’s best friend,” said Grand Strand Vacations owner Nancy Seddinger, who is a dog owner.

Seddinger realizes that vacations can be cut short when owners have to leave their pets behind. A recent TripAdvisor survey of more than 1,100 participants found that 35 percent of pet owners take quicker trips – and 25 percent travel less – because they can’t take their pets.

Travel statistics from BringYourPet.com show how pet-friendly travel accommodations can change the duration of a vacation for pet owners – 63 percent said they would lengthen their visit if given the opportunity to travel with their pets.

At North Myrtle Beach, accommodating dogs goes beyond a place to stay:

- Dining/Shopping: Barefoot Landing has more than 100 retail shops and a handful of restaurants, some of which cater to man’s best friend. Wild Wing Café and T-Bonz Gill and Grill both allow dogs in their outdoor seating areas. Good-behaving dogs can be rewarded with a trip to Barefoot Landing’s pet boutique or pet bakery.

- Daycare: For owners who need a dog sitter while they play a round of golf or see a show, there are plenty of options. Pet Pizazz and Diva Dog are two doggie daycare providers that also offer grooming services.

- Life’s a Beach: While some beaches don’t allow dogs during the busy tourist season, North Myrtle Beach and its neighbors try to be accommodating to its human and canine visitors. Dogs are allowed on the beaches before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. from May 15 through Sept. 15. During the rest of the year, there are no time restrictions. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners must pick up any and all waste.

- Dog Park: For dogs who need to release some energy off-leash, there is the Myrtle Beach Barc Parc located off Kings Highway at Mallory Lake Drive. This 11-acre fenced park includes a large pond for swimming and a doggy shower. There are separate areas for big and small dogs.

- In Case of Emergency: Like their human owners, pets can get sick or injured while on vacation. If that happens, excellent care is provided around the clock at Animal Hospital of the Strand. Their phone number is (843) 445-9797.

After a day out on the town with Fido or Fluffy, the whole family can come back to their Grand Strand Vacations home, condo or villa and enjoy the rest of their stay at North Myrtle Beach.

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A wave of green will slam ashore at North Myrtle Beach on Saturday, March 13 when the coastal community holds its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. The Irish shindig starts at 9 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m.

Festivities kick off with a parade down Main Street – a tradition that dates back some 22 years. A full day of drink, food, music and entertainment follows. Visitors can peruse more than 50 arts and crafts stands at the street fair, or simply indulge in a classic dish of smoky corned beef and cabbage. Either way, the free celebration assures an experience that embraces the rich culture of Ireland.

Dubbed by the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce as one of the area’s most unique festivals, the St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza will feature two performance stages, along with rides and games.

To accommodate the popularity surrounding the extravaganza, Grand Strand Vacations has announced plans to help visitors mold the perfect getaway package. Since the North Myrtle property rental firm fully anticipates a surge of tourists in shamrock shirts, it will offer more than 350 luxury homes and condos – some allowing pets – to travelers seeking a coastal pot of gold.

“It’s an exciting weekend around here,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “You’d be surprised, but there’s a lot of Irish pride and nostalgia in this region.”

While most folks may not associate the North Myrtle area with four-leaf clovers, it actually serves as home to quite a few Irish-themed pubs and restaurants. This fact – along with amazing off-season rates on vacation rentals – makes St. Patrick’s a thriving holiday here.

“This time of year, it’s still cold and snowy most everywhere else,” Seddinger said. “What better time to take a break from it all? Kick back at an ocean-front home, grab a frosty mug, put on some green and celebrate with friends in style.”

With the sound of bagpipes filling the air and plenty of folks letting their hair down – green wigs that is – this year’s St. Patrick’s Day event likely will set record over previous festivals.

“It’s always big, never a dull moment when the leprechaun hats come out,” Seddinger said. “It’s a fun time – has been that way for the last two decades.”

The award-winning Grand Strand Vacations offers various seasonal discounts, as well as golf packages and special rates for holidays. To book a property for the upcoming festival or otherwise, please call 1-800-722-6278 or visit us at grandstrandvacations.com.

