Sometimes the best option for spring break is to just stay where you are because going home or planning an elaborate trip can be expensive and/or stressful.  

Good thing there is never a dull moment in Myrtle Beach. Take this week of free time to slow down, unwind, explore, and take in your surroundings in the Myrtle Beach/Conway area.  

1. Become a Tourist 

Sometimes there can be a resistance to engage in what are known as tourist traps, but it could be worthwhile to step out of that mindset. Forget for a day or two that you are a resident or student in the area and step into the mindset of someone who is just visiting. Pretend to be a tourist in your own home city and explore the highlights.  

Start by creating an itinerary and a budget. Consider shopping at Barefoot Landing, or visiting attractions like WonderWorks and Ripley’s Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach, or enjoy a view from the SkyWheel. In addition to these amazing locations, consider the rainy or cold days too and explore escape rooms, indoor miniature golf, and arcades.  

Maybe catch a dinner and a show at Pirate’s Voyage or Medieval Times. All of which are located roughly within 30 minutes of campus. Next, grab a friend and a fully charged phone, and set out with the goal to vacation. Tip: To make it more nostalgic or limit time phone usage, bring a disposable camera to capture your adventures for the day. 

1. Explore the Outdoors 

If being a tourist isn’t your thing or it’s too out of your budget, a great way to kill time is to explore the outdoors. Myrtle Beach, according to Visitmyrtlebeach.com, is home of 60 miles worth of beach. Here, you can go with friends, bring some beach games, or go alone and bring a good book. Along the stretch are plenty of bars with live music like Ocean Annie’s, shops and sights.  

Also consider exploring the trails at the Myrtle Beach State Park. There, according to the official site, you can walk or bike along the Nature Trails and embrace one of the last maritime forests on the coast of South Carolina. According to the website, the park also hosts a playground, picnic areas and campgrounds. 

1. Celebrate 

At the tail end of Spring Break there are several events and festivities celebrating heritage and culture in Myrtle Beach.  

As of right now, according to Tripster.com, there is a festival called Cam-Am Days that begins March 12 and continues to March 20. According to visitmyrtlebeach.com, the festival is meant to celebrate Canadian-Americans and the culture of this city, and has returned after a year hiatus due to the pandemic. According to these two travel sites, attendees have an opportunity to experience concerts, good food, and themed days at the beach. 

In addition to Can-Am days, St. Patrick’s Day is also approaching. Keep an eye out for several festivities celebrating Irish heritage throughout the county during the week we return to campus using travel sites. 

Overall, there is a little something for everyone here in Myrtle Beach. Take this break as an opportunity to explore, refresh, and unwind.