This week's Smart Deal should suit families that haven't yet planned a trip this summer but want an affordable beach destination. This summer sale in Myrtle Beach (tel. 800/356-3016; www.visitmyrtlebeach.com) fits the bill, from $114 per night for a three-night waterfront stay.
The Grand Strand has come a long way from its days of being a resort destination that only attracts golfers. Though golfers still come in droves, there's plenty to do even if you're more into miniature-golf windmills than professional courses. The beaches aren't as crowded, the water is warm, and fireworks displays seem to happen nearly every other night. For those who feel that no summer vacation is complete without evening strolls with ice cream dripping down your arm, Myrtle Beach also opened a new boardwalk in May.
There are more than a dozen properties listed on the Convention and Visitors Bureau's site, with a range of travel dates, hotels, and promotions. Read carefully: some of these deals have minimum-stay requirements (in order to qualify for a fourth night free), and others have blackout dates around the July 4th holiday.
Trip Type: Hotel-only with special promotions and discounts
What the Quoted Price Gets You: Three nights at the beachfront Landmark Resort; free ice cream cone and slice of pizza; free breakfast and dinner with purchase of adult breakfast and dinner; tickets to Alabama Theatre's One the Show; free T-shirts for the kids; and a coupon booklet with discounts for local businesses and restaurants.
What Else You'll Have to Pay: You'll have to get yourself to Myrtle Beach, but this rate covers your hotel stay. It does not, however, include hotel taxes of an additional 13 percent.
When: June 15-Sept. 7
Book by: As soon as possible to ensure availability
Other Details: This Landmark Resort promotion requires a minimum three-night stay, so your three-night total will be $342 before taxes. The family-friendly hotel includes a water park, an outdoor lazy river, and a nine-hole miniature golf course.
Prices are per room based upon two adults and two kids traveling together. The prices listed are general starting rates; see "What Else You'll Have to Pay" for details about associated taxes and fees. Base-prices, taxes, and fees can vary based on point of departure and time of travel. Trip add-ons like sightseeing tours and meal plans may also increase the price.
Talk with fellow Frommer's travelers on our South Carolina Forum.
