Seaside Vacations Blog

We Love North Myrtle Beach In February

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Don’t wait until summer to visit North Myrtle Beach. There are a plethora of things to experience on the spectacular Grand Strand during the winter months! The weather has been fabulous this season with very few “cold” days. Most days are steady in the 60’s and we have had some great days that spilled over into the 70’s. With that being said, it is the perfect time to head to North Myrtle Beach for a month, a week, or just a weekend to enjoy the beautiful sunshine and take a breather from your day to day.

Visitors are really enjoying the long walks on the beach; great way to keep those New Year’s resolutions in check! And if love to play a round or two of golf, you couldn’t pick a better time to grab a quick golf vacation. We have great prices this time of year on North Myrtle Beach condo rentals and vacation rental homes – give us a call and we will be happy to help you plan a trip!

If you are looking for an extraordinary way to spend Valentine’s Day, maybe consider a trip to North Myrtle Beach! Many of the area restaurants have Valentine specials planned and there are plenty of choices, depending on what type of cuisine you prefer. Enjoy live entertainment after dinner at one of the Myrtle Beach area venues. Another nice treat for your loved one is a massage or spa treatment at one of the local day spas. North Myrtle Beach has quite a few day spas where you can pamper yourself like a star!

A few great places to go if you are in town for Valentine’s Day:

Zulu Lounge & Bistro – Upscale tapas restaurant and lounge with South African flare.
http://www.myrtlebeach.com/myrtle-beach-events/venue/zulu-lounge-bistro/

Ripley’s Aquarium – A unique and fun way to share Valentine’s Day:
http://www.myrtlebeach.com/myrtle-beach-events/venue/ripleys-aquarium/

The Melting Pot – An exquisite dining experience:
http://www.myrtlebeach.com/myrtle-beach-events/venue/the-melting-pot/

Check out this North Myrtle Beach condo rental - perfect getaway for two:
Xanadu III unit 804

North Myrtle Beach's New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

New Year’s Eve Celebrations in North Myrtle Beach

Ring in the New Year North Myrtle Beach style! There are lots of great deals and events all along the Grand Strand – from live music, dancing, dinner packages, and more! Have a safe and Happy New Year from Seaside Vacations, your Myrtle Beach Experts!

Broadway at the Beach:

Celebrity Square - http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232936904-new-years-eve-celebration

Hard Rock Café -
http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232936824-new-years-eve-party-concert

Carlos ‘n Charlie’s -
http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232936844-new-years-eve-carnival-party

Ripley’s Aquarium -
http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232936924-kids-only-new-years-eve-bash

On the boardwalk:

Landshark Bar & Grill - http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232969884-ring-in-the-new-year-at-landshark-myrtle-beach

Barefoot Landing:

House of Blues -
http://events.thesunnews.com/myrtle-beach-sc/events/show/232936924-kids-only-new-years-eve-bash

21 Main - http://www.21mainatnorthbeach.com/index.aspx

**Please remember to be safe while enjoying the holidays in North Myrtle Beach. Drink responsibly and call a cab. Trip's Taxi: (843) 997-9331

Ringing In The Season In North Myrtle Beach

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

December is truly magical in North Myrtle Beach. There are so many activities and shows to see and do. From the boat parades to the tree lighting, there is always something happening on Main Street. If you enjoy the theatre, there are many holiday shows to choose from – you may not be able to choose and may have to see them all. There is the “Christmas Special” at the Carolina Opry, Alabama is showing the “South’s Greatest Christmas Show”, “Christmas Carol” at The Celebration Theatre and “Christmas on Ice” at the Palace Theatre.

Seaside Vacations has Fall specials and special North Myrtle BeachWinter Rentals from December to the end of March. It’s so affordable – do something different this year – experience the winter season – beach style!! Leave the cold and snow behind and join us in North Myrtle Beach and be a part of the fun!

On Friday, December 2nd at 6:00 pm, the North Myrtle Beach Christmas Tree will be officially lit at McLean Park. The park will become magical when the brilliant holiday scene comes to life. There will be holiday songs and entertainment. The countdown will be done by the Mayor and then the 36 foot Christmas Tree will shine gloriously. The children are invited to visit with Santa and receive a free bag of candy. Hot chocolate and refreshments will be served. Bring the entire family for a North Myrtle Beach style celebration!

On Saturday, December 3rd, at 5:30 pm, the Annual North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade will delight you with holiday songs, colorful floats, marching bands and beauty queens. The parade route will travel down Main Street and has brought delight and holiday cheer to North Myrtle Beach’s residents for many years. Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 the tradition continues as Main Street in North Myrtle Beach fills with familiar holiday songs, colorful floats, marching bands and beauty queens. The parade will begin at 5:30 pm and travel down Main Street to Ocean Boulevard and will disperse on 2nd Avenue North.

North Myrtle Beach in November ~ Getting Ready For The Holiday Season

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

November is one of our favorite months with football, apple cider, bonfires and other fall activities that we all look forward to during this season. Driving down country roads or taking a long walk is all it really takes to enjoy this season. You will be totally enveloped by all the vibrant colors that surround you on all sides – just one of nature’s ways to celebrate the harvest season!

If you are in North Myrtle Beach for the holiday, you can celebrate the holiday with old friends, family or new friends you meet on the beach or playing golf! The great thing about North Myrtle Beach is, no matter the season, there are so many ways to entertain yourselves! Take in a show, play a round of golf, pick a new restaurant every night and try something new or just visit your favorite places.

There is always something happening at North Myrtle Beach! If not in the mood to cook – you can’t beat the wide assortment of restaurants in the North Myrtle Beach areato choose from for your turkey day feast.

Gathering together your friends and/or family to share these special moments is something that we look forward to each holiday and Thanksgiving is certainly one of the most important to us. No matter what the holiday means to you, we all look forward to sharing the day and the season with others in our own way.

If you don’t have friends or family nearby, consider volunteering your time at a local shelter or soup kitchen to help others feel the warmth of the season. If you aren’t affiliated with a local church or group, contact your local community and see if there are any volunteer opportunities. If it’s nothing more than folding dinner napkins, it may make a huge difference in the life of one person.

If you are cooking “the big bird” this year, we thought we’d pass on some tips that might come in handy. Next week we will add some great recipes and then the following week, we’ll give you some great left-over ideas! For these tips, recipes and more, go to www.BettyCrocker.com .

Thanksgiving Ideas and Tips From The Myrtle Beach Experts

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Here are a few tips on some basic "need to know" items for Thanksgiving Day dinner:

Carving Tips For Your "Big Bird"

Use a sharp carving knife for best results when carving a whole turkey. While slicing, keep the turkey from moving by holding it in place with a meat fork. Carve on a stable cutting surface, such as a plastic cutting board or platter. Cutting a turkey is easier if it is allowed to stand for about 15 minutes after roasting. To carve a turkey, place the turkey breast up with its legs to the right if you're right-handed or to the left if left-handed. Remove the ties or skewers.

Gravy Tips

Keep it lump-free by using a wire whisk when adding the flour to the drippings. Beat the drippings rapidly with the whisk while adding the flour and there won't be any lumps.

Measure accurately. Too little fat can make the gravy lumpy; too much fat can make the gravy greasy.

Be sure the mixture cooks at a full boil for 1 minute. This cooks the flour or cornstarch so the gravy doesn't have a starchy flavor.

If you don't have enough dripping, you can use water from cooking potatoes, wine or tomato juice.

If you have plenty of pan drippings and like lots of gravy or are serving a crowd, just double or triple the recipe.

For thinner gravy, decrease meat drippings and flour to 1 tablespoon each.

October in North Myrtle Beach - Fall Food, Fun, and Festivals

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The Shrimp and Jazz Festival in Little River, SC was so much fun on Saturday! They had very talented bands, amazing food and all kinds of arts and crafts. My main objective upon arrival was to enjoy some seafood because I had been craving it for a long time. What better place to get seafood then the Shrimp and Jazz fest, I thought. After 47 minutes of pacing back and forth between all the seafood stands, the delectable smells got the best of me. It was so hard choosing between crab cakes, lobster, grouper, shrimp and all the other types of seafood but once that decision was made, I had to decide how I wanted the item prepared and there were so many variations of spices that were used. I finally narrowed it down to fried shrimp covered in parmesan and garlic with some kind of delicious sauce! I found myself a peaceful spot where I could enjoy my treasure. I found a front porch with rocking chairs overlooking the waterway where I could sit and watch all of the festival visitors. I slowly and deliberately placed the scrumptious delicacy in my mouth, one at a time, just letting them melt in my mouth. In between each bite, I savored a sip of my ice cold beer.

You could hear several bands at the same time. You could hear some country music, some 80’s dance music and some jazz. I found my way over to the corner bar where the dance music was drifting out into the night air. I couldn’t help tapping my foot to the music and before I knew it I was dancing. I walked over to the waterway and watched the boats slowly drift in for the night before I headed home. It was a great time and I can’t wait to come back next year. Put this on your calendar and make sure you make it to North Myrtle Beach - I will be thinking about how delicious that shrimp was for a long time!

On Sunday, I went with the family to the Florence Fair. It was a sunny day with the temperature around 80 – a perfect day. We walked around trying to settle on our favorite fair food and finally selected the French fries covered in vinegar. The kids enjoyed the rides and I enjoyed the weather. When we got back from the fair – I decided I couldn’t let such a beautiful day go to waste – I headed down to the beach. I walked about 3 miles down the beach, stopping, here and there when I thought I had discovered that perfect shell to add to my collection. I was amazed at just how many people were on the beach and in the water. North Myrtle Beach is so alive with activities – make your plans soon to come down and play on the beach – you still have time to squeeze in a weeks playtime or a weekend getaway.

The Octoberfest was a huge success with over 35,000 people in attendance. During the last song, they released 800 beach balls into the crowd and followed that with fireworks! That’s something to put on your calendar for next year!

Halloween in North Myrtle Beach~Costume Ideas

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The weather here in North Myrtle Beach is absolutely gorgeous this time of year. It is sunny and warm during the day! There is still a lot of tanning going on down here and lots of fun for the entire family. October is a great time to visit North Myrtle Beach because you can still walk on the beach or go in the water but it isn’t crowded. There are plenty of guests to talk to and of course, the locals. Prices are lower and there aren’t many long lines to stand in so if those things are important to you – October is your month. Whether you come for a 3 day weekend or a week or a month – Seaside Vacations has fabulous North Myrtle Beach Oceanfront condo rentals and beach rental homes as well as others nearby and we will help you find one perfect for you!

On the last blog, I gave you some great recipes for Halloween appetizers. This week we decided to give you some ghoulish ideas for cheap costumes. Most contest winners are home made costumes! Be sure to grab a few items before you leave for your Myrtle Beach trip that you can make into a costume and then hit one of the Halloween parties going on in Myrtle Beach! Here are a few ideas from www.costumeideazone.com.

Use Your Closet for Costume Inspiration

This year, you can avoid all the crowds and bothersome waiting in costume stores by using your own closet as a one-stop costume shop. Need a last-minute costume idea? Well, look no further than your own happy home. All of the materials you need are right within the walls of you home. You’d be surprised of all the great materials, accessories, and themes you can find hidden behind old clothes and boxes. Here are some of the many great reasons why you can use your closet for costume inspiration this year.

Originality

The best costumes, by far, are those that are produced with the most creativity. What consumers don’t realize is that they have a closet full of inspiration and unique materials right at home. You won’t ever have to worry about someone arriving to the party wearing the exact same outfit when you make your costume from your closet.

Instant Transformation

You’d be surprised at how well your old things can transform into new costumes. That old shirt you never wear anymore can get cut up into a vest, hood, or sash accessory. Your old skirt can be made into a cape. Rip that chiffon layer off of your old prom or useless bridesmaid dress and use it to make a haremgirl costume. For a quick bald-look, grab some old, torn pantyhose and stretch it over your hair. Old sheets are fantastic for more than ghost costumes; the possibilities with old clothes are endless. Hey, Scarlett O’Hara made a drop-dead dress from curtains, so keep an open mind!

For a list of Halloween events in the North Myrtle Beach area, click the following link: http://www.thesunnews.com/2010/10/29/1777868/halloween-events-across-the-grand.html

North Myrtle Beach Fall Fun

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Seaside Vacations, The Myrtle Beach Experts, offers gorgeous North Myrtle Beach oceanfront condos and beach house rentals with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Picture yourself, sitting on your balcony, overlooking the infinite blue ocean overcome with a sense of peace and tranquility. You deserve to take time out of your life to experience this soul searching sense of absolute calm. Walk down to the ocean and dig your feet into the sand and stay absolutely still as the waves gradually cover the tops of your feet with thousands of fine granules of white sand. The gravitational pull of the ocean beckons you out to the sea. But you keep your feet firmly planted and the feeling becomes even more intense. Overhead, the full moon shines brightly, mysteriously almost, making you think of fall and Halloween and Thanksgiving.

North Myrtle Beach celebrates the fall in its own “beachy” fashion. Fall is a great time to visit North Myrtle Beach. The weather is still very nice and there are plenty of activities for every member of the family. You will have fun playing putt putt, driving bumper cars, riding the Sky Wheel or going to some of the theatres and shows that Myrtle Beach is so famous for!

There are lots of activities planned for the coming weeks and months so you will want to make plans to visit North Myrtle Beach very soon! Seaside Vacations has the perfect North Myrtle Beach vacation rental condo or beach home to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether it is to squeeze in that last getaway before winter, or if you would like to come down and spend the whole winter with us, we have affordable North Myrtle Beach winter rentals available both on and off the beach! Come and spend the fall and the winter and enjoy all the special events that North Myrtle Beach has to offer our guests! Here are just a few upcoming North Myrtle Beach events:

October 8th Shrimp Fest Little River and Party in the McLean Park
November 26th Intracoastal Christmas Regatta
December 2nd—Annual North Myrtle Beach Tree Lighting
December 3rd—Annual North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade
Jan 14 Snowbirds reception at the North Myrtle Chamber of Commerce
Jan 12-15 S.O.S. Midwinter
Palace Theatre - Christmas on Ice – November 1-December 30
Carolina Opry – Christmas Special – November 1-January 2
Myrtle Beach Convention Center – 19^th century holiday marketplace – Nov-10-13th

Temperatures dropped the other day for just a few hours and it felt like fall, even for just a minute. That brought to mind things like picking out pumpkins for the kids to help carve and drinking warm cider and hot chocolate. As much as I love the warm weather, when you live on the beach you sometimes miss those cold weather activities. Not too often of course – well, actually rarely – which is what makes me a beach lover!

