Around Your Hotel: Beach Colony Resort
Beach Colony– 53rd Avenue North, Myrtle Beach
One of the biggest bonuses to staying at the Beach Colony is the surrounding neighborhood.
Located in the old Ocean Forest section of town, there's little on the oceanfront around except for a couple of other resorts, giving you a long stretch of unpopulated beach in either direction.
Also, Kings Highway is only a convenient block away but it feels much farther thanks to the old neighborhood of beach houses that separates the two. The setting provides a peaceful setting with civilization a short, enjoyable stroll away. Here's what you'll find without having to move your car:
* Fine Dining: Just a short stroll away on Kings Highway sits Aspen Grill, which offers a tranquil atmosphere with some of the best food in town. Fresh seafood and prime cuts of steak are the specialty at this locally owned establishment, which also features a nice lounge separated from the dining room. Other top choices in the neighborhood include the Melting Pot, Carolina Roadhouse, Ciao and Sugami.
* Casual dining: Repeat visitors are in for a treat now that the Snak Shak is back in business. The countertop, country cooking diner was a mainstay on the north end of town for years, but has relocated to the Pines Lakes Plaza and packs them in for its famed breakfast and lunch specials. Also in the vicinity are Bourbon Street, Friendly's and Domino's.
* Bars: Another new and nice addition to the neighborhood is Bourbon Street Cafe and Bar, which serves delicious food but is primarily known as the latter more than the former. Happy hour specials attract an eclectic crowd, and the evenings feature live local music five nights a week and a healthy mix of young and old, locals and tourists. Also check out nearby Droopy's, with a back deck that overlooks Pine Lake.
* Shopping: Although the mega-malls and shopping complexes like Coastal Grand Mall and Broadway at the Beach are driving distances away, this area is known for its locally owned shops that offer something unique. The strip includes small clothing boutiques like Head to Toe and Studio 77, antique shops such as Once Upon A Time, art galleries and gift shops, as well as the usual beachwear stores.
* Attractions: Pines Lakes International Golf Club was the first of more than 100 golf courses on the Grand Strand, earning it the distinction of the affectionate nickname “The Granddaddy.” Opened in 1927, the course and historic clubhouse were recently renovated and its natural charm serves as a monument to the local golf industry. For those who prefer a less challenging layout, Treasure Island mini-golf is also just a putt away.