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North Myrtle Beach, SC (February 07, 2010) – With a TV commercial highlighting vacation rentals having aired in Sunday’s big game, football fans are discovering why renting vacation homes, condos, villas and cabins is a favorite choice for many versus hotels. Beyond the experiences families and friends build by staying in a home away from home in North Myrtle Beach, there are numerous benefits to choosing vacation rentals – sometimes in ways they’d least expect.

Whether trying vacation rentals for the first time or if you’re one of the nearly nine in 10 travelers who plan to rent again,* Grand Strand Vacations travel and vacation rental expert, Nancy Seddinger, Owner, offers the following planning tips and insights as a post-game update for visiting North Myrtle Beach:

·        KNOW YOUR DESTINATION: Whether you are a first-time traveler to North Myrtle Beach, SC or not, it’s recommended that you become familiar with the state’s special events, seasons and offerings. Here are some activities that guests find most enjoyable:

o   www.nmbevents.com

o   www.visitmyrtlebeach.com

·        LOOK FOR PACKAGES: During certain seasons, vacation rental packages can provide even more value, some with 2-bedrooms starting at just $45 per night, with all of the typical amenities of a resort and more. Visit www.grandstrandvacations.com to become familiar with various vacation rental types, reservation rates as well as travel specials available in North Myrtle Beach, SC.

·        AVOID AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES: Most Grand Strand Vacations North Myrtle Beach, SC vacation rentals come equipped with washers and dryers, and Grand Strand Vacations also provides linens for rent. Travelers may choose to use these perks to pack less clothing and toiletries, avoiding commercial airlines’ baggage fees and restrictions.

·        USE SPACE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE:  Grand Strand Vacations vacation homes and condos can accommodate all types of arrangements, often costing less than a single hotel room by sleeping up to 36 guests in a house versus just a few.

·        SAVE ON DINING OUT: With full kitchens, and sometimes, outdoor grills, Grand Strand Vacations vacation rental travelers often make and store meals and snacks for less, including football favorites like homemade nachos during postseason trips. Use local ingredients and recipes for more memorable mealtimes, like Calabash Seafood. This also provides healthy travel options, cutting the amount of calories typically consumed while on vacation.

·        ASK ABOUT AFTER-HOURS SERVICE: When looking into any vacation rental accommodations, check to see if there is an accessible customer service number for emergency needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and for after-hour requests.

·        ENTERTAIN FOR FREE: Most of Grand Strand Vacations’ vacation homes, villa rentals and condos include amenities not found in hotels, some with private swimming pools, whirlpool spas, game rooms, fireplaces, DVD players, Internet access, game consoles and free movie and video game rentals, etc. Many are also in communities with access to fitness centers, hiking trails, parks, the beach, etc.

·        ASK ABOUT PARTNERSHIPS: Beyond the ability to live like a local in North Myrtle Beach, vacation rental guests can also take advantage of our relationships with activity providers, shops, restaurants, tour companies and more. Guests can also opt for concierge-type services, including golf tee-times, restaurant reservations and show tickets to name a few.

·        REMEMBER BIG EVENTS: Whether it’s for football championships or national Bowl games, concerts, baseball series’, basketball or other events, vacation rentals can save fans from the hassle of finding multiple hotel rooms during big events, and on the cost of multiple reservations.\

·        TRANSPORTATION: Other relationships to remember are those made between vacation rental managers and transportation providers, whether it’s rental cars, shuttle services, golf carts, bicycles or more. For example, Grand Strand Vacations can provide assistance with Golf Cart rentals, equipment rentals, strollers and wheel chairs.

To learn more about available vacation rental options in North Myrtle Beach, SC, visit www.grandstrandvacations.com as a comprehensive resource. Also visit www.nmbevents.com, which lists more ongoing events in the area.

For general answers to frequently asked questions about vacation rentals or for more information, visit http://www.DiscoverVacationHomes.com as an official category resource. Also connect with travelers and experts in the Facebook vacation rental community at http://www.facebook.com/DiscoverVacationHomes, and join the conversation on Twitter @GoVacationHomes.

Established in 1954, Grand Strand Vacations has been delighting vacationers for over 50 years. We have the experience and expertise to match you with a North Myrtle Beach vacation rental that meets or exceeds your expectations at any time of the year. Our office is staffed with friendly, experienced vacation rental specialists and sales agents. So call us today concerning our vacation rentals or Myrtle Beach golf packages and make sure you come spend some time with us in North Myrtle Beach.

