Friday, April 9, 2010

Inlet Cove

Hi there, we are first timers to Kiawah for April spring break and very excited. Any feedback on Inlet Cove where we are renting from? Will the weather be warm enough to use the pool? Any advice for activities for small children - ages 2, 5 and 7? Thanks much!



Inlet Cove


Hello!





April is a wonderful time to vacation on Kiawah. The sun gets stronger every day. I just checked the forecasts, since I am heading down there next week, and found daytime highs in the mid- to upper-70%26#39;s. By late in the month, it will be even warmer.





Over many years of vacationing on Kiawah with kids, Inlet Cove became our favorite location. We loved the safe, quick access to the beach through Beachwalker County Park; the club-like pool and deck area; and - most of all - the beautiful marsh and river views from the dock and from some of the cottages.





We also found that the elevated cottages, with parking below, were very well arranged for families. The screened porch (or sunroom, in some cottages) is a nice way to enjoy the out-of-doors even when you need to be indoors. Over the years we rented several of the cottages, with our preference always being for those that are on the river, although all of the places offer great privacy and a sense of being in nature. Of course, all cottages in Inlet Cove, and throughout Kiawah are privately owned and decorated, so there is quite a bit of variety in the interiors.





The pool area at Inlet Cove is extremely nice, with lots of chairs and with bathroom facilities. You might want to take sandwiches for a picnic in the screened picnic area. The pool is not artificially heated; but, since it gets direct sun all day, it warms up quickly once we get a few hot days. The ocean water may still be a bit cool.





FYI - We now own one of the river-view cottages that we used to rent, and it is our family%26#39;s ';home away from home';. Our ';babies'; are grown now, but Inlet Cove is still where they go to relax. Later this month we will be entertaining our 5-year-old nephew there, so the tradition continues ...





Please let me know if you have any more questions about Inlet Cove, or about Kiawah in general.





Have a wonderful time! - Christie



Inlet Cove


I forgot to answer your question about activities for children!





Stop by the Nature Center in Night Heron Park to see the animals and educational displays and to learn about family activities during that week. One of my favorites is the ';Alligator Walk';, which is a safe way to observe and to learn about the fascinating low-country residents.





Your 5- and 7-year-olds might enjoy Kamp Kiawah, which is an extremely well organized and supervised activity run by the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, but available to anyone on island. Here is a link for basic information about Kamp Kiawah -





www.kiawahresort.com/recreation/kamp-kiawah/




Thanks for all the information and I am excited to hear that you love Inlet Cove so much that you bought one!!! We are renting unit 23 and while I would liked a screened porch, vs. enclosed, the price couldn%26#39;t be beat:) So we will check out the week%26#39;s activities at the park - the alligator walk sounds fun. We also want to rent a boat for a half day/full day - should we check into Bohicket Marina for that? Thanks again for all your help!!!




#23 is a great location for enjoying the pool and the dock. In April, you will feel like you are in your own private resort! (In July, the pool area sometimes gets pretty busy. For summer vacations we always tried to rent at the end AWAY from the pool!)





Although our kids always enjoyed having the screened porch, an enclosed sunroom can be a big plus in HOT weather. Most of these sunrooms have huge windows. If you open the drapes/blinds, you will get the best of both worlds!





You might want to rent bicycles, or to take your own with you. Inlet Cove is gated. The streets are quiet and ';direction-less';, so they are safe even for little ones with training wheels. You can even ride the bikes through to the beach without ever going out to the main road. The beach itself is level and firm, so it is excellent for bike riding.




Yes, check at the Bohicket Marina about boat rentals. A simple, flat-bottom ';john boat'; is excellent for exploring the marsh and creeks.





Also, you might want to do a family canoe or kayak tour on the Kiawah River. These tours are available through the Night Heron Park Nature Center.

Historic Bed and Breakfast info needed

I was looking at a website



( HistorisCharlestonBedandBreakfast.com) that reserves rooms and carriage houses in private residences around the Charleston area. I was wondering if anyone else has used this company before? Are the reputable? And if so I was wondering if anyone has stayed at the homes on New ST, Thomas ST or Haskell ST? Which street would be in the best area? I know its alot...lol Thanks for your help!



Historic Bed and Breakfast info needed


I have never had any dealings with this website...seems like it is reputable though. After doing a quick tour of the site I would recommend Hasell St., East Battery, or the Tradd St. options.



Historic Bed and Breakfast info needed


Did you ever book from the site? I just booked a room at 34 Hasell Street and am looking for reviews. We are planning a visit for 3 days June 1st.

Are Sea Watch PLantation renovations finished?

We are staying at Fairfield Seawatch Plantations in May of 2008. Can anyone tell me if they have finished renovating their condos.



Are Sea Watch PLantation renovations finished?


We are also staying in May. Any information would be appreciated.



Are Sea Watch PLantation renovations finished?


Hi..We are also staying at Seawatch in May. How are the renos coming along? Are both towers being renovated?






We are also staying here the week of Memorial Day...wondering the same thing as well.




We%26#39;ll be staying at Seawatch Plantation next week. I%26#39;ll report back. :o)

Anyone Stayed at Palmetto Bay Villas??

Looking for feedback. Thanks!



Anyone Stayed at Palmetto Bay Villas??


Not usually on any body%26#39;s short term rental list. It%26#39;s located in an area that has some restaurants and is quite noisy in the evening. Most of the residents are locals, since the property is reasonable to buy or long term rent.





They do have nice views of Broad Creek.





Stan (hhiguy)



Anyone Stayed at Palmetto Bay Villas??


Stan is right, Palmetto Bay Villas is a ';local'; part of the Island but you have access to everything watersports, some of the best restaurants in town and some new cute shops too





check out everything you need to know on www.hiltonhead.tv


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  • Kingston Plantation

    Ok, we have narrowed it down to Kingston Plantation for the week of July 4th. I%26#39;m trying to decide between South-North Hampton, Brighton, or Royale Palms. I love oceanfront--I know most are oceanview--also, my husband doesn%26#39;t like heights and wants 5th floor or below--most are high rise--I know.





    Anyway, I have a couple of questions from anybody that has an opinion--which building, and where to rent from. We have checked with the Kingston Rental service--has anyone used them?? (There are 8 in our family coming and 6 coming with friends of ours--ages 17-68 except 1 2-yr old and one 9-month old. We would like to have units close together.) Any suggestions at all regarding Kingston--good or bad is appreciated!!



    Kingston Plantation


    I%26#39;m the resident Kingston fan here! 1st off, check VRBO.com before making any decisions. You will pay a much higher rate booking directly through Kingston. With VRBO you will be able to see exactly what you are renting, not possible with the Kingston Rental service. I would not suggest North or South Hampton unless you see plenty of photos first. Many of those units are outdated and need some serious make overs. Kingston Rental will not tell you that and if you get stuck with a unit that is not top notch they will not do anything to accomodate you.



    Royale Palms is the newest kid on the block and you will have plenty of beautiful units to choose from there. Brighton is a few years old but definitely lovely too.



    Check in during that week (definitely peak!) can be somewhat frustrating. If you rent through VRBO you will bypass the long lines. Brighton you check in through Embassy Suites and Royale Palms you check in through Hilton if you book either through the Kingston Rental Service.



    Royale Palms sits back from the ocean. The lazy river pool and cabanas are directly in front of Royale Palms. Brighton is right on the beach. However, both have lovely views.



    If you have more specific questions, just ask!



    Kingston Plantation


    Thanks so much! Also, I%26#39;ve heard all these different stories about who can use what pool, and some have to pay for the water park, etc. If you rent through VRBO, or direct from owner---do we have to pay extra charges???




    Certain pools are specific to certain units. For example you can%26#39;t use the pool at Margate unless you are staying at Margate. That is the policy regardless of whether you rent directly from an owner or through Kingston.



    That being said there are PLENTY of pools to choose from. You can use the Hilton pools as well as the Embassy Suites pools. The Splash area has lots of kids activities during the summer.



    The health club and kids water park are an extra charge if you are renting privately. However, the fees are not high and you will still save considerably renting through VRBO. Most importantly you will be able to see what you are getting before you get there.




    We%26#39;ve rented a Brighton condo through VRBO. It%26#39;s our first time at Kingston also. Our condo owner says the water park and pools are included in the rental price, but if you rent from the owner, you need to make sure of that. Some include it and some do not. We%26#39;ve rented through VRBO prevously and had no problems. I like knowing which unit I will receive so there are no unpleasant surprises. Good luck to you.




    Like lillious, I am a big Kingston fan. It%26#39;s like you%26#39;re own little world. My husband and I visit Kingston Plantation a couple of times a year. We have so many memories that we actually had our wedding at the Hilton in 2006. We had over 80 people at our wedding. All of them from out of town ranging from 6 months-70 years. The best thing about Kingston and North Myrtle Beach is that there is really something for everyone of all ages and personalities. The SPLASH water park at the Embassy and lazy river and sand pools at Royale Palms/Hilton are a HUGE hit with the kids. As lillious said, the use of pools will not be an issue. We%26#39;ve also taken the opportunity to see many different rooms in the different buildings. My personal favorite are the villas because you can be so close to the beach yet it%26#39;s quiet and removed from the busy beach, but we don%26#39;t have kids so it%26#39;s a little different. As far as the buildings on the beach, North and South Hampton are WAY below the standard the Brighton and Royale Palms, although more expensive. Royale Palms just opened in 2007 so you can%26#39;t go wrong with any of their rooms. I%26#39;ve been in 5 different rooms at Brighton and they were all very, very nice. Once again, so far above those in North %26amp; South Hampton. I can%26#39;t help you with who to rent from, but I hope this helps!




    I actually have more questions...perhaps you can help me too! We%26#39;re thinking about staying at Kingston Plantation this summer.





