The picturesque Myrtle Beach sits at the center of a 60-mile-long stretch of beach known as “The Grand Strand.” It’s undoubtedly one of the premier waterfront destinations along the Atlantic coast with a warm subtropical climate, inviting turquoise waters, and soft sandy beaches. This beach city is all about world-class restaurants serving delicious seafood, upscale shopping outlets, and a scintillating glass and steel skyline. So, it’s no surprise that there are fabulous options for an oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. After all, beach towns require beach living, don’t they? And oceanfront hotels are the most desirable and scenic digs in town.
With the beach steps from the door, the possibilities are endless. Spend the day lounging on a chair beneath the umbrella on the golden sands. Or, you could relax by the pool and drink cocktails with views of the beach. Plus, rooms with balconies are a bonus, as you can sip a glass of wine or coffee or even read a book! To that end, here are the 11 best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach along the oceanfront.
Table of contents
- Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes
- Compass Cove Oceanfront Hotel
- Avista Resort
- North Beach Plantation Myrtle Beach
- Island Vista Resort
- Coral Beach Resort & Suites
- The Cottages at North Beach Plantation
- Anderson Ocean Club & Spa
- Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes
- Landmark Resort
- Beach Colony Resort
- Recommended Beach Bars/Restaurants in Myrtle Beach
- Recommended Things To Do in Myrtle Beach
- Best Beach Areas in Myrtle Beach
Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes
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The Marriott’s OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes is the grandest oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. This villa resort sits in the exclusive community of Grande Dunes. What’s more, it offers all the home comforts and privacy of a luxury villa along with the amenities of a hotel resort. All rooms have two views, either the garden or the oceanfront view, both partial and complete. What’s more, all the cozy two-bedroom villas have a slew of mod-cons such as flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi, plush beds, and even fully equipped kitchens for cooking up a storm. The master bedrooms are a dream with oversized soaking tubs and furnished balconies that look out to the ocean. The two-bedroom oceanfront villa is, undoubtedly, the best digs in the house. It’s no surprise that this hotel is also one of the most romantic hotels in Myrtle Beach.
The rest of the resort is no less impressive, especially since it has indoor and outdoor pools both. So, you can enjoy pool time no matter the season or the weather. After a swim in the pool, a soak in the hot tub or the sauna will relax you. Or, you could take indulgence to the next level at the Hibiscus Spa with a hot stone massage. If you’re the fitness kind, then the spacious fitness and gym area will speak to you. Furthermore, families with kids will appreciate the kids club and activity center, the pool waterslides, and the big playground area. The best bit? Except for the garden-facing rooms, most other hotel buildings offer direct access to the pristine beach.
Compass Cove Oceanfront Hotel
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Compass Cove Oceanfront Beach is one of the best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach, especially for business travelers. For one, it’s one of the best hotels near Myrtle Beach airport and the Whispering Pines golf course. Secondly, it’s also home to various meeting spaces for both small and large events. But that’s not all. After all, the work is done, and then it’s time to play. Head to the indoor pool complexes for a swim and a lounge on the sunbeds next to the wonderful pools. If you fancy the outdoors, the beachside sun loungers are great for relaxing, especially after long work days. Or, you could also unwind on the sunny outdoor terrace with a cocktail. Wind up the day with drinks and dinner with your clients and colleagues at the Crow’s Nest restaurant or around the firepit.
The best is yet to come; we’re talking about the spacious and comfortable rooms and suites, all decked out in soothing cream and blue color schemes. However, the best of them, such as the Schooner and Oceanfront rooms and suites, feature spacious and furnished oceanfront balconies. The best bit is that the hotel offers a single yet direct beach access sandy road from all three buildings.
Avista Resort
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Avista Resort is the best oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. The resort, which sits right at the heart of North Myrtle Beach, offers excellent access to both shopping and nightlife, but also the beach. Since the hotel sits on the sands, you can walk a few steps from the courtyard and land on the sand! Couples and families alike will love the lively pool courtyard that has hot tubs and lazy river rides. Meanwhile, the spacious indoor pool area is more soothing and relaxing, making it perfect for couples. Lounge on the daybeds and order cocktails from the pool bar, or head to the lounge where you can enjoy playing pool and drinking cocktails with spectacular views.
If you were impressed by the amenities, wait it’ll you see the digs. All rooms boast not just comfy rooms and luxe bathrooms but also well-equipped kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and even private verandahs with mesmerizing ocean views. That said, the corner rooms and suites have the best views due to wraparound windows and larger decked-out balconies.
North Beach Plantation Myrtle Beach
8
Are you looking for the best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach that are the epitome of luxury? Welcome to North Beach Plantation Myrtle Beach, whose sweeping, graceful lines radiate elegance, style, and luxury. There’s a lot to love about this upscale beachside resort, especially the richly-appointed rooms and suites. Think mahogany cabinets, leather couches, plush bedrooms, and a slew of mod-cons. The ultimate touch in every kind of room is, undoubtedly, the sea-facing balconies. The four-bedroom villas have the best and closest ocean views, with the added benefit of having a long balcony running the length of the living room. Sigh.