Media Contact:
Grand Strand Vacations
503 Sea Mountain Hwy
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
800-722-6278
info@grandstrandvacations.com

For couples in search of an escape to the beach this Valentine’s Day, Grand Strand Vacations has just what the heart desires. The North Myrtle Beach rental property company is offering Sweetheart Specials at many of their more than 350 oceanfront and waterway homes.

The North Myrtle Beach area presents a multitude of events to celebrate the holiday:

For Chocolate Lovers:
Death by Chocolate: A Chocolate and Champagne Affair
Feb. 11 from 7-9 p.m. at the Sea Mist Oceanfront Resort Conference Center

The Girl Scouts are known for more than just cookies around here. Death by Chocolate benefits troops in the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina region. The benefit includes an evening of champagne, chocolate creations from local chefs and vendors, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and more. Not only do participants get to sample the chocolate desserts, entrees and beverages, they also get to cast a vote along with a panel of judges for their favorite chocolate concoctions. Prizes will be doled out for each category. The cost is $40 per ticket or $75 for two tickets. For more information, call 1-800-786-8704 or 1-800-868-9911.

For Lovers and Haters of Valentine’s Day:
Love, Improv Style
Feb. 12-13 at 7:30 p.m. at Uptown @ Myrtle Beach Mall

Carolina Improv Company puts on a show similar to the popular television show, “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” In their usual weekly show called, “Whose Beach Is It Anway?,” they take audience suggestions related to funny things about Myrtle Beach – from all-you-can-eat buffets and beach stores to timeshare sales people and bike rallies. For Valentine’s Day, some ideas could include relationships, marriage, divorce, first dates, blind dates, seeing-eye dog dates, marriage proposals, break ups, Internet dating, dating after 50, Cupid and his arrow, eHarmony commercials and much more. The show is appropriate for all ages. Tickets purchased at the door are $10 each for adults and $8 each for children. Discounted tickets are available online for $8.68 each. For more information, call (843) 272-4242 or go online at http://www.uptownmb.com/index.php.

For the Active Couple:
13th Annual BI-LO Myrtle Beach Marathon
Feb. 11-14

USA Today recently ranked this event in the top 10 of “great winter marathons.” It’s so popular that the full and half-marathon are sold out. But there still are spots open for the RBC Bank 5K and Ripley’s Family Fun Run on Feb. 12, as well as the Michelob ULTRA Bicycle Ride on Feb. 14. Participants of any event also get free entrance into the Ripley’s Post Race Party on Feb. 12 and the House of Blues Post Race Party on Feb. 13. A Runner’s Expo will be held at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center from 5-9 p.m. Feb. 11 and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 12. For more information, go to www.mbmarathon.com.

Whether you’ve filled up on chocolate, laughed to your heart’s content or ran/biked to your muscles’ limits, you can rest easy knowing you’ll be going back to your Grand Strand Vacation beach getaway to relax and celebrate being together.

For more information on our Sweetheart Specials, call 1-800-722-6278.

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What used to be an event reserved for bigger cities like New York, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles is making its debut here in the Grand Strand this week. Restaurant Week is your chance to try fine dining and casual establishments in North Myrtle Beach and beyond while staying at your Grand Strand Vacations home.

All 10 participating eateries are offering special menu items, promotions and discounts to include a three-course meal for $30. In alphabetical order:

Aspen Grille
(843) 449-9191
Eating at Aspen Grille supports the local economy beyond this restaurant’s doors. This steak and seafood establishment has built its menu and reputation around food sourced from the best local suppliers. Their Restaurant Week offering is a three-course meal:
- Soup/Salad: Winter Squash Bisque with Lump Crab; Caesar Salad; or Aspen Grille House salad with Goat Cheese
- Entrée: Pan Roasted Free Range Chicken; New York Strip; or Pan Seared Flounder with Cheddar grits
- Dessert: Crème Brule; Key Lime Pie; or Chocolate Kahlua Cheesecake

