Oceanfront Hotels Near Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, which once stood as a testament to slow coastal living, has become a robust tourist destination in recent years thanks in part to the close proximity of bustling Myrtle Beach. The summer season boasts a marshwalk filled with tourists and numerous restaurants that stay open until the wee hours. While the Inlet Sports Lodge and Brookwood Inn are situated across from the marshwalk, no true oceanfront accommodations are located here; however, four of them can be found within a seven-mile radius, each with its own distinct style and amenities.

Water's Edge Resort

• The Water's Edge Resort in nearby Garden City Beach is a modern, family-oriented high-rise that towers over a private slice of white sand waterfront. All condo-style suites face the ocean, with furnished balconies, fully equipped kitchens and an average 300 square feet more living space than neighboring properties. Guests can stock up on groceries at the on-site small market -- a number of grocery stores are within 2 miles -- or have their unit prestocked via a grocery shopping and delivery service. Amenities include a fitness room, seaside cafe and choice of indoor or outdoor pools and hot tubs. In addition, a kids’ club offers activities for the under-12 set, including painting and T-shirt tie-dying. No pets are allowed and a one-week minimum stay is required during the busy summer season.

Sandy Shores III

• Sandy Shores III, also in Garden City, is a timeshare that contrasts the airy open spaces and taupe woodwork of Water's Edge rooms with a more subdued country-inn style. Guests can choose between one-, two- and three-bedroom units replete with dark wood furnishings and a king-sized bed in the master. The kitchen area boasts a dishwasher, counter-side bar stools and adjacent dining table for six, while an HD flat screen with DVD player adorns the living room. Barbecue grills lie adjacent to the outdoor swimming pool and a concierge service can help book tee times at local golf clubs. Each unit comes with complimentary parking for two cars and free wireless Internet. A two-night minimum stay is required.
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Surfside Beach Resort

• The Surfside Beach Resort in Surfside sits about halfway between Murrells Inlet and Myrtle Beach, evoking the feel of a Caribbean retreat with its palm-lined pool and aqua-colored fencing. Guest rooms offer a choice of one king or two queen beds, with or without a balcony, plus a mini-fridge and microwave. A cozy living space, minimalist decor and varying degrees of ocean view allow budget-conscious guests to book lower-than-average rates. Military discounts and breakfast-inclusive packages are also available. Business travelers can make use of a 40-person meeting room while, next door, Scotty's Beach Bar serves tropical drinks in a 100-percent smoke-free environment, with karaoke Thursdays and randomly scheduled theme nights.

The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn

• The Oceanfront Litchfield Inn, which received a 2009 Best of Pawleys Island award, sports individually decorated guest rooms exploding with tropical colors like pink, peach and lavender. For families of six to eight, two-bedroom villas with two full baths are available. The property offers weekly rates and a selection of family vacation packages featuring tickets to Ripley's Aquarium in Myrtle Beach or a 16-acre water park. A romance package designed for couples includes chocolates, champagne, flowers and a dining credit at Austin’s Ocean One, with its contemporary American cuisine and panoramic ocean views. General amenities include a continental breakfast, two outdoor pools, laundry facilities and gourmet coffee/tea service.