Myrtle Beach , South Carolina is a favorite and popular vacation destination spot for many families. For my family, however, we were looking for something a little more quiet, tranquil, relaxing and less of the tourist crowd but still close by. We found just that when we stumbled upon a very nice secluded getaway resort located in beautiful and peaceful Pawleys Island. Although we enjoy staying in Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island has now become our new favorite destination spot that we will try to make every year. Selfishly, we love it so much but don’t want to share our new discovery. We are afraid you will tell everyone!
Pawleys Island is just a short drive to Myrtle Beach and Charleston. Pawleys Island runs four miles along the Atlantic coast with a population of only around 103 according to 2010 Census. Pawleys Island is known for its beauty, quaint, layed back community but with upscale charm. The beach is just gorgeous and the sand is such a beautiful sandy white, the seashells were plentiful, and the crowd was at a minimum (which we liked the most). This little island is also popular for boating, fishing, and great seafood nearby, especially in Murrells Inlet, and you cannot forget the ever so popular golfing at beautiful Litchfield Golf Resort.
Did I mention we were only twenty-five minutes from Myrtle Beach and one hour from Charleston? We did take a trip to Myrtle Beach and to Charleston another (plan to spend the entire day in Charleston) but we could not wait to get back to our secluded getaway by evening time.
Our visit was during the last week of May, right before children were released for Summer break. So there was definitely less of a crowd if that is what you are seeking. Personally, we were after a little less noise for some much-needed relaxation so this location was perfect and exceeded our expectations. Overall, we were very satisfied with the weather visiting in May. Although my dear husband was very worried the temps would not be warm enough for swimming. We experienced some light thunderstorms only a couple of the days, but overall we had five perfectly warm (not too hot) days of weather for some swim time. The weather temperature was around mid-80’s.
Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort
Tucked away on Pawleys Island is Litchfield Beach and Golf Resort. Ranked number one on TripAdvisor, this resort is known for their award-winning accommodations and beautiful private and pristine beach, Litchfield Beach. My family and I stayed in the 1 bedroom, 1 bath Summerhouse condos on property just ten minutes walking distance from the beach or a short five-minute golf cart ride. There are other various styles and size condos and villas to choose from on the property that will accommodate larger families and also be located closer to the beach if that is something that is important to you.
Their indoor pool on property was fabulous for those rainy days. Moms looking for some extra much deserved TLC, then I would recommend their fabulous day spa with salon and spa packages available. Dads, if you are a golfer at heart, then you will be very pleased with their sought after golf courses and packages. Finally, the Starbucks Coffee shop on property was a huge hit!
Dining / Restaurants
Although we ate mostly in our condo, we did treat ourselves to some local dining. Afterall, I am a big foodie . Our first night on Pawleys Island , we eat at a very lively restaurant with some great music at Island Bar and Grill. I cannot describe the atmosphere inside the restaurant but the weather and the patio outside was great! My husband and I split a plate of wings and oh my goodness they hit the spot. The music was super too! Definitely would recommend stopping here
We love seafood and had to hit up some of the favorite local seafood restaurants over in Murrells Inlet which was about a ten minute drive from the resort. My number one recommendation for seafood is Hot Fish Club -it was OMG amazing! I would recommend a good drink, pull up and relax in a lawn chair overlooking the mesmerizing marsh while listening to some great bands playing.
They even have entertainment for your little ones with the playground nearby. I will warn you, the wait may be long but comes to no surprise with this popular and quaint restaurant. Just enjoy sipping on your wine or whatever you fancy, enjoy the cool night breeze in the air and the wonderful atmosphere.
As far as food goes, may I recommend the ever so popular “She Crab Soup” as an appetizer or teaser and the steamed “Super Steamed Pot”. You can’t go wrong with either one of these choices. The delicious pot of various steamed seafood, red potatoes, corn, sausage and mouth-watering Alaskan snow crab legs could have fed an army like mine, but we were selfish and shared amongst ourselves.
Overall, our trip was a success for the entire family! I am typically a spoiled traveler who likes to take expensive cruises and vacations but for an all in the budget of around $1700 which included our seven-night accommodations, gas, food, drinks, and souvenirs – not too bad if I say so myself. We will definitely be back next Summer.
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