Nature Calls Travelers to the Myrtle Beach Area of South Carolina

The great outdoors are in full bloom in coastal Carolina oasis

As spring starts to shine and summer inches closer by the second, the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina is opening its arms to travelers looking for the ideal spot to enjoy the best nature has to offer. Whether travelers are searching for fascinating wildlife, peaceful trails, or interesting educational programming, the Myrtle Beach area has plenty to offer in its great outdoor areas.

The region's year-round temperate climate offers travelers unique nature and open-air adventures, such as exploring the beauty of the Brookgreen Gardens, setting sail on South Carolina's pristine coast, or taking a stroll along the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk.

Attractions

Brookgreen Gardens: The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail brings to life an important element of history "off the beaten path". Through interpretive panels stationed along the natural walking trail, guests learn the story of The Oaks Plantation and see archaeological sites that include the plantation owners' and slaves' areas. Transportation to The Oaks Plantation History and Nature Trail is only by mini-bus, which departs on the hour from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. from Brookgreen Gardens. Tickets are $3 per person in addition to garden admission. For more information, please call (800) 849-1931 or click here for more information.

Captain Smiley Charters: Embark on a fishing adventure with discounted rates at Captain Smiley's this spring! From March 27 to September 1, 2009, Light Tackle/Fly Fishing Charters are $5.00 off! For more information, please call Patrick Kelly at (843) 361- 7445 or visit www.CaptainSmileyFishingCharters.com.

Coastal Scuba/Little River Fishing Fleet:

Fishing: Half day, three-quarter and full day 11-hour Gulf Stream trips are all offered as private charters and as head-boats where you can pay by the person. A variety of semi-private trips including trolling and shark fishing are also offered. For more information visit www.LittleRiverFleet.com. Half day trips go out several times a day and start at only $42 for adults and $35 for kids 12 and under. Mention code CHAMBER1 for a $3 discount on the half or three-quarter day trips OR $5 off the full day Gulf Stream trip.

Hawaiian Village Minigolf: Plan a golfing excursion that is fun for the whole group, not just the golf pros! Everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., guests can buy one get one free at Hawaiian Village Minigolf. For more information, please call 458-2585.

Myrtle Beach State Park: Visitors to Myrtle Beach State Park can immerse themselves in beautiful natural surroundings while taking part in a variety of fun and educational programs. Admission prices: ages 5 and under-free, ages 6-15- $1.50, and ages 16 and up- $4.00. For more information please call (843) 238-0874 or visit www.MyrtleBeachSP.com. Check out the following programs:

Come by the nature center for Feeding Time and see what types of food animals enjoy during this informal program, which takes place every Thursday in April from 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. The program is free with park admission.
Something's Fishy this spring! Visitors will learn exciting facts about fish and their underwater lives. Meet at the activity center every Wednesday in April from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free with park admission. Click here for more information (PDF).
From the Forest to the Sea - This guided tour explores the maritime forest and grasslands of Myrtle Beach State Park while looking at brilliant flowers, searching for flittering butterflies and observing other critters we may encounter. The tour will also comb the beach habitat for washed up treasure. The program, Saturday, April 11 and 18 from 11 a.m. to noon, consists of a 1/4 mile leisurely stroll and meets at the nature center. Free with park admission. Click here for more information (PDF).
Planet Jeopardy - Planet Jeopardy teaches visitors how to turn everyday actions into positive impacts on the environment at home, in Myrtle State Park, and wherever else you find yourself! Meet at the activity center Thursday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and play! Free with park admission, this program is fun for all ages. Click here for more information (PDF).
See Who's Home on this half mile walk around the park - check bird houses to see what birds are nesting, check for laid eggs, and see who has hatched! Meet at the nature center every Tuesday in April from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., and make sure to wear close-toed shoes. Program free with park admission. For more information please visit: www.MyrtleBeachSP.com
Plankton - The Oceans, Garden, and Zoo - Visitors can learn plankton's importance to both the ocean and to humans, and identify some of the most common ones through this educational session. Every Tuesday in June from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Meet at the activity center Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4
Seine-sational Fun! - Visitors can discover all sorts of fish, crabs, and other critters as we pull a seine net through the surf zone. Wear clothes that can get wet. Kids under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Every Wednesday in June, July and August from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Meet at the fishing pier. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.
A Crabby Experience - Visitors can test their luck at the pier and try to catch a variety of crabs, fish, and other critters. A limited amount of crab traps are available on a first come, first serve basis for a rental fee of $3 per trap. Exact change is appreciated! Traps are handed out at 9:50 a.m. Bring some raw chicken or fish for bait, or buy it at the pier. This is a catch and release program. Saturday, May 23 and 30 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Meet at the fishing pier. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.
Wednesday Warblers - The spring migration is underway and the maritime forest of the park comes alive with the vibrant colors of tanagers, warblers, orioles and much more. Binoculars will be available for a $1 donation. Designed for ages 11 and up. Wednesday, May 6 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Meet at the nature center. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.
Small Wonders of the Ocean - Meet at the fishing pier to throw the plankton net - then on to the activity center to see what was caught. Appropriate for ages 8 and up. Every Wednesday in May from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Meet at the fishing pier. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.
Litter Critters - Visitors will learn what happens to Myrtle the fish as her pond is discovered by humans in this fun, hands-on demonstration about water pollution. Afterwards, head outside for 15 to 20 minutes and small prizes will be awarded to those who become a solution to pollution! Wear shoes. Activity Center- 10 a.m - 11:30 a.m. Every Thursday in June and July and August 6 and 13 from 10 a.m to 11:30 a.m. Meet at the activity center. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.
Paint by Nature - Using various objects designed by nature, visitors can paint their own masterpiece. Bring a light-colored T-shirt, pillowcase, bag, etc. to paint. Be sure to wear clothes that can get splattered by paint. There is a $3 fee per person for this program to help cover material costs. Exact change is appreciated! Every Saturday in June and July from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Meet at the nature center. Ages 5 and under free, ages 6-15- $1.50 and ages 16 and up- $4.

