Commercial Roof Repair in Myrtle Beach, SC

The magazine Good Housekeeping picked the 10 best places in the United States to go for spring break.

One is in South Carolina.

Of course, it’s Myrtle Beach. No? Charleston, Hilton Head? Another of the perennial favorite islands like Pawleys or Edisto? No, no, no and no.

It’s Greenville.

Could Greenville be on any more ‘best of’ lists (say that like Joey Tribbiani on “Friends”).

Best place to vacation this year, friendliest, best small city, and one that probably needs to be retired by now, best kept secret, the lists keep coming.

No. 1 on the list was San Diego, which the magazine said, was the closest there was to a one-size fits all families sort of place. No. 2 was Washington, D.C., for “Families who live within driving distance and like to explore museums and historical attractions.”

About Greenville, Good Housekeeping said it was good for families who want a low-key vacation with lots to do. The idea is to avoid the crowds at the coast and “explore Greenville’s charming downtown, extensive park system and world-class attractions, like the seventh-largest children’s museum and a truly one-of-a-kind science center.”

They are referring to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate and Roper Mountain Science Center.

The Children’s Museum, located in a cluster of arts organizations at the edge of downtown, covers 80,000 square feet and is affiliated with the Smithsonian. Twenty-one galleries with construction, Grandma Betty’s farm and grocery shopping among them.

Roper Mountain Science Center is owned by Greenville County Schools and offers a variety of programming for the public, including laser shows, Friday starry nights and summer programs.

Greenville was selected as a winner of the Good Housekeeping 2023 Family Travel Award.

“Greenville takes the stress out of family travel with stroller-friendly walking paths plus a modern, easy-to-navigate airport with more than 100 nonstop flights daily,” the magazine said.

They also mentioned ”family-friendly concerts” presumably Greenville Heritage Main Street Fridays, which start this week, and, of course, The Drive, Greenville’s minor league baseball team, which has earned a number of accolades of its own. The park, located in the West End, just past downtown on Main Street, is inspired by Fenway Park in Boston.

A Single-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, The Drive was named top single A in 2017 and received the 2020 Bob Freitas Award from Baseball America.

In the where to stay section, Good Housekeeping suggested SpringHill Suites by Marriott Greenville Downtown.

“Our tester was seriously impressed,” the magazine said.

“While you’re checking in, the kids can swing on the egg chairs in the lobby,” our tester said. “There’s also a heated outdoor pool!”

Greenville in recent years has seen a huge boom in hotel construction, especially downtown, with every major hotel chain represented, one more than once.

Greenville City Council had a lot of fun with this new accolade during its meeting Monday night.

Mayor Knox White announced it and took great pride in pointing out that Greenville was ranked higher than Disneyland, which was 10th.

“Stay right here,” White said.

The other cities named were, in order, Phoenix, New York City, Pensacola Beach, New Orleans, Houston and Club Med Michès Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic.

Bikers won’t start rolling in to the Myrtle Beach area for the 2023 Atlantic Beach Bike Week for a few months, but now is the perfect time to plan your visit.

While some locals dread the increased traffic and large crowds, thousands of visitors flock to Atlantic Beach during Memorial Day weekend to show off their motorcycles and enjoy the South Carolina coast.

Here are the answers to five frequently asked questions about this year’s Bike Fest.

The Atlantic Beach Memorial Day Black Pearl Cultural Heritage and Bike Festival will take place Memorial Day weekend: May 26 through 29. The event, also known as Black Bike Week or Atlantic Beach Bike Fest, has been held since 1980.

“Bikers and non-bikers are welcome,” said Atlantic Beach town manager, Benjamin Quattlebaum. He encouraged visitors in 2023 to “come out and patronize the event, they’ll find it very enjoyable.”

Quattlebaum also hopes to see more bikers from outside of the area, thanks to an increased marketing budget from a Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce and Horry County grant.

Quattlebaum was encouraged by the increase in interest from retail and food vendors this year. He hopes to entice motorcycle companies to sell their items at the festival.

Live music schedules and vendor plans will be released in the coming weeks. Keep in the loop by checking the Town of Atlantic Beach website.

Stay up to date on Atlantic Beach Bike Week plans by following the Black Bike Week Facebook page and checking out the resources on the Black Bike Week website.

Horry County hosts three large motorcycle events each year. The Myrtle Beach Spring Rally will take place May 12 to 21. The 2023 Fall Rally will take place from Oct. 2 to 8.

The city is looking to do away with the dual roles of lifeguards, which includes watching the beaches while also renting out beach gear.

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - Lifeguard duties in the Grand Strand may be different in the coming summer months.

Previously, Myrtle Beach city leaders talked about changing the dual roles of lifeguards. Now they’re one step closer to a decision when it comes to beach safety.

During Tuesday’s city council meeting, members got a first look at what it would mean to change the structure of lifeguarding.

“This amendment would allow the lifeguard companies to have lifeguard-only people,” said Mark Kruea, Spokesperson for the city. “In other words, people who only did the lifeguards and then they had a separate person or people that would do the beach chair and umbrella rentals.”

The city currently uses two private beach service companies to provide lifeguards for the 60 miles of beach.

