Stretching more than 60 miles from Little River to Murrel’s Inlet, and extending inland from the Atlantic Coast, South Carolina’s Grand Strand is one of the most popular golf and beach vacation destinations in the country. And in the last 25 years, it has also blossomed into one of the nation’s fastest growing retirement centers, with ocean front condominiums and master-planned golf communities rapidly covering more and more of the landscape.
While the throngs of summer tourists can make traffic almost unbearable along most major thoroughfares and force locals to avoid the long waiting lines at the area’s more popular restaurants, retirees continue to arrive at a breakneck pace, a fact which has earned Myrtle Beach its rank as the country’s second-fastest growing destination in terms of population growth and job creation.
Notwithstanding the hordes of summer tourists, Myrtle Beach and its neighboring communities have earned a reputation for a relaxed, hassle-free lifestyle, one which is built around golf courses and water sports. Nowhere else in the country will you find more than 100 golf courses, with many of them available for public play. And whether you prefer deep sea fishing or just a leisurely cruise along the intracoastal waterway, it is all readily available.
While there are plenty of activities for the sports-minded enthusiast, the more sedentary will find a wealth of cultural and artistic attractions. One of the more unique and enticing attractions is BrookgreenGardens, one of the South’s finest public sculpture gardens.
The population boom has meant more than just new homes for the region. There has been a major growth in the variety and number of new stores, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The opening of a new convention center and adjacent 400-room Radisson Hotel only adds to the big-city atmosphere now felt throughout the Grand Strand.
Not too long ago, the small fishing village of Murrel’s Inlet was noted for its family seafood restaurants, but today it, too, along with neighboring communities of Garden City and SurfsideBeach, has been discovered by developers and retirees.
Home values in the area have escalated sharply as available land has been absorbed for development, but reasonably priced housing can still be found. Prices range across a broad spectrum depending on location and proximity to golf courses and the water. In general, the cost of living is below the national average. The medical needs of the area are served by the GrandStrandRegionalMedicalCenter, a 219-bed acute care facility with a cardiac surgery program and trauma center. For those interested in pursuing educational endeavors, CoastalCarolinaUniversity, with an enrollment of 4,067 full-time students, is located in nearby Conway.
All in all, for anyone considering a retirement home near the coast or if golf is a major criteria in making your selection; Myrtle Beach should be near the top of your list when you begin your search. While perhaps not as accessible to major interstate arteries as some locations, this may not be a significant concern, especially in view of the fact that it has excellent commercial flight service. Its natural setting, entertainment and sports venues and mild climate should not be overlooked.
Located in the beautiful community of Prince Creek in Murrells Inlet and adjacent to TPC Myrtle Beach golf course, you'll enjoy the convenience of everything the Grand Strand area has to offer. With over 170 luxury ranch condominiums, highlighted by protected wetlands and relaxing water views, StoneCreek offers an affordable and exciting retirement lifestyle for anyone who dreams of living on the Coast.