I thought that it would be great fun to celebrate Halloween – Beach style! This would include dressing up and walking the beach in your favorite costume. Getting together with friends around a campfire or your backyard pit and sharing some of these adorable appetizers and a hot cup of cider! (Alcohol optional!)

Frankenweiners:

1. Pillsbury dough or crescent rolls
2. Hot dogs
3. Mustard or ketchup for eyes

Cut the dough into strips and wrap the hot dogs into mummies. Bake for 15 minutes at 400° Add mustard or ketchup dots for eyes. You could cut the hot dogs in half for mini mummies.

Freaky Fingers:

Use Pillsbury bread stick dough. Cut them in half, roll into finger shapes. Add almonds for the fingernails. (I painted mine with red food coloring). Use a knife to make knuckle markings and bake.

Mummy Meatloaf

1 pound ground meat
1/2 package of breakfast sausage
1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1 large egg
BBQ sauce or Ketchup (I like BBQ sauce best)
6-8 lasagna noodles, cooked
2 slices of cheese
2 black or green olives for eyes

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°
Combine meat, sausage, breadcrumbs and egg in a bowl.
Coat a round glass bowl with cooking spray. This will go in the oven, so make sure it is oven safe.
Shape mixture inside the bowl.
Bake for 45-55 minutes until done.
While it’s baking cook some lasagna noodles for the mummy wrap. (slice off the curly edges after they are cooked.)
Cover meatloaf with BBQ sauce or Ketchup.
Add cheese and olives for eyes, then wrap with lasagna.

*For these recipes and more go to www.livinglocurto.com

North Myrtle Beach Fall Festivals and Events

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Paradise, as you know, is located in North Myrtle Beach! Seaside Vacations, leader in providing North Myrtle Beach vacation condo rentals and beach homes, has stunning properties available that will absolutely live up to that fantasy vacation you have pictured for months and years. Call us at 800-661-5511 to book your next vacation or even a long weekend. You can also visit our website at www.seasidevacation.com where you can check availability, pricing, and view interior and exterior photos of these gorgeous North Myrtle Beach vacation rental homes and condos!

North Myrtle Beach ’s Main Street is bustling with activity this week with everyone doing the Shag! For those of you unfamiliar with the Shag – it is South Carolina’s state dance which started back in 1940 in North Myrtle Beach. I have been observing it for the first time over the past few days and it is simply amazing! I’m not sure that my feet could move that fast even if I was being chased by a gator!

Whether it’s multiple cups of triple strength java or their own natural energy level – those dancers are very impressive. They are literally dancing in the streets on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach and this craziness goes on until the 25th of September. If you didn’t make it down this year, make sure you call Seaside Vacations and book your room early – these get booked very early so don’t miss out. We have gorgeous condos and houses close to the action!

This weekend, we also have another popular North Myrtle Beach event going on: the Irish-Italian festivalis happening this Saturday all day on Main Street! If you’re Irish or Italian or know someone Irish or Italian or just love the food – be sure to head down for the weekend and join on in the fun!

Another upcoming event, The Shrimp and Jazz festival takes place October 8th in Little River which is just a few miles from North Myrtle Beach. We have condos and houses available in both areas so you can be close to the fun! There will be delicious food of course, as well as music, arts and crafts and family fun.

North Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals Frequently Asked Questions

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Summer is in Full Swing! Rising Temperatures, Ideal Ocean Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions.

Hi all! We at Seaside Vacations in North Myrtle Beach hope everyone is enjoying their summer this year. The weather has been great with the exception of just a couple rainy days; we actually could use a little bit more precipitation (just not during your vacation!). We have had lots of check-ins so far this summer and have gathered a short list of Frequently Asked Questions to share to help you better enjoy your vacation - whether you are staying in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach or any of the surrounding areas. The Myrtle Beach Experts are here to help!

What are some free of charge to low cost activities for the family to do during our stay?
There is so much to do in North Myrtle Beach and many activities don’t have to break the budget. Many families enjoy fishing from the Cherry Grove pier while some families devoutly take part in searching for seashells at the beach (Hint: You can find some great shells at low tide or right after a storm). Some other budget friendly ideas for our area are: walking the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade; riding the new Sky Wheel in Myrtle Beach; mini golf (there are many mini golf facilities to pick from with various themes from an erupting volcano to a sunken ship!); ride the rides at Broadway at the Beach (grab a funnel cake while you’re there!); or feed the gigantic fish at Broadway at the Beach!

Which restaurants should I dine at while in North Myrtle Beach that I can’t find at home? We get asked this question everyday and always highly recommend Hoskins on Main Street (right down the road from our office) in North Myrtle Beach for good home cookin’! For pizza, we like Lucky’s Pizza in North Myrtle Beach. If you’re looking for a good Seafood Buffet, try Seafare Seafood Buffet on Restaurant Row located in Myrtle Beach. For homemade Italian cuisine, make your way down to Myrtle Beach for an ideal dining experience at Rossi’s. Feel like the flavor of Mexico? We love Abuelo’s, located by Coastal Grand Mall in Myrtle Beach.

I want to barbeque, but my vacation rental does not have a grilling area. McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach offers a gorgeous atmosphere and several charcoal grills for your usage. Feel free to feed the fish and ducks with the family!

How do I bypass traffic on Hwy 17?
We suggest using SC Hwy 31(Carolina Bays Parkway) to avoid summer traffic congestion on US Hwy 17.

Can I rent umbrellas and chairs rather than bring my own?
Yes, there are several rental companies on the Grand Strand that offer this service as well as the Lifeguards on the beach. We suggest using a family owned and operated company called North Strand Beach Service that offers great service and the lowest rates. You can call them directly to place your order at 843-272-3259. They will deliver your rental items right to the condo!

North Myrtle Beach News - City of North Myrtle Beach Opens New Library

Tue, 24 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Attention Book Lovers!

Looks like North Myrtle Beach has a brand new library! This $4 million library has actually been in our city plans for many years and is now open. The biggest difference between the old and new building is the space. The new library boasts an impressive 20,000 square feet with tons of room for its 26 computer stations and 52,000 books, CD’s and DVD’s. The old building was 7,200 square feet for reference. Over 50 volunteers signed up to assist with moving the contents of the library over a short 5-day time frame.

The new library is conveniently located at 910 1st Ave South. What will happen to the old building? The North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum board is planning to secure the old library on 2nd Ave North.

Memorial Day Weekend in Myrtle Beach, SC

Thu, 19 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Memorial Day Celebrations In Myrtle Beach, SC

Formerly known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day commemorates U.S. soldiers who passed away while in the military service. The first Memorial Day was meant to honor Union and Confederate soldiers who died during military service which has now been extended to recognize and honor all Americans who have died in war. Memorial Day also marks the start of the summer vacation season, which we are very excited about! We here at Seaside Vacations have a lot to be grateful for and want to express our sincerest gratitude to all who have fought and continue to fight for our beautiful country.

Help celebrate Memorial Day and join us at the Parade through Myrtle Beach on Saturday, May 28th at 9:30 a.m. John McCain will be serving as the Grand Marshal followed by numerous Disney and Nickelodeon stars from popular children’s television shows such as iCarly, Victorious, Wizards of Waverly Place, Sonny with a chance and Shake it Up. Military appreciation festivities and vendors will be downtown as well. The parade will start at 27th Avenue North and travel south to 9th Avenue North. While you’re already downtown, assist Myrtle Beach with kicking off their 60th Annual Sun-Fun Festival!

*Remember, downtown Myrtle Beach is home to the brand new boardwalk, the new Sky Wheel, tons of shops, entertainment and restaurants. This will be an exciting event for adults and children of all ages to attend.

North Myrtle Beach Jet Ski Rentals ~ Barefoot Resort Watersports

Thu, 12 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach Jet Ski Rentals - Barefoot Resort Watersports

Jet Ski with the Dolphins.…A Barefoot BLAST!
Another fun activity caught our attention that we wanted to share with you all in hopes of making your North Myrtle Beach vacation a success! Owned by a family of seven, Barefoot Resort Watersports has been offering affordable Jet Ski, yacht and boat rentals since 2007. This family owned company updates their equipment yearly and is in a convenient location in the heart of North Myrtle Beach. Barefoot Resort Watersports offers Yamaha Wave Runners that are available for 30 minute, 60 minute or 90 minute rentals or for dolphin tours. Two hour dolphin tours are offered as well. Also available are 18’ to 24’ pontoon boats that can be rented for full or half day floating fun! Feel like living in the life of luxury? Two luxury charter yachts are readily attainable for groups of up to 16 people. The 38’ Catalyst yacht holds up to 8 people while the 44’ Incentive yacht carries up to 16 people. These grandiose yachts are supreme for families to encounter the comely Intracoastal Waterway, picturesque bird island and the all-encompassing, exhilarating views of nature at its best along with a knowledgeable Captain at your side. Reservations and walk-ins welcome.
Visit www.barefootresortwatersports.com for more information or call 843-455-4888 to make reservations.

North Myrtle Beach Fishing With Reel Action Fishing Charters

Sat, 07 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Unsure of what to do on your next North Myrtle Beach vacation?

Capt. John to the rescue!!

If you have never been to North Myrtle Beach or the surrounding areas, you may not be familiar with each of the abundant activities and attractions that our community offers. We are here to help with your vacation lodging and plans! From North Myrtle Beach to Myrtle Beach and Little River, our area is packed full of fun and exciting things to do on your vacation.

We have recently learned of a very special activity that you and the family may want to look into. It’s Reel Action Fishing Charters! Captain John offers full and half day charters for your convenience. Captain John is US Coast Guard licensed and has all of the equipment necessary for your trip such as the boat complete with tackle and bait along with a personable guide.

Reel Action Fishing Charters also offers sightseeing trips where you and your guests will be swept away on a guided tour boat down the Intracoastal Waterway through the Little River fishing fleet area and then to the secluded islands where you can look for seashells or just relax while you soak up some sun! Captain John will also take you into the back creeks and marshes for more fun!. During your tour, you will see exotic birds in their native habitat, gorgeous foliage and sparkling waters! Don’t be too surprised if you are lucky enough to encounter a bottlenose dolphin as well! For those who want to fish, Captain John will make sure to find you some flounder, redfish and trout. He may also take you to a reef for shark, black bass, and spade fishing! Photography is welcome and we at Seaside Vacations think this is a great way to really get a look of the area you will be visiting on your North Myrtle Beach vacation.

Ripley's Aquarium Myrtle Beach, SC Brings Sharks Ashore

Mon, 02 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Myrtle Beach Shark Attack!

Ripley’s Aquarium has performed some interesting and ghastly updates to their well sought after attraction located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina at Broadway at the Beach. Ripley’s Aquarium is happy to proudly present to you, their “Jaw-some” new Sharks exhibit intriguingly dubbed “Perfect Predators”. This exposition allows its visitors to discover and uncover the oceans’ top predator. “Sharks-Perfect Predators” features over a dozen species of sharks in conjunction with over 30 interactive show cases for public viewing, many of which are hands-on for the kids to take part in! This new exposition takes its guests beyond the false notions of sharks and their behavior by creatively illustrating their daily struggle to survive. During your visit to “Sharks”, you will have the opportunity to find out what odd objects have been found in a Shark’s stomach, take an up close sight of shark skin, experience “shark vision” and embark upon the force of a shark bite! You will also be given the chance to really understand what sharks have had to endure for millions of years. Ripley’s Aquarium hopes to provide its visitors with a special opportunity to better understand the heart of a shark in hopes of changing unfounded fears into a better appreciation for these magnificent predators.

*The Garra Rufa tank is also newly up and running while the newest eels are slithering away in the eel tank. Go check them out and let us know what your favorite part of the new exhibit is!

For more information on the fabulous Ripley's Aquarium, visit their website at http://myrtlebeach.ripleyaquariums.com/

North Myrtle Beach Easter Weekend Activities

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Eager for Easter?

Peeps, Pastels and the Pursuit of Eggs!

Greetings from North Myrtle Beach! Looking for something entertaining and grin-provoking to do for the Easter holiday? The North Myrtle Beach Community Easter Egg Hunt will take place this Saturday, April 23^rd at 10:00 a.m. at McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach. This is a free event that has been taking place since the late 1970’s and presents various age groups with the opportunity to partake in plenty of Easter egg hunting fun!

If the Easter Egg Hunt doesn’t provide you with enough smiles and laughter, feel free to take a jaunt over to Broadway at the Beach for their Easter Celebration and Fireworks display on April 23. The celebration will begin at 10:00a.m. with face painting for the kids along with a martial arts demonstration for all to observe. The Easter Bunny will be available to lend his cute little furry face for big hugs and lots of pictures as well! The shops at Broadway at the Beach will stay open late just in case you want to grab yourself some Easter treats.

Happy Easter to all of you from your friends at Seaside Vacations!

Easter Sunday in Myrtle Beach, SC

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Things to do in North Myrtle Beach on Easter Sunday: Sunrise Services and Restaurants serving Easter Dinner

Now that you all have ideas of exciting events happening the day before Easter, how about some things you and your family can do on Sunday, Easter Day! A comprehensively sought after ceremony happening in North Myrtle Beach is the Easter Sunday sunrise service. Tourists travel from all over America to be in North Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas during Easter break. You too can submerse yourself in a tranquil service happening right on the beach and other various locations. Don’t plan on waking up before sunrise? You can still take part by frequenting one of the many restaurants that will be serving Easter Dinner.

