You’re treating yourself to a brief Christmas break in Myrtle Beach, but there’s no time for fun and games. This visit is all about holiday shopping for others and finding the best ideas and gifts for the loved ones on your list. The Grand Strand has you covered no matter how many or how hard the people on your shopping list are to satisfy, you will find everything you are looking for and more at the shops and stores of Myrtle Beach. And not only can you pick up gifts, you can also get into the holiday spirit at these hot spots. Here are five places to purchase all your holiday needs and to pick up a heavy dose of the Christmas spirit: Barefoot Landing: This North Myrtle Beach entertainment complex is also home to some of the best shopping on the Strand. Featuring more than 50 shops spread out along a boardwalk overlooking Barefoot Lake, this is the fun place to shop and take a break from the drama. Visit the carousel area for some hot cocoa and decorations, or hit one of the many theatres, restaurants and bars to add some joy to the shopping experience. Broadway at the Beach: For the ultimate holiday shopping experience, Broadway at the Beach has got it going on. The Grand Strand’s most popular attraction is home to dozens of unique stores that cover all the major national chains to various mom-and-pop shops and boutiques. Best of all are the many attractions where you can send the spouse and kids while you finish your shopping – Ripley’s Aquarium, Wonder Works, miniature golf, movie theaters and sports bars. Be sure to visit the Christmas village for an extra boost of holiday cheer. Market Common: Enjoy a unique Christmas shopping experience at this urban-style retail village. Spanning eight city blocks filled with clothing, accessories, house wares and more, Market Common allows shoppers to get out of the usual close quarters of malls and department stores and stroll down a Main Street setting lined with national chains and local shops. There are lots of restaurants and movie theaters for taking a break from shopping, plus the adjoining Valor Park and Grand Park has playgrounds and room for running so you can let the little ones burn off some energy. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: If you are shopping for bargains on Myrtle Beach-related items and oceanfront scenery for a more relaxing experience, take a stroll down the 1.2-mile walkway and check out the many stores that adjoin it. Find great deals on Myrtle Beach items for your loved ones that you won’t find anywhere else on the Strand. Visit the Gay Dolphin, Myrtle Beach’s oldest beachwear and souvenir store for wall-to-wall bargains on some of the most off-the-wall items in town. Treat yourself to one of the oldest Myrtle Beach traditions by climbing to the crow’s nest and checking out downtown district in full decorations as well as a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. Tanger Outlet Stores: Although this national retail center is not unique to Myrtle Beach, the Grand Strand does boast two of them for added convenience and thinner crowds. Window-shop your way around the complex until you find the shops you’re looking for, and there are many to choose from. The Tanger Outlets also offer organized sales and specials that all the stores participate in, allowing shoppers to pick and choose the best stores and times to knock out their long Christmas shopping lists. Both Tanger Outlets (Highway 501 in Carolina Forest and Kings Road near Restaurant Row) are surrounded by big-box stores and shopping centers where you can complete your list. (Posted: 11/24/14)