Myrtle Beach Segway: Experience the feeling of "gliding" on a Segway with the Market Common District Tour. The tour - a little over an hour in length - takes visitors around the natural beauty, wildlife and history of this newly renovated Market Common district. Have some fun the "eco-friendly" way on a Segway! Advance reservations required, book now to buy one, get one half off (good for up to eight in a group). For more information, please call (843) 477-0800 or email Tours@MBSegway.com. Mention code MBACC1 for discount to apply.

Thomas Outdoors Watersports: Spend some time on the water this summer with Afternoons at the Grove - daily kayak eco tours on the marsh at Cherry Grove. The tours meet every afternoon at 4:30 p.m., and are approximately two and a half hours long with bottled water provided. Tours are also $5.00 off. Click here to print out discount coupon, or please call (843) 280-2448.

Events

2nd Annual Park Palooza at Myrtle Beach State Park: With more than 20 programs based around nature and the outdoors - everything from "Spineless Wonders" to "Make a Garden Grow" - for enthusiasts young and old, Park Palooza is a great opportunity to participate in fun activities inside the gorgeous setting of Myrtle Beach State Park. Throw a cast net, plant a tree, learn about earth friendly products, build a campfire and much more! Various programs will continuously run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 4 and are free with park admission. For more information, please call (843) 238-0874 or visit www.MyrtleBeachSP.com.

13th Annual Spring Festival at Broadway at the Beach: The 13th Annual Spring Festival will be on April 25 and is featuring some fantastic "Go Green" event! Stop by and take part in workshops focusing on recycling, energy and paper, or enjoy Earth Day activities, food, drinks, and the fireworks show at 9 p.m.! In efforts to promote "green-lifestyles", April has been designated "Go Green Month" at Broadway at the Beach! Bring in 20 plastic bags and receive a Preferred Guest Card along with recycling tips at the visitors' center. For more information, please call (843) 913- 9320 or visit www.BroadwayAtTheBeach.com.

George Goes Goes Green: This inaugural environmental educational event will be held in at East Bay Park in Georgetown, SC on April 18, 2009. The mainstage will feature presentations throughout the day on a variety of topics including: Georgetown County recycling studies and programs; the value of Rain Gardens and how to plan them; Dr. Terry Walker from Clemson University talking about biofuels and using switchgrass as an alternative energy source; a session on smart homes, both new construction and retrofitting; and a special segment on water quality issues. There will be a Kids Zone which will have everything from building art with found objects, to touch tanks and information about indigenous wildlife, to nature walks and scavenger hunts. Locally grown produce will be on hand at the area's local Farmer's Market on site; Green Fare will be the dining area featuring locally caught and grown dishes for event goers; businesses and non-profits will be exhibiting around the event with table tops and tents to show off their goods and services that will help get and keep everyone GREEN. For more information visit www.VisitGeorge.com.