These men and women are currently responsible for monitoring the beaches and renting out beach gear like umbrellas and chairs to beachgoers. Kruea said the city has adopted methods from other municipalities for decades, which is why the potential new change is something he said the city feels is necessary, along with recommendations from the United States Lifesaving Association.

“It recommends that you have lifeguard only and then if there’s a retail component that a separate person other than the lifeguards do that retail component and that’s the direction we’re moving towards with today’s vote,” said Kruea.

All council members were in unison with making a change.

“This is a huge improvement for public safety in the city of Myrtle Beach,” said Myrtle Beach City Councilman John Krajc. “And I would definitely like to say thank you to both franchisees for being willing and open to increase public safety on our beach.”

Kruea shared the same sentiments.

“I think the franchises realized that this was the direction that they needed to move it certainly the direction that the City Council has indicated we need to move in so that we provide you know good safety on the beaches through lifeguards who have no other job but to watch the water.”

Myrtle Beach City Council will take a second look at future plans for lifeguards before making a decision at the next council meeting on March 28.

Copyright 2023 WMBF. All rights reserved.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is a popular destination that is known for its miles of sandy beaches and sunny weather. However, there are more than just beaches to explore in this coastal town. From natural wonders to man-made attractions, there is something for everyone to see and enjoy in Myrtle Beach. So whether you’re a recent transplant renting an apartment in Myrtle Beach, SC or you’re looking for homes in the area, here are many beautiful places that await you.

1. Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens is a stunning sculpture garden that spans over 9,000 acres of land. The gardens are home to a variety of sculptures that were created by some of the most talented artists in the world. The gardens themselves are also incredibly beautiful, with lush greenery and tranquil water features. You can take guided tours, stroll along the garden paths, or even take a boat tour through the marshes.

2. Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park is a beautiful natural area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators and loggerhead turtles. The park is also home to the stunning Atalaya Castle, which was built in the 1930s. Explore the castle and its gardens, hike along the nature trails, or spend a day on the beach.

3. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a lively area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The boardwalk itself is a beautiful walkway that runs along the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean. Visitors can also take a ride on the SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking views of the city.

4. Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The park has miles of sandy beaches, hiking trails, and fishing piers. Visitors can also rent bikes, kayaks, and other equipment to explore the park.

5. Ripley’s Aquarium

Ripley’s Aquarium is a popular attraction that holds a variety of marine life. The aquarium features a large tank that is home to a variety of sharks, as well as other exhibits that showcase different marine environments. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour or go on a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the aquarium’s operations.

6. The Market Common

The Market Common is a beautiful shopping and dining area that is home to a variety of upscale stores and restaurants. The area is beautifully landscaped and features a variety of public art installations. Enjoy live music and other entertainment at various times throughout the year.

7. Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of the city and the ocean. The wheel features 42 glass-enclosed gondolas that take visitors up to a height of 200 feet. The SkyWheel is particularly beautiful at night, when illuminated by thousands of LED lights.

8. Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment complex that has a magnitude of attractions. You can take a ride on the Soaring Zipline, play a round of mini-golf at Dragon’s Lair Fantasy Golf, or see a show at the Palace Theatre. The complex also features a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a beautiful lake and boardwalk.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina offers a variety of beautiful places to explore. From natural wonders to man-made attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a day on the beach or a cultural experience, Myrtle Beach has it all. So, pack your bags and come discover the beauty of Myrtle Beach for yourself.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - Freedom Boat Club has members of all experience levels, but according to vice president of operations Karen Berry, most are newcomers.

“For the most part, it’s people who have never boated a day in their life,” said Berry.

Those who join the club must go through an extensive training process, including online and in-person courses and one-on-one training with a licensed captain on the water.

“That’s our number one priority, is showing our new members the safety stuff on the boat,” said Captain Cody Massey. “We don’t want them to get out there and be able to drive a boat good, but then if something does happen, not be able to protect themselves or others.”

Although boat safety training is required at Freedom Boat Club, it is not required everywhere. Freedom Boat Club leadership says they often see people on the water without proper training.

“They either just get a boat or try to rent a boat from somewhere, and they don’t know any rules of the road for the water or anything you should probably learn,” said Massey. “So when they get out there, they’re a hazard to others.”

In a statement to WMBF News, a spokesperson from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources said the organization has “always emphasized to the boating public the importance of boating safety and the personal responsibility of individuals enrolling in boating safety courses.”

The North Myrtle Beach Rescue Squad just announced it will be offering boating safety courses for organizations who request them. They say their goal is always to educate the public.

“We’re just a group of citizens that love to serve our fellow citizens,” said rescue squad spokesperson Greg Richardson at a public safety meeting Monday night.

SCDNR added that “informed and experienced boaters are always better boaters.”

“Whenever you drive a car, you don’t get behind the wheel without taking a driver’s ed class and having to pass a test and things like that,” said Berry. “So why would they allow people to get behind the wheel of a boat without taking some kind of boater safety course?”

Organizations interested in receiving training from the NMB Rescue Squad can reach out on the website, or Facebook or call (843)-272-3144.

Copyright 2023 WMBF. All rights reserved.