Choosing where to stay can shape your entire vacation, and Myrtle Beach is no exception. With 60 miles of coastline, dozens of neighborhoods, and a wide range of short-term rentals, finding the right area depends on how you plan to travel.
This guide breaks down the best areas to stay for Myrtle Beach visitors, based on their personal travel style: from family-friendly beach trips to golf getaways, romantic escapes, and lively group vacations. If you’re searching for a vacation rental that fits your plans (not just a place to sleep), you’re in the right spot.
Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach: Best Areas Depending on Your Travel Style
Choosing where to stay can shape your entire vacation, and Myrtle Beach is no exception. With 60 miles of coastline, dozens of neighborhoods, and a wide range of short-term rentals, finding the right area depends on how you plan to travel.
This guide breaks down the best areas to stay for Myrtle Beach visitors, based on their personal travel style: from family-friendly beach trips to golf getaways, romantic escapes, and lively group vacations. If you’re searching for a vacation rental that fits your plans (not just a place to sleep), you’re in the right spot.
How to Choose the Best Area to Stay in Myrtle Beach
Before diving into specific neighborhoods, it helps to ask yourself a few questions travelers commonly search for when planning a Myrtle Beach vacation:
- Do you want to be walkable to attractions, or tucked away from crowds?
- Are you traveling with kids, a group of friends, or as a couple?
- Is beach access, nightlife, golf, or dining your top priority?
- Do you prefer condo-style vacation rentals or spacious homes?
Myrtle Beach offers distinct areas that cater to each of these needs. Below, we break them down by travel style so you can quickly find your match.
For First-Time Visitors: Central Myrtle Beach
If it’s your first trip, Central Myrtle Beach is one of the best areas to stay for Myrtle Beach newcomers, and for good reason.
Why Stay Here
This area puts you close to the city’s most iconic attractions, including the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, SkyWheel, and family-friendly entertainment. It’s also packed with oceanfront vacation rentals, making it easy to find condos with views and resort-style amenities.
Ideal For: first-time visitors, travelers without a car, short stays and long weekends
Vacation Rental Tip
Central Myrtle Beach has a wide mix of condos, many with pools, lazy rivers, and direct beach access. If convenience is your priority, this area delivers.
Central Myrtle Beach rentals we love
Sandy Beach Resort at Myrtle Beach, SC
Paradise Resort at Myrtle Beach, SC
For Families: North Myrtle Beach
When families ask about the best areas to stay in Myrtle Beach with kids, North Myrtle Beach often tops the list.
Why Families Love It
North Myrtle Beach feels more relaxed and residential while still offering plenty to do. The beaches are wider, traffic is lighter, and attractions are more spread out, making it easier for families to slow down and enjoy.
Ideal For: Families with young kids, multi-generational trips, longer stays
Nearby Highlights
- Cherry Grove Beach
- Family-friendly dining
- Mini golf and water parks
Vacation Rental Tip
This area is known for spacious condos and beach houses, perfect for families who want full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and space to spread out.
North Myrtle Beach rentals we love
South Shore Villas at Myrtle Beach, SC
Ambassador Villas at Myrtle Beach, SC
For Couples: Surfside Beach
Looking for a quieter, more romantic vibe? Surfside Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Myrtle Beach for couples.
Why It Works for Couples
Surfside offers a charming, small-town beach feel just south of the main Myrtle Beach strip. It’s calmer, less commercial, and ideal for beach walks, sunsets, and low-key dining.
Ideal For: Couples’ getaways, anniversary trips, travelers seeking a slower pace
Vacation Rental Tip
Surfside Beach is popular for cozy condos and smaller vacation rentals close to the water—perfect for couples who want privacy without isolation.
For Golf Trips: Barefoot Resort & North End Areas
Myrtle Beach is known as a golf destination, and the Barefoot Resort area is one of the best areas to stay for Myrtle Beach golf travelers.
Why Golfers Stay Here
You’re close to championship courses, practice facilities, and golf packages—without paying oceanfront prices. Many rentals are designed specifically for golf groups.
Ideal For: Golf trips, friends groups, extended stays
Vacation Rental Tip
Look for condos or townhomes near Barefoot Landing for easy access to dining and entertainment after a day on the course.
For Nightlife & Entertainment: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Area
If nightlife and entertainment are high on your list, staying near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk puts you in the center of the action.
Why Stay Near the Boardwalk
From live music and bars to arcades and oceanfront attractions, this area stays lively day and night. It’s one of the most searched spots for short-term rentals in Myrtle Beach.
Ideal For: Groups of friends, young couples, festival and event travelers
Vacation Rental Tip
Boardwalk-area condos are great for walkability. Just keep in mind that this area can be louder which is great if energy is what you’re after.
For a Quiet Beach Escape: Pawleys Island
For travelers asking, “Where can I stay near Myrtle Beach but avoid the crowds?” Pawleys Island is the answer.
Why Pawleys Island Stands Out
Located south of Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island offers natural beauty, uncrowded beaches, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Ideal For: Nature lovers, remote workers, peaceful beach vacations
Vacation Rental Tip
Pawleys Island features charming beach homes and low-rise condos which is great for travelers who value tranquility over proximity to attractions.
Finding the Best Area to Stay in Myrtle Beach
There’s no single “best” location for everyone, but there is a best fit for your travel style. Whether you’re planning a family beach week, a golf getaway, or a romantic escape, choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference.
At Stay, we specialize in short-term rentals that match how people actually vacation. Our local expertise helps travelers find the best areas to stay Myrtle Beach has to offer without the guesswork.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Explore more Myrtle Beach travel guides on the Stay blog, or browse our curated vacation rentals to find the perfect place for your next coastal escape. Let Stay help you make Myrtle Beach feel like home.