The King of Glory Lutheran Church will be holding a Sunrise Service on the Beach April 24^th, 2011. The Lantern processional begins at King of Glory at 6:00 a.m. followed by the Sunrise service located at 12^th Avenue North Ocean Blvd beach access at 6:15 a.m. Festival Services of Worship along with the Chancel Choir will take place at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Amazing Grace Lutheran Church will also be hosting a sunrise service on Easter Sunday at 7:30 a.m. A Worship service is scheduled at 10:45 a.m.

Ocean View Baptist Church is scheduled to host a contemporary Worship service for 9:00 a.m. on Easter Sunday and a traditional Worship service at 11:05 a.m.

St. Andrews Catholic church will host numerous services at the Palace Theatre at Broadway at the Beach on Easter Sunday. Mass will take place at 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. A Hispanic choir will take place at 5:00 p.m. and Spanish Mass will be held at 7:00 p.m. at St. Andrews.

After you satisfy your spiritual side, it’s time to satisfy your taste buds! The following restaurants have something special in store for its Easter Sunday visitors:

Gordon Biersch of Market Commons is serving up an Easter brunch feast from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Easter. Enjoy specialties like Bratwurst and caramelized onions, apple bread pudding, orange-glazed chicken and more breakfast, lunch and dessert items.

Parson’s Table is serving Easter dinner from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. featuring roasted lamb and baked ham. Additional specials will be available as well.

The Brentwood Restaurant and Wine Bistro of Little River is serving a family-style Easter Dinner you can’t miss. The restaurant will serve salad, turkey, ham, corn bread stuffing and dessert from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The Melting Pot in Myrtle Beach is planning on hosting their own version of Easter dinner. A four course dinner with cheese fondue, salad, an entrée and chocolate fondue will be served from noon until 9:00 p.m.

Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant and Bar in Myrtle Beach is hosting a very special Easter Brunch from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Easter Sunday. Choose from Steak and Eggs, Biscuits and Gravy, Crab Eggs Benedict or Certified Angus Ribeye!

Now that you know of all the Easter events going on in our community, we hope that you will enjoy your break during this holiday. North Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas are fortunate to have guests from all over the country and are very thankful that you all are spending your break with us!

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Hi all! We here at Seaside Vacations wanted to share an exciting location to visit while you’re enjoying/planning your North Myrtle Beach vacation. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade offers a 1.2 mile-long adventure for tourists and locals to marvel. Located between the 14^th Avenue Pier and the 2^nd Avenue Pier in Myrtle Beach, the Boardwalk took about nine months to build, cost almost $7 million dollars and used almost 800,000 feet of lumber! The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade proudly presents splendid oceanfront views of the white sandy beach groove along with abundant shops and dining destinations accompanying its course. The boardwalk is sectioned into three different components designed to accommodate different interests and personalities.

The northern portion weaves down from the 14^th Avenue North Pier down to Plyler Park. The mid-section is situated from Plyler Park to the antecedent attraction, Pavilion Amusement Park at 8^th Avenue North and circumscribes more of a carnival-like semblance with oceanfront dining venues and lots of shopping to be done! The southern extremity of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk ushers its guests to the 2^nd Avenue pier where guests can take a rest and peacefully gallivant in the oceanfront park.

Also, coming in June 2011, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is adding a SkyWheel for its many guests to revel in! It will be located alongside the Boardwalk. This huge oceanfront attraction is 18 stories high (196 feet) and is comprised of 42 glass encased, temperature controlled gondolas that carry up to 6 people at a time. This attraction is jumpstarting some exciting commencement plans including a full service Jimmy Buffet’s Landshark Bar and Grill, an observation deck that overlooks the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean, a gift shop and most thrilling- an evening light show!

Summer on the Boardwalk: The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade will also be hosting Ocean Boulevard’s Hot Summer Nights at Plyler Park. Some of the highlights for Hot Summer Nights include live concerts on Tuesdays and on Saturdays and a “Kids Carnival” on Monday nights with inflatables, face painting, jugglers, bounce houses, balloon artists and stilt walkers. Wednesday nights will leave you breathless with a brilliant fireworks display off the 2^nd Avenue Pier and Sunday nights will highlight the talents of jugglers, acrobats, and stilt walkers along with a fire show and human statures! Thursdays will feature strolling bagpipers on the Boardwalk and Friday will serve up a highly spirited Dixieland band for all to enjoy!

We hope to see you all there!

Click for North Myrtle Beach Vacation Rental Specials

Myrtle Beach Welcomes New Attraction: WonderWorks, An Amusement Park For The Mind

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Captivated by the bizarre and unusual?
New Myrtle Beach upside-down attraction at Broadway at the Beach is a must-see!

Broadway at the Beach is introducing a curiously interesting attraction to Myrtle Beach come this April 2011 with the appearance of having fallen right out of the sky. WonderWorks is making Myrtle Beach, SC their 4th abode in addition to their Orlando, Pigeon Forge, and Panama City Beach locations. We here at SEASIDE VACATIONS cannot wait to check it out! With its 50,000 square feet, WonderWorks promises to entertain all who enter with over 100 hands-on displays waiting to encourage and provoke creativity and most importantly trigger the mind and kick it into gear! This attraction claims to be an exciting “amusement park for the mind”. Intrigued? WonderWorks has found a way to integrate entertainment and education in a way that will keep the whole family captivated and engulfed.

WonderWorks will bewitch and charm its guests with an array of adventures such as laser-tag, designing and riding a 360 degree virtual roller coaster, piloting a fighter jet, lying on a bed of 3,500 nails, operating the controls of a NASA spacecraft and literally being blown away by 74 mile per hour winds! Where else can you do all that? And that’s just the beginning. WonderWorks features two outdoor experiences that are already open. Come Soar and Explore with the zip line that will take you gliding 50 feet above water on a course that meanders 1,000 feet between towers. The pirate-themed ropes course will leave you breathless with its 40 feet tall structure featuring three different levels to entertain your mind and exercise your body. Participants will learn to maneuver 33 various challenge elements made with more than 3,000 ropes and cables that allow the course to become progressively tough!

Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas will open their arms to WonderWorks as April approaches. Locals and tourists are sure to be “blown away” with this new attraction. April couldn’t be a better month to enjoy some outdoor family competition with its mild and comfortable average temperate of 76 degrees. Let us know what you think about this brand new attraction after you partake in the thrilling ventures that WonderWorks is conjuring up for us all!

North Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals: An Ever-Changing Market

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 GMT

There was a time when a vacationer to North Myrtle Beach had two options when seeking out accommodations for the family vacation: beach house rental (typically owned by someone they knew), or a hotel room. Boy, have times changed! While many travelers are now familiar with all the different options available for vacation rentals, there are still some who are not aware of the benefits of renting a fully furnished condominium, or beach home, versus a standard hotel room.

When planning a North Myrtle Beach vacation, many things come to mind such as area safety, amenities, distance from entertainment, shopping, dining destinations, weather, etc. Those are all very important attributes, but the most expensive part of a vacation is generally the lodging, therefore taking the time to find the perfect fit is beneficial. So the question of the day is: are you a fully furnished condo person or a one-room hotel

When you book your reservations at a North Myrtle Beach condo , home or resort, the options are vast. The advantage of being able to choose between one, two or three bedrooms in itself is a luxury. There is more space provided in condos, homes and resorts therefore preventing “cabin fever” and enables you and your family to be entertained just by being in your lodging accommodations. Fully stocked kitchens are also a tremendous bonus for choosing something other than a standard hotel. Preparing meals for the family gives your vacation that cozy “home away from home” feeling, and can be a big money saver since all your meals don’t have to be eaten out. The living rooms in our North Myrtle Beach rentals are the focal point for entertainment allowing for family movie nights and for rejuvenating yourselves of the stresses everyday life may bear. Another gain is having a washer and dryer. Typically, in a standard hotel, you end up bringing home a mound of unwashed clothes, leaving you with a chore as soon as you return home. You won’t have to worry about that with us! Another excellent advantage of choosing a vacation rental from Seaside Vacations is having more than just one bathroom. Most of our properties have multiple bathrooms adding convenience to your trip.

The greatest benefit of booking a condo, home or resort is the amenities! Many of our North Myrtle Beach properties feature indoor and outdoor pools, oceanfront sundecks, grilling areas, lazy rivers with tubes, kiddie pools, and much more. One of our properties even features a restaurant, sports bar and Tiki bar on property. Fitness rooms are another huge bonus! No need to get off of your workout routine with the plentiful fitness rooms you can find in several of our properties. Booking your vacation in a fully furnished condo, home or resort is truly the premium way to go and we are here to help you find your ideal North Myrtle Beach vacation spot!

North Myrtle Beach Mardi Gras Masquerade and More March Madness Along The Grand Strand

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

March is a busy month in Myrtle Beach....

With an average yearly temperature of a comfortable 68 degrees, March proves to be a superior month to visit North Myrtle Beach. From Mardi gras festivities to beer fests, North Myrtle Beach provides all of the entertainment and pleasantries you need to enjoy your spring getaway. Below are events scheduled throughout the month of March that you won’t want to miss!

Tuesday, March 8^th, 2011 will be full of Mardi gras mirth! Dick’s Last Resort in Barefoot Landing will host their annual Mardi Gras Parade beginning at 5:00PM. The parade will meander its way along the Waterway before its final destination at Dick’s Last Resort where lots of fun awaits! Dress up in your costumes and have the whole family tag along for family friendly atmosphere, music, beads, candy and more.

March 10-12^th, 2011: Grab your dancing shoes and head on over to 2001 Night Club in Myrtle Beach near restaurant row. The National Shag Dance Championships started in Myrtle Beach in 1984 and is the longest continuously running shag dance contest in the country. Previous winners of the NSDC have performed on TV shows and events such as Good Morning America, Harvard University, NBA Games, CBS This Morning and PGA Annual Banquets. Experience the excitement of an ardent dance competition in person!

March 12, 2011: Get your green beer, corn beef and cabbage! The 23^rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Main Street featuring a family friendly atmosphere with tons of floats, candy and beauty queens! You don’t have to be Irish to appreciate this North Myrtle Beach tradition, just don’t forget to wear something green!

March 19^th, 2011: The 3^rd Annual Taste of the Coast at Barefoot Landing will take place from 11am-4pm with assurance of being the “Family Fun Event of the Year”. Local restaurants will assemble booths featuring samples of their specialties. A special “Kid Zone” will be featured with arcade games, blow up rides, pony rides, carnival games, balloon artists, face painters and more! Live entertainment such as the local band “Diversity” will be held throughout the day as well. Entry is $1 or a canned good.

March 25-26, 2011: Myrtle Beach Beer Fest will take place at Market Commons featuring beer from around the country. This event will jumpstart with a Brewer’s Dinner on March 25^th from 7pm-9pm. Market Commons is a gorgeous, pet friendly area with fountains, ponds, playgrounds and more. Visit http://www.myrtlebeachbeerfest.com/ for more information.

As always, Seaside Vacations has plenty of last minute specials and great North Myrtle Beach vacation rental accommodations for those who want to head to the beach and participate in the March fun! Give us a call at 800-661-5511 - the Myrtle Beach Experts are ready adn waiting to help you find your place in the sun!

St. Patrick’s Day Pleasantries in North Myrtle Beach

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Prásino, verde, vert and grün are just some of the various ways to say GREEN! And be sure to remember to wear something green on St. Patty’s Day or you’re bound to get a little pinch! The 23rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival will transpire Saturday, March 12th, on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. The celebratory parade starts at 9AM sharp. The festival takes place from 11:00AM to 4:00PM with FREE admission!

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is organized by the North Strand Optimist Club. This jubilation is easily the largest parade on the Grand Strand with more than 100 entries! Last year, over 25,000 people came out to enjoy the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. Even though the parade begins bright and early, don’t fret! Many people arrive in advance to not only check out all of the Main Street establishments and to seek coffee and other warming confections, but to find the perfect spot for the entertaining escapade. The parade is comprised of glorious floats, marching bands, beauty queens, area celebrities and more! Wake District Pipes and Drumes, Ceol na Gael Irish Pipe Band and the Burlington Teen Tour Marching Band from Canada will be performing to keep high spirits going and to add extra ambience throughout the air. Other features include over a hundred arts and craft vendors, a business expo and a comprehensive cornicopia of cuisine. The festival will include a St. Patrickls Day Chalk Art Challenge for a chance to win a prize or even cash. The children’s section will be the center of attention for the little ones with rides and games! Live entertainment will perform on two different stages: the Hillside Stage and the Oceanfront Stage. Blackwater, the Triple Toe Cloggers, Myrtle Beach Regional Pipe Band and the Celtic Pride Band will all be performing at the Hillside Stage. Arts Alive, Wake District, Pipes and Drums and Gaelstorm will all be playing on the Oceanfront Stage.

The festival’s coordinators are urging people to bring in canned goods to the Noah’s Ark booth with all donations going to North Strand Helping Hand. Anyone who brings canned goods will receive a free beanie animal friend. The kids will love their new buddy and the community will benefit greatly. After all festivities have subsided, the Prodigals will take the Oceanfront Stage along with the Ceol na Gael’s Irish Pipe Band performing afterwards.

Zestful Adventures in a North Myrtle Beach Nutshell

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The North Myrtle Beach Winter Experience …

While the Northern quantum of the country is surrounded with flurries and fluttering snow, we are encountering temperatures in the 50’s! Wow! This is quite a pleasant surprise for us! We at Seaside Vacations figured you all would probably want to be out in this sublime weather so we have composed a list of activities that will be occurring throughout the month of February. Be prepared for the following events to knock your thermal socks off!