    The resorts looks a little overwhelming. Is it too crowded to enjoy over the summer? e.g., are the pools packed with kids?





    Would you suggest renting through VRBO vs. directly through Hilton? The Hilton rates don%26#39;t seem higher than VRBO.





    I think we prefer a Villa condo rental vs. a highrise so that we don%26#39;t have to deal with elevators. Any opinions on the Villa condos?





    Thanks!




    I%26#39;m looking at Kingston Plantation for late June with our 2 kids 18 and 20.



    Looks like enough there to keep them occupied.



    Are there any areas of Kingston- not so great?



    Anyone know if the beach project will be in that area?



    Thanks




    Hmm, summer, Myrtle Beach? Yes, everything will be busy! However, Kingston is a great place during busy times because it is large enough to accommodate plenty of vacationers.



    I do not recommend North or South Hampton unless you can see which unit you are getting before you go. Many of those units are very outdated.



    If you want a high rise stay with Margate, Brighton, or Royale Palms. I have a unit in Royale Palms and I love it because it is new and connected to the Hilton. Margate and Brighton are also beautiful. Narrow it down by how much you want to spend and the size of the unit you want.



    To answer the villa questions. I have a townhouse in Kingston too. I prefer being able to park right outside my door instead of dealing with parking garages or elevators but that is a personal choice.





    Arrowhead is the oldest part of Kingston and again, unless you can see the unit first I would not recommend it.





    I love many of the units in Richmond Park, St. James and Hyde Park, but.....if you haven%26#39;t seen them then I would be leery.





    I don%26#39;t know if the beach project will be in the Kingston area this summer although it%26#39;s certainly very possible.




    We just booked (via phone directly to Hilton), the Margate Suites at Kingston Plantation. We got a 4 bedroom condo there. Of course, we didn%26#39;t get to see the room ahead of time. So, can someone tell me, say what the key differences or risks are between choosing the Margate or Royale Palms?




    You should not have a problem with either Margate or Royale Palms. They are both upscale properties and well maintained.



    Key differences are really just the location within Kingston/Hilton. Both have parking garages. Royale Palms is connected to the HIlton which is convenient on bad weather days.However, Margate is easy to get to and true oceanfront. You would be happy at either location.The Margate pool is very nice.



    You can use the facilities at both Kingston and Hilton when you stay anywhere in the Kingston/Hilton complex.



    Margate you check in at Embassy Suites and Royale Palms you check in at Hilton.

    Looking for resort with indoor pool, tennis & Bball courts

    We are going to take the kids to Myrtle Beach for 3 or 4 nights mid April. Bringing 4 teenagers. We want to stay in a 3 bedroom condo.



    Need amenities that include tennis courts. Hoping for an indoor pool also.



    Any suggestions?



    Looking for resort with indoor pool, tennis %26amp; Bball courts


    Try the Myrtle Beach Resort. Located at the south end of Myrtle Beach, about 8 miles from the downtown area.



    Looking for resort with indoor pool, tennis %26amp; Bball courts


    http://www.oceancreek.com/



    http://www.kingstonplantation.com/




    I also suggest the Myrtle Beach Resort. They offer 6 pools altogether (one is completely indoor and another is half in/half out. In addition, they have tennis courts, basketball, bocci ball, a lazy river, kids water park, a beach bar, jacuzzis, a deli, snack shop, bbq grills, and so much more. If you like the resort, be sure to rent from a private owner. A lot of them advertise their condos on vacation rentals dot com or vrbo dot com.




    My family and I are booked into the Dunes Village Resort in April. I am not sure if it would be too tame for your children or not. I am also not sure if it has a tennis court.



    We have never stayed here before but it has great recommendations and reviews. Check it out !!




    staying at the dunes village resort in april with my two boys 8 %26amp; 14. they picked this resort because of its great reviews. they have in door pool, water slides and water volley ball and water basket ball as well as outdoor basket ball and tennis courts. life size chest and checkers, a bunch of pool tables and air hockey tables, game room etc.

    Looking for advice

    Planning to rent a timeshare from an owner for a week in the summer. Oceanfront choices are Island Club Seawatch or Monarch at Sea Pines. Other inland choices are Royal Dunes, Egret Point by Spinnaker, Southwind Villas or the Carolina Club. If anyone has any info they can share on these choices I would appreciate your help. In addition, if your have knowledge of the facilities could you rank them in order of first, second, third, etc. choice. I really appreciate any time taken to help me make this decision.



    Looking for advice


    Sea Pines is the prettiest plantation! Monarch is an older property and the units do not have a Oceanfront views but the property is right on the beach!



    Looking for advice


    Vicki1553: We are heading to Hilton Head for Canadian March Break, 8-15,2008 and are booked in for a week at at 3 bedroom at Egret Point in Shipyard Plantation. If you have not made up your mind by the time we get back, I will post my views on the timeshare. I know the Cottages at Shipyard and the Carolina Club are all in the same area. I will definitely give my opinion once we return. I sure hope they are nice. I am told that Egret Point is the newest Spinnaker resort of them all except for the newest opening this spring Bluewater Resort.





    D in Muskoka.




    We own an oceanfront unit at the Island Club. We love it. The view is spectacular, the beach is pristine. It%26#39;s not part of a plantation, so it%26#39;s a little quieter. It makes for a very relaxing vacation! They recently renovated the pools which are very nice. Tennis is big there - they have exhibitions %26amp; lessons. Hope this is helpful!

    Suggestions for Surfside

    Any suggestions for a nice place to stay in Surfside the last week of June? There%26#39;s going to be 5 adults, a three year old and a sixteen year old.Thanks



    Suggestions for Surfside


    Hi, I%26#39;m an eighteen year old female whose family has gone to surfside beach since I was in sixth grade. We always stayed at the Sea Cloisters I , there is a Sea Cloisters II down the street also. Mostly in Surfside beach there are condos and homes to rent, not hotels although there very few. The Condo we rented has three bedrooms, a pull out couch, furnished living room, full kitchen ( stove, dishwasher, fridge, ice maker, ect.) It also had a back porch, and more likely than not have a balcony if you are on the second of third floor. When you stepped off of the screened porch you were literally on the sand, on the beach. The beach is private to the condos, and the are surrounding is off limits to the public. My dad is a firefighter and went down with families from the firehouse. Not only have they been going for years, but they never complained. Everything was always clean, available and we never have had any trouble. The rooms are decorated with great decor, and all modern. They have washer and dryers in the room, with irons and ironing boards. I have a little brother ( 12) and sister (14) and when we were visiting my mother never felt as if she needed to know our exact location at every moment. Its a safe environment and we never felt threatened. Your away from the noise and spring breakers in Myrtle beach, but your a ten minute drive away. There are usually no young teenagers by themselves because they usually can%26#39;t afford it. Down the beach there is a pier you can walk on and look out into the ocean and there are two resturants my sister and i often walked down to. ( Latitude 22 and River city cafe) Latitude 22 is more of a casual adult pub and River city cafe is a fun, place for kids. They have peanuts of the table and all over the floor. Its just a fun place to grab a burger when your on the beach. Its very relaxed and fun. Across from there is an ice cream shop and a small store thats sells sunscreen towels, henna tattoos, etc. Before getting there you drive about 400 yds. down the road to the Main office, get your key, and your on your way. I%26#39;m pretty sure you get two keys at no extra charge and more are available.





    hope this helps!! If you need any thing else answered just post it up there!!



    Suggestions for Surfside


    Thanks for your help




    If you are looking for a chain hotel, the Holiday Inn Sunspree in Surfside is very nice. I want to call them and ask what kind of mattresses they use because I have never slept more comfortably in my life! The room was very nice and clean. The restaurant in the hotel is good, mid-priced about 20 to 25 dollars for an entree, but decent. They also have a bar, poolside tiki bar, and ice cream shop. We enjoyed our 2 night stay. Surfside is much more quiet than the main drag of Myrtle. The oceanfront balconies are not private however, if that is a concern. While standing on the balcony, you can see down the entire row of balconies on your floor, but it never bothered us for our stay in March.




    Ocean Lakes has tons of houses and different type units they rent out. If you rent there you also can bring your own or rent a golf cart to drive around in and you can use the Ocean Lakes facilities like the pool, arcade, laundromat, store, restaurant, giant water slide, etc.




    The young lady above said it all, very nicely! We found a great condo in Surfside through vrbo.com. It was in a small complex called Shores of Surfside. I really didn%26#39;t see any bad areas at all. Loved it.




    Thanks everyone for your help.




    check out Seaside Rentals at seasiderentalsonline.com, they only rent ';premier'; properties and all their homes and condos are very nice. Others to check are gardencityrealty.com and Surfside Realty. Better hurry, that%26#39;s a popular week.




    Ditto the recommendation of seasiderentalsonline.com. We switched to using them a couple of years back and have been impressed with their service and their selection of houses and condos.

    RV Resort Park

    My sister and her husband have a huge RV. They will be meeting up with me and my family in Myrtle Beach. We are staying at the Dunes Village Resort. Is there an RV resort near the Dunes? They like really nice resort type parks.





    Also does the Dunes charge their guests for parking?





    Thanks!!!!:)



    RV Resort Park


    We stay at Lakewood every year and I want stay at any other campgrounds in the MB area. It is located outside of MB in Surfside. It is in the middle of Pirateland and Ocean Lakes.



    RV Resort Park


    Dunes Village Resort is located at the northern end of MB. 52 Ave N.





    You probably want a campground at the north end of the beach. I would try:



    Myrtle Beach Travel Park



    10108 Kings Road, MB, SC (800) 255-3568





    Also, check out:



    http://www.myrtlebeachinfo.com



    http://www.myrtlebeachlive.com





    These sites may help you.





