4 Reasons Central Myrtle Beach Is the Best Area To Stay
While the Grand Strand boasts 60-plus miles of stunning shoreline to enjoy, the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay is central Myrtle Beach, near the Golden Mile. Why choose central Myrtle Beach for your vacation? This idyllic stretch of coastline offers: In this article, we’ll also cover: Read on to find out more about the best area to stay in Myrtle Beach!

Quiet, Family-Friendly Beaches

Seashells scattered along the coastline. The Golden Mile, located between 31st Avenue North and 52nd Avenue North in Myrtle Beach, provides a tranquil ambiance ideal for those seeking a serene beachfront getaway. The largely residential area contributes to an overall feeling of exclusivity and privacy at the beach. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a slow-paced family vacation, the Golden Mile is the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay for a perfect escape from the everyday routine. Plus, Dunes Village Resort is the first oceanfront resort you'll find to the north of the Golden Mile's 21 blocks of serene beachfront. Explore all of the stay-enhancing amenities available at Dunes Village Resort!

A Spacious, Uncrowded Shoreline

Expansive Vistas at Dunes Village Resort. One of the Golden Mile’s most significant draws is the amount of beach space available to visitors. Unlike more crowded areas, the wide coastline here offers plenty of room to lay out your beach blanket, play games, and build sandcastles. Central Myrtle Beach’s uncrowded shores provide an exceptional experience, allowing you to relax and truly enjoy the coastal atmosphere. Want to save while you enjoy the calm and relaxing beaches of the Golden Mile? Take a look at Dunes Village Resort’s special offers!

Easy Access to the Area’s Top Attractions

Myrtle Beach SkyWheel from above While central Myrtle Beach and the Golden Mile offer a peaceful haven, they don’t compromise on proximity to the Myrtle Beach attractions the area is known for. The Golden Mile’s charming stretch of coastline is just a short distance from Myrtle Beach’s renowned dining, entertainment, and shopping. Indulge in fresh-caught local seafood, discover exciting amusement parks, play a round of golf (virtual, mini, or “real”), and more. See a show at Pirate's Voyage, rent a jet ski or take a fishing charter, root on the home team at a Myrtle Beach Pelicans baseball game, or revamp your wardrobe at the best shopping destination on the Grand Strand. Check out some of the top family-friendly attractions in Myrtle Beach!

Myrtle Beach’s #1 Resort With an Indoor Water Park — Dunes Village Resort

Dunes Village Resort indoor water park in Myrtle Beach. Central Myrtle Beach is home to the esteemed Dunes Village Resort, Myrtle Beach’s #1 resort with an indoor water park. With an impressive array of amenities and unmatched hospitality, Dunes Village has established itself as the ultimate destination for an unforgettable Myrtle Beach vacation. One of the resort's standout features is its indoor water park, which guarantees endless hours of fun for the whole family, regardless of the weather. From thrilling water slides to lazy rivers and splash zones, Dunes Village brings aquatic fun right to your doorstep. Take a virtual tour of Dunes Village's oceanfront suites in Myrtle Beach, where families and groups of all sizes will find gorgeous beach views, spacious room layouts, and all the amenities of home, including full kitchens, living rooms, and separate bedrooms. Book your oceanfront getaway today — view available rooms at Dunes Village Resort!

Central Myrtle Beach Is Best For…

Shot of a family enjoying some quality time together at the beach. Central Myrtle Beach offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you're planning a family trip, a quiet getaway, or an extended stay, this area provides the perfect balance of relaxation and accessibility. Here are some of the visitor types who will love it most:
  • Families with young children: With spacious beaches, kid-friendly attractions, and resorts like Dunes Village offering its indoor water park, Central Myrtle Beach is perfect for family fun.
  • Quiet, beachfront vacations: The peaceful, residential-style setting provides a more relaxed atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach’s busier areas.
  • First-time visitors: This centrally located area offers easy access to the best of Myrtle Beach, making it an ideal spot for newcomers looking to explore the destination.
  • Snowbirds: Mild winters, off-season discounts, and a welcoming community make this a great winter retreat for snowbirds and other long-term visitors.

Best Times To Visit Central Myrtle Beach

Girl sliding down a waterslide at Dunes Village Resort's indoor waterpark in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach is a fantastic year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for summer excitement, a peaceful and temperate winter retreat, or something in between, here’s what to expect during different times of the year:
  • June-August (Endless Summer Fun): Warm ocean waters, lively Boardwalk events, and peak-season energy make summer perfect for those who love the classic beach vacation vibe.
  • September-November (Autumn by the Ocean): Fewer crowds, beautiful sunsets, and fall festivals create an ideal mix of relaxation and seasonal charm.
  • December-February (Extended Winter Retreats): With mild temperatures, holiday celebrations, and great off-season deals, winter is perfect for snowbirds and travelers in search of a quiet getaway.
  • March-May (Bloom & Beach Season): Comfortable weather, blooming gardens, and spring festivals make spring a wonderful time to enjoy Myrtle Beach before summer crowds arrive.

Other Areas to Stay in Myrtle Beach

While central Myrtle Beach is the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay, thanks to its gorgeous views and exciting attractions, other parts of the destination offer plenty to do and see. 

South Strand

The laid-back South Strand is the best area in Myrtle Beach to stay for a relaxing vacation. Enjoy a slow-paced getaway, complete with front-porch swings and breezy hammocks on white sand beaches. 

North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is part of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of coastline. Many of the area’s most popular attractions can be found in North Myrtle Beach, including Alligator Adventure, Barefoot Landing, the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier, and House of Blues. North Myrtle Beach is the place to stay if you’re looking for excitement and plenty of things to do.

Frequently Asked Questions about Where To Stay in Myrtle Beach

If you’ve never visited Myrtle Beach before, you must have questions about this coastal destination. Find out which part of Myrtle Beach is the most family friendly, where to find the Boardwalk, and more below.

Which part of Myrtle Beach is more family friendly?

Central Myrtle Beach is the most family friendly. This area offers the best of the beaches, attractions, dining, and shopping, providing the most value for your money and giving you plenty of things to do that the whole family can enjoy. 

What side of Myrtle Beach is the boardwalk?

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is located near central Myrtle Beach, closer to the area's downtown district. Attractions near the boardwalk include the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and Ripley's Believe It Or Not.

What is the main part of Myrtle Beach?

There are three sections of Myrtle Beach — North Myrtle Beach, central Myrtle Beach, and the South Strand — and no one section is considered the “main” part. However, where you choose to stay is important. Central Myrtle Beach offers peaceful beaches, easy access to area attractions, and award-winning accommodations at Dunes Village Resort.
For those seeking a truly remarkable beach vacation, central Myrtle Beach's Golden Mile district surpasses expectations on every front. The quiet residential setting, ample beach space, proximity to the area’s attractions, and the presence of the acclaimed Dunes Village Resort offer the epitome of a relaxing getaway. Plan your visit today and get ready to create memories that will last you and your family a lifetime!