Sparklers & Sandcastles: A Family Guide to Safe Fireworks at the Beach

They rolled into North Myrtle Beach with coolers in the trunk and stars in their eyes. It was the Johnsons this time—Todd, Maria, and their two boys, wild as summer crickets—ready for some good ol’ Independence Day magic. The air buzzed with grill smoke, salt breeze, and the quiet promise of fireworks that light the sky and memories that light the heart.

But as Mama always said, “Fireworks ain’t just pretty lights, honey. They’re beautiful and dangerous, just like a Carolina summer romance.”

The Beach Blanket Game Plan

If you’re celebrating the 4th of July at the beach, it all starts with a little planning. That means knowing the rules. In many areas, including Horry County, fireworks are not allowed on the beach. Local shows take care of the sparkle, and truth be told, they’re often better than what you’d try in the backyard with a Bic lighter and crossed fingers.

So check with your rental host or local ordinances before you even think of lighting up a Roman candle on the sand. If it’s a no-go, don’t sweat it. The beach hosts professional fireworks displays you can enjoy without singeing your eyebrows or paying a fine.

If Fireworks Are Allowed Nearby…

Say you’re staying somewhere private or you’re in one of those magical spots where fireworks are allowed. Well, sugar, here’s how to do it right—especially with kids in tow.

1. Designate a Firework-Free Zone
Just like Grandma’s kitchen during pie-baking time, there are places kids don’t belong. Set up a blanket or chairs at a safe distance, and make it clear that only adults go near the sparkly stuff.

2. Gear Up Like a Pro
Keep a bucket of water or a cooler filled with water nearby, just in case. That’s not just for show. Fireworks can have a mind of their own—and it ain’t always polite.

3. Light One at a Time
No need to rush. Independence Day isn’t going anywhere. Light a single firework at a time, back up fast, and keep the kids well behind the line.

4. Eye and Ear Protection
Protect those baby blues and tender ears. Even sparklers burn at 2,000°F, and booms can rattle more than just nerves.

5. Teach Kids About the Magic and the Meaning
Let them know the 4th is about more than just pops and bangs. It’s about freedom, family, and the kind of joy you feel with bare feet in the sand and stars overhead.

Fireworks Alternatives for the Littles

Sometimes the safest spark is no spark at all—especially for the under-five crowd. Here’s what the Johnsons did:

• Glow sticks and LED light wands turned their kids into tiny light shows.
• Beach-safe lanterns (battery-operated) turned their little blanket camp into a lighthouse of laughter.
• And when the real fireworks started over the pier? Todd held his youngest on his shoulders while Maria whispered the names of each color in his ear.

The Sweet Ending

That night, as the last firework bloomed like a magnolia in the sky, the Johnsons sat wrapped in towels and togetherness. No burns. No tantrums. Just gratitude. And that, y’all, is what makes it all worth it.

Book Your Own Star-Spangled Escape

Ready to make your own memories under the Carolina stars? Whether you’re here for fireworks, sandy toes, or stories that stick with your kids forever, Thomas Beach Vacations has the perfect place for your family.

Call us at (866) 249-2100 or visit northmyrtlebeachvacations.com to find your beach home this summer.

Pack the sunscreen, bring the stories, and we’ll bring the view.

The Grandparents’ Guide to Beach Bliss: Building Memories One Sandcastle at a Time

She taught him to build castles, not just with sand—but with stories, and patience, and sun-kissed afternoons.

It was mid-June, and the Suggs family had descended on North Myrtle Beach like a joyful breeze through Spanish moss. Margaret Suggs, seventy-two and a retired schoolteacher, had her folding chair staked in the sand by 8:00 a.m. sharp. Beside her, six-year-old Jonah was already knee-deep in a moat, cheeks flushed with purpose. For them, this wasn’t just vacation. It was tradition.

Every summer, Margaret and her husband Hank packed up their trusty sedan, loaded it with boogie boards, board games, and homemade oatmeal cookies, and met their children and grandchildren at the coast. It wasn’t about the luxury. It was about the rhythm—morning sunrises, salty breezes, and passing on the joy of the beach.