The Carolina Opry’s 25^th Season has already been jump started in the right way with a legendary variety of talent that is highly supported by The New York Times, USA Today, NBC Nightly News and CNN. This spectacular affair is the only show that has even won every major South Carolina tourism award. Visit http://www.thecarolinaopry.com/ for additional information.

Alabama Theatre is also kick starting the month with a great line up of concert series! Eddie Miles - A Salute to Elvis and Country Legends premiers at 7pm on February 13^th. Lee Greenwood and Louise Mandrell will be featured at Alabama Theatre February 20^th at 7PM. Daniel O’Donnell will also be performing February 28^th at 7PM. Other performers taking the stage as 2011 progresses include Smokey Robinson, Randy Travis, Loretta Lynn, Kenny Rogers and George Jones. For show times, visit http://www.alabama-theatre.com/

The House of Blues is hosting The Big Game in the Concert Hall on Sunday, February 6^th. Admission is free; food and drink specials will be available. Enjoy the game on their huge 40 ft screen! Visit www.hob.com/myrtlebeach

A delectably delightful shindig that any chocolate lover would go gaga over is taking place this February 4^th! Not only will chocolate be involved, so will a great cause! Join the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina for Death by Chocolate: A Chocolate and Champagne Affair. This soiree will be held at Sands Resort in Myrtle Beach on February 4^th from 7-9PM. The event includes chocolate entrée’s made by local chefs that will be critiqued by a panel of judges. A silent auction will be held as well with proceeds going to the Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina. Visit http://brownpapertickets.com/event/137396 for additional information.

Valentine’s Day Verve in North Myrtle Beach

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

We Love Our Snowbirds Too!

Now that we’ve got some sunshine again in North Myrtle Beach, it’s time to celebrate our Snowbirds! For decades, thousands of northern vacationers have cascaded their way across the wide, white, sandy beaches of North Myrtle Beach to stay during the winter months. Just like birds, they come to enjoy the milder temperatures that our area supplies. Snowbirds are welcomed with open arms and considered very special seasonal residents. The income provided by winter renters is extraordinarily valuable to our economy and North Myrtle Beach wants to show its appreciation! Barefoot Community Church, located at 701 Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, is hosting the Annual We Love Our Snowbirds Reception on Valentine’s Day from 2pm-4pm. The reception will feature refreshments, giveaways and lots of door prizes!

Seaside Vacations has been fortunate enough to experience the presence of Snowbirds from all around the globe. We have oceanfront and off ocean properties available for North Myrtle Beach winter rentals during the fall and winter months. It can be chilly on the beach, but a chill in the air sure beats shoveling snow and driving in treacherous conditions! We want to express our greatest gratitude and wish you all an abundantly “hearty” Valentine’s Day.

Myrtle Beach Hosts Annual Polar Plunge Event

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Myrtle Beach - "Freezin' For a Reason" Chilly Charitable Annual Event!

Springmaid Beach Resort is hosting the Freezin’ for a Reason Polar Bear Plunge this February 5, 2011 at the Springmaid Pier. This unique event proposes a commendable opportunity for the public of all ages and local businesses in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas to participate as an advocate for South Carolina Special Olympics athletes. “How?” you ask? By raising money and diving into the frigid, ice cold Atlantic Ocean for an admirable cause! Sounds crazy, right? But, last year’s February Polar Bear Plunge raised an overly abundant amount of funds to assist individuals with intellectual disabilities to compete in the Special Olympics. The South Carolina Special Olympics relies solely on private, corporate and volunteer help to administer services at zero cost to the devoted athletes. Without this help, some of these outstanding athletes will not have a chance to compete in the Special Olympics. Freezin’ for a Reason activities launch at 10am with food, a costume parade and children’s activities all culminating to the inevitable arctic plunge at 2:00pm. Seaside Vacations, The Myrtle Beach Experts and leader in North Myrtle Beach vacations want to express our gratitude and respect for the hundreds of brave and selfless volunteers who will be taking the plunge to help some our most courageous athletes carry out their dream of participating in the Special Olympics. For more information or to register, visit http://polarplungesc.com/.

Pirates Voyage Soon to Set Sail in Myrtle Beach

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

“Avast Ye, Matey!”

June 3, 2011 is sure to bring steady smiles with a new and exciting attraction for locals and Myrtle Beach vacation visitors to frequent. Dixie Stampede in Myrtle Beach will transform into a Pirates Voyage at the cost of over $11 million in breath taking upgrades. After 18 successful years, Dolly Parton is shivering all of our timbers by switching up the usual dinner theatrics from level land to shaky waters! And by shaky waters, we mean a15- foot-deep indoor lagoon! Dixie Stampede is exchanging cow girls and horses for hidden treasure, pirates and splashing battles! Prepare yourselves for a debonair and vivacious four course dynamite dinner while you cheer on the Buccaneer Battle featuring live animals, dashing actors and FULL SIZED pirate ships! This competitive blitzkrieg will take place on deck, in water and high in the sky far above the pirate vessels. Tilt your sails to the wind and dock yourselves for Fun, Feast and Adventure-which side will take the treasure?

For more information or to view the Pirates Voyage show schedule, visit http://www.piratesvoyage.com/.

Athleticism for Autism and more North Myrtle Beach Altruism!

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

There are so many in need right now and Seaside Vacations would like to spread the word about a couple of big-hearted events that are happening in the near to distant future. These compassionate advents could possibly assist a broad quantity of people in a significant way if an abundant turnout is advancing! Both of the following events are in momentous support of the American Red Cross, Leukemia, Lymphoma, Autism and other disabilities including individuals with developmental restrictions such as mental retardation, spinal cord injuries and head trauma. We really want to help raise awareness for such a compelling cause!

The 2011 Myrtle Beach Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K have officially become Green Marathon events. With the help of North Myrtle Beach locals, BI-LO was able to work with Active.com to attain this positive ecological status. USA Today tabulates the BI-LO Myrtle Beach Marathon as one of the 10 great winter marathons. Since the very first year of the Myrtle Beach Marathon, almost $3 million dollars has been raised to help others! We are crossing our fingers that February 17-19^th 2011 will bring in an ample amount of funds to continue on the process of accommodating individuals in need. To register, visit http://www.mbmarathon.com/site3.aspx.

The City of Conway is graciously hosting the 2^nd Annual Conway Area Michelob Ultra Bike Ride on Sunday, February the 20^th, 2011. Proceeds from this appreciated event go to Horry County Disabilities and Special Needs. This event features three different Bike Ride courses: 14.2 miles; 33.5 miles; and 63 miles. Luxuriate in riding through historical downtown Conway countryside while you help others in the battle against unfortunate diseases. Delicious food and fellowship awaits you after your bike ride at the Peanut Warehouse. To register for any of the 3 showcase bike rides, visit https://www.kintera.org/faf/r/default.asp?ievent=433980&lis=1&kntae433980=21311C44A0F44800BF1E5980D2B55E76 for more information.

We hope many will benefit from all the hard work our local and out of town athletes provide!

Snowbird Scenes and other North Myrtle Beach Vivacities

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Wrapping up the Merriment!

The cornucopia of red and green hype is simmering down and Santa has vastly made his way around the world already. We Grand Stranders are beginning to take down our holiday décor collection to be stored in the attic until next year. Although this is somewhat solemn, considering how much FUN the holiday season has been, there is so much to be looking forward to now that it is a brand new, fresh year. We are so excited to take advantage of all our photographic town has to offer from Cherry Grove to Myrtle Beach and back to Ocean Drive! Much is happening and you can be a part of it! Our coastline is striking as ever and several people have been reporting frolicking dolphins in the early morning time! We really hope our Snowbirds are enjoying their stay and all the beach scenery surrounding them. I’m sure the past two days of heavenly Spring-like weather didn’t hurt!

Our Snowbirds are important to us. They stay with us for a huge part of their year and we want to make them happy (just like we want all of our guests to be satisfied). Below is a list of a few activities to do around town during the next few weeks for your enjoyment. And as always, feel free to give us a call for our recommendations on restaurants, attractions and anything else you may need!

Feeling competitive? Put your chef’s hat on and battle to your hearts content for the very highly respected honor of “best soup in North Myrtle Beach”. The bragging rights alone are worth the while! This event takes place in Little River United Methodist Church on Sunday, January 9^th from 4-7pm. All competitors are welcome! Call (843)281-1340 for any additional information you may need.

The North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum is encouraging anyone who may have any items pertaining to North Myrtle Beach history to partake in Photo Day on January 13^th from 3-5 pm at the North Myrtle Beach Library which is located at 799 2^nd Ave N. The museum is interested in any kind of artifacts to share with locals and tourists! Visit www.northmyrtlebeachmuseum.com for additional information.

Whether you prefer to be a spectator or competitor, start looking forward to the 28^th Annual North Myrtle Beach Winter Run on January 22^nd. Located on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach, this event will be great entertainment for all. Kick off time is 9am! For more information, call (843)272-1717.

Happy New Year to you all and may it be full of joy and all things good.

North Myrtle Beach Shags in the Winter!

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Riveting Mid Winter!

Hello all! We had really great holidays considering how gracious all of our guests have been during these special and sacred times. We hope you all did as well! The highlight of our holidays (besides the amazing desserts you all brought) was that we got to experience our very own White Christmas here in North Myrtle Beach. Needless to say, all of the children in the Grand Strand area were mesmerized by all the snow flurries falling everywhere! That’s a rarity for us!

The bashing birthplace of the official Shag dance will open its arms to the zestful Society of Shaggers quite soon! This coming January 13^th-16^th, SOS will host their mid winter migration down to North Myrtle Beach, which means fun for us! Considering the fun and exciting whirlwind this event creates, we won’t be at a loss for joyful gaiety! The famous Fat Harold’s will do the honors of kicking off the mid winter affair on January 12^th beginning at 8:00pm with hot dogs and chili beans to feed the soul!

We have also had something come to our attention recently with this spine chilling weather we have been having in the Grand Strand. Not everyone in our community has access to a warm coat! We would really love to help out some of those people. If any of our readers or friends of our readers have any to spare that are no longer in use, we would be extraordinarily grateful for any coat donations that we can disburse amongst our beloved town. Thank you all!

North Myrtle Beach Merrymaking From The Myrtle Beach Experts

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Join in on the holiday hoopla!

Christmas is expeditiously approaching! We here at Seaside Vacations are knuckling down on preparing gifts and treats for our family and friends like little magical elves in Santa’s workshop, North Pole Style! Well, minus the snow, but it has been feeling quite chilly here in North Myrtle Beach. We have all been bundled up in lots of layers like Mrs. Claus! And speaking of the famous Mrs. Claus, we wanted to share a list of our very own favorite Christmas films and TV features. Here goes!

White Christmas
It’s a Wonderful Life
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
The Family Stone
A Christmas Story
How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
A Christmas Carol
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Frosty the Snowman

We’d love for you to visit our Facebook page and let us know what all your Christmas favorites are as well! Happy Holidays to all!

North Myrtle Beach Gives Stamp of Approval For Tents on the Beach

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

For those of you who prefer to spend your North Myrtle Beach vacation sunning in the shade, you’re in luck! The North Myrtle Beach City Council has passed a beach tent ordinance allowing tents to adorn our stunning seashores. There are some rules, of course, such as tents are only allowed on the beach between 8am and 7pm and they cannot be within ten feet of any lifeguard stand. Such rules are only meant for the protection of the public and to enable lifeguards to easily see any swimmers in need of assistance. Otherwise, you’re free to set up camp and enjoy yourselves while you seek shelter from the shining sun. For a full list of city ordinance rules regarding tents to better help you plan your stay, visit http://www.wmbfnews.com/story/13627101/nmb-tent-ordinance-passes

In other news, Barefoot Landing invites you, the kids AND your pets to come out December 18^th from noon to 5pm to Santa’s Wonderland located in Lakeview Courtyard. Have your pictures taken with Santa, venture out on carousel rides and make some festive holiday memories.

Also, don’t forget to become a fan of our Facebook page for information on exclusive deals and fun insider news! Click HERE to join!

North Myrtle Beach in December

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland....

While many are freezing in sub zero temperatures, we are lucky enough to be enjoying mild and sunny weather here in North Myrtle Beach! The seagulls are still gliding above, the waves are still crashing below and tourists are still traveling all along the Grand Strand. Many of our North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals feature indoor amenities for when the weather just doesn’t quite allow for the outdoor ones. Forget Me Not is one of our cozy North Myrtle Beach vacation homes that offers a private heated pool. The Pinnacle, Ocean Bay Club, The Ashworth and Bay Watch Resort all feature indoor heated pools as well. It doesn’t have to be summer for great swimming!

The best part about taking a vacation to North Myrtle Beach in December is the breathtakingly pleasant atmosphere. The fact that the congestion is at a minimum is all the more reason to go out and venture around to explore all the nooks and crannies our town has to offer, which is quite a lot! You will find that there is no loss of things to do and you’ll be saving a ton of money while visiting during off season! There are also many attractions going on this month that you won’t be able to find in the spring or summer seasons.

The Night of a Thousand Candles will be taking place throughout this month. This is an incredibly unique event fit for the entire family to enjoy. Brookgreen Gardens will come to life with more than 5,000 candles and an endless amount of Christmas lights! Meander through the winding paths of this stunning property while you admire the plentiful surrounding art pieces. Don’t forget to grab a cup of coffee or hot tea from one of the little shops located throughout the venue while you watch the carolers, musicians and performers. Visit http://www.brookgreen.org/ for more information.

Source: http://www.brookgreen.org/2010NOTCrevised.cfm

Making The Most of a Rainy Day in North Myrtle Beach, SC

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A bad day at the beach beats a good day at work!

With our average precipitation fall rate of 4.6/month, we locals here at Seaside Vacations know how to get around the rain for big time fun! As the rain trickles and our check-ins begin to arrive, we cant help but be disappointed for the ones who get stuck with rain on their anticipated vacation! So we have composed a fun and exciting list of things to do in case you are boggled by the same problem!

