Things to See & Do on a Couples Getaway

If you and your plus-one have finally found some time to get away together for a long weekend without the kids to Myrtle Beach, you two will need to check out some of the ideas we have for you to see and do. Take a look, then book!

Ahhh, a Massage!

This is your time to relax, so make an appointment for a couples’ massage at any of the many upscale spas along the Grand Strand offering a variety of full-body massage packages, facials and more. There are even spas conveniently located onsite at some resorts, including the Anderson Ocean Club, North Beach Resort, Marina Inn at Grande Dunes, Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa, and Embassy Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront. But there are also tons of posh, locally owned day spas and franchises, like Massage Envy, available on the Strand, too.

Live the Fairytale

Did you know we actually have a castle and an enchanted garden here on the south end of the beach?

Atalaya Castle, a popular backdrop for weddings, in Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet was the winter home of industrialist and philanthropist Archer Huntington and his wife, sculptor Anna Huntington. The Spanish-Moorish-style castle is open for tours – you’ll love the unique architecture. Afterward, you can stroll hand in hand along the beautifully natural, undeveloped beachfront.

Practically across Highway 17 is Brookgreen Gardens, also the mastermind of the power couple Huntingtons. The former grounds of a rice plantation has been transformed into a 9,100-acre breathtaking layout of lush gardens and a showcase for Anna’s exquisite sculptures amidst a gallery of local florals. You’ll fall in love with the peaceful vibes here, just like the rest of the country already has. Brookgreen is a designated National Historic Landmark listed on the Register of National Historic Places.

Sail Away into the Sunset

What could be more romantic than a private chartered sailboat? The area’s largest chartered sailboat is Enchanted Sailing Charters, which embarks out of the Cricket Cove Marina in Little River at sunset. The dreamy, three-hour cruise passes by the scenic Dunn Sound, the uninhabited Waties and Bird Islands, and into the mouth of the Inlet, where sails will fly into the Atlantic Ocean for a serene sunset view. Sunset cruises for two from 5-8 p.m. can also include dinner.

Buy Yourself a Little Something

Gift each other something to remember your special couples’ trip by strolling through any of these area shopping hubs that feature unique boutiques, cafes and more:

The Market Common: This trendy urban retail/residential village in Myrtle Beach hosts some of the hippest shops along the charming, tree-lined streets, plus popular pubs, restaurants catered to foodies, a movie theatre, and an upscale bowling alley. During the summer, they also feature movies during the summer season at Valor Park, where snuggle on a picnic blanket under the stars.

Murrells Inlet MarshWalk: This quaint boardwalk hosts fresh seafood restaurants and alfresco dining options that wind along the Murrells Inlet waterfront. Over the summer, local artisans also sell their wares in the evenings.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Myrtle Beach’s pride and joy, this oceanfront boardwalk is lined with bars and restaurants, souvenir shops, and the SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris Wheels in the country that showcases the best views of the coastal skyline and an amazing light show each night. (They even have an anniversary/proposal package.)

Broadway at the Beach: This longtime entertainment complex that loops around a giant lake would be a paradise for the kids, but, for grown-ups, there are plenty of bars, shops, and fun to be had.

Barefoot Landing: Butting up against the Intracoastal Waterway, Barefoot Landing offers oodles of interesting shops, bars and restaurants, along with date night hotspots like the Alabama Theatre and the House of Blues.

Wine …

Canoodle up to a glass of muscadine wine, sit back, and relax to the soothing sounds of live music at either of our area’s two wineries/vineyards.

La Belle Amie Vineyard is tucked away in an intimate forest setting in Little River. The family-owned farm land evolved into a lovely vineyard that pours wine tastings of its muscadine wines mostly every day. You can also schedule a private tour. Take a bottle of wine outside on the front porch or out on the pavilion to enjoy a picnic and live music on Wednesdays on the Decks or Saturdays, when there’s often a festival.

Duplin Winery, in North Myrtle Beach on the outskirts of Barefoot Landing, is reminiscent of a massive wood-clad ski lodge. You and your wine lover will cuddling in their special wine tasting room and sipping on Duplin’s line of sweet muscadine wines. Staff will walk you through the flavors and history of each one and dish out a gourmet cheese dip, homemade crackers, and a glass of wine after the tasting. Get a refill and kick back on any of the rocking chairs scattered outside on the front porch or listen to live music on the patio.

And Dine

Party of two, anyone?  You could make dinner reservations at any of the thousands of restaurants served up on the Grand Strand, but here is a handful of the more romantic, intimate spots we recommend on the Grand Strand: New York Prime, Sea Captain’s House, 21 Main at North Beach, Aspen Grille, SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar, The Parson’s Table, The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro,The Melting Pot, Chive Blossom, Bistro 217, Gios Italian Kitchen, Café Piccolo, and Frank’s and Frank’s Outback.