Non-Disney Trip: Myrtle Beach or Hilton Head for a family vacation

[Grendalynn]

So, we are thinking about taking a family vacation this April for some much needed warmth & sunshine. Being from northern NH, that doesn't take much. Any where south of Boston feels tropical right about now...

I'm looking for suggestions and recommendations for the best beaches, budget friendly resorts and great restaurants. We don't typically eat out every night - we enjoy BBQ grilling and evening walks on the beach. We also like piña coladas and long walks in the rain. Lol.

We can drive to Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach in just over 15 hours. We took a 10 day WDW Vacation in November, so this should be budget conscious and relaxing. If you are familiar with Johns Pass in St Pete Beach, that's what we are looking for...

Thank you!

 

[Chelley00]

We love Hilton Head, however it's a little on the expensive side. The beach is very different from St Pete because the beach at HHI is hard packed (you can ride your bikes up and down the beach) HHI has great low tides and my kids could spend hours searching the tidal pools. There are great restaurants and lots of fun activities. The whole island has bike trails so we spend lots of time riding bikes around town. Not only do you have the ocean but the creek and marsh areas are great for kayaking and SUP.

 

[Grendalynn]

You are correct there - HHI does seem more expensive compared to Myrtle Beach. I just think that MB is more commercialized and busy. But there are some great resorts with great pools and activities for the boys. Is one end of Myrtle beach better than another?

 

[ajwolfe]

We absolutely loved HHI. I agree though our lodging was a bit expensive -stayed on Disney property. We also loved our side trip to Savannah so if you get bored with the beach there is plenty to do within a driving distance.
It is definitely less commercial/touristy than Myrtle Beach and had a cleaner, more upscale feel to it that we really enjoyed.
Any questions, just ask. I'll be glad to help out!!

 

[mom2grace]

We also love HHI. There are many home and condo rentals. I would expect that April is still low season there. It is much quieter than MB. It depends on what you are looking for.

 

[jmccoy18]

HHI hands down! We love HHI so much, our family bought a beach house there. We love the family friendly atmosphere the island has. It isn't super touristy, and a safe place for familes with kids. We ride bikes everywhere (beach, to grocery store, shopping, lunch, etc...) because the bike paths on the island are wonderful. The beach is nice and relaxing with great tide pools at low tide. There are many great places to eat, so if you decide to go there, let me know and I will make a list for you of our favorites.