Vacationing with grandkids is a special kind of magic, equal parts storytelling and sunscreen. But it does take some planning. Margaret, having learned through trial and sandy error, had a few golden rules:

First: Pack with intention. Not just extra towels and aloe, but patience and humor. There will be spilled juice boxes and forgotten goggles. Let it go. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s presence.

Second: Bring the old stories. Kids crave connection more than Wi-Fi. At night, under porch lights and the hum of cicadas, Margaret told tales of her first beach trip in 1958, when swimsuits had skirts and ice cream came in paper cups. Jonah listened wide-eyed, as if she were handing him a map to a secret treasure.

Third: Create rituals. Mornings were for seashell hunting. Afternoons meant one-on-one walks where each child got their turn to be heard. Evenings ended with a scoop of peach ice cream and toes in the tide.

These small rituals, seemingly ordinary, laid the foundation for something enduring: a sense of belonging, of being loved, of knowing that no matter where life blows them, the ocean—and Grandma’s laugh—would always be waiting.

So whether you’re a spry grandpa with a frisbee or a sweet Nana with a sunhat the size of a beach umbrella, know this: you’re not just keeping an eye on the kids. You’re anchoring them.

Book your next family stay with Thomas Beach Vacations.

We’ve got beachfront homes perfect for generations to gather. Comfortable, convenient, and full of the kind of quiet joy only a beach can provide. Let us help you make the memories—they’ll last far longer than footprints in the sand.

Chaos, Cheerios & the Coast: A Real Guide to Family Beach Vacations

They rolled into the driveway like a modern-day wagon train, minivan groaning under the weight of pool noodles, sunscreen, and juice boxes. It was the Miller family—John, Sarah, and their three children under the age of ten—and it was two days before their big summer escape to North Myrtle Beach. The air already smelled of salt and second chances.

You’d think a beach trip would be easy: throw some towels in a bag and hit the road. But anyone who’s ever traveled with kids knows better. This ain’t just a vacation—it’s a logistical ballet with a side of chaos.

John, the dad, stood in the garage staring at a pile of sand toys like a man sizing up an opponent. “Do we need all of ’em?” he muttered. Sarah didn’t answer. She was elbow-deep in a Ziploc bag of kids’ medications, travel-size shampoos, and enough Band-Aids to patch up a small militia. Preparation, she believed, was the true art of parenting.

The kids, of course, were no help. Lily, the five-year-old, packed her bag with nothing but swimsuits and glitter. Jack, age seven, insisted on bringing his entire dinosaur collection. The baby, well, he just threw Cheerios into every open bag like he was blessing the journey.

Preparation begins at home, long before toes hit the sand. First off, pack smart. That means layering clothes, using clear packing cubes, and never—never—forgetting the sunscreen. You’ll want the good stuff, the kind you slather on once and it holds through two popsicles and a dunk in the waves.

Secondly, make peace with the mess. Sand will follow you like a jealous ex. It’ll be in the minivan, the sheets, the peanut butter sandwiches. Embrace it. Bring an old sheet to lay on the sand and a small broom for post-beach cleanups. Keep baby powder in the bag—it takes sand off skin like magic. Sarah learned that one from her mama, who learned it from hers.

Snacks, too, are sacred. This ain’t the time to be healthy. Bring the fruit pouches, goldfish crackers, and juice boxes. Hungry kids are feral kids, and you don’t want a meltdown during the golden hour.

Plan activities, but hold them loosely. North Myrtle Beach has more than enough to entertain—mini golf, alligator parks, ice cream parlors with more toppings than a Baptist potluck—but the best moments come unplanned. Like when Jack found a sand dollar and declared himself “rich forever.”

Evenings are for slowing down. After showers and dinner, the family would gather on the balcony, wrapped in beach towels, watching the sky turn the color of peach cobbler. Sarah would sip her sweet tea and whisper, “This is it. This is the good stuff.”

A beach vacation with kids isn’t a break—not exactly. It’s a different kind of work. But it’s the work of building memories, of shaping childhoods, of showing them that life’s best moments are a little messy, a little loud, and a lot beautiful.

So if your soul is aching for the ocean and your kids are bouncing off the walls like frogs on a hot skillet, it might be time.