    As for parking, they probably will. You can always call them or email them from their website.




    Ocean Lakes is the BEST, been going there for 22 years!




    DMR, what is the best way to get to MB from Philadelphia? We would like to avoid the worst of the traffic and plan to leave around 2 a.m. on a Saturday morning.




    We will be leaving the same time on a Saturday morning. Let me get the directions off of my husband.




    I have a friend that uses the Briarcliffe RV park 15-20 times a year. He enjoys it and the location. It%26#39;s about 1/2 mile south of Barefoot Landing in the very southern edge of North Myrtle Beach. Here%26#39;s a link to it....





    http://www.briarcliffervresort.com/




    Myrtle Beach Travel Park is really nice there is lots to do there and it is located in a nice area.

    Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes

    I am trying to plan my honeymoon for Sept. 28th thru Oct. 3rd and was thinking about booking an ocean view room here...I am trying to find a place that has that tropical resort feel without having to fly anywhere. For anyone that has stayed here, can you please help me out with the following questions?





    About what time of year does the poolside bar close? One thing I am looking forward to is sitting by the pool/beach drinking margaritas:)





    How far into the strip is this resort? Is it by the pavilion or further down? I used to go to Myrtle Beach for spring breaks in college and remember how crazy the strip is!





    Thank you very much for your help!!



    Marriott Resort %26amp; Spa at Grande Dunes


    I haven%26#39;t stayed there but I will only answer the second part of your question.





    It%26#39;s located in the northern section of Myrtle Beach in a very residential area. It%26#39;s very nice in that section. Lots of beach houses that almost reminds you of being in Florida. It is no where near the Pavilion/Strip/Southern area. I did a walk through of the property and I think it%26#39;s exactly what you are looking for. Have you tried calling the hotel and asking them when the poolside thing will be open?



    Marriott Resort %26amp; Spa at Grande Dunes


    We stayed there 4 nights in March. Great hotel, that is in a residential area. Not a night clubbing type of atmosphere. You have do drive a bit for that. The picures and descriptions on the Mattiott site are very accurate.


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  • Royale Palms Condominiums

    We%26#39;re planning an April vacation at Royale Palms - - hope it%26#39;s going to be nice. Any comments? Thanks!



    Royale Palms Condominiums


    What do you want to know? They are beautiful. Connected to the Hilton. Great in case the weather is not cooperative.



    You can use the facilities at both the Hilton and Kingston.



    The Hilton restaurant is quite lovely for breakfast and lunch. They serve dinner there too but I have not been. However,



    they did cater our son%26#39;s wedding there last August and everything was spectacular!



    You will check in at the Hilton and that can take a bit of time and patience depending upon the crowds. There%26#39;s a very nice young man from Atlanta who works at the check in desk.



    He%26#39;s very friendly.



    In case you haven%26#39;t stayed in this area before it is very convenient for shopping. Kroger is 1 mile to the left and Wal-Mart/Tanger Outlets are 1 mile to the right.



    McAllister%26#39;s Deli in the Arcadia Plaza (by Wal-Mart) is a very



    nice sandwich/soup chain.



    Steak and Shake is open 24 hours and is located at the entrance to Tanger Outlets.



    Hamburger Joe%26#39;s is an all time favorite and a very short drive from Royale Palms. Turn right onto 17 North past Wal-Mart and turn right just past Crackerbarrel. Joe%26#39;s is on the left.



    No credit cards accepted but they do have an ATM machine in their place.



    Any more questions, fire away!



    Royale Palms Condominiums


    WOW - - thanks for all the great info!

    Marriott Grande Dunes

    My wife and i are gonna be celebrating our 1 year annivesary and have booked the Marriott Grande Dunes. Everything I have read says this is the nicest place on the beach? The price tag was $600 for two night, ocean front. For a young couple trying to pay off some wedding expenses this is pricey. Is it worth this much money or is there somewhere else nice for less money? Someone please help.....



    Marriott Grande Dunes


    -Try Anderson Ocean Club www.andersonoceanclubonline.com





    -Island Vista www.islandvista.com



    however, they might have a minimum night stay in the summer months.





    -Monterey Bay Suites www.montereybaysuites.com





    Basically any of the hotels that don%26#39;t have waterparks or large pool areas will be best.



    Marriott Grande Dunes


    We stayed for 4 nights at the Marriott Grande Dunes in a partial oceanview room ( 2 queens , our kids came ) for $149/nite in early March. I think it is one of the nicest hotels on the Strand. Very nice stay. Only downside is that you sort of have to walk thru the metting room area/meal areas to get your car if you don%26#39;t spring for Valet parking. I don%26#39;t think I could spend $600/nite on any hotel though.




    Yeah, $199/night is reasonable. I am paying $300 a night for two nights and have been trying to find something else as nice for a cheaper price but this is the only one that had all positive ratings. It is a special time for us but the price is a little steap. I am still looking. How as your partial view of the ocean?

    Best beach option for 20-something single girls

    Me and the girls are planning an August trip to the beach and we%26#39;re trying to figure out where to go. We%26#39;re single girls in our early to mid-twenties so we don%26#39;t want to go somewhere overrun with little kids or seniors. Just someplace fun and relaxing that isn%26#39;t too trashy or overly expensive. So far we%26#39;ve looked at Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head. Any other suggestions are welcome, as is information about those two locations. Thanks!



    Best beach option for 20-something single girls


    I think Myrtle Beach/North Myrtle Beach is probably where you%26#39;d most enjoy. MB has all the ';touristy'; attractions ie Hard Rock Cafe. The Lowcountry of SC tends to be a little less action packed.





    Something you might keep in mind is a lot of ';rent by owner'; type accommodations do not rent to the under 25 crowd. If you%26#39;re under 25 a hotel is going to be the only way to go.





    In August most individual homes/properties rent by the week only.



    Best beach option for 20-something single girls


    Thanks for the advice. Fortuantely, lodging won%26#39;t be an issue because we%26#39;re using my family%26#39;s timeshare.

    HHI vs Clearwater (May)

    My family and I (2 girls 12 %26amp; 9) plan on vacationing May 13-17. Currently we are planning on staying at the Hilton Resort in HHI, but we are open to suggestions. My daughters have never seen the ocean or been on a beach so they are very excited to go. I%26#39;m looking for someplace to look for shells and see dolphins/wildlife and basically not overrun with tourists (i.e. spring break time, that%26#39;s why I%26#39;m going mid May).











    I%26#39;ve heard HHI is fairly quiet during May and was wondering what anyone can tell me about Clearwater and if anyone has been to both they could give their opinion on what they prefer (cost differences, crowds, ease of getting around). If we chose Clearwater, I would stay at the Hilton Resort (points).











    Thanks for any help anyone can give.



    HHI vs Clearwater (May)


    The Hilton at HHI in PD is a beautiful place. We visit in May and again in Sept. and the the place isnt very crowded at either date. The water may be a little cool still in May for swimming. We have never found to many shells on the beach but we are always looking for big ones rather than the common ones.



    Clearwater may be better for swimming in May but will more than likely be a little more crowded than HHI. The water is a lot clearer at Clearwater with less surf. We have%26#39;nt stayed at the Hilton in Clearwater but Im sure its nice because of the Hilton name. We usally rent a condo or beach house when down that way.

    Booking at Kingston Plantation - several questions

    Going in Mid April. Not sure which tower to book: Margate or Royale Palms.



    Which is closer to the tennis courts?



    Which has indoor pool?



    Will have 4 nicely behaved teenagers with us. Should I prefer one tower over the other becasue of that?



    Any other considerations?



    Thanks.



    Booking at Kingston Plantation - several questions


    You will be happy at either place. They are both equally nice.



    Neither has an indoor pool. The only indoor pool is at the Sport and Health Club, which is very nice.



    Margate would be slightly closer to the tennis courts but not by much.



    Your teens will be happy in either place!



    If you have more questions I%26#39;ll be happy to answer!

    Ocean Reef Resort vs. Sandcastle at the Pavillion

    We are a group of 18 year old girls traveling to Myrtle Beach for senior trip. And, we found two hotels that look decent, and seem to be student oriented. The first is the sandcastle at the pavillion. We have friends who stayed there last year for their trip, and said it wasn%26#39;t too nice, but it was a lot of fun for people our age. But, that was a group of guys and girls. Girls are more picky!





    The second is the Ocean Reef Resort. This looks very nice, and about the same price. But, seems to be further away from the happenings, and might have more families.





    Any recommendations?





    THANKS! :)



    Ocean Reef Resort vs. Sandcastle at the Pavillion


    As far as I knew you had to be 21 to stay at Ocean Reef.



    Ocean Reef Resort vs. Sandcastle at the Pavillion


    The Ocean Reef is the nicer of the two (imo) but I%26#39;m really surprised that they are accepting 18 year olds.




    Well, I emailed them, because like you I thought we for sure would have to be older. But, they said as long as everyone is eighteen, we can rent the room.




    Funny, I just called them and they said you have to be at least 21. You might want to double check before you end up coming all the way down here and not having a room




    Gah, they emailed me and said 18.




    Well, if I was choosing between the two, I would think Ocean Reef for the cleanliness %26amp; nicer facilities. But, Sandcastle will probably be much closer to the action. Although, if they are taking reservations from 18 year olds now, I%26#39;m sure people will be signing up fast!





    Not sure which one would have more families.




    My son stayed at Sandcastle years ago for Senior Week. Not the best place he said...but it was ok for the week...lots of kids his age there too.



    Atlantica also rents to Seniors. My other son stayed at Super 8 around the 1100 block of South Ocean Blvd. Again, decent place, rents to 18 yr olds.



    You have to keep in mind....if they rent to 18 yr olds...it is not going to be a great, super clean, quiet hotel.




    oh....and I meant to add......the son that stayed at the Super 8..away from the ';action';..he was so glad they stayed there....they were able to SLEEP! No noise all night like at the other hotels and no one pounding on their door all hours of the night.