Spring Wing Ding at Barefoot Landing: This outdoor festival, April 11 and 12, focuses on the natural environment, waterfowl, wildlife and more at Barefoot Landing. Bird experts will speak and lead a nature walk (weather permitting). There will also be live animals, mascots, bird house painting, "chick or treat" for the kids for Easter candy, plus numerous other activities the whole family can enjoy! For more information, please call (843) 272- 8349 or visit www.BarefootLanding.com.

Nature-Themed Accommodation Packages

Dayton House Resort: Come enjoy Nature at the Beach with ocean view accommodations at Dayton House Resort, plus tickets for two to the National Historic Brookgreen Gardens. Package starts at $59 per night with double occupancy and a 3 night stay available March 10 through September 1, 2009. Based on availability, rate is exclusive of taxes and fees and is not subject to any additional discounts. Some restrictions may apply. Please visit www.DaytonHouse.com and click on "Specials" or call (866) 467-4229.

Elliott Beach Rentals: With the Elliott Eco-Friendly Vacation Package, guests can enjoy rates starting at $60 a night! From March 20, through September 1, 2009, visit www.NorthMyrtleBeachTravel.com or call (800) 525- 0225 to book this package. Not valid for holidays.

Hampton Inn: Both The Hampton Inn Northwood and The Hampton Inn at Broadway are offering guests getaways from March 27 to September 1, 2009, that lets visitors see many sides of nature.

Hampton Inn Northwood: Package includes two night's accommodations, deluxe continental breakfast daily, and admission for four, on the Salt Water Marsh Explorer along with a goody bag ($200 value in discounts) upon arrival. Package rates starting at $229.00 inclusive based on 2 adults/2 children 12 & under. No other discounts allowed. Space is limited. Blackout dates are Memorial Weekend and July 4th Holiday. For more information please visit: www.MyrtleBeachNorthwood.HamptonInn.com or call (843) 497- 0077.
Hampton Inn at Broadway: Package includes two night's accommodations, deluxe continental breakfast daily, and admission for four on the Salt Water Marsh Explorer along with a goody bag ($200 value in discounts) upon arrival. Rates start at $275.00 inclusive based on 2 adults/2 children 12 & under. No other discounts allowed. Space is limited. Blackout dates are Memorial Weekend and July 4th Holiday. For more information, please visit www.MyrtleBroadway.HamptonInn.com or call (843) 916-0600.

Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort: Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort is offering guests the ultimate getaway package. Package includes the following:

Three nights select luxury accommodations
A fine-dining certificate valued at $25 per person
Daily breakfast buffet at Webster's
Unlimited bike rental
Unlimited access to tennis courts
Daily passes to Brookgreen Gardens
Packages available March 1 - December 31, 2009 with rates starting at $282. Taxes and fees additional. For more information, please call (888) 714- 5993 or visit www.LitchfieldBeach.com.

Marina Inn at Grande Dunes: The Celebrate Summer at the Vineyard package wines and dines guests, creating a perfect summer getaway. The package, available from March 27 to September 1, includes:

Luxury room accommodations for two nights
Bottle of wine and two wine goblets upon arrival
Entrance to La Belle Amie Vineyard, along with a tour of the winery/vineyard, plus a wine tasting
Basket of gourmet cheeses and snacks to bring along on your wine excursion
Wine tasting is available Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Guided tours are available Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., but self tours can be done all day. Wine festivals are held twice a month, click here for a complete calendar listing. Rates start at $334.00 in a Grande guest room-for two night stay based on double occupancy. Click here for more information about the package, or please call (866) 353- 9418.