Café Amalfi at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort
(843) 449-5000
With fabulous views of the Atlantic Ocean, dinner guests can enjoy a three-course meal that includes a choice of:
- Starter: Spinach & Artichoke Dip; Fresh Seafood Chowder; or Pecan Crusted Goat Cheese Salad
- Entrée: The Burger; Braised Pot Roast; Grilled Wild Salmon; Cornmeal Dusted North Carolina Trout; or Crab Crusted Chicken
- Dessert: Death by Chocolate Brownies; or Chocolate Ganache

Captain Dave’s Dockside Seafood
(843) 651-5850
This family-owned establishment first opened its doors in 1975 and offers seating overlooking Murrells Inlet. Southern Living magazine featured the restaurant in an article, where the writer said: “You could point at the menu with your eyes closed and be assured of a culinary treat.” Restaurant Week’s prix fixe menu includes:
- Appetizers: Steamed Mussels in garlic butter; Bacon Wrapped Scallops; French Onion Soup; or House Salad
- Entrees: Salmon Edo; 12 oz. Prime Rib; or Shrimp Scampi served over Linguini
- Desserts: Apple Tart; New Orleans Bread Pudding with a Jack Daniel’s sauce; or Key Lime Pie

Croissants Bistro and Bakery
(843) 448-2253
At night, Croissants turns into the area’s first French Bistro that perfectly pairs food and wine. Owner Heidi Vukov learned her craft by spending time in her grandmother’s kitchen in Germany. During Restaurant Week choose one of each:
- Starters: Brie En Croute; Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp; Coquille St. Jacques; Carolina Jumbo Lumped Crab Cake; Exotic Forest Mushroom Risotto with Thyme, White Truffle Oil; or Beef Carpaccio
- Entrees: Crepes Du Jour; Pork Tenderloin Francais; Oven Roasted Rack Of Lamb; or Veal Osso Bucco
- Dessert: Assorted Temptations, Your Choice

Drunken Jacks Restaurant and Lounge
(843) 651-2044
Drunken Jack’s is named after Jack, a pirate from Blackbeard’s crew accidentally left behind on a small island off Murrells Inlet. Enjoy your meal while looking out onto water and listening to nightly live entertainment:
- Appetizers: She Crab Soup; Stuffed Mushrooms; or Steamed Mussels
- Entrées: Steak Neptune; Blackened Grouper Royal; or  Drunken Jack’s Shore Dinner
- Desserts: Black Joke Pie; Key Lime Pie; or Strawberry Short Cream Cake

High Hammock, Maverick Seaside Kitchen
(843) 979-0030
This Pawley’s Island restaurant combines the flavors and staples of Lowcountry and Southern cooking. It is located at the Hammock Shops Village, about 22 miles south of the Grand Strand. For Restaurant Week, High Hammock will be offering a daily menu. Here’s an example:
- Appetizers: Lowcountry Black-Eyed Pea Soup; or Thornhill Farm Lettuces with watermelon radish, garden herbs, grape tomatoes, orange-coriander vinaigrette
- Entrées: Seared Nantucket Bay Scallops with gold potato gnocchi; or House Made Grilled Garlic Sausage with lobster mashed potatoes
- Desserts: Green Apple Cobbler; or Sopaipillas

The Melting Pot
(843) 692-9003
When the first Melting Pot opened in Florida in 1975, there were only three items on the menu – Swiss cheese, beef and chocolate fondue. Including Myrtle Beach, there are more than 145 locations in the United States. If there’s a Restaurant Week in one of those cities, you are sure to find the Melting Pot participating.
- First Course: Cheese Fondue; Spinach Artichoke Cheese Fondue; Cheddar Cheese Fondue; Wisconsin Trio Cheese Fondue; The Melting Pot House Salad; Caesar Salad; or California Salad
- Second Course: Center Cut Filet Mignon; Succulent Chicken Breast; Farm Raised White Shrimp & Teriyaki; or Marinated Sirloin.
- Third Course (Dessert Fondue): The Original; Cookies ‘n Cream; Flaming Turtle; or Pure Chocolate.

