Shop Till You Drop in Myrtle Beach this Spring

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One of the most overlooked spring activities in Myrtle Beach is shopping. Everyone wants to go to the beach for the fun in the sun, the golf, the fishing and all the recreational pursuits that attract folks who visit the Grand Strand in search of a cure for the wintertime blues. Perhaps it's the warm weather and scenic ocean that makes visitors seek the great outdoors.

Whatever the reason, the result is more room for you to snap up the bargains at the local shopping centers and arts and crafts shows. Whether you are looking to stock up for your warm-weather wardrobe or find that special souvenir that reminds you of your spring break at the beach, there are lots of spots to shop till you drop and save till you cave on the Strand:

  • Art in the Park: Shop for unique arts and crafts while also enjoying some sunshine at the 44th Annual Art in the Park. Attracting some of the top artists and craftsmen on the East Coast, this popular showcase has been expanded to back-to-back weekends and two different venues – April 9-10 at Chapin Park in downtown Myrtle Beach and April 16-17 at Market Common. Vendors operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
     
  • Broadway at the Beach: All the talk is about the great new bars (Dave & Buster's), restaurants (Paula Deen's) and nightclubs (Club OZ) at Broadway this spring; so many forget about the dozens of shops at the popular entertainment complex. This is a good time to get in some quality retail therapy while also checking out the new sites in Celebrity Square.
     
  • Easter Sales: The March 27 holiday is the spring equivalent of Black Friday, with all the major retail centers offering Easter specials. The anchor stores at malls (Coastal Grand, Inlet Square and Myrtle Beach Malls), the two Tanger Outlet Stores (Kings Highway at Highway 501) and even the local mom-and-pop shops and boutiques will offer great deals to bring in the Easter business.
     
  • Flea Markets: The growing popularity of TV shows like “Antiques Roadshow” and “American Pickers” has breathed new life into flea markets and antique stores. Shoppers looking to unearth a hidden gem or just save a few bucks on odds and ends can find some real bargains at Hudson's Flea Market in Surfside Beach and the Myrtle Beach Flea Market near Market Common. While you are on the south side of town, check out the shops at Market Common.
     
  • Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Cruising the Boulevard and riding the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel are the big draws to downtown, but shoppers can also find some unique items at the stores along Ocean Drive. The Gay Dolphin Gift Cove is a must-do on your downtown shopping excursion. Featuring thousands of knick-knacks and souvenirs under one roof, the Gay Dolphin is the oldest store on the strip and has a crow's nest on its roof for nice views of the ocean and downtown district.
     
  • Ocean Reef Neighborhood: Guests at Ocean Reef Resort also have some excellent shopping opportunities within a short walking distance of the resort. Kings Highway is lined with small strip malls and the Northwoods Plaza where you can pick up one-of-a-kind items you can’t get at the national chains. The Wacky Rabbit, the Mole Hole and other unique boutiques are only a short stroll away.
     

Once you’ve completed your spring shopping spree, come back to your vacation home away from home at Myrtle Beach’s Ocean Reef Resort and relax with a dip in the pool, lazy river or hot tub.  And don’t forget to enjoy a nightcap on your ocean-view balcony and comfortable accommodations.  When it comes to choosing the right resort for your spring getaway, there’s no reason to shop. Ocean Reef is the place to be.