The expansive oceanfront courtyard is the epicenter of all fun at this beachfront resort. You’ll find not only a massive pool with a laid-back swim-up bar but also private poolside cabanas, all with ocean views. In fact, the pool is the largest one in Myrtle Beach! The best bit is that there’s a wooden walkway right from the massive pool complex that leads down to the beach – what fun! What’s more, there are also spacious hot tubs, lazy rivers, and gorgeous water features. After a pool session, head for a rejuvenating massage or treatment at the opulent Cinzia Spa. Wind up your day with delectable steaks on the alfresco dining balcony of the award-winning restaurant.
Island Vista Resort
7
Couples looking for a budget oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach will love the Island Vista Resort, one of the best cheap hotels in Myrtle Beach. It occupies a prime spot in North Myrtle Beach and is the only oceanfront hotel for a mile in either direction. So, the hotel has a sense of privacy and seclusion that’s rare in the heavily developed Myrtle Beach area, making it all the better. The heated indoor pool complex is jaw-dropping, with vast stone arches that give it the feel of a historic subterranean grotto. Meanwhile, the outdoor pool courtyard is as elegant as it gets and is reminiscent of a colonial villa. Think of hot tubs, sun loungers, and shaded palms, besides the lovely pool. What’s more, the beach is an easy walk from the pool complex and the other buildings, and the minute you step off the property, you’re right on the sands. After a pool session, we recommend the massages, which you can enjoy poolside, in the spa, or even in your suites.
Why would you head back to the suite for a message? That’s because they boast the slickest of amenities but also have polished wood accents and a soft cream palette that complements the beachside location perfectly. The bathrooms with deep granite bathtubs are particularly great, but you’ll love the private balconies. Begin your evening revelries with sunset cocktails at the tropical, thatched-hut Tiki Bar, following it up with a seafood dinner at the sophisticated restaurant.
Coral Beach Resort & Suites
6
The Coral Beach Resort & Suites is not just one of the best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach but also one of the best family hotels in Myrtle Beach. What sets this beach hotel apart from others is the various fun family activities that are available here. For one, amenities include everything from a Chill & Grill Zone with ice-creams and hot dogs to a recreation room with arcade games and pool tables and even a vibrant eight-lane bowling alley. After spirited fun, head to the relaxed Atlantis restaurant or the poolside Splash Oceanfront Bar & Grill for a fun family meal. There are also numerous pool options with spa jacuzzis for parents and dedicated kids pools, a children’s water park, and a lazy river ride for the little ones. The best bit? The pool complex directly leads to the beach since the hotel sits right on the sands.
The spacious guest suites are perfect for families of all sizes and ages to relax and enjoy a Myrtle Beach vacation. Besides the full kitchens for whipping up food anytime and modern décor, they also have private balconies with wonderful views of the sea. So, when the kids are sleeping, snatch some quiet moments with your partner accompanied by a glass of wine or a cup of coffee.
The Cottages at North Beach Plantation
5
The Cottages at North Beach Plantation is an excellent oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. This hotel, or rather cottage-resort, sits within the luxurious North Beach Plantation resort and is a secluded beachside community. Choose from a whole lot of unique cottages, each of which features a unique design based on a vintage 70s beach theme. So, you’ll see kitschy design elements such as pastel hues, wicker chairs, and floral duvet covers. What’s more, they all have luxe bathrooms with large bathtubs and walk-in showers. The best bit? They have outside porches with dining tables and BBQs for social alfresco entertainment! In fact, some of the larger cottages even have private pools!
Since this resort is next to the North Beach Plantation Homes, guests here can make use of the facilities here. But, aside from the spa and the steakhouse, the rest of the facilities at this resort are discrete, including the massive pool complex. The poolscape here boasts everything from a lazy river and a hot tub to outdoor pools. Finally, there’s even a private boardwalk from the poolscape that provides direct access to the beach!
Anderson Ocean Club & Spa
4
The Anderson Ocean Club & Spa is one of the best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach. This hotel has one of the most enviable beachfront locations in the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach. What’s more, it offers superb value with all amenities and services of an upscale resort for a fraction of the price. There are many comfy rooms and suites; all decked out in muted but cheerful pastel color hues. While some rooms have partial sea views, the best ones are absolute oceanfront locations, complete with furnished balconies. So, you can wake up to gorgeous sunrises with a cup of joe and your beloved by your side.
When you do feel like leaving your digs, head to the oceanfront pool courtyard with a heated indoor pool, a small lap pool for adults, a river circuit, and lounges. There’s even a wooden boardwalk that offers easy access to the beach, but please note that it’s locked up after 9 pm. After the pool session, the Awakening spa is where you should be, with mineral baths and mint mud wraps. Wrap up your day with cocktails at the B-Bar and a wonderful dinner at the restaurant.
Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes
3
The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is the best oceanfront hotel in Myrtle Beach. This resort is a delight for nature lovers, as it’s amidst tranquil waterways and lush green woodland. Since the resort has a soft pink-hued exterior, it feels like a warm, Mediterranean resort! The rooms are no less amazing and are modern to the ‘T’ with soft greys and whites. They might be stylishly styled with porcelain bathrooms and plush duvets, but the highlight is the large windows that open onto scenic balconies. While you have rooms with views of the resort or partial views of the ocean, the best is the oceanfront rooms. With the beach and the sea right out of your window, it sure makes your vacation memorable.