    Keep that in mind too..;)




    Yeah, I have a feeling that the ocean reef is much nicer. We will be driving, so if we want to cruise into town during the night it will not be a hassle. Surprisingly, for the 9 of us girls, the ocean reef is about 40 less for each person!





    Thanks for all the tips! :o)





    Also, if anyone has stayed there, I know you guys said it is a little away from the action, but..is there much to do around the hotel?




    The Marriott at Grande Dunes is by far the best hotel in Myrtle Beach, especially for singles.


  • laser cartridges
  • Moped rental

    Hi - does anyone know the minimum age you have to be to drive a moped?



    Moped rental


    Forget it!





    Other than bicycles, no motorized vehicles allowed on the beach.





    No mopeds or Motorcycles are allowed in PD either.







    Stan (hhiguy)



    Moped rental


    Can you drive golf carts in PD, like from the house to beach?

    Golf cart rentals in HHI

    Does anyone know if you can rent golf carts on HHI and if so, are they allowed in PD, like to get from house to the beach?



    Golf cart rentals in HHI


    If Im not mistaken I dont believe carts are allowed on the roads or bike trails. Golf course trails only . I have never seen one outside of the course trails. Im sure Stan can buzz in on this.

    Pools in Surfside?

    I will be vacationing in Surfside this June in a house near the ocean. However, this house does not have a pool. Does anyone know of a resort or other place in Surfside that allows guests to use their pool for a fee? I am not interested in going to a water park...just want a pool. All input is appreciated!



    Pools in Surfside?


    Call Plantation Resort and ask....1-800-845-5039...they may want you to take a timeshare look for 1.5 hours for use of the pool or not allow it at all???



    Pools in Surfside?


    Most of the rental houses in Surfside do have private pools. If it%26#39;s not too late, why don%26#39;t you try to switch over to one of these.




    Thanks for the input! I may need to look into another house




    I would consider it. Even though the ocean is in your backyard, we%26#39;ve been in MB when there were high bacteria warnings!




    What do you mean by high bacteria warning? I have never heard of this.




    Not speaking for the other user, but sometimes the city posts warning signs on the beach that the water contains high levels of bacteria. Not sure what%26#39;s causing this, but I%26#39;ve seen it before. Hopefully someone knows where this bacteria is coming from. I%26#39;m kind of concerned that the beach renourishment project may stir up even more in the water, but then again it may cut down on the amount.




    Ran across this site about bacteria in the water:





    myrtlebeachinfo.com/cvb/鈥ateradvisory.html




    I agree with lovestogo, it might not be to late to look for another house with a pool as long as you stay with the same rental company. Good luck and have a nice vacation.




    Thanks!!

    Something to satisfy the excitement !

    I am a Myrtle Beach FANATIC, so I am always looking for pictures/webcams/articles to quench my thirst for more MB. I stumbled upon this great webcam that is sure to satisfy anyone%26#39;s longing to be at the beach. It%26#39;s set in North MB and shows the ocean and pools. You can get pretty close up, which is neat. Check it out:





    mail.seasideproperties.com/avwebcam2.shtml







    You feel like you%26#39;re practically there and it is sure to get you pumped about your next vacation. Enjoy, and let me know what you think! :) Happy travels!



    Something to satisfy the excitement !


    I couldn%26#39;t get the cam to load. Have you stayed at this property?



    Something to satisfy the excitement !


    No, I havent, but looking at the webcam makes me think it%26#39;s a pretty nice place. I hate it wouldn%26#39;t load for you -- it%26#39;s a great site.




    Frankly it%26#39;s a little creepy. Do those people know that we%26#39;re watching them? I just saw a young guy and his ?girlfriend?



    I don%26#39;t think they knew there was a camera watching them.



    Perhaps it should be situated where you can see more of the resort and less of the unprepared guests,




    There is a way you can look at the resort and the ocean instead of the guests. Click on the bottom right hand side of the images and you can control what you%26#39;d like to see. If you scroll up, you%26#39;re able to move the camera to the ocean or other parts of the resort. I agree, it is pretty creepy when you%26#39;re looking at other people. Kinda like Big Brother! But yeah, try it again after controlling the camera -- I swear it%26#39;s not so weird!




    Thanks!




    Remember. It%26#39;s spring break. No telling what you might see when you click on the camera.



    We use it while on vacation. Call family back home while out on the beach. They pull up the cam and watch us as we talk on phone.



    Two more web cams.



    http://www.wafflecam.com/wafflecam.html



    http://www.pancakecam.com/pancakecam.html




    Actually, here%26#39;s a link to a page full of webcams.





    http://www.mbbound.com/WebCams.htm

    Another 'first-timer' to Kiawah!

    We%26#39;re thinking of renting a villa at the beginning of May at Turtle Point or Turtle Cove; can anyone tell me if these are quiet locations please. We can choose between ground floor looking onto the golf course or first floor overlooking the lagoon. Any thoughts from those of you who know as to what would be best?? We really like peace and quiet!



    We%26#39;re coming over from the UK and on our trips to the US like stocking up from factory outlets as well as enjoying golf and great food. Are there any outlets within reasonable distance please?



    And it may sound silly, but what is the %26#39;dress code%26#39; for eating out on the island at places like the golf clubs; is it still very casual ? - or would the husband need a jacket as he would here in the UK!



    I%26#39;d appreciate any info you think useful. Many thanks.



    Another 'first-timer' to Kiawah!


    SusieG,





    I%26#39;m going to let Kiawahvilla give her opinion on location.





    Outlets: There is a new Tanger Outlet Center near the airport. Easy to find off I-526.





    Dress code: Pretty much island casual i.e. nice dress jeans or linen pants. If you have room, pack hubby%26#39;s jacket as you never know where you%26#39;ll want to eat (I believe one of the Sanctuary%26#39;s restaurants is ';jacket required';)



    Another 'first-timer' to Kiawah!


    Thanks OurGreatEscape- very helpful (always find Tripadvisor invaluable!). A couple of other questions - we have got %26#39;Resort Privileges%26#39;, but I%26#39;m not sure exactly what that means. I%26#39;ve realised that the villas dont have a pool but we have access to communal pools - but dont know where they are and if that access comes free with the Resort Privileges? And neither villa seems to have an outside space to sit - is this usual on Kiawah? We like sitting in a screened-in porch, but also outside. And I wonder if anyone knows anything about the Blues Festival on Kiawah on 10 May? Any info greatly appreciated!




    SusieG,



    Resort privileges gets you access to the resort%26#39;s pools (not at the Sanctuary though). I think Night Heron.





    There is a reason why there are only screened-in porches: BUGS ie no-see-ems, mosquitoes. There are some stand alone homes/villas that have both screened in areas and open porches.





    I%26#39;d love to help you with the Blues Fest. I just recently was trying to get info on it myself. Unfortunately, the website I had had last year%26#39;s info on it. Perhaps a call to the resort?




    Ah yes - sounds like Sanibel!! Is there a particularly good local product to buy for the %26#39;no-see-ums%26#39;??




    My husband swears Bounce dryer sheets keeps no-see-ums at bay. He%26#39;ll take one out of the box, rub on visible skin and then stick the dryer sheet in his pocket.





    I think it%26#39;s some ol%26#39; golfer trick;-)




    SusieG my wife takes vitamin B1 for about thirty days before go to Kiawah and the bugs dont seem to bother her. I have never had trouble with the no-see-ums. They can take the joy out of the outdoors.




    Hello, SusieG.





    I am so glad that you have decided to visit Kiawah in May, which is one of the very best months for weather. With Resort privileges, you will be able to use both the large Night heron park swimming pool and the smaller, adults-only Tennis Club pool. The Tennis Club pool is closest to either of the locations you are considering.





    Turtle Point and Turtle Cove are quiet groupings of low-rise condominiums. The Turtle Point villas are slightly newer and more spacious than the Turtle Cove villas, but both are very nice. Both developments are near The Sanctuary Hotel and the East Beach Tennis Center, and they are an easy walk to the beach.





    As to your choice of villa, I think that you will enjoy the elevated water view of the lagoon. If you can let me know the locations of the specific villas, I may be able to offer more precise advise. I would caution you that there has been some new construction (small luxury condominium) going on in part of the area, closest to the hotel. You should inquire as to how close your unit is to that project.





    ';Resort casual'; - trousers and a collared shirt for gentlemen, with no jacket required - is the norm for most restaurants both on Kiawah and in Charleston. The only exception on Kiawah would be for ';The Ocean Room';, at The Sanctuary Hotel, which would require a jacket. Although people do wear jeans, they are not as generally worn for ';fine dining'; in the Charleston area as in some other locations. Any other sort of light weight trousers would be fine.





    As others have mentioned, you will enjoy having a screened porch because of the ever present island insects. The no-see-ums seem to come and go unpredictably; however, mosquitos are always with us. If you are particularly sensitive to insect bites, you might want to bring a repellant containing DEET.





    Let me know as your plans develop. I am always happy to answer any questions about Kiawah.

    Charleston is a great place to vacation!

    My family and I visit every summer, usually in April or May, before the height of tourist season starts. The people are so friendly and nice. There is so much to see, we never get around to everything we want to do. There is a local site, www.visit.sc, that helped us out a lot. If you%26#39;re looking for a fun time for the whole family, Charleston and any part of SC is the place to come.



    Charleston is a great place to vacation!


    Welcome the forum! Thanks for the ';plug';. ;)


  • laser cartridges
  • Stopping in DC en route from New York

    This might sound crazy, but we (4 adults, 2 five-year-old kids) want to stop in DC on our way down. We know we want to see the Smithsonian if nothing else.





