You don't have to spend a lot of money to have a good time vacationing on the Grand Strand. Here's a list of things to do in Myrtle Beach for free or on the cheap: *
The new Boardwalk in Myrtle Beach is the new hot spot for tourists and locals alike as the downtown area continues to be redeveloped. The 1.2-mile wooden walkway is a great place to hang out and people-watch, especially in the Plyler Park centerpiece, where free concerts and fireworks displays are held during the summer months.
Two piers serve as the bookends, both offering open-air restaurants and bars or just the chance to stroll out over the ocean and enjoy the view and breeze – both for free. *
The Grand Strand is loaded with complexes featuring shopping, restaurants and entertainment – Broadway at the Beach and Market Common in Myrtle Beach, the Marshwalk in Murrells Inlet and Barefoot Resort in North Myrtle Beach – places you can walk and have a good time without dropping a dime.
Broadway features a scenic lake and roving entertainers, Market Common is next to a huge park for walking or playing and the Marshwalk and Barefoot Resort offer nice strolls along the waterfront. * Myrtle Beach and the adjoining coastal communities love to party and there's always something going on around town offering fun for little or no money, especially during the summer months.
Check the local weekly entertainment guides that are distributed for free at local restaurants and bars for a look at some of the area festivals and other events. While you're at it, grab some of the local coupon books that are free of charge but allow you to save lots of money on dining, attractions and entertainment. *
Do a little homework on the Internet before your vacation and find out what's happening that's fun and free on the Grand Strand. New websites such as myrtlebeachdeals.com feature offers from local hotels, restaurants, bars and attractions that allow you to do the same things you want to do anything but at a discounted cost. *
The ultimate freebie place to hang out in Myrtle Beach is, well, the beach itself. That's the real reason people come to town, right? From rising early to catch a breath-taking sunrise in the mornings to taking a picnic basket and a blanket down to a quiet stretch of beach for a romantic moment under the stars, the beach is the place to be.