Seaside Properties: Seaside Properties is offering guests enticing outdoor-focused packages at the following resorts:

Avista Resort Sailing Experience: Guests who book reservations at the Avista Resort for oceanfront, oceanview, or boulevard view accommodations for any length of stay can reserve a spot on a beautiful yacht. Guests must specify Intracoastal Waterway or Open Ocean as the choice cruise itinerary to enjoy a maritime adventure aboard a 44-foot secure yacht, complete with the exquisite scenery of coastal marine life. The yacht allows a minimum of 2 people, maximum of 6. All children ages 12 and under are required to wear a lifejacket at all times. For more information, call (800) 968-8986 or click here. Valid through December 31, 2009.
The Horizon at 77th Helicopter Experience: Guests can include an aerial tour of Myrtle Beach's beautiful vast outdoors, a breath-taking experience over the Grand Strand. Tell us your accommodations and helicopter tour preferences to create a vacation of a lifetime. A minimum of 2 guests is required for the helicopter tour, with a maximum of 3 guests. For more information, please call (866) 413-8310 or click here. Valid through December 31, 2009
Seaside Sailing Experience: Book reservations at Seaside for oceanfront, oceanview, or boulevard view accommodations for any length of stay, and reserve a spot on a beautiful yacht. Specify Intracoastal Waterway, or Open Ocean as your cruise itinerary, then, sit back and relax on a maritime adventure aboard a 44-foot secure yacht where guests can take in the exquisite scenery and marine life of the Myrtle Beach area. The yacht allows a minimum of 2 people, maximum of 6. All children ages 12 and under are required to wear a lifejacket at all times. For more information, please call (800) 433-5710 or click here. Valid through December 31, 2009
Grande Shores Ocean Resort Boat Cruise: Select a day's rental, a waterway cruise, or a sailing lesson by the half or full day, and water, sodas, and light snacks are included. A minimum of 2 guests is required to sail, with a maximum of 6 guests. All children ages 12 and under are required to wear a lifejacket at all times. For more information please call (877) 798-4074. Click here for a condo booking. Valid through December 31, 2009.
Prince Resort Helicopter Sightseeing Experience: Guests can include an aerial tour of Myrtle Beach's beautiful great outdoors, a breath-taking experience over the Grand Strand with every stay at the Prince Resort in North Myrtle Beach at The Cherry Grove Pier. Tours can be over favorite golf courses or skimming the wilderness of the marshland. The helicopter allows a minimum of 2 people, maximum of 3. For more information, please call (866) 503-9518 or click here.
Towers on the Grove Helicopter Sightseeing Experience: With guests who stay at Towers can book a helicopter sightseeing experience over the Grand Strand area. The helicopter allows a minimum of 2 people, maximum of 3. For more information, please call (888) 905-3001 or click here. All reservations with a total of $200 or more for entire package will be charged $100 per person. If entire package price is under $200 a $100 deposit will be charged to credit card. If a cancellation is made more than 14 days prior to arrival, a cancellation fee of $30 is charged. If a cancellation is made 14 days or less, prior to the arrival dates, the entire deposit is forfeited. If a reservation dates are changed there will be $30 change fee. No refunds for early checkout. Available through December 31, 2009.

Springmaid: With Springmaid's 5 Night Fun Pak, there are outdoor activities galore for the whole family. The package includes:

Five nights lodging
Daily hot breakfast
One round miniature golf at Springmaid Beach

Plus guest's choice of two of the following:

Unlimited fishing , including daily pass and rod rental, at Springmaid Pier
Admission to Brookgreen Gardens
Great American Riverboat Cruise
4-day beach chair rental
Ripley's Aquarium
Family Kingdom Amusement Park (seasonal)
Family Kingdom Water Park (seasonal)
Bennett's Seafood Buffet Dinner
Nascar Speedpark
Magic Quest
IMAX Theater
18 holes Midway Par 3
From March 12 - June 4, 2009, prices are $175 per person (based on family of four or quad occupancy) or $265 per person (based on double occupancy). From June 21- August 15, 2009, prices are $250 per person (based on family of four or quad occupancy). Click here for more information or call (866) 764-8501.

Surfside Realty Beach Vacations: From March 28 to September 4, 2009, Surfside Realty is offering visitors a Ride with the Dolphins package that includes a 10 percent discount off advertised rental rates, plus up to 5 free tickets to go on a Blue Wave Adventures' Dolphin Watch. Not available for all properties. For more information, please call (800) 833- 8231 x 1, or visit www.ItsABeachThing.net.

Tilghman Beach & Golf Resort: Guests can truly experience nature at the Eco-Adventure at Tilghman Beach & Golf Resort! From March 27 through September 30, 2009, book a stay in a three-bedroom, three-bathroom condo with lake and golf course views and enjoy a two-hour eco-tour of the barrier islands, including netting and shelling with Captain Michael Rutenberg. Additional add-ons available at a minimal cost. Rates run from $160 to $265, and are not valid during holidays and special events. Click here for more information or call (888) 280-0913.