    Has anyone done this? Recommend place to stay? Timing tips?



    Stopping in DC en route from New York


    You should post in the DC forum.



    However, I can save you the time by answering your questions. If not enough then post there anyway.





    It%26#39;s not crazy to stop in DC on your way to Myrtle Beach. It%26#39;s not out of the way.





    The Smithsonian is a group of museums and sites not just one building so go to the website at www.si.edu and find out which one/s you want to see and then decide.





    Since you are driving down, I would say try to come in on a Saturday morning. Hotel rates will always be cheaper on the weekends in DC. Where to stay will depend on your budget and when you are coming. If you are coming in the summer months, they will be cheaper than they are now and in the early fall.





    Weekdays are a bother because of the rush hour traffic. So if you time it right, you should plan to arrive in DC after 9:30am. Traffic is like NYC traffic but some streets are worse than others once in the City. There may be some construction projects on the beltway so let me know when you plan to come and I can check Maryland%26#39;s reports for construction.



    Weekends are not too horribly crowded during the summer. Use metro when you get here although the parking at your hotel will probably cost anywhere from $15.00-$35.00 per day. I might actually recommend you stay in the surrounding areas of Virginia rather than directly in DC if that%26#39;s a problem. Easy access to the highways and still metro accessible.



    Stopping in DC en route from New York


    CORRECTION: Traffic is NOT like NYC traffic. Like bumper to bumper no one moving anywhere. DC isn%26#39;t that bad. But there are some ';hot spots';.




    The really bad traffic is the rush hour traffic between Washington and Richmond. You will want to plan your exit from DC with that in mind.




    Thanks, MrsM ...





    Yeah, I thought after posting that I should%26#39;ve put this up in the DC forum. My apologies for the bad etiquette.




    Oh, it%26#39;s not a problem posting here since many people going down from your area might do the same thing. Best to cover all grounds. And to find specifics from locals helps too.



    If you had any further questions, let us know.

    Bimini Oyster Bar

    I need some more opinions on this restaurant. We will be in MB in mid March and will be limited on where we go to eat. I would like to hit one really good sea food restaurant. It must have crab legs for my daughter.



    I read a couple of reviews on Bimini and it looks like it might be our best choice.



    I have read several reviews on the various sea food buffets and don%26#39;t think we are interested in a buffet.



    Bimini Oyster Bar


    First things%26#39; first....GO GATORS! Haven%26#39;t been to Bimini. Every time we are in North Myrtle, we ALWAYS go to Duffy Street Seafood Shack. Extremely casual, but the seafood is fantastic. I must have at least one of their blackened fish (of the day) sandwiches each visit. We haven eaten there close to 10 times and no one in our our party has ever had a bad meal. A second one has opened up somewhere...not sure. Duffy%26#39;s does have a website.



    Bimini Oyster Bar


    Thanks ncgator! I will check out the website.




    Walked out of Biminis about 4 years ago without ordering because it was noisy,crowded and filled with smoke but that was in July. I know many golf groups enjoy it there.





    Captain Georges is the place to go if you crave shellfish.When we go there they have 2or 3 kinds of steamed clams,2 kinds of mussels,oysters rockarfella, and those great crab legs.But if you don%26#39;t like shellfish its only fair.





    One of my best meals ever in Myrtle was Banana Mandarin Grouper at Divine Fish House in Murrrells Inlet.Never had a bad meal at Landry%26#39;s(great catfish fillets) or Bonefish Grille.





    Some people swear by the Sea Captains House.




    You do not say where you are staying, MB covers many miles and there are good everywhere. I know nothing about Biminis, have eaten at Captain George%26#39;s and ours was a very bad experience. You will find that common in MB, one time good, one time bad. If you are in North MB area, in Little River, on the waterfront where the Casino boats are is a restaurant named Crab Catchers, they have indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor deck is on the waterway, in the summer very crowded, good crab legs. Go further north into Calabash NC, another fishing village, several good seafood restaurants ups there. I agree with Bonefish, always good! We like Carolina Roadhouse also.



    I personally stay away from the large seafood buffet places, the food can sit out for a while, our problem at Captain George, the food was cold, nasty tasting, the desserts were turning brown, hard, it was so nasty, we complained and we still had to pay their ridiculously high buffet price, I think 2 years ago it was $23 or $24 dollars each and we ate nothing!




    Crabcatchers had the best raw oysters and blue crabs I have ever eaten....they also had the worst fried fish I have ever eaten. Calabash is fresh....only go if you like fried food, as that is their %26#39;specialty%26#39;.




    Well I don%26#39;t eat much fried food and I do have to disagree somewhat w/ NC Gator, we eat ALOT, kids are grown, we enjoy it. I had the best grilled shrimp I have ever had at Ellas in Calabash, I have also had great grilled and blackened grouper at several restaurants in Calabash. Crab Catchers also has good grilled fish. I had the grilled grouper there last week, very tasty.




    Let me say that NCGator is correct that Calabash is known for their ';Fried'; calabash shrimp, which is also very good, but all the seafood restaurants we go to in Calabash, which we live 10 mins from, always has some kind of grilled fish. I have not had 1 bad meal in Calabash.




    Biminis is very popular with the locals...a very much of a locals hangout, and yes....it get loud there, and then they do entertainment on top of that....but if you can struggle thru the noise and the smoke, its some great food!





    Another great option (to add to the above conversation) is Ms. Fish in downtown MB...its by far nothing fancy...but the prices and the quality of what they serve you is amazing! its my fav ';little dive';....





    :)




    Let me add that Friday night I had great grilled grouper, grilled veggies and brown rice at BUMMZ on the beach, some of the best grouper I had in long time. Locted next to the Breakers on the beach, maybe 21st Ave N, Help me MB Con.




    We are stay at Boardwalk Beach Resort. How close is Bimini to there. Smoke is not an issue for us. I also found that some of the rougher looking places have the best food.

    Bessingers BQ Review

    We ate a Bessingers BQ on March 16,2008.We found this to be a good family Restruant for a good price. Our family of 4 ate at the buff. with 5 or 6 different meats, lots of veggies and the cost was apx. 26.99 (one child was free)and this included drinks and desserts.The Bq was very good and the sauce was a lighty sweet sauce.The dinning was casual dress with a clean well run dinning room. The service was very good and every one in our family enjoyed eating here.



    We will return to eat here on our next trip.



    Bessingers BQ Review


    Did you eat at Piggy Park or Maurice%26#39;s? Both are owned by the Bessenger family. Maurice used to be a part of Piggy Park but his family stopped workingwith him due to his radical racial beliefs. I would not support Maurice in a million years. There are many other great restaurants in SC than some bigot%26#39;s BBQ.



    Bessingers BQ Review


    Did you eat at Piggy Park or Maurice%26#39;s? Both are owned by the Bessenger family. Maurice used to be a part of Piggy Park but his family stopped working with him due to his radical racial beliefs. I would not support Maurice in a million years. There are many other great restaurants in SC than some bigot%26#39;s BBQ.




    Your inappropriate political views aside....





    Kettermn ate at the BEssinger%26#39;s on Savannah Hwy, which is neither a Piggie Park nor a Maurice%26#39;s.





    Thanks for your reviews, Kettermn! I also love Bessinger%26#39;s buffet, but I surely thought they were more expensive than that. Good for you guys!




    Glad your family enjoyed Bessingers!





    We discovered Bessingers when our children were babies. We were so happy to find a kid-friendly place with great wholesome food, a fun atmosphere, and a resonable price. After twenty years, we are still ';regulars'; whenever we are in Charleston.




    Glad you liked Bessingers...its always a crowd pleaser! Nothing like good ol%26#39; BBQ and sweet tea!




    Yes we ate at the Savanna Hwy. location.We had no problems with race at all there and felt very welcome.We are a mixed family through adoption.The food was very good and the watress(sp) was very friendly to all of the customers.




    Just to set the record straight.....Bessingers is a family business with a couple of brothers running their own restaurants. Bessingers on Savannah Hwy (the buffet and sandwich shop) is one brother. Melvin%26#39;s in Mt. Pleasant is another Bessinger brother. Maurice (Bessinger) has his restaurant in Columbia SC. All BBQ places are worth a trip. Yes, Maurice did have an issue with flying the Confederate flag over his restaurant in Columbia but thas has been a couple of years ago and no longer talked about (old news). Bessingers on Savannah Hwy was a Piggy Park many many many years ago.

    NEED ADVICE! Wild Dunes and Beach Erosion

    We wanted to make our second trip down to Wild Dunes...last time was in 2006 and we loved it. We stayed at 41 Ocean Point. It was overlooking the 17th %26amp; 18th of the Links Course and beyond that was a huge beach. Since then we have heard that the Beach is GONE in several areas of Wild Dunes. In Fact we heard that part of the golf course was even washed away! Can anyone familiar with the area give me any insight as to what properties still have a Beach and Which do not? I don%26#39;t want to make the long trip just to have my wife and son crushed to see they have no beach. It is the only reason they loved it so much.





    Thanks in Advance!



    NEED ADVICE! Wild Dunes and Beach Erosion


    It is true that part of the 18th hole washed away. However, the most recent news about a week or 2 ago said that beach renourishment was supposed to happen this spring. Point blank ask the realtor you%26#39;re using. They will have the most updated info. If they say they%26#39;re not sure I%26#39;d be skeptical - if they rent a lot it%26#39;s their business to know. Get them to guarantee your trip - that they have to find you comparable or better beach lodging in case the beach isn%26#39;t fixed where you want to be. They might never have to move you, but this way you will not have to worry.



    To clarify - the beach erosion affects only the northernmost part of the island. However, there are parts of the south end that have been ';roughed up';, but the homes are not at all in peril. (there has just been some scraping of the dunes near 3rd street, but there is a safe distance still from homes to water).



