10 tips for first-time visitors to Myrtle Beach

This is one we can't recommend enough. You do not want to spend your vacation miserable with a sunburn. Lather on the sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Repeat often, especially if you're swimming, and be sure to protect all your skin (don't forget bald heads, ears and the tops of your feet!) We see tourists sporting the lobster look on the beach all the time, and it makes us cringe!

In this economy, every penny counts. There are plenty of ways to save while you're at the beach. Check out your hotel lobby for coupon books and discounts; look for early-bird specials and kids-eat-free deals at restaurants. Pack lunch and snacks for the beach so you can splurge on a dinner out.

Sure, part of the allure of vacation is not waking to an alarm clock, but it's worth the early start to see a beautiful sunrise over the beach. Enjoy the view from the beach or your hotel balcony. You can always take an afternoon nap!

Myrtle Beach has tons of attractions to keep you busy (we recently detailed 102 of them), but it's impossible to see them all in one trip. Pick some must-see/do activities, and save some for next time. There will be a next time!

Many of the repeat visitors on our Facebook page made this suggestion, and it's a good one! Sunglasses are easily left behind at the pool or restaurants or lost in the waves of the Atlantic. Bring some you won't be heartbroken to lose.

While you're all tanned, relaxed and together, spend a few hours with a pro to capture the moment. Even if you don't hire a photographer, take plenty of your own pictures. You'll want to remember the great time you've had, and we'd love to see them, too, on our Facebook wall!

We were so happy to hear from so many Facebook fans that they had great experiences at our local restaurants and attractions. Many of them suggested to be kind to waitstaff and tip for good service. We couldn't agree more. Most of the service industry employees along the Grand Strand will bend over backwards to help you enjoy your vacation; excellent service should definitely be rewarded!

During the height of the summer season, the roads get crowded with visitors and locals trying to get around town. Leave extra time to get to your destination during this time of year. Watch for other motorists and pedestrians. Use alternate routes when possible. For example, S.C. 31 offers a great way to get from the Surfside Beach area to North Myrtle Beach without the congestion and stoplights along U.S. 17. Robert M. Grissom Parkway runs in between U.S. 17 Business and Bypass 17, parrallel to both roads, offering a less-crowded way to get around from the airport up to 48th Avenue North. (This includes the Coastal Grande Mall and Broadway at the Beach areas so shoppers should definitely check out that route).

There are so many great hotels in Myrtle Beach so choose the one that fits your needs and budget best. You can get started with our hotel search, which lets you search by amenities and location. Compare rates at multiple properties with just a few clicks.

The No. 1 draw to Myrtle Beach is, of course, the beach. Soak it up, and enjoy it!