Sticky Fingers Rib House
(843) 839-7427
The Sticky Fingers owners decided to start their own restaurant in 1992 in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. because there weren’t any places to get Memphis-style barbeque. Almost 20 years later, there are 22 Sticky Fingers throughout the Southeast. Their Restaurant Week menu is set at $30 for two people:
- Pick one appetizer to share: Cheddar Fries; Fried Onions; Savannah Dip; or Sticky Potato Skins
- Pick one entrée EACH (also includes two sides each): Barbecue Pork Dinner; Hickory-Smoked Chicken Dinner; Half Slab of Ribs; or Barbecue Pork Sandwich
- Pick one dessert to share: Ernie’s Pecan Pie; Peach Cobbler; Double Fudge; or Brownie Sundae

Vidalia’s Restaurant at the Sheraton Hotel
(888) 757-2670
Vidalia’s is known for its modern décor and unique open-kitchen design. Their Restaurant Week menu includes some Southern favorites:
- Appetizers: Vidalia’s Signature Creamy Crab Bisque; Fried Green Tomato Napoleon; Shrimp and Grits Martini; or Green Salad
- Entrée: Maple Almond Salmon; Grilled Herb Chicken Breast; or Grilled New York Strip
- Dessert: Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake

Waterscapes at Marina Inn Grande Dunes
(843) 913-2845‎
Waterscapes’ executive chef, James Clark, runs the kitchen with the philosophy of giving diners a “farm to table” experience. Everything on the menu is fresh and homemade:
- Starters: Shrimp Bisque; North Carolina Muscovy Duck Meatballs; or Green Salad
- Entrée: Carolina Shrimp & Grits; Chicken Pilliard; or Wood Grilled Angus Flat Iron Steak
- Sweets: Chocolate Mousse Bombe; Trio of Crème Brulee; or Toffee Profiteroles

If you’re like us at Grand Strand Vacations, you won’t be able to decide on just one. So cleanse your pallet, pick one, a few or all restaurants, and make your reservations today.

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Besides the pelican diving for fresh seafood, a fish darting away from your feet or a crab scurrying across the sand, you wouldn’t think North Myrtle Beach was home to an abundance of other wildlife. There are more than just the typical coastal creatures outside of your Grand Strand Vacations home.

One of our favorites…ALLIGATORS! There’s something about these dinosaur-like reptiles. If you scan some of our pristine estuaries slowly, you’ll often see two eyes and nostrils sitting perfectly still just above the surface. Barely making a ripple, they move to a new spot. And when they see a potential meal, watch out. With the quickness of a mousetrap, they leap from the water and wrap their massive jaws around the unsuspecting one-course breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The North Myrtle Beach area offers ample opportunities to see alligators (and other animals) at a distance or in the wild.

Alligator Adventure
Located adjacent to Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, Alligator Adventure boasts the “World’s Largest Croc” as one of the many animals in its menagerie. Measuring in at more than 20-feet long, Utan is the biggest crocodile in the United States, according to their officials.

More than 800 alligators can be found at this attraction. These include eight-inch infants and 15-foot adults, ranging in size from 500 to 1,000 pounds. The main alligator pool contains more than 300 adults. Visitors learn about the life history of these prehistoric beasts. Also, you can watch as the animal keepers feed the hungry alligators. It’s amazing how fast they move when food is at stake!

Alligator Adventure showcases more than the reptile species. There also are snakes, Galapagos tortoises, river otters, beavers, frogs, lizards, turtles, tropical birds, zebras, tigers, cats and lemurs.

Waccatee Zoological Farm
Located on 500 acres of private, wooded land just miles down the road from North Myrtle Beach, this zoo contains more than 100 species of animals and is a breeding ground for many types of migratory birds.

Throughout the year, it’s not uncommon to see more than 1,000 egrets or heron on the grounds. Some of the wildlife includes camels, lions, monkeys, zebras, kangaroos, and of course, alligators. Patrons can feed many of the animals.

A boardwalk winds through a swamp area for visitors who want a closer look at the alligators or coastal birds in their natural habitat.

Huntington Beach State Park
One of the prime spots near North Myrtle Beach to see alligators in the wild is the Huntington Beach State Park. About 30 minutes away – and well worth the drive – this scaly escape lets visitors come nose-to-nose with one of these reptiles. Take a Causeway Wildlife Walk and observe the beasts in action.