    I%26#39;m sure you will have a great time! Enjoy!



    NEED ADVICE! Wild Dunes and Beach Erosion






    Hi. I鈥檓 the Director of Golf at Wild Dunes Resort, and I wanted to comment on your question regarding the beach erosion on the Isle of Palms. Currently, the erosion is affecting the very northern end of the island. There are a few homes and villas that are affected, and property owners are working to combat the erosion with sand bags. In addition, the 18th hole of the Links Course has been affected. We鈥檝e worked hard to maintain the integrity of the hole, and the 18th hole plays as a par 3 now, instead of a par 5. The 17th hole has not been affected at all. With regard to Ocean Point 41, the home is unaffected by the erosion. The community is working together to find a solution, and a renourishment plan is in the works now, although a definitive timeline has not yet been established. The majority of the erosion has happened at the very end of the island, and the bulk of the resort 鈥?including most oceanfront properties 鈥?have been left unaffected. If I can answer any other questions, please call me at 843.886.2165 or email me at jminton@wilddunes.com.




    Wow - thanks for the update! And good luck - that is one of the nicest golf courses in South Carolina, even with the slight change in the layout.

    beach store websites

    I haven%26#39;t visited Myrtle Beach since 2005, so the only beach store I can remembver. is Wings. Can anybody give me the names of any other beach stores



    so I can see if they have a website to puchase stuff from.



    beach store websites


    normally I can spell ok LOL



    beach store websites


    Eagles and Pacific are two I can think of.




    There are 100%26#39;s of them up and down hwy 17. There are also Giants. They all have about the same things.

    Hilton Head Villas

    My friends and I are planning on staying at Hilton Head for a week in Mid May, before Memorial Day and I am having a hard time trying to decide on where we should stay. The group consists of about 10 adults and no children and we are somewhat picky. We are looking for villas or condos with little to no children, very little crowds, a very short walk to the beach, and a few extras like tennis and pools. I have read the sticky about the different plantations but I am still having a hard time with trying to narrow the places down especialy since I have been using vrbo.com. I would appreciate any insite.



    Hilton Head Villas


    Hi gapeach13,



    Hilton Head can be a little overwhelming for a first time visitor since it has so much to offer. We own a vacation villa on South Forest Beach. I recommend the S. Forest Beach area because it is convenient to restaurants (in Coligny or on Pope Ave), is a beautiful beach, on the bike/walk path, and has a variety of houses or villas available for you to rent either on the beach or just a short walk across the street (Of course beachfront is always more $$$). In May, it shouldn鈥檛 be real crowded.



    Hilton Head Villas


    Thanks so much! This would actually be my 2nd trip to the island. My first stay was in September and I stayed at the Crown Plaza with my boyfriend. I loved the island so much that I told some friends and they now want to visit. I will check out the villas in South Forest and hope they can accomodate my picky friends.




    Hi peach:





    We just returned this morning from HHI. We rented a house through VRBO. There was 10 of us. We stayed on Osprey and it was a 3rd row house. Fantastic. North Forest Beach is great.



    Hope this helps.




    In reply to your note of the 19th, my husband and I are staying at the Seacrest in North Forest Beach. This unit, which you will find on www.vrbo.com/84565 is lovely. It sleeps 10 adults. The view is incredible and the pool is heated. This place is right on the ocean. You also have Coligny Plaza right across the street so you don%26#39;t have to walk from South Forest Beach. It is a perfect location. At the time you want to come down in mid-May, it will be quiet. The plantations are nice, but away from everything. We have been coming for many years and I feel this place is ideal (especially if you are picky).






    Did I miss something here? This original post is from a year ago. I think georgia peach has already been and gone.





    D in Muskoka.


  • laser cartridges
  • Off Season lodging



    I am hoping to budget in a trip to Charleston this year. Could someone give me an idea of what is considered the ';off season'; for Charleston?





    Is there a difference in lodging prices during the ';off season';? And finally, where is the best place to stay around the historic district of Charleston?





    Thank you. Any guidance is much appreciated.



    Off Season lodging


    Off season would be wintertime at the beaches (Nov to Feb or Mar) though you can get some fantastic weather during that time. (Last year on Jan 4 it was 70+; this year we had chillier weather and it has been breezier)



    You can get a decent break in the off season.



    Most visitors can do almost everything they want if they stay at a hotel near Market Street (b/w Meeting and East Bay). If you mark that on a map, there are many hotels within 5 blocks in almost any direction (except 5 blocks towards the Cooper River since that would put you in the river!)



    Click on ';Map'; in the left column on this page and you%26#39;ll see what I mean. There are many beaches - since you want to be close to the historic district you could stay either at Folly or on Sullivan%26#39;s Island or Isle of Palms. Folly is S of Charleston; others are N of Charleston. Enjoy the planning!



    Oh - one secret great place to stay in the off season is the Shem Creek Inn, Mt. Pleasant. I think I saw that they had $59 rates for some of winter.



    Off Season lodging


    Thank you so much for the imput. It really helps!!!




    Culturehound is right on the money with this one. Winter time is the off season. January is typically the slowest month and many hotels might be dropping prices some to get folks to book.




    We like the Residence Inn Charleston/ Riverview area.You are only 10 minuits away from the historic district but the trafic is less and it is a nice area right across the river.This hotel has a breakfast bar and social hour in the evening with drinks and food all free.This saves a lot of money while staying.

    Which beach location

    We are planning a trip to Seabrook Island in August. We are torn between two locations. One is on Beach Ct. so it is closer to the club and the beach. However, I am concerned that the beach is too narrow at that end. The other property is on Oyster Catcher Ct. and is about 400 yards from the beach. So, it is further from the beach and from the club. Is North Beach much better? any recommendations/advice? Thanks



    Which beach location


    AshlieT,





    Either location will provide you will plenty of beach. The area directly in front of the beach club area and Pelican Beach has limited beach at high tide.





    The Beach Ct. location is a hop, skip and a jump to the water; Oyster Catcher will be a little farther (maybe 3-4 minutes;-}).





    If you are getting an amenity card to use the club%26#39;s pools, you%26#39;re walking distance if you choose the Beach Ct. The Oyster Catcher home is a car/bike ride (or a long walk-about a mile) to the club.





    To confuse you further, the SI owners%26#39; pool and parking lot is close to the Oyster Catcher location. A lot of owners will drive and park here to access the beach. Thus this is where the ';crowd'; will be (And trust me, a crowd on Seabrook Island is like 50 people).

    Newbie to MB - summer accomodations

    Hi everyone:





    I am thinking of a trip to MB end of June.



    I am looking for reasonable/nice hotel for 2 adults





    any suggestions would be appreciated



    I would like to keep it in the $100-150 range



    per night.





    Thanks again.



    Newbie to MB - summer accomodations


    You might not find anything that low but I found a few that are close:





    -Dayton House: www.daytonhouse.com



    -Roxanne Towers: www.roxannetowers.com



    -Grande Shores: www.grandeshores.com



    -Compass Cove: www.compasscove.com (they are completely booked the closer you get to the 4th holiday. So check around 24-27th. It%26#39;s not exactly a couples place as MB doesn%26#39;t have many of those and if so, they are quite expensive i.e. Marriott Grande Dunes. But once in the room, it doesn%26#39;t matter really.



    -Coral Beach Resort: www.thecoralbeach.com



    Newbie to MB - summer accomodations




    thank you I will look into these properties








    A few of the hotels where I believe you can get an oceanfront room within your price range are:





    Tropical Seas





    Bar Harbor





    Bermuda Sands





    Holiday Sands South





    Ocean Plaza





    The MB Chamber of Commerce website lists a bunch of motels and links to their websites with information about their rooms and pricing.





    www.mbchamber.com




    You can get a Oceanview 1 Bedroom condo in the new tower at Holiday Sands south for 150-180 for that time.




    There are several that are oceanfront and around 100 dollars a night for an oceanfront efficiency during June, if modest accomodations are ok with you. Some travelers such as myself do not prefer the fancy high rise resorts, and save money on lodging to spend on food and entertainment! All of these are small motels, most family owned, basic ammenities.





    Gazebo Inn www.gazeboinn.com





    Southern Breeze www.southernbreezemotel.com





    Twilight Surf www.twilightsurfmotel.com





    Sea Horn Motel No website, phone is (843) 448-7010





    Carnival Motor Inn www.carnivalmotorinn.com

    Atrium or Sealoft Villas?

    Hello everyone,





    We have finally narrowed our August vacation to Seabrook Island (we have never been) and are now trying to decide on a 2 bedroom villa. We have (I think), narrowed the choices to either the Atrium Villas or the Sealoft Villas. Could anyone help with either the pluses / minuses of the two?? It seems as if: Atrium is closest to the beach and activities while Sealoft has access to the quieter(?) North beach. We have 2 boys 11 and 7 and for them pool size is a factor. Both villas seem fine, but we are hoping for maybe some help or advice that would help our decision. Any and all advice plus something that we don%26#39;t know about or have thought about would be great. We will be taking their bikes and renting ours. Thank you all in advance for your help.





    Anthony and Deanna



    Atrium or Sealoft Villas?


    Plusses and minuses:





    ATriums-condo building; two bedrooms are two bedrooms



    Sealoft-stand alone units: two ';lock-off'; bedrooms plus an upstairs loft bedroom. A couple of Sealofts have three full baths (one is in the loft area)





    Atriums are technically closer to the beach but at high tide there is not much beach around the club area.





    While the walk to the beach from Sealofts is maybe five minutes more (down a couple of steps through a marshy area), you are hugely rewarded once you hit the beach!





    If you want to ride bikes on the beach, you%26#39;ll want to use one of the boardwalks closer to NOrth Beach.