Ripleys Aquarium: Visit Ripleys Aquarium for the perfect rainy day distraction! The Dangerous Reef is jam packed with thousands of fish that can be viewed from the moving 340 foot long glide path. Be prepared to be face-to-face with Sawfish, Snappers, SHARKS and much more!

SunCruz Aquasino: Sailing daily from Little River with an exciting and picturesque 5 hour gaming cruise on an extravagant 220 foot long, 600 passenger Aquasino. Featuring Bingo, slots, Black Jack, Roulette, Poker, and Craps, the SunCruz Aquasino makes it nearly impossible to worry about a few little drops of rain!

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament: Admire the pageantry and excitement of an authentic medieval tournament at Medieval Times in Myrtle Beach. Indulge in hearty chicken and potatoes as you venture your way into the 11^th century! This show features live animals and lots of fun!

Childrens Museum of South Carolina: Encourage exploration and imagination at this Myrtle Beach museum where kids can make T-shirts, cook tasty treats and so much more! Your kids may never want to leave after theyve experienced all there is to do at this must-visit destination. This hot spot is noted for its cleanliness and friendly, helpful staff.

MagiQuest: This 90 minute magical journey will impress you with its creative Harry Potter-like use of technology! If you are one for RPGs, this is the attraction for you. After you program your custom wand, you then enter the training room where you learn how to successfully meander through your journey. Wear comfortable shoes as you will probably get addicted and play for much longer than 90 minutes!

IMAX Discovery Theater: This 3D theater in Myrtle Beach features 400 seats and a giant screen more than 6 stories tall! Pizza Hut teams up with this attraction offering delicious pizza deals to make your experience the best.

Palace Theatre:The Palace Theatre is located in the heart of beautiful Myrtle Beach, SC. Spectacular, elaborate, entertaining and visually stunning shows take place in this building where you are safe from the rain! Some of their shows include: La Grande Cirque, Christmas on Ice, The Magical Spirit of Ireland, Nuncrackers- The Nunsense Christmas Musical and more! Visit http://www.palacetheatremyrtlebeach.com/index.cfm for more information and tickets.

Ghosts and Legends Theatre: Located in Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach,Ghosts and Legends features a unique and riveting concept of eerie ghosts illustrating South Carolinas Low country history LIVE! After you locate the secret panel entrance, youll find yourself seated in an old southern parlor where youll discover the stories of our local ghosts, such as Alice of the Hermitage and the brigand Blackbeard. Also featured are a Ghost Walk with spooky tales to be told and the Blackbeard Sance.

Alabama Theatre: With its award winning showcases and prestigious # 1 Attraction title,Alabama Theatre proves to be a show stopper time after time, year after year with its remarkable shows and concerts such as ONE The Show and The Souths Grandest Christmas Show.Visit http://www.alabama-theatre.com/for more information and for ticket pricingVisit http://www.alabama-theatre.com/ for more information and for ticket pricing.

The Carolina Opry: We saved a great rainy day excursion option for last! Carolina Opry has been voted the #1 show for 24 consecutive years. Featuring a high energy mixed of music, comedy and dance, The Carolina Opry will leave you on the edge of your seat wanting more! Be sure to check out The Holiday Show of the South, The Best of the 60s, 70s, and 80s and Come See the LIGHT-a Laser Extravaganza! Visit http://www.thecarolinaopry.com/www/Shows.html for additional information.

As you can see, we dont let the rain get in our way. Theres something to do when it rains or snows! Hey, it did snow last February! We want all of our guests to enjoy themselves and take comfort and joy in the Grand Strand that we love so much. If you need help planning out what to do during your North Myrtle Beach vacation, please never hesitate to give us a call. We are here to help and we enjoy corresponding with all of you!

North Myrtle Beach Annual Christmas Parade

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 00:00:00 GMT

It's time to officially ring in the holidays with the Annual North Myrtle Beach Christmas Parade! Bundle up and join us on Saturday, December 4 at 5:30 on Main Street for a wonderfully festivous event sure to have you humming Christmas carols until Santa comes. Bring the kids as there will be local high school marching bands, colorful animated floats, lots of Christmas music and goodies galore, and of course.....Santa! This event kicks off the holiday season here at the beach. It's a great way to get in the holiday spirit and get to know some of the local faces in North Myrtle Beach.

There are still plenty of North Myrtle Beach winter rentals available on the oceanfront for great monthly rates. If you haven'y secured your place in the North Myrtle Beach sun, now's the time! Give us a call or stop by before the parade on Saturday if you are in town - we will be happy to help you!

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Ideas & Recipe’s Part 5

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Dinner wouldnt be complete without the pumpkin pie! So here's the last of the Gobblin' Grub brought to you by the Myrtle Beach Experts at Seaside Vacations!

Now that we’ve covered your Thanksgiving Day appetizer, first course, main course and seasonal side dishes, the only item left happens to be our favorite thing of all-DESSERT! Before salivation ensures, let us tell you about a merry event that is taking place November 26^th through December 17^th at the Palace Theatre: The Frank Sinatra Christmas Show promises to entertain with a perfect tribute of all your favorite “Old Blue Eyes” Christmas hits. Visit palacetheatremyrtlebeach.com for more information and to purchase tickets.

Creamy Pumpkin Pie with Cranberry Topping:

Ingredients:

4 ounces softened cream cheese
½ cup white sugar
½ cup packed light brown sugar
3 eggs
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp salt
1 ¼ cup canned pumpkin
¾ cup light cream
9 inch piecrust

Topping Ingredients:

¼ cup orange juice
2 tsp cornstarch
1 16 ounce can whole-berry cranberry sauce

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Blend the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl and add white/brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, spices, salt, pumpkin and cream.
Pour the mixture into the piecrust and bake on center rack for 30 minutes.
Reduce heat to 350 degrees F and continue baking until filling becomes slightly fluffy around the edges and is no longer liquid-like.
Remove from oven and let cool.
Cover pie and refrigerate for 4 hours.
For topping, blend orange juice and cornstarch in a small saucepan until even. Stir in cranberry sauce and bring mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Boil for one minute and remove from heat, then cool for ten minutes
Pour topping over the pie and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

We’ve had a great time planning Thanksgiving Day dinner with our readers! We here at Seaside Vacations hope your Thanksgiving is full of great food, family, friends and joy. We are thankful for so many things including our beautiful weather/location, our homeowners and all of our guests that have been so loyal to us throughout the years. May you each be surrounded by happiness this Thanksgiving!

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Ideas & Recipe’s Part 4

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach vacation rental experts at Seaside Vacations bring you more Gobblin' Grub for your Thanksgiving Feast!

Having fun planning your Thanksgiving dinner yet? It can be stressful figuring out all the ingredients and recipes to use, so we are adding to our series a few side dish recipes to serve alongside your main course. Traditional with a twist, these recipes will be sure to satisfy the palettes of all your guests.

Also, don’t forget to plan on attending the 16^thAnnual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at Broadway at the Beach next to IMAX 3D/MagiQuest in Myrtle Beach, SC on November 20, 2010 at 6 pm. The festivities will kick off with an hour long line-up of holiday festivities featuring a Christmas on Ice piece, children’s choir, cloggers and an Elvis tribute. Guest appearances will include Santa, Rudolph and Frosty the Snowman! Nightly shows will take place from 5pm-9pm every hour through December 31^st. Visit Broadway at the Beach to witness their 52 foot musical Christmas tree with over 100,000 thousand lights and synchronized music. This is a free event to the public. Be sure to bundle up!

Source: http://www.broadwayatthebeach.com/treelighting.aspx

Seasonal Side Dishes

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Chives

Ingredients:

4 large baking potatoes
2 cloves roasted garlic
salt to taste
1 cup vegetable broth
4 tablespoons butter
Pepper to taste
½ cup chopped fresh chives

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Scrub and quarter baking potatoes.
Put garlic cloves and olive oil on baking sheet, roast for 20 minutes.
Put potatoes in a large pot with cold water and cover with a lid.
Bring water to a boil over high heat and boil for 20 minutes (until you can easily cut with knife).
Drain potatoes.
Remove garlic from oven.
Put the potatoes and garlic into a mixer and mix until potatoes are semi broken up.
Add the vegetable broth, butter, salt and pepper to the mixture.
Mix until consistency is even.
Add a splash of milk if needed to soften.

Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Roasted-Garlic-Mashed-Potatoes-with-Chives/Detail.aspx

Yummy Yam Casserole

Ingredients:

4 lbs yams
2 eggs
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp allspice
1/8 tsp nutmeg
6 ounces pecan halves
1/3 cup brown sugar
¼ cup melted butter

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Grab a fork and poke holes in the scrubbed yams.
Cook them in the microwave until soft.
Let cool for 20 minutes.
Remove skins and place yams in mixing bowl.
Beat yams until consistency is even. Add eggs, brown sugar, 1/8 cup butter, salt, cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. Mix until even.
Put mixture on an ungreased deep glass baking dish. Add the pecan halves in a layer on the top of your mixture.
Add some melted butter on top of the pecan layer to keep them moist during bake time.
Add a light layer of brown sugar on top of the pecans.
Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Source: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/yummy-yam-casserole/Detail.aspx

Spicy Jack Mac and Cheese with Broccoli

Ingredients:

2 cups dry elbow macaroni
2 cups chipped broccoli
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups shredded Pepper Jack Cheese
1 can evaporated milk
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided
Salt/pepper to taste
2 tbs bread crumbs

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Grease a glass baking dish with butter.
Boil macaroni elbows depending on instructions on box.
Add broccoli to boiling elbows for 3 minutes.
Drain pasta/broccoli.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli, cheddar cheese, Pepper Jack cheese, evaporated milk, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper.
Transfer mixture into glass baking dish.
Combine the last ¼ cup Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs and add to the top of mixture, creating a layer.
Cover casserole dish with foil.
Bake for 20 minutes covered and then bake 10 uncovered or until lightly golden brown on top.

Source: http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/137935/Spicy-Jack-Mac--Cheese-with-Broccoli/detail.aspx

Have a blast cooking your seasonal side dishes and check back soon for dessert recipes from the Myrtle Beach Experts at Seaside Vacations in North Myrtle Beach!

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Ideas & Recipe’s Part 3

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

.... still more Gobblin' Grub from the North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals experts at Seaside Vacations!

Main Course Meltdown!

As the days become shorter and the nights longer and cooler, we can’t help but get in the holiday spirit thinking of all the festivities to come. Maybe it was the time change that did us in! The North Myrtle Beach Annual Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 4^th at 5:30 PM on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach. This beloved event brings joy and cheer to tourists and locals alike year after year and sets the tone for the nearing Christmas Day. Attendees will enjoy traditional holiday music, caroling, elaborate floats, talented marching bands and stunning beauty queens! Pull up a chair anywhere on Main Street for a spectacularly spirited view! Before we get ahead of ourselves, we have found a delicious and surprisingly simple recipe for your Thanksgiving Day main course to follow the Fruit Gobbler, Butternut Squash Soup and the Savory Cranberry Salad.

Parmesan Sage Roasted Turkey

Ingredients:

1 12 lb whole turkey

¾ cup olive oil

2 tbsp garlic powder

2 tsp dried basil

1 tsp ground sage

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

2 cups water

1/3 cup grated parmesan

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Clean turkey (discard giblets, etc)

Place turkey in a roasting pan (make sure it has a lid for when you put in oven)

In a medium sized bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, sage, salt, pepper and parmesan.

Using a basting brush, spread the mixture on the outside of the raw turkey.

Pour water into the bottom of the baking pan and cover.

Bake turkey for approximately 3.5 hours or until the turkey temperature reaches 180 degrees.

Remove turkey from oven and let cool for twenty minutes before carving.

*TIP: For attractive turkey garnishing, roast lemon and orange halves at 425 degrees for twenty minutes and arrange on the turkey platter.

Have fun cooking your main course and be sure to check back soon for our recipe’s for seasonal side dishes to make your Thanksgiving Day dinner as splendid as it is tasty!

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2007-11-19-thanksgiving-turkey_N.htm

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Ideas & Recipes: Part 2

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

....more Gobblin' Grub from the North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals experts at Seaside Vacations!

First Course Feast

The crisp and cool new weather here on the Grand Strand inspired us to add a couple more Thanksgiving Day treats to your repertoire! You may want to check out our North Myrtle Beach winter rental properties so you can cook with us all winter long!

To follow the Fruit Gobbler appetizer, below are 2 seasonal recipe ideas for your Thanksgiving Day first course:

Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients:

3 tbsp olive oil (not virgin)
1 cup of hot water
salt
1 head of garlic cloves separated and unpeeled
white pepper
1 (2lb) butternut squash
2 1/2 cups reduced sodium chicken stock

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Slice the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds and pulp using a spoon (just like a pumpkin).
Apply olive oil to the flesh of the squash and set it open side down in a glass baking dish.
Place the garlic cloves in the dish surrounding the butternut squash.
Pour olive oil and water into the baking dish and bake for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the squash is pliable and soft.
Remove squash from the oven and let cool until ready to easefully handle.
Scrape the meat of the squash into a large bowl.
Add peeled garlic cloves into the bowl with the squash.
Mix the contents of the bowl for 30 seconds or until consistency is even.
Pour in chicken stock (substitute equal parts milk and water for a vegetarian version) half a cup at a time while mixing.
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Pour mixture into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat to thicken consistency.
Garnish with parsley; serves 6.

Here’s our very own staff recipe to serve alongside the Butternut Squash Soup!

Sandy’s Savory Cranberry Salad

Ingredients:

3 cups cranberries
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
2 small packets raspberry Jello
1 cup crushed drained pineapple
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions:

Put a medium saucepan on the stove and combine the cranberries, water, and sugar.
Boil mixture until the cranberries begin to pop.
Remove from heat.
Add the Jello, drained pineapple and chopped nuts to the mixture.
Put in a bowl and chill until ready to serve.

