The most popular places to shop on the Grand Strand are the multi-purpose complexes like Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing, where the abundance of attractions, restaurants and nightlife offer lots of fun beyond shopping. But the open-air areas and walkways that lead to the storefronts can get pretty chilly on those cold and windy winter days.
The same is true along the Market Common and Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where the urban style sidewalk shops require some serious strolling and shopping. That's not a problem most of the year, when the warm weather and scenic landscapes make you want to spend some time outside. But for those chilly and rainy days, the less time spent outdoors, the better.
That's what sets these shopping centers apart from the open-air facilities. Completely enclosed and climate controlled, malls and megastores allow patrons to stay warm and dry throughout their entire shopping experience. And flea markets and outlet malls offer great savings in the offseason while making room for new inventory for the busy spring and summer months. So if you're in Myrtle Beach for one of our rare cold spells, here are the five best places for a shopping spree:
Coastal Grand Mall: This modern mall has it all, including many national named brand outlets you won't find anywhere else on the Grand Strand. From large anchor stores like Belk and JC Penney to small mom-and-pop shops, you can find it at Coastal Grand. And a spacious food court, movie multiplex and arcade and game room give patrons plenty of dining and entertainment options.
Inlet Square Mall: Shopping in Murrells Inlet can be tricky in the winter. Many of the shops on Highway Business 17 are spread out and require a bit of walking if you only want to park once, and the wind tends to blow in off the waterfront. But the recently renovated Inlet Square Mall provides a nice winter alternative. Lots of major national chains and locally and regionally based boutiques are inside, and Frank's Theatres offers movies, bowling, video games and more.
Myrtle Beach Flea Market: This place almost closed over lease issues a few months ago, but new ownership and an increased numbers of vendors have breathed new life into the Market Common area bargain shop. You never know what you will find on display at this community-based gathering spot, from reconditioned golf balls to homemade quilts. If you are shopping for gifts, you will find anything and everything inside this 3,000 square foot space you won't see anywhere else.
Myrtle Beach Mall: Despite the name, the Myrtle Beach Mall is actually north of the city limits near Restaurant Row. But the extra drive is worth checking out because this recently renovated mall has all the national chain stores plus a few that aren't anywhere else on the Grand Strand. That list includes Bass Pro Shops superstore, which has hands-on displays where you can test out your hunting and fishing gear before you buy it.
Tanger Outlet Stores: The Grand Strand actually has two of these super malls – one on Highway 501 in Carolina Forest and another on Highway 17 near Restaurant Row. Although the storefronts are facing the outdoors, they are all side by side so your sprint through the cold weather is a quick one, and much of the area is covered, in case of rain. The wide selection of stores and the great clearance sales held during the winter months make these two spots hot ones for bargain hunters.
After a long day and night of shopping for great deals, return to the ultimate bargain with a stay at Compass Cove Resort. Our offseason rates and year-round amenities make this the best place to stay in town.
