If you never visited the Carolina shore, it is time to grab your best beach umbrella and prepare for a treat. Unlike the congested beaches on the west coast of the US, North and South Carolina’s wide, sandy beaches offer a less crowded alternative. With a good beach umbrella or two in your vehicle you are ready to go. (There’s nothing more unpleasant than frying in the sun without shade.)
For the snowbird headed down interstate I-95 to a friendlier climate, Kitty Hawk NC is an ideal option. They have great sand dunes as you walk to the beach with appealing sea grass growing in the salt air! You can easily make the road trip from New York in two days (or one longer one) if you pack your belonging and beach equipment the night before you leave.
If you live in New York City, Myrtle Beach SC may look familiar. Many of the resorts on the beach are high rises. If you have all the necessary gear and choose a place that is oceanfront, all you will have to do is to grab your beach gear and head outside for a day of fun. There are, also, opportunities to rent single family homes in Myrtle. Rates vary depending on seasons, special events, and holidays. Vacation rentals by owner will let you stay in charming and affordable places.
Just a short drive further south, the coastal region near Charleston is another appealing alternative to winter snow. The attractions here are so numerous that you might not even have time for playing in the water! If you do, however, remember your shade umbrella for the beach.
South of Charleston, the jewel city of Port Royal SC is a well-kept secret to many travelers. Hunting Island State Park close by offers sandy shores with few people. Weekdays and early mornings are the best times for setting up those sun towels and coolers. Restrooms and picnic tables are available just a short distance from the beach.
Part of a trip to the beach is gathering all of right equipment. Cover-ups, hats, and sunscreen, and bottled water are a good idea. Packing snacks and sandwiches saves money and eliminates unnecessary trips inland. Add to that a couple of sturdy beach umbrellas, and you are all set for a southern vacation.