**TIP: To add flair to Thanksgiving Day dinner table, tie a few strands of straw around your guests’ napkins for an affordable way to create a festive atmosphere while you dine.

Don’t forget to check back for the Thanksgiving main course!

Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_6813_make-butternut-squash.html

North Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving Ideas & Recipes

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Gobblin’ Grub from the North Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentalsexperts at Seaside Vacations…A series of unique recipe’s and tutorials from appetizers to desserts to help with your Thanksgiving Day preparations.

We here at Seaside Vacations cannot believe how incredibly fast Thanksgiving is approaching. The summer heat is diminishing, autumn accents are everywhere in North Myrtle Beach, and slight thoughts of Christmas are beginning to bloom! We thought we would compile a small series of easy to prepare Thanksgiving Day options to celebrate this special time of year. First up is the “Fruit Gobbler” appetizer. Stop by next week for more fun and simple holiday recipe’s to tryout. Some are even fun to have the kids help with. At the end of the recipe series, an entire Thanksgiving feast can be prepared using solely Seaside tutorials.

Fruit Gobbler

The Fruit Gobbler is a recipe that would be great to have the tots assist with. It is a healthy Turkey Day appetizer in the shape of a turkey!

Ingredients:

Bosc pear (head)
Large cheese block (beak and feathers)
Honeydew melon (body )
Red pepper (feet and feathers)
Raisins (eyes)
Grapes (tail feathers)
Bamboo skewers
Toothpicks

Instructions:

Brace the melon body by slicing a flat piece off of the rind to form a flat base.
Using part of a bamboo skewer, attach a Bosc pear to the melon to form the turkey’s head.
Slice a cheese triangle out of a block of cheese (any kind of cheese) to form the turkey’s beak and connect it to the Bosc pear using a toothpick.
Grab 2 raisins and attach them to the Bosc pear with toothpicks to form eyes.
Slice red peppers in long, 1.5” sections (make about 16 of these) and attach them to the melon with toothpicks to look like turkey feet, and then use the rest to add to the sides of the melon to look like feathers.
Cut out enough square cheese blocks and gather enough grapes to alternately place on skewers which will then be added to the melon body to form tail feathers. About 10 grape/cheese skewers will be enough to look like turkey feathers.
Lastly, this is optional, but if you’d like you can place the finished turkey on a platter and scatter crackers around the perimeter so your guests can have something to graze on before the main course is ready.

There you have it! A Thanksgiving Day appetizer in the form of a turkey! Have fun with this pseudo art project and don’t forget to check back for more ideas!

Source: http://familyfun.go.com/thanksgiving/

North Myrtle Beach Endlesss Summer Festival

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach events...
Locals and tourists alike here on the Strand are giving Fall the cold shoulder by anticipating the Endless Summer Festival this Saturday, October 30^th on Main Street in North Myrtle Beach from 10-4pm. This exciting, fun spirited event shuns the changing seasons and embraces sizzling entertainment with tons of vendors featuring unique, impossible to find anywhere else items, arts and crafts, a classic car show and a children’s area with inflatable fun for the tots. A giant stage, carnival rides and an eclectic cornucopia of food vendors for your tasty fruition also await your participation! Instead of sorrowfully parting with summer, we are enjoying the festive atmosphere that is stirring up our sweet seaside town of North Myrtle Beach.

The stage will be located at the “Horseshoe” at the end of Main Street, spotlighting the striking ocean as your forum. Local and national artists will take center stage for your entertainment and children’s groups will perform as well. Competitions will be held including a pie baking contest, shag dancing competition and a twist dance off. This is a great opportunity to serve as a catalyst for fine family quality time.

Sea Cruz will be hosting musical mania with entertainers performing some of today’s most popular songs, classic rock, Carolina Beach music, oldies and disco! The Extraordinaires will be taking the stage from 2-4pm performing their unmatched, one-of-a-kind music with various emcees from WBTW Channel 13 News. Traffic and congestion won’t slow you down as it is not peak season anymore. Our yearly average temperature of 77 degrees during October will keep you comfortable as you jubilate your way into November. Come help us celebrate North Myrtle Beach culture at its finest as we insist on proclaiming this October 30^th as a sweltering summer extension!

Pirates Invade The Dixie Stampede in North Myrtle Beach!

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Marvel at the Morph....

"Some folks may ask me why I would want to change Dixie Stampede after our incredible success all these years. Nearly seven million guests have enjoyed the show over the past eighteen years," Miss Dolly Parton says. Dixie Stampede has made its mark on our community and also indefinitely in many of our hearts with their grandiose, award-winning, creative and positive-spirited show and not to mention with their sweet Southern hospitality and tasty food! Many memories have been made by Myrtle Beach locals and tourists alike. As with any successful attraction, most patrons expected the show to always go on year after year with the Battle between the North and South. Dolly says: "It may be a bold move but I think it's the right one. Myrtle Beach has so many repeat visitors because it is such a great vacation destination, it made sense for us to create a new adventure for families to enjoy and what speaks to this area more than Pirates, so grab your hats and eye patches and head on over to the Pirates Voyage!"

For people longing to revisit the Battle between the North and the South, don't fret! This epic and quite historic battle can be seen again and again at Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and in Branson, Missouri. For the ones brave enough to venture to Dolly's next experience, The Pirates Voyage, you don't have too long of a wait. Prepare to walk the plank as June of 2011 marks the date you will exile to the briny deep blue sea. Guests will begin their journey in the Pirates Lair and Crow's Nest for an exciting and interactive experience. Afterwards, guests will scuttle to the main area sectioned off into Crimson and Sapphire pirate camps. Dolly's guests will enjoy a remarkable five course feast fit for a pirate. The Crimson and Sapphire pirate sides will keep you enraptured in the experience as they battle for the ultimate treasure!

But before Dixie Stampede leaves South Carolina for good, they will kick off their farewell celebration with the amazingly acrobatic, homey humored Christmas Spectacular that can be seen up until December 31st, 2010 in Myrtle Beach. For more information or to purchase tickets call 800-433-4401.

By: Sherrie Fife

Restaurant Rendezvous - Top 10 Myrtle Beach Dining Destinations

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Grand Strand is full of delicious eateries for your dining satisfaction. From North Myrtle Beach to Pawley’s Island and everywhere in between, South Carolina guarantees to gratify your every tasty indulgence. Not all of our visitors enjoy shopping, golfing or tanning, but every one of our visitors loves great food! Many of our local restaurants even feature wireless internet for your convenience as well as to provide you with superb customer service. With many of our restaurants spotlighting the perfect combination of scrumptious food, ideal ambience and pleasing prices, you’ll be tranquil in knowing your hard earned dollars are going somewhere worthy of your approval.

River City Café:

Feel free to make a mess at this North Myrtle Beach eatery. Peanuts are served to every table by the bucket and guests are encouraged to toss the empty shells onto the floor creating a fun and casual atmosphere.

Omega Pancake House:

This Myrtle Beach long time favorite offers high quality food, brisk service and reasonable prices for your dining pleasure. Come try the Omega breakfast and you’ll quickly become a regular at this local hot spot.

Seafare Seafood Restaurant:

This Myrtle Beach eatery is a grandiose seafood, salad and dessert buffet promising to please the heartiest of appetites. Featuring an enchanting swimming mermaid, Seafare entertains as well as satiates!

Ultimate California Pizza:

Voted “Best of the Beach” by Sun News readers, this pizza kitchen is a crowd puller with its comprehensive game area and bar. The kids will be well occupied with ski ball, bowling, basketball, Guitar Hero, etc.

Southside Grill:

This quaint “mom and pop” café is a genuine locals favorite with made from scratch desserts fresh out of the oven for your delectation.

Hoskin’s Restaurant:

Feel like some good ole southern home cookin’? Hoskin’s is your choice for great customer service, fantastic food and refreshingly reasonable prices for spectacular quality.

The Library:

This special occasion restaurant serves exquisite and refined dishes such as duck, seafood, chicken and beef in a dining area fit for a king with walls lined in books-just like a library!

Pacino’s:

This Italian restaurant features an owner doubling as head chef, cooking everything from spaghetti to manicotti for your blissful appeasement. Adjoined is a deli with the freshest of ingredients for the taking.

Bovine’s:

Critics, locals and tourists credit this fine dining location with being one of the finest restaurants of the Grand Strand. Bovine’s is located in Murrell’s Inlet and has won several local and regional awards for extraordinary cuisine.

Filets:

Featuring ethereal views of the Intercoastal Waterway, Filets serves up excellent sushi, steaks and seafood. Happy Hour at Filets is a local favorite with great prices and peaceful atmosphere for friends and family.

Whether you’re looking for upscale dining or affordable eateries, North Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas has all you and your family are looking for. Still not satisfied? Visit Barefoot Landing or Broadway at the Beach for even MORE delectable and tasty treats! Don’t forget to try the funnel cakes at Broadway at the Beach and while you’re there feast on the homemade fudge and salt water taffy; both are absolutely delicious!

By: Sherrie Fife

Spooktacular Happenings in Myrtle Beach for October!

Tue, 05 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Beware… Chills, Thrills and Eerie Adventures!

Gremlins, ghosts and monsters…oh my! Haunted attractions harrow the streets of Myrtle Beach this October 2010 offering spine chilling experiences for the entire family to enjoy. Once a year, vendors gather in Myrtle Beach to show locals and tourists what Halloween is really about- family fun time! Halloween festivities bring a light hearted and lively ambience to the Grand Strand and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for a place the kids can trick or treat or wanting to take a short trip outside Myrtle Beach to visit one of our many ghostly bordering towns, South Carolina is your go-to spooky spot!

One of our highly anticipated and unique annual events, Terror under the Bridge, is voted to be the top haunt on the Grand Strand. Terror under the Bridge is located in the Lower River Warehouse in downtown Conway, SC and features 8,000 sq. feet of boundless scares! This event takes place October 27^th through the 31^st and proceeds benefit various Horry County charities. The Parks and Recreation department is joining forces with Coastal Carolina University’s Recreation Management class and McLean Park for this year’s Howl-o-Scream on October 30^th. McLean Park will mysteriously morph into a thrill seekers’ dream with many activities for children and adults of all ages such as trick or treating, marshmallow roasting, hayrides and pumpkin painting. Ghosts and Legends in Barefoot Landing is hosting a Ghost Walk featuring a lantern lit stroll and hair-raising story tales from now until Halloween night. Broadway at the Beach is always a great place to go trick or treating and shopping at the same time. Don’t forget to watch the Fireworks Spectacular over Lake Broadway afterwards! Market Commons will also be handing out candy to costumed trick or treaters. CMSC will be hosting a Wee Ones Boo Bash October 29^th featuring games, treats and exhibits in a not so scary atmosphere for the little ones to enjoy.

North Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas will be sure to satisfy every excitement level with our many Halloween festivities this October. The weather is phenomenal and our scenery is breath taking this time of year. You won’t be disappointed with your North Myrtle Beach vacation rental this Halloween! Grab your costumes and come on down!

By: Sherrie Fife

Celebrating the Spirit of Making Memories in North Myrtle Beach

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Grand Strand Happenings

Although summer is winding down, there is still so much to do here in North Myrtle Beach! Locals can’t even keep up with all the activities that are planned for the month of October. Whether you’re looking to frequent one of North Myrtle Beach’s recurring events or seeking to attend one or several of the Grand Strand’s new and exciting adventures, North Myrtle Beach has something in store for everyone. There are bounteous entertainment possibilities for all to appreciate. You just may find yourself a new family tradition out of one of these events to enjoy year after year.

From specialty events to festivals and parades, North Myrtle Beach has a vast variety of activities for people of all ages, interests and backgrounds. For example, if you’re a music lover, the Litchfield Plantation is hosting a concert for the Pawley’s Island Festival of Music and Art featuring Judy Carmichael on October 1^st at 7 pm. The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra will also be part of the Festival of Music and Art at Litchfield Plantation on October 2^nd at 7pm. Experience the allurement and artistry at Broadway’s Annual Arts and Fall Festival in picturesque Myrtle Beach or head down to the Grand Strand Fishing Rodeo also taking place in Myrtle Beach. Other featured events during the month of October include: The Shrimp and Jazz Festival; Loris Bog-Off; Carolina Heritage Festival and Beach Party; Oktoberfest German Festival; the South Carolina International Chili Cook-off and many more.

October is an optimum choice for a pleasurable vacation getaway. The weather is sensational and our scenery is striking. During October, the ocean temperature is quite comfortable for your swimming enjoyment and with fewer crowds, you’ll be sure to have a relaxing, stress free time. Come celebrate the bounty of making memories while North Myrtle Beach does all the entertaining. You’ll never be restless with all the Grand Strand has in store for you!

Celebrating the Spirit of Making Memories in North Myrtle Beach

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cruisin' on the Carolina Coastline - North Myrtle Beach Bike Rally

Sat, 18 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach welcomes Fall Rally participants with open arms! Join in on the fun with rockin’ live music and lots of other exciting forms of entertainment. Motorcycle enthusiasts come from all over the country to partake in the Fall Rally festivities. This September 29^th through October 3^rd will be buzzing with the powerful vibrations of V-Twins and thousands of motorcycle loving vacationers.

The Grand Strand will offer many attractions to its visitors during the 2010 Fall Rally. We have 60 beautiful miles of sandy beaches bordering the true blue Atlantic Ocean for your viewing pleasure. That’s an attraction all on its own! In addition to our beautiful scenery, there’s also some Ocean Drive/Boulevard cruising to be done as well! Riding along our scenic coastline is the most appreciated activity to our Fall Rally guests. Aside from riding, both North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach offer plenty of other entertainment such as The Alabama Theater; Medieval Times; Alligator Adventures and The Hard Rock Café. If you’re looking for some sightseeing attractions, head over to Mount Pleasant, Fort Sumter and Brook Green Gardens.

