As a true local, who comes from a long line of TRUE LOCALS, we have quite a few places in the county that just make our hearts warm. As many of you know, I am a native of the Northern part of Horry County, South Carolina, as are all of my family since the early 1600’s actually got off the boat here. Yeah, I know, RARE. But we have some lovely spots here that aren’t so touristy, and you really can take in the area, and enjoy yourself and a break from the hussel and bussel. Enjoy!
Vereens Gardens-Little River
Vereen’s Gardens is truly a low country treat. There are so many walking and biking trails, long docks, a private beach area, and so much to see. It is calming and beautiful. There are a few swings to enjoy, a few gazebos and covered areas for picnics. You can get some fishing in or watch the casino boats go by. Entry is free just be sure if you want to walk around on the docks that you drive to the back not park at Hwy 17 and walk, unless you want to make a very long day of it.
Cherry Grove Point-Cherry Grove
Cherry Grove point is at the very north end of ocean drive at the very end. Past 60th Ave N. It is on the street parking only, but if you can find a spot or park down at the landing farther away and walk this section of beach is almost gone to strictly by locals. nothing fancy, no frills, just beach. Beautiful Myrtle Beach beach. Cherry Grove is not as busy as the other beaches in the areas. the high rises aren’t as large and the buildings are older as well as the beach houses that way. there is a little public access from Ocean Drive that you can walk through the trees and over a bridge to a beautiful open beach area. Quiet and never too crowded. Take that chance and try to make it out there. just remember to pack what you can carry.
Mclean Park-North Myrtle Beach
There are so many parks in North Myrtle Beach, and most people go to the giant sports complex. But Mclean Park is the real Gem park in North Myrtle Beach. Mclean park has two playgrounds, beautiful lawn areas, large pond, and a quiet meditation area where the garden club does their thing. There are walking trails and plenty of things to do for young children to adults. This place is also perfect to bring your pets, they even have a “pollination station” How nice?! save the bees! Anyways, there is plenty of parking and if you’re into playing tennis, you can always go and get a few rounds in on their freshly redone courts. Just remember not to disturb the wildlife while you’re there. Turtles, ducks, geese, large fish, and squirrels all call this park home. The park is only a few blocks from the ocean and backs up to Main Street!
Hwy 9 Wildlife Viewing Area-Longs
This photo was taking prior to Hurricane Florence, but Larry has been back since and said its still just as fun, you can just see the water line. This places is marked, but not much. It is in between the aberdeen entrance and the front of the golf course. It is on the opposite side of the street and it takes you back there. I will say this if you plan to ride these trails back pretty far, you will want to take a 4 wheel drive car. Yes, in South Carolina we have quicksand and mud and you can and will get stuck. We took our 90 Bronco II. If you have never seen a Bronco II they are rather small and light. I say that because we passed over a bridge and we almost didn’t fit. Stay on main paths and you should be fine. this place has plenty of wild life including wild hogs/boar. Also if you are not aware DO NOT TOUCH WILD ANIMALS THEY WILL HURT YOU. Be smart, stay safe, enjoy Horry County.
Those are some of my favorite local spots. Let me know what your favorite spots are of if you go out and see these.
Get out there and see what else Horry County has to offer.
SHF
A South Carolina Girl 