    Atriums--some do have an ocean view. Sealofts have either a golf course view or marsh/lagoon view.





    Something to note about Atriums--they do back up to the golf courses (early morning golf maintenance noise might be a problem-ask). There is also construction going on near the pro shop/Island House (I%26#39;m not sure how much is actually happening now with the downturn in the economy)





    Pools and amenities: Make sure you ask each unit owner about access to the club%26#39;s amenities. The club is now charging $150/wk for access. Some memberships include the charge, some do not.





    Sealoft--has its own neighborhood pool that does not require the amenity card. While this pool is not near as big as the two pools at the club, there are many times where no one is there.





    In the Summer the club%26#39;s pools can get really crowded. I find alot of just ';standing'; around happening and no actually swimming. There is also some point during the day (maybe even every hour), where all kids have to get out to allow for adults only swim.





    Which units are you looking to rent? *Disclaimer, I own a Sealoft and have a preference for them;-) My neighbors are awesome! Sealoft is the best neighborhood on the island...if I can brag;-)





    I can send you lots of pics of North Beach, Sealoft%26#39;s pool, beach boardwalk etc.





    Seabrook Island is a magical place. Once you go, any other beach will not be the same.





    Eliza



    Atrium or Sealoft Villas?


    Hello Eliza,





    Thanks alot for the information, it pretty much confirms what we thought. We are now looking to rent one of the Sealoft Villas and are starting to contact agencies. Some will re-imburse for the access/activity cards and some don%26#39;t, so we need to figure out the cost difference. Needing an access card for the pool and to access the kids activity camps I understand, but was told that we needed it to use the restaurants makes no sense to us. Paying to spend money at a restaurant seems well, odd.





    Thanks again,





    Anthony and Deanna




    I just sent you a pm with additional information.

    kingston plantation splash park fees

    We%26#39;re renting at the Royale Palms this summer from a private owner. Does anyone know the Splash Park daily and weekly fees? I can%26#39;t find it posted on any of their websites.



    kingston plantation splash park fees


    $10 per day per child. There are no weekly fees listed. I have copies of the park signs.



    You should be saving considerably by renting directly through the owner and therefore the additional cost of the water park should be reasonable.



    Hope you enjoy Royale Palms and Kingston as much as we do!



    kingston plantation splash park fees


    Does anyone know the at what age you have to start paying for kids in the Splash Park? I would not be surprised if I had to pay for my 2 year old, but I%26#39;m assuming my 10 month old will be free?




    I just returned from Kingston yesterday and purposely walked by the water park. The entrance fee sign is not there now. The water park was open on the weekend but I did not get there soon enough to ask the attendants about fees.





    We suspect that many homeowners have complained about the fees because we all pay into a group fund. There should not be any fees for anyone living, staying or renting at Kingston.



    If I find out more information I will post it on this forum.




    This is the reason our family decided against Kingston Plantation. Why would a resort charge you extra to use a kids%26#39; waterpark? In my opinion, that is crazy and greedy on the part of the resort.




    This just back from the onsite rental company at Kingston:





    Owners who have a membership at the sport and health club but who are not on the Kingston rental program pay $5 for their own children (per child)



    If the owner does not belong to sport and health club or if owner rents independent of Kingston rental the cost is $10 per child per day.





    Things to remember. If you are renting privately you should be paying FAR LESS than renting through Kingston. You should be saving enough to pay a daily rate for kids water park. You only pay on the days you want to use the water park.





    However, take note that owners in Kingston are definitely not happy about having to pay extra when they already pay plenty of fees. But until the policy changes it%26#39;s the way it is.

    Just back from Seabrook

    We just got home from a great week at Seabrook. It was our first visit but definitely not our last.





    We rented a home on Old Forest Drive backing onto a lagoon. It was incredibly private and peaceful. There were deer at the window in the morning, lots of birds, turtles, fish and other wildlife.





    All the homes are beautifully kept and the streets are so clean and manicured.





    We noticed the nights were incredibly dark and quiet. There are very few streetlights which makes it a bit hard to walk the dog at night, but it also means you%26#39;ll have some very sound sleeps!





    The beach was gorgeous and so wide at low tide! There were very few people there so there was lots of room for the dog to run.





    We had bikes which were great to get around. Also, Freshfields just outside the gate has everything you would ever need so no need to drive to town when you need anything.





    We ate at Rosebank Farms, Cindy%26#39;s Seafood and JB Smokeshack as well as at some Charleston restaurants. I have to say the Cindy%26#39;s was quite overpriced, Rosebank was awesome, and JB has a very good down home buffet for only 7.95, which is very hard to beat.





    We can%26#39;t wait to go back next year!



    Just back from Seabrook


    Shhhh, now we wouldn%26#39;t word getting out, would we??;-)





    Sounds like the only thing you missed were the dolphin, which love to frolick/feed at low tide.





    Did you try biking to Fresh Fields on the new bike path? New interior island bike paths that will connect to the new F.F. bike path are scheduled to be built over the next year or two.





    Y%26#39;all come back real soon!



    Just back from Seabrook


    We were at Seabrook last fall although the place is quite beautiful I was%26#39;nt impressed with the beach( at high tide it was almost gone) and the lack of bike trails (almost was hit twice)and no places to dine without having to drive. The two closest resturants were closed. Rosebank Farms and Cindy%26#39;s were good but a little far to bike or walk to. If you want a nice peaceful vacation this is the place, beautiful and quiet. Freshfields has loads of premade dinners you can enjoy back at your villa.




    EvilleBuffet,





    What part of the island were you staying? Sounds like you must have been near Pelican Beach. North Beach has much more ';beach acreage';, especially at lowtide.





    Next time you should try the Sealoft neighborhood. We%26#39;re lots of fun and are even thinking about hosting weekly get-togethers for owners and guests at our neighborhood pool;-)




    Oooh, a couple of things to note about Seabrook Island. Plans are underway for ';inter-island'; bike paths. These will connect with the new bike path going from Seabrook Island to Fresh Fields. Already you can ride your bike from SI to Fresh Fields something you can not do staying on Kiawah.





    Another difference between the two island--Seabrook is a residential community where KI is a resort community. Kiawah really caters to resort guests with all its amenities.




    We were on North Beach and it was suprisingly wide and uncrowded.





    The restaurants are really very close and I liked the feel of leaving the island to go for dinner.





    As for biking, with so few cars and a speed limit of 25MPH, we had absolutely no issues at all.




    We%26#39;re coming to Seabrook soon (end of April)and love the idea of riding the bike to Freshfields! Where can we hire bikes from please - and should I sort this before I come? Will they deliver to the villa?





    And I%26#39;m sure we will want to go into Charleston - how is this for parking, and any good suggestions for restaurants please





    Always grateful for any info!




    SusieG,





    You%26#39;ll have to rent bikes from one of the off-island companies (unless the homeowner you%26#39;re renting from supplies bikes.





    The bike shop I use is Island Bike %26amp; Surf: http://www.kiawahislandbikerental.com/





    Another bike shop is SeaSide Cycles, http://seasidecycles.com/.





    Remember to take a map and a cell phone and have fun exploring the island on bikes (my mom did neither;-}). Ride your bike single file with the traffic and bike riding is not allowed on the boardwalks.





    There are numerous restaurants in and around Seabrook Island.





    Red Sky,843-768-0183, is located right outside the gate(on the left if you are heading out). It has been closed for expansion. Hopefully it is open by now.





    Over in Fresh Fields, all my neighbors are excited about the opening of King St. Grill. There is one is downtown Chs. too





    I like Vincent%26#39;s Drug Store and Soda Fountain for a quick bite--hamburgers, wraps, milk shakes.





    Then there%26#39;s Rosebank Farms Cafe at Bohicket Marina; Up da Creek at Bohicket





    On Betsy Kerrison Rd, which is the main road in and out, you have Cindy%26#39;s Shrimp Shack and Chez Fish.





    I keep a listing of restaurants if you%26#39;d like me to email it to you.





    So much to try so little time;-)




    Driving and parking in Charleston is surprisingly easy. Although on-street parking is limited, with many parts of the historic district requiring residential stickers, there are plenty of safe, centrally-located public garages.





    You can access a locator map for the parking garages at -





    charlestoncity.info/shared/鈥arking.html






  • laser cartridges
  • Which Walking tour???

    We will be visiting Charleston in May and would like to book a walking tour, but we%26#39;re not sure which one is the best one. Could anyone give us some input as to their experiences with the walking tours. How long do they usually last? Also how far in advance should you book? Thanks to all.



    Patty



    Which Walking tour???


    I have taken quite a few different walking tours and have loved each one. They usually take about 2+ hours (if the group is really interested, the guides don%26#39;t mind spending a little more time). They leave from various locations around the city - I%26#39;ve been with a couple of different guides that leave from the Mills House and one that leaves from the park off Broad Street.



    All of the guides are well trained and have to be certified (by passing a test after doing coursework) and as each is an individual, you will get something a little different from each guide. I mentioned that since I don%26#39;t think there is one ';best'; tour - they%26#39;ve all been enjoyable and interesting.



    You should plan to wear comfortable flat shoes, take sun lotion and a water bottle and use the rest room before the tour as there aren%26#39;t any bathroom breaks. Look under ';Things to Do'; on the left of this page for links to some of the tours. ENJOY!



    Which Walking tour???


    We took one at night called ';Wicked Walk'; that explained Charleston%26#39;s bawdy past. It was a lot of fun. Also took a Ghost Walk and that was fun too. One left from Market St. and the other I%26#39;m not sure about. It might have been Meeting St. There are lots of brochures around in hotels describing these walks. We booked one the same day and the other the day before. This was last week but as the season progresses things will get busier.

    Events in Charleston 3/1 through 3/5?

    This is a two part question, and any help would be greatly appreciated.