Vendors of the Grand Strand Rally will gather together along 25 acres of land to provide Bike Week attendees with food, drinks and a limitless supply of biker gear! Live music will be supplied by many vendors around town. The following places have been known to show rally goers a great time and can be found near many of our North Myrtle Beach Vacation rentals: Suck Bang Blow; Myrtle Beach Biker Burn Out Bar; Dead Dog Saloon; Broken Spoke Saloon; The Rate Hole and The Beaver Bar. Each vendor will host their own set of activities. Maybe even some live entertainment, poker runs, burn outs pits, swap meets, etc. Fun will be had by many!

Fall Bike Rally is the sister event of the Myrtle Beach Spring Rally. It is about 50% smaller than the Spring Rally. This means much less traffic and congestion surrounding seaside areas. This also means lower rates and prices for North Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals. The greatest benefit of attending this year’s Grand Strand Rally is our absolutely gorgeous weather! With our average yearly temperature for this time of year at a mild and comfortable 85 degrees, North Myrtle Beach promises to provide its visitors with a pleasant and tropical climate.

Whether you’re gearing up for the Grand Strand Fall Bike Rally or looking to kick start a relaxing North Myrtle Beach getaway, be sure to grab your camera to capture the many memories that will be made here in our very beloved state of South Carolina! Don’t forget to leave the stress behind and relax as you make your journey through our breathtaking town. Get your saddlebag tool kits ready to go; we look forward to seeing you when you arrive!

By: Sherrie Fife

Find Your North Myrtle Beach Winter Rental Escape

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of North Myrtle Beach.....

As summer months become more and more scarce, now is the time to discover what North Myrtle Beach has to offer for Snowbirds. No matter what your interest may be, North Myrtle Beach has an attraction for you! From golfing at premiere courses to enjoying live shows, everyone will find something of interest. Come enjoy the comfortable, mild climate and harmonious scenery while enjoying the beautiful accommodations across the Grand Strand coastline.

From upscale shopping to bargain treasure hunting, both Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach are your ideal shopping destinations. Offering anything from antiques to beach wear, Market Commons, The Tanger Outlets, and Coastal Grand Mall are sure to fulfill your shopping needs during your Snowbird vacation stay. If you’re looking to keep the kids entertained and occupied while you enjoy yourself and the weather, Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing should do the trick with plenty of great food, spirited atmosphere and fun family happenings.

If you still have energy to spare, try to remember all the outdoor sporting we have in the Grand Strand. Feel free to take your pick from hundreds of fabulous courses with varying experience levels to suit any golfer. Courses are located within a short distance from any of our North Myrtle Beach winter rental properties. Be sure to remember to pack your golf clubs as you prepare to hit the greens in the golfing capital of the world!

Don’t forget about the nightlife located all along the Grand Strand. There are several shows located in North Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas that are sure to excite and amaze adults and children of all ages. Dixie Stampede is located just outside of North Myrtle Beach and offers dinner with a show. Watch horses race around the middle stage while cheering for the North or the South. Another show that is beloved by locals and vacationers alike is Myrtle Beach’s Carolina Opry. Catch the seasonal shows that will leave you singing and moving in your seat until the last curtain call. If you are looking for nighttime entertainment, also check out the Comedy Cabana which features various comedians nightly.

If you are getting tired of the same ‘ole day to day life, or even the snow and ice in your town, come visit us in North Myrtle Beach where the weather is always serene and the beach tide rolls on daily! Experience our down home hospitality as you relax and get away from the daily grind. Pack light! Our North Myrtle Beach condo rentals have everything you need for your beach getaway. All condo rentals include full kitchens for the convenience of your family. Entertainment and shopping are always close by and our staff is here to help with suggestions of great places to visit and for anything else you may need. Come take a walk on our beaches and enjoy all we have to offer. We hope to see you soon!

By: Sherrie Fife

Do The Jitterbug! - Shagging in North Myrtle Beach

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

“Shaggin’ on the Boulevard”

Originating in the late 1930’s from Myrtle Beach, SC club goers, the shag is a swing-style dance closely associated with the “Jitterbug” and is the official state dance for North Carolina and South Carolina. Shag is characterized by beauty of movement, style and form linked with fluid, rapid footwork. Shaggers pride themselves on their ability to exude sophistication while upholding athleticism. Shag dancing is reciprocal with both classic beach music and Motown/blues. The shag is a highly recognized dance in national and international dancing competitions all around the United States.

Individuals who are veritably devoted to shagging may join an exclusive membership known as S.O.S. (Society of Stranders-in reference to the region of Grand Strand). S.O.S. members come from all over the country to get together for one last end-of-summer soiree. The S.O.S. refers to this affair as the Fall Migration. During Fall Migration, S.O.S. members take ten days to celebrate their passion for shagging. The first Sunday and Monday of Fall Migration will bring in thousands for the commencement of the grandest block party one will ever experience. Main Street will be sure to be filled with shag music and all the entertainment you could ask for!

Aside from dancing and entertainment, the shag community brings an affable and uplifting spirit toNorth Myrtle Beach. The fun and exciting atmosphere attracts many to come partake in the celebration of interacting with others while enjoying all that our town has to offer! Locals and visitors are encouraged to learn to shag by taking lessons at S.O.S. lounges. Non S.O.S. members assemble around Main Street and Ocean Drive in North Myrtle Beach by the hundreds to appreciate the shag activities that transpire for all to enjoy!

By: Sherrie Fife

Say Cheese! North Myrtle Beach Photography

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Smile pretty for the camera!

What's better than making unforgettable memories with your loved ones? Being able to relive those treasured moments again and again. Everyone who visits the Myrtle Beach area for vacation loves to have their picture taken on the beautiful sandy beaches with the crashing of the ocean waves in the background. You will probably fill a whole memory stick on your digital camera taking photos of family members at your North Myrtle Beach vacation rental. But what about a nice family beach portrait?

Professional and local photographer Charlie Laney, owner of Barefoot Guy Photography, can help make that happen - and at an affordable price! Take home quality beach portraits of the whole family that you will cherish for a lifetime. Rarely do ALL family members get in the photos -someone is always missing (ummm, that would be the shy person who volunteers to take all the photos!)

Visit Charlie's website and make a plan to get those long overdue family portraits taken this year while visiting the beach. http://www.barefootguyphotography.com/ Black and white, all color, solo portraits, just the kids - just about anything you can think of. No artificial lighting and faux backdrops - we do everything all natural here! Charlie is knowledgable about the best time of day for outdoor shots as well as setting the scene for a perfect photo.

So while planning your North Myrtle Beach condos vacation this year, plan to set aside an afternoon to get the family beach portraits done with Barefoot Guy Photography - they make great gifts and it is a much more precious souvenir than a hermit crab (and let me say, less SMELLY too). Locals, don't forget that Barefoot Guy Photography also caters to sporting events, high school senior photos, business and special event photos, and weddings.

Spring is Here~Easter Activities in North Myrtle Beach

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Spring has sprung and it is a GREAT time to visit North Myrtle Beach! We have lots of fabulous deals on oceanfront condos and homes for last minute vacations during the whole month of April. If you cannot get away for a week, no worries - enjoy a mini vacation and still get a great deal! Seaside Vacations offers a variety of North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals at 20 to 30% off - we know what a hard winter everyone has had and we want you to be able to come and enjoy this beautiful beach weather. Not only is the weather fantastic, but there are festivals and activities throughout the area to entertain you during April and May. Call us today for a unbeatable deal on a North Myrtle Beach vacation rental!

North Myrtle Beach Easter Activities:

Saturday, April 3:

Enjoy breakfast with the Easter Bunny! 9am to 10am at the Children's Museum of South Carolina. Get free photos with the Easter Bunny, a continental breakfast, and participate in an Easter egg hunt and other special activities. Call for pricing info and reservations. (843) 946-9469 or http://www.seasidevacations.com/mailtCMSCprograms@sc.rr.com

Annual Easter Egg Hunt at McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach - 10am to 12pm. Bring the kids out for a great day and enjoy at beautiful McLean Park. Free to the public. For more info call 843-280-5673.

St. Patty's Day Parade ~ North Myrtle Beach Events

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

22nd Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade - North Myrtle Beach
If you are heading to the beach this weekend, or if you happen to already be here, you definitely don't want to miss this annual event! The St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival draws one of the larger crowds for an event in the area. The parade will kick off at 9am on Saturday, March 13th. After the parade, there will be vendors setup at the end of Main Street offering great food, beverages, arts and crafts. While you enjoy a delicious reuben sandwich and ice cold beer at Flynn's Irish Pub, walk around and enjoy a variety of entertainment from local bands, vocalists, and dancers. Its a wonderful event and lasts all afternoon until 4pm.

The Grand Marshall for the parade this year is Heather Edwards - winner of the Optimist Club "2010 Youth of the Year." This outstanding young lady has actively participated in the commuity, church, and schools helping others and bringing awareness about our environment and how we can all play an integral role in its preservation. Congratulations Heather and thank you for all you do in our community!

This event is sponsored by the City of North Myrtle Beach and the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the event, including vendor information and directions, visit http://www.stpatnmb.com/index.html

Myrtle Beach Vacation Rentals

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tired of average, boring vacations? Come spend your vacation at Myrtle Beach. It's 60 miles of beautiful beaches, unlimited water activities, first class amenities, and much more. It's one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world for millions of visitors every year. A great way to get the most out of your vacation is to stay in one of their Myrtle Beach vacation rentals. Seaside Vacations work hard to ensure you'll get the perfect rental for you and your family.

Myrtle Beach vacation rentals offer a luxurious lifestyle for vacationers looking to experience the best beaches and accommodations on the east coast. They offer a huge selection of condos, villas, town houses, and beach homes. You can choose to spend your vacation right on the beach, close to the beach, or inland. No matter what you decide, it's going to be a vacation of a lifetime that will offer lasting memories for you and your family.

North Myrtle Beach - Memorial Fund for Matthew Bellamy

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A tragedy has occurred in our community. We at Seaside Vacations want to send our deepest sympathies along with our thoughts and prayers to the Bellamy family, who lost their youngest son last week to a an accidental shooting. Please read the letter below from Melissa Edge in reference to a memorial fund set up to help this family as they are not only in need of spiritual guidance, but also financial assistance - let's pull together as a community and help this family in their time of need.

January 26, 2010

Dear Friends,

Most of you know of the recent tragedy that occurred in North Myrtle Beach involving two young boys, both of whom were friends of my son, Pierce. In that accident, one little boy, Matthew Bellamy, lost his life. A fund has been set up at the National Bank of South Carolina to help Matthew’s family with funeral and other expenses related to Matthew’s death. If you would like to help this amazing family, you can drop checks off at any NBSC branch or mail them to me at 1423 Edge Drive, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582. Checks should be made out to the “Matthew Bellamy Memorial Fund.”

Matthew was a precious child who loved life! He was always smiling, always happy. He was active in baseball, soccer and Upward basketball and was very active in his church. To sum it up, Matthew was a phenomenal child. But I would like to tell you a little you a little bit about his parents, Chip and Mylissa Bellamy. Chip and Mylissa are honest, hard-working people who are always the first to give but would never ask for anything in return. They volunteer their time at church and have touched the lives of countless children. Also, they are active in coaching youth sports. In addition to Matthew, the Bellamy’s have a 14 year old son, Will and are in the process of adopting a child. They give and give and never ask for anything in return. So I am asking on their behalf.

No one plans to lose a child! In addition to the heartbreak and devastation this family is experiencing, this tragedy has also created a financial burden for them. We can’t take away their heartbreak, we can only be there to pray for them and support them. But we, as a community, can pull together and take away this financial burden. Please consider contributing to Matthew’s memorial fund. If you have any questions, please call me at 843-455-4638.

Thank you!
Melissa Edge

*Thank you Melissa for allowing us to post your letter. Seaside Vacations

North Myrtle Beach Condo Rentals

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach is located on the northern part of the Grand Strand in South Carolina. It's known as the most desired vacation destination in the US and for good reason. They offer first class amenities which include shopping, dining, entertainment, and more! If you've never been here North Myrtle Beach condo rentals are highly recommended. They allow you to enjoy a true beach vacation with all the privacy you want. Many people love North Myrtle Beach because it's a lil more relaxed than its southern part.

North Myrtle Beach condo rentals give guests an opportunity to experience a vacation that's second to none. Condos have many locations within the area but the most popular ones are ocean front or close to the beach. Who doesn't love waking up to the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean, right! Come to North Myrtle Beach and see why millions of people come here to spend their vacation year after year.

If you're in the area and have a pet you may enjoy the Pets Light Up Our Lives event at McLean Park in North Myrtle Beach. It starts at 6pm and events will consist of tree lighting, refreshment, and a blessing for your pet. It's a great way to show your pet you appreciate them.

North Myrtle Beach Condos

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

North Myrtle Beach is located in northern section of the Grand Strand in South Carolina. It's considered by many locals and vacationers to be more of a quiet and family oriented section than others. North Myrtle Beach condos are a great way to enjoy all of the Grand Strands first class amenities such as white beaches, fine dining, great entertainment, shopping, and more!

North Myrtle Beach condos come in all sizes and shapes. You can experience this vacation destination in a beach house, ocean front condos, town homes, off ocean property, patios homes and more. As the temperatures start to cool vacation rental deals start to heat up. Don't miss your chance to vacation in North Myrtle beach so you can start making new memories.

If you're in the area around December 12th you may enjoy Breakfast With Santa event held at the Hard Rock Cafe in Myrtle Beach. It starts at 8:30am and you can enjoy a breakfast buffet and free kids activities. It's a good time for the whole family.

Myrtle Beach Golf Vacations

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Myrtle Beach is located in the beautiful state of North Carolina. It's one of the most desired beach and golf vacations getaways in the country. It's known as the golf capital of the world because they have over 100 championship golf courses in and around the area. If you would like a vacation filled with beaches, golf, and rest and relaxation then Myrtle Beach golf vacations are the perfect choice.