Book your family’s escape with Thomas Beach Vacations

They’ll help you find the perfect home-away-from-home in North Myrtle Beach, with room to stretch, space to play, and sunsets you’ll carry in your heart long after the sand is gone. Let us take care of the rest—you just bring the laughter.

Stars, Stripes & Sea Breezes: A 4th of July to Remember in North Myrtle Beach

They say freedom rings, but in North Myrtle Beach, it also sizzles on the grill, booms over the ocean, and rides in on a salty breeze.

Every year, as July 4th rolls in hotter than a firecracker in a cast-iron skillet, folks flock to this sun-soaked stretch of Carolina coast to trade traffic lights for tiki torches and salute the stars and stripes with sand between their toes. It’s not just a holiday here—it’s a full-blown, flip-flop-wearing, sparkler-waving seaside spectacle. From fireworks that rattle your ribs to barbecue smoke curling above beach chairs, North Myrtle Beach puts on a patriotic show that would make Betsy Ross weep with joy.

🎆 Fireworks Over the Atlantic: Cherry Grove Pier

As twilight descends on July 4th, locals and visitors alike gather near the iconic Cherry Grove Pier. At 9:30 PM, the sky erupts in a dazzling display of fireworks, their reflections dancing on the ocean waves. This free event is a staple of North Myrtle Beach’s Independence Day festivities, drawing crowds who come early to stake out the perfect spot on the sand.

🚢 A Nautical Celebration: Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruise

For those seeking a unique vantage point, the Barefoot Queen Riverboat offers a special 4th of July Fireworks Cruise. Departing at 8:00 PM, this two-hour journey along the Intracoastal Waterway provides guests with an unobstructed view of the fireworks, accompanied by live entertainment and refreshments.

🎶 Music and Merriment: Live Performances

The celebration doesn’t stop at fireworks. Throughout North Myrtle Beach, various venues host live music events to keep the patriotic spirit alive. From tribute bands at local bars to family-friendly concerts at public parks, there’s a tune for every ear.

🏃‍♂️ Red, White & Blue 5K: A Patriotic Run

For the active and adventurous, the annual Red, White & Blue 5K offers a chance to start the day with a burst of energy. Participants don their most patriotic attire and race through scenic routes, celebrating freedom with every stride.

🍔 Classic Cookouts: Beachside Barbecues

No 4th of July is complete without a hearty meal. Many families take advantage of the area’s beach homes and vacation rentals to host their own cookouts, grilling up burgers and hot dogs with the ocean as their backdrop. Local markets like Boulineau’s Food Plus provide all the essentials for a festive feast.

🎇 Fireworks at Barefoot Landing

Another highlight of the evening is the fireworks display at Barefoot Landing. Starting at 10:00 PM, this show lights up the sky over the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a picturesque end to the day’s celebrations. Visitors often arrive early to enjoy shopping, dining, and live entertainment throughout the complex.

Independence Day in North Myrtle Beach is more than just a holiday; it’s an experience that blends the joy of freedom with the serenity of the sea. Whether you’re watching fireworks burst over the Atlantic, dancing to live music, or enjoying a beachside barbecue, the memories made here are bound to last a lifetime.

Ready to make your 4th of July unforgettable? Book your beach vacation with Thomas Beach Vacations. With a variety of accommodations to suit every family’s needs, we’re here to help you celebrate in style. Contact us at 866-249-2100 or visit NorthMyrtleBeachVacations.com to start planning your Independence Day getaway.

Father’s Day in North Myrtle Beach: A Coastal Celebration for Every Kind of Dad

They say every good man deserves a break—and come June, that break ought to happen with sand between his toes and a cold drink in hand.

Father’s Day in North Myrtle Beach isn’t just about barbecue and bad neckties. It’s a chance—no, a golden excuse—to swap the mower for a fishing rod, the office chair for a jet ski, and the honey-do list for a grilled steak served dockside. Whether your dad’s the strong silent type or the loud-laughing storyteller who corners the family table, there’s a patch of Grand Strand sunshine with his name on it.

This isn’t just a beach trip. It’s a weekend where Dad finally gets to do what he wants—be it chartering a boat, riding a horse down the shoreline like he’s in a spaghetti western, or sipping sweet tea while watching grandkids dig holes bigger than ambition. From casting lines to riding waves, North Myrtle Beach rolls out the red carpet—with a splash of sunscreen—for every kind of father, from the wild-hearted to the well-worn.

