Cheap Vacations in Myrtle Beach: How to Enjoy the Grand Strand on a Budget

Planning a beach getaway that doesn’t max out the credit card feels like chasing a mirage—but cheap Myrtle Beach vacations prove it’s totally possible. Picture this: oceanfront views, salty breezes, and happy hour sunsets that cost less than your last Starbucks run.

Families, couples, and friend groups alike flock to the Grand Strand not just for its 60 miles of golden sand, but because cheap vacations in Myrtle Beach actually deliver more fun for less money. Think cozy, affordable stays, free boardwalk entertainment, and seafood feasts that don’t require a side of guilt.

Between budget-friendly resorts, low-cost attractions, and local dining spots that punch way above their price point, this coastal escape makes saving feel indulgent. Stick around—because these tips will make your next Myrtle Beach trip your most affordable (and best) vacation yet!

Wallet-Friendly Resorts That Don’t Skimp on Ocean Views

Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort

Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort is like that dependable friend who somehow makes everything more fun without costing a fortune. Brightly colored, beachy rooms set the vibe, while multiple pools and water slides keep both kids and grown-ups entertained. 

There’s even a pool bar for those who believe “hydration” includes frozen daiquiris. For travelers craving a mix of value and oceanfront energy, this resort hits that perfect vacation rhythm—sun, splash, repeat.

Dayton House Resort

Finding Myrtle Beach on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing the oceanfront sunrise, and Dayton House Resort is proof. This longtime favorite blends retro charm with wallet-friendly comfort, complete with complimentary breakfast and bright yellow beach umbrellas that make every photo pop. 

Families love the spacious suites with kitchenettes—because sometimes “dining out” means cereal on the balcony in your pajamas. With its central location just steps from the sand and boardwalk, this spot nails the sweet spot between affordability and ocean-view bliss.

Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark

If your ideal cheap Myrtle Beach vacation involves kids squealing down water slides while you sip something tropical, Crown Reef Beach Resort and Waterpark delivers. The on-site waterpark is free for guests—translation: no “can we go again?” admission fees. 

Rooms come with private balconies, mini kitchens, and direct beach access, so the fun never stops (unless it’s naptime). Add in the arcade, lazy river, and poolside snack shack, and you’ve got an all-in-one escape that keeps your crew happy without draining your wallet.

Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort

Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort feels like an entire beach town tucked inside one property—minus the price tag. Families love the multiple pools, lazy rivers, and roomy suites with kitchenettes that make self-catering feel less like a chore and more like part of the fun. 

Its location near top attractions means fewer Uber rides and more funnel cake walks on the boardwalk. When it comes to stretching your dollars while staying beachfront, Compass Cove is a compass that points straight toward value.

Holiday Sands North “On the Boardwalk”

Sometimes, location really is everything—and this Myrtle Beach hotel sits right where you want to be. Holiday Sands North keeps things simple but smart, with ocean-view balconies, indoor and outdoor pools, and direct access to the iconic boardwalk.

 It’s the kind of place where you can watch the sunrise, stroll for a coffee, and people-watch all before 9 a.m. For travelers who want to be in the middle of the action without paying a premium, this hotel is a solid “yes.”

The Sandbar Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham

The Sandbar Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham is proof that “budget-friendly” and “beachfront chic” can coexist peacefully. Modern rooms, comfy beds, and Wyndham Rewards perks make it feel like an upgrade without the guilt. 

Its prime spot near the shore and attractions keeps entertainment costs low—because you can walk everywhere. Whether you’re saving points or pennies, The Sandbar turns affordable relaxation into an art form.

Free (or Almost Free) Fun That Feels Like a Splurge

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk proves that the best things in life—like ocean breezes and people-watching—are free. This free stroll along this 1.2-mile oceanfront promenade offers nonstop entertainment, from street performers to sweet-smelling funnel cake stands. 

Planning a trip to Myrtle Beach on a budget? This is your happy place. You can watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, hop on the iconic SkyWheel Myrtle Beach for unbeatable views, and cap the evening with a breezy walk past neon-lit arcades. 

Grab a cone, kick off your sandals, and soak it all in—the boardwalk is Myrtle Beach’s living postcard. With energy that hums day and night, it’s the kind of free fun that feels like a splurge.

Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

At the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, inspiration doesn’t cost a dime. The galleries celebrate Southern regional and American art, showcasing everything from contemporary photography to coastal-inspired paintings. 

The best part? Admission is completely free, so you can swap souvenir shopping for soul-enriching exhibits without guilt. The airy, plantation-style building offers ocean views that make the art feel even more vivid. Between rotating exhibitions and family-friendly workshops, there’s always something new to discover. It’s proof that Myrtle Beach knows how to mix culture with coastal charm—no admission ticket required.

The Market Common

The Market Common redefines what “window shopping” can feel like. This shopping and dining complex has a walkable, park-like layout filled with local boutiques, trendy restaurants, and the kind of coffee shops that make you linger. 

Even if you don’t spend much, there’s plenty to enjoy—free outdoor concerts, movie nights, and a family-friendly atmosphere that feels more Charleston-chic than touristy. Grab a latte, wander through locally owned stores, and enjoy a people-watching session that could easily last all afternoon. 

For budget travelers, it’s the rare place where browsing counts as an activity. And the bonus? You might just find your next favorite vacation outfit without breaking your budget.

Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

The Murrells Inlet MarshWalk is Myrtle Beach’s quieter, quirkier cousin—and it’s totally free to explore. This free walk along this beautiful waterfront boardwalk winds past seafood shacks, live music decks, and some of the most stunning sunset views on the Grand Strand. 