When you head out to the property, there are multiple swimming options. One is a smaller and shallow kids pool that’s perfect for younger kids and an elegant freeform pool that’s perfect for families. Meanwhile, adults and couples love the relaxed oceanfront pool with sun loungers. Moreover, there are many dining options, including a poolside restaurant/bar and an oceanfront restaurant where you can enjoy intimate dinners with your boo. However, the standout feature here is the private beach right out front with easy access.
Landmark Resort
2
The Landmark Resort is one of the best beach hotels in Myrtle Beach. If you spend most of your time in your bathing suits, then this resort is where you should be. For one, there’s a massive outdoor oceanfront pool, which has not only an indoor and outdoor pool but also indoor and outdoor whirlpools, indoor and outdoor kiddie zones, and indoor and outdoor lazy rivers! Phew! So, you’re set for water activities and entertainment, no matter the weather. If that wasn’t enough, the pool complex has a short wooden boardwalk leading directly to the beach! So, do remember to pack your best one-piece Amazon swimsuits and the best swimsuit cover-ups.
Besides this amazing pool complex, the resort also has many restaurants and even a nine-hole putt-putt course. The expansive suites, complete with free Wi-Fi, full kitchens, and spectacular ocean views, make staying here even better. Private balconies decked out with chairs and tables make your suites the perfect place to enjoy wine or coffee with your partner.
Beach Colony Resort
1
We finish the list of the best oceanfront hotels in Myrtle Beach with the fabulous Beach Colony Resort. This beachfront resort might be from Myrtle Beach’s Golden Age, but everything has been updated to match modern living sensibilities. Yes, we’re talking everything from a shuffleboard court with a massive pool complex with a dedicated kids pool, a lazy river, and indoor and outdoor pools. A short wooden walkway leads right off the pool complex to the beach, which means you could spend an entire day in and by the water, and it would go in the blink of an eye. There’s even a racquetball court, free Wi-fi, multiple restaurants, and even an ice cream parlor.
Couples and families will especially love the condo-style rooms, which range from studios to four-bedroom suites. What’s more, they’re homey and decked out with mod-cons. Even the smallest rooms have basic kitchenettes, while the larger ones are fully equipped to cook lavish meals. The best units have balconies, so if you want to splurge on a Myrtle Beach vacation, get the oceanfront suites with the balconies.
Recommended Beach Bars/Restaurants in Myrtle Beach
- The Marina Bar & Grill: This North Myrtle Beach restaurant at the Barefoot Resort is the perfect place for a seaside meal as it offers amazing views of the Intracoastal Waterway. It even serves boaters, who can either stop in, order a to-go meal, or pull up right to the dock. Dig into specialty appetizers such as bacon, mac & cheese, southern nachos topped with BBQ pork, baby back ribs, and snow crab legs.
- Sea Captain’s House: What began life as a 1930s beach house for vacationers became the iconic and legendary Sea Captain’s House in 1962. The breakfast buffet here is to die for; think fresh cold and hot items, omelets, eggs, and a full breakfast menu. Menu items also include French toast, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, and crab cakes benedict.
Recommended Things To Do in Myrtle Beach
- Guided Stand-Up Paddleboard Tour: This 2-hour guided stand-up paddleboard tour down the Waccamaw River or Murrells Inlet in Myrtle Beach. You can choose multiple departures throughout the day. After you get comfortable with the paddleboards, you can see some of the best local wildlife and coastal scenery in South Carolina.
- Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruises: Is a dolphin sighting on your South Carolina beachside holiday agenda? Then these 2-hour Myrtle Beach dolphin cruises should be your must-do activity. This exciting cruise takes you to tour three distinct coastal areas, including the Intracoastal Waterway and the ocean. Besides cruising past many gorgeous uninhabited islands, where you’ll be searching for dolphins!
Best Beach Areas in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach boasts 60 pristine miles of some of the best coastlines of South Carolina. And that’s what makes it such a fantastically perfect place for a beachside vacation. We begin with Grande Dunes, which is like a year-round resort-like community surrounded by the Intracoastal Waterway stretching all the way to the ocean. It has two golf courses, a 126-slip marina, tennis courts, YMCA, and many amenities. Secondly, there’s Prestwick, which sits on the border of Surfside and Myrtle Beach. It’s not only a favorite of tennis players and golfers but also of families.
Next, there’s Arcadian Shores, which is a very picturesque and lush neighborhood. It has a private residential golf course and a lake for everyone to enjoy. North Myrtle Beach is a favorite for families as it offers many condo-style accommodation options and many rooms. Couples will love South Myrtle Beach, home to some of the best seafood restaurants and bars in the region. What’s more, it’s also home to Myrtle Beach’s exciting nightlife. Finally, Central Myrtle Beach is home to some of Myrtle Beach’s best attractions. These include the Boardwalk, SkyWheel, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the spectacular Myrtle Beach State Park.