🎣 Reel in the Fun: Fishing Adventures for Dad

For the dad who finds peace with a rod and reel, North Myrtle Beach offers a plethora of fishing opportunities. Embark on a deep-sea fishing charter with Captain Scotty’s Fishing Charters III, where you can target species like Mahi Mahi and Blackfin Tuna. Alternatively, Reel Action Fishing Charters provides family-friendly inshore trips, perfect for introducing younger anglers to the joys of fishing.

If Dad prefers a more relaxed setting, a visit to the iconic Cherry Grove Pier offers a chance to cast a line while enjoying panoramic ocean views.

🐎 Saddle Up: Horseback Riding on the Beach

Experience the unique thrill of horseback riding along the pristine beaches of Waites Island with Inlet Point Plantation. Their guided one-hour beach rides provide an unforgettable way to connect with nature and create cherished memories with Dad.

For those seeking a different perspective, the Waterway Trail Ride offers a shaded journey through scenic wooded trails along the Intracoastal Waterway.

⛳ Tee Time for Dad: Celebrate on the Greens

If Dad’s idea of relaxation involves a crisp polo, a good driver, and eighteen holes of sunshine-soaked turf, North Myrtle Beach has him covered. With more than 80 championship golf courses in the surrounding area, he can tee off at top-tier spots like Tidewater Golf Club, known for its scenic marshland views, or Barefoot Resort, where four designer courses—from Norman to Love—offer a challenge for every skill level. Whether he’s aiming for a birdie or just out to enjoy the fresh air and camaraderie, golf on the Grand Strand makes for an unforgettable Father’s Day swing.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Bonding, Beach Style

Of course, Father’s Day isn’t just about Dad—it’s about the crew that made him one. North Myrtle Beach dishes up plenty of family-friendly fun that brings generations together. Take a stroll down Main Street and hop on the nostalgic OD Pavilion rides, or rent bikes and explore the winding paths of McLean Park. For an afternoon splash, head to Shark Wake Park in the North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex, where the whole family can test out the floating obstacle course or enjoy a round of mini-golf. It’s not just about celebrating Dad—it’s about making memories with him.

🍽️ Savor the Flavors: Dining Delights

Treat Dad to a culinary experience he won’t forget. Start the day with a hearty brunch at Johnny D’s Waffles and Bakery, known for their delectable waffles and friendly atmosphere.

For dinner, Greg Norman Australian Grille offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring prime steaks and fresh seafood, all set against the backdrop of the Intracoastal Waterway.

Alternatively, The Hangout at Broadway at the Beach provides a lively atmosphere with live music and a diverse menu, ensuring a fun-filled evening for the whole family.

🛍️ Shop ‘Til You Drop: Retail Therapy

If Dad enjoys a bit of shopping, North Myrtle Beach has plenty to offer. Barefoot Landing boasts a mix of national retailers and unique boutiques, perfect for finding that special gift.

For a more extensive shopping experience, Coastal North Town Center features a variety of stores, including Hobby Lobby and Dick’s Sporting Goods, catering to all of Dad’s interests.

🌞 Embrace the Outdoors: Water Sports and More

Take advantage of the beautiful coastal setting by engaging in water-based activities. Island Adventure Watersports offers jet ski rentals, parasailing, and banana boat rides, providing thrilling experiences for adventurous dads.

For a more relaxed pace, consider a guided kayak tour through the salt marshes of Waties Island, offering a chance to observe local wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

Father’s Day in North Myrtle Beach is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s an opportunity to celebrate the special bond between fathers and their families. With a diverse array of activities ranging from adventurous to leisurely, there’s no shortage of ways to make Dad feel appreciated and loved.

Make this Father’s Day unforgettable by booking your beach vacation with Thomas Beach Vacations. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, we offer a variety of accommodations to suit your needs. Contact us at 866-249-2100 or visit NorthMyrtleBeachVacations.com to start planning your perfect Father’s Day celebration.

Pickleball, Paddles & Paradise: A Grand Strand Love Affair

“If sunshine were a sport, it’d be called pickleball and played on the Grand Strand.”