    Is there a special even in Charleston which is soaking up all the hotel rooms? It seems to be difficult to find a hotel room.





    Also, once I do get this booked, are there any can%26#39;t-miss events during that time period? My girlfriend (both fairly youngish but not kids anymore-- call us late 20%26#39;s early 30%26#39;s) and I will be there during the dates specified, and are interested in tours, special events/concerts, and anything with a true local flavor. Any ideas?





    Thanks in advance.



    Events in Charleston 3/1 through 3/5?


    I think I just answered my own question: bridge run. Darn, I was looking forward to staying in Charleston, but not if the rooms are as scarce as they are being represented by the B%26amp;B%26#39;s I%26#39;m calling.



    Events in Charleston 3/1 through 3/5?


    I%26#39;m assuming you meant 4/1 through 4/5... and we are also in full swing with our Historic Society Tours of Homes and Gardens. Draws thousands of visitors and lasts for a month! Because of the variety of offerings during this festival, you are sure to find something that interests you. For example, there might be chamber music in a garden somewhere one day, a walking tour (they give you a map and the homes are ';attended'; by docents) of 8 to 10 homes another day, and a garden tour of 8 to 10 gardens another day followed by a wine reception and/or preceded by a presentation by an author/landscape architect, - you name it, we have it. And since you%26#39;re from Savannah you know how absolutely perfect our weather is at this time of year - that%26#39;ll bring %26#39;em out of the woodwork!



    I guess you took a look at our ';Things To Do'; tab (upper left on this page) and clicked on ';Events';?



    If you%26#39;re looking for an off time to visit the city, there won%26#39;t be one now til about December - oops - January. Our summers bring people who flock to the local beaches (which are close by, will be extra warm, and convenient for visitors to the Historic downtown). But you know that since you%26#39;re less than 2 hours away!



    tram3 - our plantations are definitely worth a visit. Since you%26#39;re somewhat local, you might consider staying nearer to them (most on Hwy 61 and one in Mt. Pleasant) and driving into the ';big city'; (LOL!) It sounds like you%26#39;re relatively new to CHS so I%26#39;ll mention that it%26#39;s way too easy to get to downtown. Unlike any other city I%26#39;ve known, actually. Admittedly I have always said there is little traffic here - I was proven wrong yesterday when the ';leaving the beach'; traffic made it look like July 4th weekend! What%26#39;s up with that?



    Oh, do get to the beach. On the way you can visit Shem Creek. Outdoor dining, outdoor creek front bars, great time for all. If you have a dog, bring him/her! Very pet friendly.



    Only minutes past Shem Creek is Sullivan%26#39;s Island - I%26#39;d rec you go to Poe%26#39;s Tavern. (Edgar Allan Poe lived on Sullivan%26#39;s). Drive on 2 min farther to Isle of Palms for a nice walk on the beach or beach volleyball.



    In the city: carriage tour is a MUST; go for a walk on your own through the residential district (the area South of Broad Street - see ';Map'; tab on left side of this page). If you can, take a tour with the Historic Society.



    That enough for ya? ENJOY and welcome!




    Yep. My brain is apparently fried from work. I did in fact mean 4/1 and 4/5.





    There are no even halfway-reasonable hotel rooms in your city, unfortunately. I%26#39;m looking to travel elsewhere, but I%26#39;ll be visiting again on a weekend no so jam-packed with bridge runners.





    Thanks for your thoughtful reply-- I%26#39;ll put it to good use on my next trip there.

    Seeing the sights of SC

    I have an 8 day vacation coming up. I am going to pick up my best friend at the Charleston Airport and going to do some sight seeing that I haven%26#39;t had the chance to do in the 2 years I have been stationed here. I don%26#39;t have alot of money and was wondering if i could get some advice on inexpensive places to go. We are going near the end of April. I plan on packing camping gear (tent, sleeping bags) and am willing to try new things. This might be my last vacation i take in this state and want to get the most out of it. Please fill me in!





    Thank You,



    Looking for an adventure



    Seeing the sights of SC


    Adventuregirl,





    There is more free stuff to do in May (check out www.visit.sc for a local calendar of events). Strolling historic downtown (the Market, Aquarium, Battery are not to be missed) and hanging out at the beaches (Folly Beach %26amp; Isle of Palms) are probably the cheapest you%26#39;ll find. Not really a big campground area, the closest one will be on Hwy 17 in Mt. Pleasant, just outside of Charleston. Have fun!



    Seeing the sights of SC


    Lots of great camping in the Francis Marion National Forest to the north of Charleston



    www.fs.fed.us/r8/fms/forest/about/fmmap.shtml

    Is Condo World reputable?

    I%26#39;ve been reading all the inquiries as to what is the best realty companies for vacation rentals. We have never been to North Myrtle Beach and I%26#39;m bringing my 2 daughters and their husbands, along with 4 little children. When researching where to stay, I chose Crescent Shores and booked through Condo World. I%26#39;d really appreciate any input as to whether I should have any concerns.



    Is Condo World reputable?


    Let me say how nice Crescent Shores units are, Very nice, they do have an on-site office at Crescent Shores affiliated with another rental company you may want to stop by and talk to them should you like to book for the next year. I hesitate to speak poorly of any rental company but there are good ones and bad ones, generally they get ';bad'; reviews because of customer service issues. Once you check in, many of them forget who you are and don%26#39;t seem to be interested in providing any help should an issue arise.



    You have already booked your unit there is really nothing you can do now except don%26#39;t worry, I can tell you that your experience at Crescent Shores should be fine!



    Is Condo World reputable?


    Have seen unhappy reviews for one of the ';Condo'; outfits. Either Condo-World or Condo-Lux. Not sure which one but I wouldn%26#39;t worry about it.



    Went back and searched a little. What I found about Condo-World was if you can wait til close to your week to make reservations, you can usually get a lower rate. In other words if a unit isn%26#39;t rented they%26#39;ll lower the rate to get something out of it. Something%26#39;s better than nothing.



    Even if they aren%26#39;t the perfect hosts at check-in, you probably won%26#39;t have to deal with them the rest of the week. Just grin and bear it for the few minutes at check-in then enjoy rest of your stay.



    Have heard good things about Cresent Shores. Shouldn%26#39;t be any problems.



    Here%26#39;s some info on Cresent Shores and pics. also a trip report from last July.



    www.funbeaches.com/forum/viewtopic.php鈥?/a>



    www.funbeaches.com/forum/viewtopic.php鈥?/a>




    I%26#39;ve never used Condo World and I%26#39;ve heard good and bad reviews about every realty in NMB; some get more bad than others. Many times it%26#39;s unwarranted but problems happen, just like they do at home. Most of the time, someone will look after the problem in a timely manner. I can%26#39;t understand why Condo World doesn%26#39;t improve their website; it%26#39;s been poor for years. That has nothing to do with how they treat customers. For 99% of rentals in a place like Crescent Shores; you%26#39;ll have no need to see the Realtor again. In case you have a problem with your condo, the Condo World office is 200 feet away; right beside the 9 story parking building. If you see/have a problem with the Crescent Shores property outside the condo (elevator, oceanfront hot tub, leak from the condo above, exercise equipment, etc)...contact hart1 in the 1st floor office of the south tower. She works for a competitive Realtor whose company looks after and runs the office for the Noble Building management company and the HOA. It%26#39;s their duty to take care of those problems. You%26#39;ll like Crescent Shores; enjoy your stay!




    Thank you to hart1, pop2748, and gonefishinll. I really appreciate your responses. Going somewhere new, especially with 4 babies, (all 2 and under), it is nice to be reassured. Really appreciate your help.




    We%26#39;ve used Condo-World dozens of times and have always been very happy with them. The few times we ran into any problems (like a coffeemaker full of mold or a window that leaked during a hurrican - it was only a Cat 1, so we%26#39;d stayed put) they were very pleasant and professional to deal with and took care of the problem immediately. Yes, you can get cheaper rates if you wait to book closer to your vacation week - but you run the risk of not getting the building/unit you%26#39;re interested in. We like the Windy Hill area best and it%26#39;s not always easy to get a really nice 3 or 4 bedroon unit there if you cut it too close. We did stay in Crescent Beach once but not at Crescent Shores. We ended up gravitating toward Windy Hill (the far south end) because of the proximity to Barefoot Landing and the White Point Swash inlet which our kids loved to explore. But really all of North Myrtle Beach is wonderful and so much more family friendly than Myrtle!



    We used CondoLux last year because it was a sort of a last minute trip and they had the building available we were interested in (Condo-World was all book) We did have a problem with a disconnected phone in the unit for the entire week (something the owner had told them she%26#39;d corrected) and very spotty cell phone reception. We had used them several years ago and may give them another try in the future.



    One BIG plus for BOTH Condo-World and CondoLux is that departure cleaning and linens, plus ';set-up'; items (starter packets of dishwasher detergent, toilet paper, etc.) are ALWAYS included in the rate. Some of the other companies may APPEAR to have lower rates UNTIL you ad in their higher booking fees, departure cleaning (per bedroom!) and linen packages (again per bedroom!) Who wants to bother with packing your own sheets and towels and we don%26#39;t own a king size bed which the condos often have.





    Bottom line - Condo-World is a reliable company and you shouldn%26#39;t have problems with them. Their phone staff has always been particulaly helpful.



    If you have any other questions or concerns - we%26#39;ve been going to NMB for over 20 years now, since our two daughters were 5 and 10, and I%26#39;d be happy to help anyway I can. I hope you and yours make wonderfully memories and have as many happy times there as we have over the years.



    P.S. We live in the northern panhandle of WV about 40 miles west of Pittsburgh so if you have any questions about travel routes, etc. we can probably help with that, too. You can contact us directly through our ';profile'; if you%26#39;d like.