According to the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, the yearning to be by the sea is what brings millions of visitors each year to the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina area, also called the Grand Strand. And it is also the reason so many folks choose to stay permanently. But what is so special about this 60 mile stretch of golden sand beaches? Just what makes the Myrtle Beach area different from any other coastal resort.

High on the list is a gracious lifestyle that is unique to the South. The hospitality that defined us still exists. Despite the rapid growth of the Myrtle Beach area, we're still small town America at heart. Our roots run deep and evidence of them still exists today. Old churches with storied graveyards, plantation homes built by some of our nation's most prominent citizens and landmarks designed in the classic style of early America are a testament to the rich history of Horry and Georgetown Counties.

Delightful weather is another plus, which allows for year-round enjoyment of the area's unparalleled recreational opportunities. Whether golf, tennis, baseball or soccer is your game, you'll find plenty of chances to play. Water sports can be enjoyed more months than not. And bike paths and walking trails are relaxing anytime.

The Grand Strand encompasses many communities within two counties, Horry County and Georgetown County. Each community has its own identity and unique qualities.

Surfside Beach and Garden City Beach have been family favorites for generations. Surfside Beach, in fact, proudly calls itself, the family beach. Incorporated as a town in 1964, Surfside Beach is an active residential community and thriving vacation destination. Along its lovely beachfront, you'll find beach houses, hotels, condominiums and a popular fishing pier. To the south is Garden City Beach, an unincorporated community that straddles Horry and Georgetown counties and ends on a peninsula at the mouth of Murrells Inlet. The majority of Garden City's vacationers stay in beach houses, with condos coming in a close second. With access to the ocean and inlet, Garden City Beach is a hot spot for fishing, crabbing and other water sports. The community has a fishing pier, marina, amusements, restaurants and other businesses.

The pace is just a little slower in Murrells Inlet. Once the lair of the infamous pirate Blackbeard, it is known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, earning its title from the fresh fish, clams oysters and crabs pulled from the surrounding waters and prepared in the numerous restaurants nestled along the creek banks. A 1,400 foot boardwalk, aptly called The Marshwalk, winds through the wetlands offering stunning vistas and glimpses of wildlife and waterfowl.

From graceful antebellum mansions to golf course villas, inland apartments to seaside houses, the options for buyers and renters of every budget and lifestyle are plentiful. New single family homes, apartments, condominiums and townhouses have sprung up throughout the Myrtle Beach area at an almost unbelievable pace. A number of gated neighborhoods and planned communities are being developed, some in phases that will not be completed for almost two decades, when the local population is expected to have doubled.

To that abundance and diversity add the Myrtle Beach area's natural beauty, a full complement of services and amenities and easygoing Southern ways all ingredients for an ideal location to start on your own, raise a family or retire.

Whether a long-time resident or a newcomer I'm here to assist you!