That’s what Harold from Ohio said after his third game of the morning—still grinning, paddle in hand, shoes squeaking with each shuffle across the court. And frankly, we believe him.

Pickleball has taken root here in North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach like salt on a sea breeze—natural, effortless, and oh-so-refreshing. What started out west as a quirky blend of tennis, ping-pong, and badminton has made its way east, and now it’s the crown jewel of casual competition for retirees and vacationers alike.

And let’s be honest—nothing quite beats the satisfying pop! of a pickleball meeting a paddle while pelicans fly overhead and the ocean hums in the distance.

Where the Action Happens

If you’re itching to trade your beach chair for a paddle (or at least watch someone else do it), you’re in luck. Our corner of coastal heaven has more courts than you can shake a sunhat at.

North Myrtle Beach Hotspots:

• J. Bryan Floyd Community Center – 6 indoor and 4 outdoor courts. Organized weekday sessions draw friendly folks of all skill levels. Bring $2 if you’re from out of town—worth every penny.
• Central Park – Once home to hockey games, now it’s a pickleball paradise with four outdoor courts and plenty of open sky.
• McLean Park – Just two courts, but they come with postcard-worthy views near Main Street.
• Hill Street Park – One lone court, but it’s in charming Cherry Grove. Early birds get the game.
• Ocean Creek Resort – Five lovely courts for guests, complete with free equipment and coastal vibes. Just ask for a paddle and go.

In Myrtle Beach Proper:

• Midway Park – Ten well-lit outdoor courts. Yes, you can play under the stars.
• Pepper Geddings Recreation Center – Four indoor and four outdoor courts. Portable nets, permanent lines, and good times guaranteed.
• South Strand Rec Center – Four wood indoor courts with AC and open arms year-round.
• Crabtree Gym – BYON (Bring Your Own Net) and enjoy the buzz of Market Common.
• 78 Fitness at Kingston Resorts – Four pristine outdoor courts. A small reservation fee gets you access and gear.

It’s Not Just a Game—It’s a Community

Around here, pickleball isn’t just about scoring points—it’s about connection. Friendly banter, shared laughs, and spontaneous post-game plans are all part of the rhythm. New players are welcomed like family, and seasoned pros often serve up tips along with their killer drop shots.

Clinics and lessons abound for those looking to sharpen their skills, and if you’ve got a competitive streak, annual events like the Myrtle Beach Pickleball Open and the Grand Strand Slam will scratch that itch.

But perhaps the most beautiful part of pickleball in the Grand Strand? The way it bridges generations and brings people together—one serve, one smile, one vacation at a time.

Ready to Play Where the Ocean Meets the Court?

Whether you’ve never touched a paddle or you’re already dreaming of your next tournament, there’s no better place to dive into the game—and the waves—than North Myrtle Beach. Book your beach vacation with Thomas Beach Vacations and make pickleball part of your Grand Strand story.

🏖️ Thomas Beach Vacations
📞 Call us today at 866-249-2100
🌐 Visit NorthMyrtleBeachVacations.com

Wherever your paddle lands, we’ll be here to welcome you home.

North Myrtle Beach and Cherry Grove Shine in USA TODAY’s Best SC Beaches List

Why These Two Coastal Gems Deserve a Spot on Your Vacation Calendar

When the tide rolls in on South Carolina’s shimmering coast, it brings with it more than seafoam and seashells — it carries memories in the making. And in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, two beloved Grand Strand destinations stood out in a sea of sandy contenders: North Myrtle Beach (ranked #2) and Cherry Grove Beach (ranked #5).

These rankings weren’t handed out lightly. The list was built on the votes of travelers and beach lovers from all over the country, with each destination nominated by coastal experts who know what makes a beach truly exceptional. And it’s no surprise that North Myrtle Beach and Cherry Grove soared to the top.

North Myrtle Beach: Classic Charm, Wide-Open Shores

With its generous stretch of sand, welcoming vibe, and more than 50 public beach access points, North Myrtle Beach has long been a favorite for families, couples, and solo escapees. But it’s not just the beach that draws repeat visitors — it’s the feel of the place. There’s an easy rhythm to the days here. You wake to the sound of gulls, sip your coffee on a balcony with an ocean view, and let your toes find their way into the warm sand by mid-morning.

