As America's favorite family beach vacation destination, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is famous for all the modern attractions on the Atlantic seashore. But few know about the rich history and hidden treasures that surround the Sun Fun Capital, and the pre-Colonial Era port city of Georgetown is a prime example.
Located only 30 miles south of Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort in Myrtle Beach, Georgetown has three centuries worth of history and a wealth of fun things to do for a day trip during your Grand Strand getaway. A 30-mile drive can seem like a 300-year journey back in time in Georgetown's historic waterfront district.
Take a little time out of your vacation to experience something unique to the Carolina coast in Georgetown. Here are a few great ways to spend a great day:
* History: It's hard to visit Georgetown without seeing some structure of historical significance, like the Kaminski House Museum. As one of 60 antebellum homes in the downtown district, this one has a rich history of residents who made major impacts on the community. The South Carolina Maritime Museum and The Rice Museum tell the story of the key industries that fueled one of the wealthiest towns in Colonial America. Hobcaw Barony, Hopsewee Plantation and The Gullah Museum provide unique insights into the rice and slave culture that have been preserved for future generations to learn. Historic churches and ghost tours are also part of the experience.
* Dining: The culinary traditions of the Lowcountry are alive and well in Georgetown, especially at the Historic Harborwalk district. Seafood restaurants like the Atlantic House, Belle Isle Marina Bar & Grill and Castaway's, and Southern-style eateries like Five Rivers Tavern, River Room and the Taste Lounge offer fresh seafood and comfort food dishes. Time your trip to have dinner on the way back to Myrtle Beach with stops in the culinary hot spots of Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island.
* Shopping: Front Street serves as the main shopping district, offering everything from small mom-and-pop shops to artsy boutiques and antiques. Stores like Black Mingo Outfitters, Boardwalk Boutique, Georgetown Art Gallery, Made in the Shade and Miss Lizzie's offer unique gift items and souvenirs to remember your day in historic Georgetown. Be sure to stop at the Hammock Shops on your way through Pawleys Island.
* Nature: There's no place like the South Carolina Lowcountry, and Georgetown is surrounded with some of the most beautiful stretches of coastal landscapes. Take a boat ride through Winyah Bay and up some of the tributaries to abandoned rice fields and swampy backwaters. Georgetown offers many fishing and sightseeing charters, such as Island Picnic Adventures and Cap'n Rod's Lowcountry Tours provide popular cruises of local waters. For landlubbers, Hobcaw Barony and Huntington Beach State Park offer lots of natural charm and beauty without having to get on a boat.
* Kids' Activities: The little ones can have a big time in Georgetown too, if you know where to go. East Bay Park provides a safe and fun playground where kids can be kids, and exciting activities like fishing and crabbing the local waters is easily available. Nearby Brookgreen Gardens has the Lowcountry Farm & Zoo where children can get up close and personal with a wider range of animals, from goats and horses to gators and otters. The ships that sail in and out of Winyah Bay are also a treat.
After a long, fun-filled day in historic Georgetown, it’s time to head back to Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort for modern comfort in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Enjoy our on-site pools and water slides for hours of entertainment, or simply relax on your oceanfront balcony and enjoy the view.
