Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Beach Parking Along the Grand Strand 101


Myrtle Beach, just north of Plantation Resort, is a popular destination on the Grand Strand. Every summer thousands of people flock to its white beaches and new boardwalk. Fortunately, the city has more than enough parking to accommodate such large crowds! Most of the city is managed by street parking meters. From 31st Ave North to 29th Ave South and 69th Ave North to 77 Ave South, meters are in effect from March 1st through September 30th, 7 days a week, from 9:00 am to 12:00 am. 
 
Pay special attention to the stickers on the meters. Blue stickers are worth a maximum of 2 hours of parking, red stickers - up to 3 hours, and green stickers allocate all day parking for $6. Say hello to the traffic police on their bikes and carts! They patrol the area frequently.

The Pavilion Parking garage, a local's secret, is in downtown Myrtle Beach and just south of the SkyWheel. Prices vary according to the season, however, they offer daily, nightly, weekend, weekly and monthly rates. The garage accepts credit and debit cards so you can keep your change for ice cream or smoothies at the outdoor pool!
 
Surfside Beach, the family beach of the Grand Strand and our favorite destination, is located a mile and a half east of the Resort. Our complimentary shuttle service runs to Surfside Beach Pier 7 days a week from 10am - 6pm. Shuttles heading to the pier run on the hour (i.e. 10, 11, etc.) and they return to Plantation Resort on the half hour (i.e. 10:30, 11:30, etc.). The last out-going shuttle heads to the beach at 4pm, and the final return shuttle is at 6pm daily.

If you decide to forego the shuttle service during your stay, here are a few helpful tips to Surfside parking:

Surfside manages beach parking by meters at a rate of $1 an hour. The city’s convenient self-serve pay stations accept coins, credit and debit cards. The meters also accept cash but do not give change. If you need to break large bills, a change machine is located at the Eagles Beachwear store across the street. Don’t forget to display your printed receipt on the dashboard of your vehicle!

In addition to the pier, metered parking is available on 3rd and 6th Ave NorthYaupon Drive, and 3rd to 5th Ave South.  As with Myrtle Beach, beware of expired meters!

Garden City is located just south of Surfside Beach, and if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier areas, this is it! When heading south on Waccamaw Drive (the road running parallel to the ocean) you'll find several beach access points. The best part? Garden City offers free parking!

Huntington and Myrtle Beach State Park

The pristine beaches of Huntington and Myrtle Beach State Parks are local favorites. The parks offer hiking, picnic areas, plenty of beautiful scenery and, of course, the beach. The park's monitored entry makes a visit quick, easy and safe.  Plantation Resort guests enjoy an added benefit- free admission with a pass! Daily park passes can be checked out at the Front Desk and Indoor Pool that will grant you access to both state parks free of charge. Be sure to get yours early in the day as passes are limited and check-out quickly.

We hope these parking tips help to make your vacation a convenient, stress-free experience. For additional information on which beach is best for you, click here. If you have any questions about beach information, parking or our shuttle service please call our knowledgeable front desk staff at 1-800-845-5039. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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