Clean, safe, and full of Southern hospitality, North Myrtle Beach manages to balance fun and serenity in perfect measure. From ice cream stands and local seafood joints to live music and moonlit strolls, this town knows how to serve up summer — and spring, fall, and winter — just right.

Cherry Grove: Where History Meets the Horizon

Nestled at the northern edge of North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove is more than a beach — it’s a treasured memory for generations of coastal travelers. Its iconic pier stands as both a fishing hotspot and a symbol of the area’s deep connection to the sea. But beyond the cast lines and camera clicks lies a quiet beauty: long stretches of walkable sand, rolling waves, and the kind of sunsets that make you linger long after your beach towel has dried.

Cherry Grove is where nostalgia mingles with now. Families build sandcastles in the same spot their grandparents once did, and newcomers instantly feel like they’ve stumbled into a hidden gem — because they have.

Ready to Experience the Best?

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of North Myrtle Beach or the relaxed, postcard-perfect charm of Cherry Grove, one thing is clear — this part of the Carolina coast is calling. And Thomas Beach Vacations is here to help you answer.

With a curated collection of oceanfront condos, spacious beach homes, and pet-friendly rentals, Thomas Beach Vacations makes it easy to turn your beach dream into a reality. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family reunion, or just need a salty breeze to clear your mind, our team is ready to help you find your perfect coastal retreat.

Book your beach vacation today at www.NorthMyrtleBeachVacations.com or call us at (866) 249-2100.

Your next chapter of sunshine and serenity is just a wave away.

North Myrtle Beach Sets the Standard for Truly Inclusive Coastal Access

In a quiet but powerful moment of change, the meaning of “beach access” in North Myrtle Beach has grown deeper, richer, and more inclusive. Along 46th Avenue South in Windy Hill, something extraordinary has happened—something that speaks not just to physical mobility, but to dignity, freedom, and the soul-lifting joy of reaching the water’s edge on your own terms.

This isn’t just another walkway to the sand. It’s a thoughtfully designed passage of freedom for individuals who live with physical disabilities. At first glance, it looks like a neat path tucked between dunes, but to someone who relies on a wheelchair, this path is a game changer. There are no stairs. No steep inclines. Just a smooth, gentle slope leading directly to an 85-foot-long mat that carries you to the rhythm of the waves.

The mat, made for regular wheelchairs to roll on, extends close enough to the tide line that the salty breeze practically greets you halfway. For many, this small stretch of fabric is the difference between watching the ocean from afar and being a part of it. That’s the kind of detail that transforms a visit into an experience—an experience open to everyone.

And the transformation doesn’t stop at the sand. Nearby, the parking lot has been reimagined too. Not only are there six designated handicap spots, but the layout includes generous space between them—enough room to safely use ramps and lifts without the stress of someone else parking too close. This may seem like a minor detail, but for many, it’s the first act of welcome they receive.

Five specially designed beach wheelchairs await those who need them—no rental fees, no paperwork, just the open invitation to explore. These chairs glide over the sand like they were made for it, granting a sense of movement and independence that many beachgoers might take for granted.

None of this was done by accident. It took vision. It took commitment. And it took the efforts of a community organization that has spent years making adaptive surfing and beachgoing more than just a dream. The Adaptive Surf Project partnered with the city to craft this access point with care, funding, and above all, purpose.

Where a hotel once stood, there’s now a gateway—a symbol that says, without a word: “You are welcome here.”

It’s easy to overlook how transformative a path can be when you’ve always had one. But for those who haven’t, for the families and individuals who once sat on the sidelines while others ran toward the surf, this new access is a long-awaited embrace.

At Thomas Beach Vacations, we believe the beach belongs to everyone. We celebrate North Myrtle Beach for making that belief a reality, not just in word but in structure, in action, and in open-hearted hospitality. This is more than a new path to the ocean—it’s a path toward a better, kinder, and more inclusive coast.

Let the tide be for everyone. Welcome to the future of beach access—right here in North Myrtle Beach.

👉 Ready to plan your stay? Call Thomas Beach Vacations at 866-249-2100 or visit NorthMyrtleBeachVacations.com to find your perfect beach getaway.