Myrtle Beach golf vacations offers guests a chance to play at some of the best courses on the east coast. Some of the top courses in Myrtle Beach are Tigers Eye at Ocean Ridge Plantation, The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, Barefoot Resort Love and Fazio, and Tidewater Golf Club and Plantation. Come experience the best golf at the best vacation destination in the US.

Thanksgiving Recipes From North Myrtle Beach - Part 1 - The Deep Fried Turk

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Deep Fried Turkey – The Equipment (don’t freak out health nuts!)

Okay, here’s the scoop – I have eaten turkey every year for…let’s just say enough years to be an authority on the subject….and the truth is, there is not a better, more flavorful, juicy turkey than one that has been deep fried. Yes, I know that Jenny Craig would faint if she heard me say “best and fried” in the same sentence, but facts are facts and while the deep fried turkey does have more calories and fat grams than the baked version, it isn’t enough to warrant a 3-week fast prior to Thanksgiving. Think of it this way, you get a great tasting bird in less time and the oven is free for baking those must-have pies! (silver lining in every cloud, but you have to look for it)

If you are truly that worried about it, or cannot muster up enough bravado to take on the deep fried turkey, don’t sweat it as we will talk about the baked turkey method on Monday, November 16^th. For those of you who like to live on the edge, let’s talk grease.

First things first – there are some very important safety precautions that need to be addressed before we can get to the actual cooking process. I was actually going to skip this part and go straight for the recipes, but I thought better of it - any time I have ever “assumed” that folks already know something, I am almost always sorry for it.

SAFETY RULES:

Make sure you have a heavy duty propane burner and large (they range from 26 quart to about 36 quart) stainless steel or aluminum stockpot. No homemade, rig em’ up jobs – you can buy the turkey frying kits that include the burner, the pot, a basket and/or poultry stand, and a hook at almost any home goods or hardware store for a reasonable price – WalMart, Lowe’s, etc.
If you purchase a turkey fryer, it will come with a “hook” on which you lower you bird in and out of the fryer – this is a big deal as you can be severely burned using improper equipment. If you did not purchase a turkey frying kit, then visit your local hardware store as they usually sell individual items such as extra pots and hooks.
There are electric turkey fryers, and you can certainly use those, but the method we are going to explore uses propane, therefore, you MUST DO THIS OUTDOORS. That means, NOT on the deck, NOT in the garage, but OUT in the YARD away from the home and anything else that could cause a problem should the grease spill over. And of course, you cannot leave the turkey unattended while it is cooking. In other words, if you are responsible for cooking the rest of the meal, then appropriate a person to watch the turkey. (no checking football scores – eyes on the turkey!)

Quick Review to make sure you have all the tools:

1. Turkey Fryer – consists of propane burner, large stockpot, basket/ and or turkey stand with grab hook

2. Propane tank

3. Thermometer – to check oil temp – food thermometer to check turkey temp

4. Oil (we will talk about what kind later) – 3 to 5 gallons

Whew – I feel better now. I was worried about everyone being cautious. Okay, so NOW let’s talk grease. No really, I want to talk about the oil you will be purchasing. Let me go ahead and throw this out there – it isn’t cheap. It just isn’t. Maybe if you can go to Sam’s Club or somewhere like that you can save a few bucks, but let’s face it, you have crossed over to “big daddy cooking.” The bottle of vegetable oil you have in your pantry that lasts you 6 months is not going to cut it.

Again, where the turkey fryers are sold, most of the time you find the large containers of oil. There are several you can use, but whatever one you choose, make sure it has a high smoke point like peanut oil, refined Canola oil, and corn oil to name a few. Peanut oil has the best flavor but is a little more expensive than the others. You can even mix half peanut and half Canola if you want to lower the saturated fat content. You will need 3-5 gallons of oil.

Okay, you have your “stuff” so take the turkey fryer out to a safe spot in the yard, pour the oil in up to the fill line. (*note, if your pot doesn’t have a fill line, then simply place your bird in the pot and fill it with cold water until the top of the turkey is covered; remove the bird and use a ruler to measure from the water line to the top of the pot – remember to dry the pot thoroughly). Heat oil to 375° F.

Once the oil has reached the correct temperature (use your thermometer), lower the turkey down (slowly to avoid splatter) into the pot using the grab hook – it’s a good idea to kill the fire prior to lowering the turkey in, and then resume the fire once you have it safely in the pot.

Alright, so now you have a good idea of what you need in the way of the cooker and the oil. This is pretty much the basics and will get the job done, but as always with any product, it wouldn’t hurt to read the instruction booklet for the cooker that you purchase just to be on the safe side. Next post will cover the turkey size, preparing it for the fryer, and an idea for injecting seasoning if you are inclined to try that.

Resources: tips and tricks from www.eatturkey.com and some hometown deep fried turkey professionals.

Thanksgiving Recipes From North Myrtle Beach - A Ten Part Series To Prepari

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Can you believe it is really November? Oh my goodness - weren't the kids just out of school and everyone was wearing bathing suits? Time flies for sure. So here we are with the holidays approaching and that means three things: 1. countless hours of shopping and spending money, 2. dragging out all those decorations to prove we are in the spirit, and (drum roll please)........3. marathon eating! No seriously. The holiday season is here and one thing most everyone looks forward to is a wonderful Thanksgiving Day meal. (and the Dallas Cowboys' football game!)

Now having put everything into perspective, the next order of business is to decide what will be on the menu for that most joyous occasion, AND more importantly.....how do you prepare it? Go ahead and get your mind set to spend some time in the kitchen, since none of us have that really cool thing going on with our nose like Samantha on Bewitched. Don't panic though - you can do this. All you need are a few good recipes, an apron, a photo of Martha Stewart (or your favorite food guru), and a bottle of wine.

The recipes will come in a ten part series from your friends at Seaside Vacations -The Myrtle Beach Experts. We are going to cover how to prepare a complete Thanksgiving meal that will make your guests think you are a closet chef! The apron will come in handy as this may get messy as we go along. The photo of Martha Stewart or other famed food lover of your choice is for inspiration; um, or if things go terribly wrong, a target to sling mashed potatoes at. And the wine...ah the wine. Its not for the recipes. No, this is for you, the unsung hero, who slaved away and prepared a "perfect" feast for your loved ones. Enjoy your celebratory glass of vino once the last pie is out of the oven (or if by some chance the pilot light went out on the oven and the pies are still raw, the turkey burned up in the deep fryer, and the mashed potatoes are something even the dog won't touch - drink the whole bottle and call for Chinese take out).

Okay, so visit us starting Saturday, November 14 for Part 1: Deep Fried Turkey. The last part in the series will end on Wednesday, November 25. We will cover it all from the turkey to the dessert. Stay tuned.

North Myrtle Beach Winter Rentals

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Why North Myrtle Beach For Winter?

There are lots of wonderful reasons to spend the winter in a beautiful North Myrtle Beach Condo Rental! Aside from the mild climate, the Grand Strand area offers a host of things to do in the off season. Most of the golf courses and restaurants have special pricing available for "snowbirds" - we all like to save money right? Many of the local bars drum up great happy hour and early bird specials this time of year to accommodate the winter residents.

Seaside Vacations still has affordable oceanfront winter rentals in North Myrtle Beach available. Choose from 1, 2, 3, or 4 bedroom, fully furnished condos with fabulous views and comfortable living spaces. Luxury awaits you at the Mar Vista Grand with a 3 bedroom, 3 bath oceanfront condo on the 7th floor. Endless amenities such as indoor pool and fitness room make this a perfect escape from the winter cold.

Call us today so we can find a perfect winter getaway for you or a loved one! 800-661-5511

Myrtle Beach Golf Villas

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Myrtle Beach is a true paradise getaway. It's located in South Carolina, which offers over 60 miles of beautiful beaches and moderate temperatures all year long. Myrtle Beach is also well known for its 100 plus championship golf courses. They continue to provide the best golf in the area. A great way to experience golf is to stay at one of the many Myrtle Beach Golf Villas.

If your idea of a good time is waking up, stepping outside and playing a round of golf without having to travel, then Myrtle Beach Golf Villas are perfect for you! You can get villas with a golf course view, ocean front, ocean view, waterway view and villas within walking distance of the beach. No matter if you're here for the weekend or an extended vacation, Myrtle Beach Golf Villas will allow you to enjoy more golf instead of more traveling.

Some upcoming events in the area are the Holiday Harvest that runs up untill November 7th, and offers many family activies such as a farmers market, hay maze, pumpkin pyramid, fireworks and more! Another event for the whole family is the Carolina Opry Christmas Special on November 7th at 7pm. It's an event where you can enjoy wonderful music and laughter at the same time.

Myrtle Beach House Rentals

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for a much needed vacation? If you answered yes, then you might be interested in Myrtle Beach House Rentals. Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation spots because of its great weather, beautiful beaches, and family oriented atmosphere. If your idea of a great vacation is waking up to the sun rising over the Atlantic or birds chirping harmoniously, then Myrtle Beach is the place for you!

These Myrtle Beach House Rentals allow you to enjoy a great vacation on the beach, in the great outdoors, or anything that you desire. The rentals come with many options such as multi bedrooms, balconies, pools, beach access, and so much more! Don't miss your chance to experience a vacation of a lifetime.

While you're here, you may enjoy some Ice Skating in Valor Park from 10am to 6pm everyday except December 24-25th, and that runs until January 1st.

Myrtle Beach Real Estate

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Myrtle Beach is located in beautiful South Carolina. It's one of the leading areas when it comes to real estate. It's a great area with moderate temperature all year around and offers many attractions for its residents. Whatever lifestyle you demand, Myrtle Beach Real Estate will have something for you!

Myrtle Beach Real Estate is a great investment whether it's for a vacation home, new permanent home, or a retirement home. Myrtle Beach offers homes on the beach, homes in the country, homes in gated communities, and so much more. Start living life to it's fullest and check out Myrtle Beach for your next property investment.

If you'll be in the area in March, you may want to check out the St. Patrick's Day Dance on March 20th at 7pm. This event is located at Surfside Beach Civic Center and will provide hours of entertainment.

Tilghman Beach Vacation Rentals

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the nicest vacation spots in American is Myrtle Beach. It also harbors Tilghman Beach, which is located just south of Cherry Grove Beach. It offers its residents upscale ocean front homes and pearly white sand beaches. This area brings vacationers back year after year and would be a perfect vacation for you and your family. Check out Tilghman Beach Vacation Rentals for your next vacation.

Tilghman Beach Vacation Rentals offers families a vacation of a lifetime. You can get multi bedroom homes for groups, condos, cottages, and more! No matter what you're looking for, you'll find a place that goes above and beyond your expectations.

If you like music, you may enjoy the Beach Music Party located at Surfside Pier. It takes place on May 6th and runs from 5-8pm. It will provide good music and a great time.

Halloween Events in Myrtle Beach Area

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Happy Halloween!

BOO! Did I scare you? Well there are some very scary haunted houses and trails this year on the Grand Strand. Don't wait until Halloween night - most attractions are open nightly from now until October 31st. No better time to get your scare on than now!

Aside from the Ghouls and Goblins lurking in the dark to haunt you, there are fun Halloween activities for the children and costume contests going on in the Myrtle Beach area.

In North Myrtle Beach:

The Bay Watch Resort is hosting a Halloween Costume Party. There will be FREE food, drink specials, and $1 jello-shooters. This should be big fun so get out your wacky costume and go party on the oceanfront!

Howl -O-Scream 2009 hosted by North Myrtle Beach will be held at McLean Park on October 31st from
5-8pm. This is a great time for the kids (big ones too!) There will be pumpkin painting, music, trick or treating, games, marshmallow roasts, and inflatables. This event is free and open to the public.

Barefoot Landing has trick or treating each year on Halloween. They have free treat bags available and the kids can go from shop to shop to gather their "goodies." Check out the famous Ghosts and Legends while visiting Barefoot Landing - hear tales from voices of long ago as they conjure up spirits of South Carolina's legendary ghosts.

Adventure Paintball features, "The Haunting at Lay's Lake." This haunted trail and house is one you won't soon forget! Admission for adults is $16 and under 16 is $11 - plus you each person gets a free pass for a return visit (IF you can handle it twice!) Hours of operation are Mon-Thurs 7pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 7pm-12am, and Sun 7pm-10pm.

In Myrtle Beach:
The Experiment - an exclusive event located beside PF Chang's at The Market Common
through October 31st. This is haunted house -theatrical style. Tickets are $13. For more info call
839-3500.

Broadway at the Beach has trick or treating for the kids from 5-7pm on October 31st with free treat bags being given. The adult Halloween costume party in Celebrity Square will begin at 8pm.

4th Annual Terror Under the Bridge at the Riverwalk in Conway. This is held on the old slaughter house on the Riverwalk beside the Sidewheeler Restaurant. Tickets are $10 and much of the proceeds go to a charitable cause. Terror Under the Bridge is a limited engagement and runs Oct. 27th through Oct. 31st. Start time is 7pm.

Dr. Scream's Haunted Forest is located off 70 (near St. James Middle School) and is a scary good time year after year.

Loris Bog Off Festival Saturday October 17

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The coastal area of South Carolina hosts some pretty unique festivals and events throughout the year, but the "Bog-Off" held in Loris, South Carolina each year has to be one of the better ones. Yes, we LOVE chicken in these parts and not to brag, but you cannot find better chicken bog -anywhere.

This will be the 30th Annual Loris Bog-Off Festival. The festival kicks off at 9am on Saturday the 17th. Come hungry as there will be LOTS to taste! The Bog-Off is a cooking competition where amatuers compete for a cash prize and a trophy, and of course the esteemed honor of having the best chicken bog!

The festival is a lot of fun for everyone - events include: live music, cooking contest, over 200 retailers and vendors, fireworks, and children's activities. Come out and enjoy a great time. The weather si scheduled to be perfect on Saturday. Who knows, you may just find your new favorite dish -chicken bog!

Oktoberfest in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This page is coming soon...