Hotels in Myrtle Beach, SC: Where to Stay & Areas to Skip

Anyone who’s tried to book a hotel in Myrtle Beach for the first time already knows the dilemma: oceanfront high-rises, budget motels, and family resorts with water parks – and that’s before you decide between North and South. With over 500 hotels and more than 14 million visitors each year, picking the right spot depends on season, budget, and what kind of vacation you want.

Cheapest hotel price: from $67 per night (Tripadvisor hotel listings) ·
Oceanfront resorts available: Marriott, Hilton, Sea Crest, and many more ·
Annual visitors to Myrtle Beach: over 14 million ·
Top-rated hotel chain by reviews: Hilton (multiple properties)

These figures from booking platforms and official sources provide a quick reference for planning.

Where’s the nicest place to stay in Myrtle Beach?

Top neighborhoods: North Myrtle Beach vs. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

• North Myrtle Beach: Quieter, upscale resorts and vacation rentals. North Myrtle Beach Vacations (local rental experts) describes it as “relaxed, residential, and unhurried.”
• Myrtle Beach Boardwalk area: Many hotels, entertainment, and nightlife – but can be noisy. Marriott official site lists properties near the boardwalk with convenient access to attractions.
• Surfside Beach: A family-friendly alternative south of Myrtle Beach with lower hotel rates. Tripadvisor reviews note its quieter atmosphere.

The key trade-off: North Myrtle Beach gives you space and quiet; the boardwalk gives you energy and convenience. Families with young children often prefer Surfside Beach or North Myrtle Beach, while couples and groups looking for nightlife gravitate toward the central strip.

Areas to avoid for safety

• Ocean Boulevard after dark: Higher crime rates have been reported. Myrtle Beach Sun News (local newspaper) has covered safety concerns, advising travelers to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone late at night.
• Isolated side streets off Highway 17: Some motels away from the main tourist corridor have lower security and maintenance standards. Tripadvisor user reviews occasionally flag these issues.

What this means: stick to recognized hotel chains or well-reviewed independent properties. Check recent guest feedback on safety and lighting before booking.

The implication: choosing the right neighborhood – North Myrtle Beach for peace, boardwalk for action, Surfside for budget friendly – reduces risk and improves your experience.

Is it better to stay in South Myrtle Beach or North Myrtle Beach?

North Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

• Pros: Fewer crowds, more golf courses, closer to North Carolina border. Hilton official site highlights properties in North Myrtle Beach with tranquil ocean views. The rental inventory ranges from one-bedroom condos to 8-to-10-bedroom beach houses. North Myrtle Beach Vacations.
• Cons: Less nightlife, fewer big hotel chains, and higher rental rates in peak summer (average $525/night in July, per the same source).

South Myrtle Beach: Pros and Cons

• Pros: Includes Surfside Beach and Garden City – family-friendly beaches with lower hotel rates. Tripadvisor listings show lower average prices for South Myrtle Beach hotels. Seaside Vacations (local booking service) says South Myrtle Beach is often budget-friendly.
• Cons: Fewer upscale resorts, smaller beaches, and a longer drive to the boardwalk and major attractions.

Five factors, one pattern: each side of Myrtle Beach serves a different traveler.

The trade-off: if you want space and a homelike experience, choose North Myrtle Beach. If you want the lowest price and easy beach access, South Myrtle Beach offers the best value. For nightlife and boardwalk attractions, stay central – just expect higher noise and prices.

What is the best month to go to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina?

Peak season: June–August

• Average high temperatures of 85°F (NOAA / National Weather Service climate data).
• Busiest crowds and highest hotel rates ($200–$400/night).
• Hurricane season runs June–November; peak risk in September (NOAA Hurricane Preparedness).

Shoulder months: April–May, September–October

• Best balance of good weather and lower rates.
• Hotel prices drop about 30% compared to summer (Tripadvisor price trend data).
• September offers affordable rates but carries some hurricane risk.

Winter season: November–February

• Mild temperatures (average highs 50–60°F).
• Many attractions close or reduce hours.
• Hotel rates drop 40% or more – January is cheapest month (Tripadvisor seasonal data).

The pattern: travelers seeking the best value should book in April–May or September–October. If you’re flexible with weather, winter offers incredible deals. Summer guarantees beach weather but at a premium.

How many days is enough in Myrtle Beach?

• 3 days: Enough for the boardwalk, a water park, and one attraction (Tripadvisor Myrtle Beach travel forum).
• 5–7 days: Recommended for a relaxed beach vacation with time to explore both North and South areas.
• Why longer?: Myrtle Beach has over 60 miles of coastline and many activities – golf, shows, state parks, and day trips to Georgetown or Charleston.

The implication: a 3-day trip forces you to choose between beach time and attractions. With 5–7 days you can enjoy a slower pace and still hit the highlights. Most families find 5 days ideal for a balanced trip.

Why is it called dirty myrtle?

• Sediment and runoff: The term “Dirty Myrtle” originated from the brownish water near shore due to sediment and runoff from the Waccamaw River (Wikipedia entry on Myrtle Beach).
• Party culture: Another explanation refers to the rowdy behavior in the central tourist strip during spring break (Myrtle Beach Sun News local reporting).
• Reality today: Despite the nickname, Myrtle Beach remains a top family destination with many clean, well-maintained beaches. The water clarity improves farther from the shore and in North Myrtle Beach.

The catch: the nickname lingers from past decades. Today’s water quality is monitored by state agencies and most of the beachfront is kept clean. Still, if you’re sensitive to water clarity, consider North Myrtle Beach or Surfside Beach.

The pattern: the nickname is more historical than current, but it’s wise to check conditions after heavy rain.

“Myrtle Beach is energetic, commercial, and bustling – high-rise resorts and budget motels dominate.”

— North Myrtle Beach Vacations comparison guide

“North Myrtle Beach is relaxed, residential, and unhurried – mostly condos and beach homes for weekly rental.”

— North Myrtle Beach Vacations comparison guide

“The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa offers oceanfront views, multiple pools, and on-site dining – a top choice for families.”

— Marriott official hotel description

“Travelers consistently rate Hilton as the most reviewed hotel chain in Myrtle Beach, with properties in both North and Central areas.”

— Hilton official site, Myrtle Beach oceanfront property

For families visiting Myrtle Beach, the decision between North and South comes down to quiet relaxation versus boardwalk energy. Budget travelers will find the best deals in the shoulder seasons. For couples planning a romantic getaway, the implication is clear: book in North Myrtle Beach where you avoid crowds and enjoy spacious condos with ocean views. Alternatively, choose a central hotel during March or November to save up to 40% on nightly rates.

Related reading: Myrtle Beach vs North Myrtle Beach hotels · oceanfront hotels in Myrtle Beach

For visitors planning a longer stay, choosing a Myrtle Beach hotel with in-suite kitchen facilities can significantly reduce dining costs while offering the flexibility of home-style meals.

Frequently asked questions