One of the biggest parts of Island Vista Resort’s appeal is its isolation. As the only oceanfront hotel for nearly a mile in either direction, Island Vista provides a secluded stretch of beach for those looking to get away from the bright lights and loud sounds of downtown Myrtle Beach for some tranquil relaxation.
Fortunately, Island Vista offers quality accommodation and amenities that make it hard to leave the resort. With an indoor/outdoor waterpark, poolside entertainment and the award-winning Cypress Room restaurant, who would want to leave? But if you do, there’s a lot of charm and history in the surrounding Ocean Forest neighborhood, one of the oldest and most prestigious on the Grand Strand. Here are some of the highlights that are within hiking, biking or walking distance of Island Vista:
Attractions: If you like golf, you can play a round on the first course built in Myrtle Beach at the nearby Pine Lakes International Golf Club. Opened as a part of the old Ocean Forest Hotel in 1927, this links-style layout gave birth to more than 100 golf courses on the Grand Strand. “The Granddaddy” was recently renovated from tee to green, as well as the historic clubhouse. Coincidently, the second course in Myrtle Beach is just a short drive down Ocean Boulevard at The Dunes Golf & Beach Club, which is rated one of the best in the Southeast. Both clubs are semi-private and take a limited number of public rounds. Ask Island Vista’s golf staff for help with tee times.
Dining: Although the famed Restaurant Row is a couple of miles to the north, you would be hard pressed to find a better stretch of eateries than this nearby strip of Kings Highway. Rated as the best seafood and sushi establishment in town, Mr. Fish is a popular locals’ hangout. For fine dining, the Aspen Grill offers fresh local seafood and prime cuts of steak in a comfortable setting. Other favorites include the Melting Pot, Carolina Roadhouse, Ciao and Sugami.
Nightlife: No loud dance clubs in this neighborhood, just friendly cafes and pubs that deliver live music and good times. Pine Lakes Tavern and Bourbon Street Café are stumbling distance apart in the Pine Lakes Center, while Foster’s Café & Bar and Jimmigan’s are locals’ hangouts/sports bars with good food, cold beer and bar games. If you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, Broadway at the Beach’s Celebrity Square features a dozen bars and is only a short cab ride away.
Shopping: The mega-malls and shopping complexes like Coastal Grand Mall and Broadway at the Beach are within short driving distances, but locally owned shops, boutiques and art galleries line Kings Highway in the surrounding area.
(posted 5/30/14)