For travelers who want to take things up a notch, the Murrells Inlet Sunset Cruise and the Murrells Inlet Shelling & Bird Watching Eco Cruise offer next-level ways to experience the marsh’s wildlife and coastal beauty. Expect pelicans swooping overhead, salty breezes, and that satisfying “I found a hidden gem” feeling. 

It’s the kind of place where happy hour lasts all evening and no one’s in a rush to leave. Whether you’re sipping, strolling, or sailing, Murrells Inlet keeps the good times easy and affordable.

Myrtle Beach State Park

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. For a small entrance fee, Myrtle Beach State Park delivers pristine beaches, shaded picnic spots, and miles of peaceful trails that feel miles away from the bustle. 

Pack a cooler, grab your fishing pole, or rent a beach chair—the park keeps things simple but perfect. Families love the educational nature center and the pier, where you can spot dolphins if you’re lucky. 

Since parking and entry are bundled into one low cost, it’s a no-brainer for budget-conscious travelers. This is where locals go when they want sand without the crowds and serenity without the splurge.

Window Shopping

Window shopping in Myrtle Beach is practically a sport—and the best part is, participation’s free. Kick things off at Broadway at the Beach, where you can wander past boutique shops, candy stores, and waterfront restaurants while street performers and musicians set the soundtrack. 

Detour into Charles Bach Wonders! – A Magical Experience for a dose of live illusion and theater magic before returning to browse your way through unique souvenir spots and coastal art galleries. And if you’ve still got energy to spare, swing by Broadway Grand Prix—whether you’re driving or just watching the go-karts race, it’s pure entertainment. 

From there, head up to Barefoot Landing, the boardwalk-style village where you can stroll along the water, feed turtles, and people-watch between shops. Between all three, you’ll realize that a cheap Myrtle Beach vacation doesn’t mean missing out—it just means window shopping feels like a day-long event.

Cheap Eats That Taste Like a Vacation Splurge

River City Cafe

River City Cafe is where flip-flops are welcome and the burgers are the size of your face—in the best way possible. Their World Famous Burgers steal the show, especially the Peanut Butter Bacon Burger (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it) and the Three Alarm Fire Burger for spice lovers. 

Kids go wild for the grilled cheese, mac & cheese, and corn dog options—plus, the 16oz souvenir cup makes them feel like VIPs. Pair your meal with World Famous Onion Rings or Sweet Potato Fries, and you’ve got a full-on beachside feast that won’t break the bank. 

The vibe is casual, the service is fast, and the prices are right where your wallet likes them. In short, this is the burger joint that makes eating out on a budget feel like a treat.

Big Mike’s Soul Food

For hearty, Southern-style comfort food that tastes like Sunday dinner at Grandma’s, Big Mike’s Soul Food is the spot. Locals rave about the “Meat and Three” Big Mike’s Special, where you can pick from classics like Fried Chicken, Pork Chops, BBQ Ribs, or Turkey Wings with sides of Collard Greens, Mac & Cheese, and Candied Yams. 

Kids will love the mini-sized Lil Mike’s Special, featuring two homemade sides and cornbread—simple, flavorful, and made with love. The Fish or Shrimp with Grits is another must-try, creamy and rich enough to make you forget you’re dining on a budget. 

Every dish here feels like a hug in food form, and the prices make it easy to come back more than once during your stay. If comfort food is your love language, Big Mike’s speaks it fluently.

National House of Pancakes

National House of Pancakes isn’t your average breakfast stop—it’s a full-blown morning event. The Red Velvet Waffle with strawberry cream cheese topping and the Crab Cake Benedict are local legends, while the Meat Lovers Omelet keeps things savory and satisfying. 

Families adore the Pancake Combos, which come with bacon, eggs, or sausage, making it perfect for hungry kids (and parents who skipped dinner the night before). Add a jumbo mimosa or their Willy Wonka Hot Chocolate for a vacation-level indulgence that still fits your budget. 

Everything here—from fluffy stacks to friendly smiles—feels designed for lazy mornings and happy bellies. For anyone craving comfort, caffeine, and carbs, this spot nails the Myrtle Beach breakfast dream.

Or Honestly, Just Cook in Your Room

Sometimes the best meal on a cheap vacation Myrtle Beach offers is the one you make yourself. Booking a room or suite with a kitchenette means you can whip up easy breakfasts, pack beach picnics, and save your dining dollars for something truly special. 

Hit a local market for fresh shrimp, corn, and veggies, and suddenly you’ve got a home-cooked coastal dinner with a side of ocean views. It’s perfect for families who want flexibility—or anyone who believes “vacation cooking” should include microwave s’mores. 

Plus, having your own kitchen means midnight snacks and mimosas on your own schedule. Practical, cozy, and budget-friendly—it’s the secret ingredient to stretching your trip without cutting the fun.

Ready to See How Much Fun You Can Have Without Overspending?

Turns out, the real secret to cheap Myrtle Beach vacations isn’t just knowing where to save—it’s knowing where to look. With the right planning, the Grand Strand can feel like a luxury getaway at a thrift-store price tag.

Start mapping out your must-dos and check out cheap Myrtle Beach vacation packages through Tripster to bundle everything in one easy swoop. You’ll find unbeatable deals on Myrtle Beach attractions, shows, and hotels that make it simple to splurge on memories, not markups.

Whether you’re chasing sunsets, sampling hush puppies, or strolling the boardwalk, there’s a version of the trip that fits your budget and your style. So pack that beach bag and get ready to prove that cheap vacations in Myrtle Beach are every bit as magical as they sound!

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