Besides alligators, the park also is home to sea turtles, snakes and a variety of birds, including herons, egrets, rails, wood storks, shorebirds, ducks and bald eagles. From March to October, you can take a guided walk with expert birders.

The park’s attraction, though, goes beyond four-legged and winged creatures. Those who trek to the state park can tour Atalaya Castle (pronounced AH-tuh-lie-uh). It was built in the 1930s by Anna Hyatt and Archer Huntington, who owned much of Central Park in New York. Part of the castle features a watch tower meant for bats to roost and breed.

Free guided tours are offered from March through October. You also can explore Atalaya on your own year round.

Just think, you can be the king or queen of two castles in one get-away – the Huntington Beach location and your Grand Strand Vacation’s fortress.

Happy hunting!

Stay tan,
Grand Strand Vacations

With so many attractions in and around the North Myrtle Beach area, every trip means discovering new places ripe with adventure. Seeking something unusual, mesmerizing – even stunning? Look no further than right outside of your Grand Strand Vacations’ rental home.

Just minutes down the road, you’ll find the Ripley’s family of entertainment hubs! Visit one or all of these surreal locales that serve as stomping grounds for oddity hunters and curious visitors alike.

Grand Strand Vacations loves them all, so we’ve jotted down some details about each below.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, this Ripley’s venue is the most visited attraction in South Carolina. Its 87,000 square-foot facility is home to thousands of the planet’s most interesting – and in some cases dangerous – aquatic life.

Ripley’s Aquarium is broken up into several sections full of marine life. The Rio Amazon contains many creatures found in the Amazon River – from Piranhas and stingrays to catfish and other freshwater dwellers.

The Dangerous Reef exhibit allows you to get up close and personal with sea life. A moving path glides you through an acrylic tunnel as thousands of fish (and sharks) of all sizes swim past, and over you. The tank holds more than 2 million gallons of water.

The Living Gallery contains more “delicate” creatures and plant-like animals, including octopus, sea anemones, living corals and clams.

Visitors can get hands-on with some of the underwater inhabitants. At the shallow end of Ray Bay, you can touch the stingrays.

One of the newest exhibits at Ripley’s Aquarium is the Living Babies. It features eggs of all shapes, sizes and colors – from baby seahorses and chicks to sharks.

The exhibit, which even showcases prehistoric eggs, contains more than 30 interactive and living displays with something new hatching every day

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum on the Boulevard
This museum, or odditorium, boasts that it “features the largest collection of the odd and unusual from all corners of the world.” Here, you’ll go face to face with a genuine shrunken head, see where you stand aside the world’s tallest man and make friends with a 6-legged cow – it’s utterly fascinating! All of the exhibits are actual, original and real. The museum also is the inspiration for the hit TV series of the same name.

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
This favorite local haunt takes visitors through a tour of the old Grimsby & Streaper Casket Company.  Supposedly, this frightening warehouse was operated by the same two men since 1891. According to legend, the partners one day mysteriously vanished. Their abrupt disappearance, along with many odd happenings surrounding the site, has townspeople questioning the casket company’s bizarre property. In fact, it’s said the Grimsby & Streaper building sits above an underground cave called “The Sink.” Many men have entered to learn more about the site. Few have returned to reveal its dark secrets. Ultimately, Ripley Entertainment acquired the property. The tours give way to live actors and dozens of frightening, mysterious scenes. Enter if you dare!

Ripley’s Moving Theater
As its name suggests, this Ripley’s site is a 4D virtual reality simulator. In other words, you actually ride with the movie and experience every jolt and turn. The Moving Theater uses cutting-edge technology and six-channel digital surround sound to make it feel like you’re one with the images on the big screen.

Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze
With more than 100 mirrors fashioned with LED lighting and digital sound, the experience of trying to find your way out of the maze is different every time. One ticket allows you to go through as many times as you like. The Web site challenges visitors to compete for the fastest time through the maze.

As you see, aside from Grand Strand Vacations’ amazing low rates, there are plenty of other shockers to unveil in and around North Myrtle Beach. So come visit us and truly witness the extraordinary – in terms of beach homes and coastal entertainment.

Stay tan,
Grand Strand Vacations