Good News Snowbird Golfers!

Well, the snow is most certainly falling in the north and some of you may find it a little too cold to be golfing at your local courses. But the good news is that Southern Coast Vacations has a new winter rental property available for the months of January, February, and March!
A golfer's dream, Magnolia Pointe unit 302 is a great 2 bedroom condo set up perfectly with 2 king beds for golfing couples. And for those of you who are coming with your golfing buddies, the beds can be easily separated into twins. There is also a sleeper sofa in the living room.
Centrally located to a multitude of golf courses, Magnolia Pointe, is also close to the shopping, restaurants, and nightlife at Broadway at the Beach.
So instead of bundling up in hats and scarves try being a snowbird. A snowbird who is wearing shorts and sunglasses that is!

Enjoy your holiday!
Debbie

Happy Holidays!

It's hard to believe that Christmas is less than 2 weeks away and for those snowbirds heading south for the new year, you have less than 3 weeks to pack your bags! While many of you are looking to escape the snow and ice I am packing my bags to head north for the Christmas holiday. I am originally from outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and am looking forward to spending the holiday with my family. I have not been home in 2 years and am getting very excited to see my family and hopefully some snow! I have been in a shopping frenzy the past few weeks as my 21 month old niece Sophia will be coming with her parents from the DC area and of course Santa is making an early stop in North Myrtle Beach to drop off packages for us to take to PA!
I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday and a safe trip to Myrtle Beach to start your snowbird escape! And for those of you who are just deciding now to venture south for the winter I still have plenty of great properties left that all come with a great price tag for the winter!

Happy Holidays!
Debbie

Good News Snowbirds!

A 2 bedroom Firebird townhome has become available for the month of January and it is pet friendly! Located 2 blocks from the beach, Firebird 5, is centrally located in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Guests are welcome to use all of the amenities at the oceanfront Grand Atlantic Resort. So pack your bags and escape the winter days of January!

Happy Holidays,
Debbie

Just 2 pet friendly properites left for winter!!

Wanting to spend your winter as a snowbird in Myrtle Beach but can't leave Fido at home? You are in luck as we have 2 pet friendly properties left for the winter!
We have a 4 bedroom home called Oceans 12 that has just become a pet friendly property. The homeowner even allows cats, so Fluffy can come as well! It is located on the southern end of Myrtle Beach and is a short walk to the beach.
For the pet lover who wants to stay a little further south, we have a 3 bedroom home called A Slice of Heaven that is located in Garden City. A 10 minute walk will place you and your pet on the beach for an afternoon stroll. And Garden City is centrally located between Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island so you will have a lot of attractions and great local restaurants to choose from.
So if you and Fido are wanting to escape the dreads of winter, give me a call and we will plan your winter getaway. Trust me Fido and Fluffy will both love you for it!

Smart Snowbirds choose Southern Coast Vacations
Debbie

A Myrtle Beach Thanksgiving

Even as a little girl, Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. Waking up to the aroma of the turkey, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and of course Grandma’s pumpkin pie was always highlights of my day! Since moving to Myrtle Beach 13 years ago, I have not been home to Pennsylvania for Thanksgiving and still tend to feel a little homesick around that time knowing that my family is together celebrating my favorite day. And as a Myrtle Beach Snowbird spending the Thanksgiving holiday away from home, you are probably wondering, “What will I do”.
I would like to share with you how I plan to spend my favorite day. And please, feel free to share your holiday plans as well, as I love to hear other's traditions.
I have already made our dinner reservations at our favorite restaurant, Thoroughbreds on Restaurant Row. They have a spectacular Thanksgiving Buffet with turkey, ham, and all of the trimmings along with a tantalizing dessert table. With the crackling of the fireplace and beautiful décor, you will soon forget that you are not at home. This year they are open 11-8 and reservations are recommended.
After enjoying a wonderful dinner, we have tickets for the Alabama Theatre Christmas Show. They advertise it as the “South’s Grandest Christmas Show” and I agree. It is a show you will not want to miss. And if you have family visiting you for the holiday, it is a show for the entire family, one that will have you laughing, tapping your feet, and singing along with the talented performers.
Now, I am not a Black Friday shopper, not a fan of the crowds at all but if you are and you love to be the first one thru the door then the Tanger Outlet malls are where you need to be. They are opening at midnight on Thanksgiving Day and will be open for 24 hours straight!
So if you are cooking at your condo, going out for dinner, seeing a show, or just relaxing with friends, enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday in Myrtle Beach and thank you for spending your Snowbird Winter Getaway with us!


To All of My Snowbird Friends, Happy Thanksgiving!
Debbie

South Carolina Hall of Fame

While attending a boat show at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, I took the time to walk thru the lobby and visit the South Carolina Hall of Fame Portrait Gallery. I never realized that President Andrew Jackson, Jazz Legend Dizzy Gillespie, and Most Valuable Player of the 1960 World Series Bobby Richardson had anything in common, but I quickly found out different. They are all inductees of the South Carolina Hall of Fame.
Dedicated in 1973 by Governor John C. West, the Hall of Fame honors the sons and daughters of South Carolina who have played a part in the shaping of our state’s progress and heritage. Each year 10 contemporary and 10 deceased people are nominated for the honor and the board of trustees votes 2 new inductees into the Hall of Fame, one contemporary and one deceased.
I enjoyed looking at the photos and reading each person’s contribution to history so much that I found myself going back thru a 2nd time just to make sure I had not missed anyone. I highly recommend taking an afternoon and getting a free lesson on South Carolina history. Yes, the admission is free and the gallery can be visited from 8:30-5:00 daily.
And on your way out of the convention center, be sure to stop and view a replica of Astronaut Charles M. Duke Jr’s footprints that he made on the moon. He was the first selection to be inducted into the South Carolina Hall of Fame and is also an inductee into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. He was quoted as saying
“When I looked at the moon as a child, standing in the heat of a Carolina summer night, there were times that I could almost reach out and touch it. I never thought that three decades later…I would be able to do just that!” What an amazing journey he and all of the inductees have had!
I hope you enjoy your “journey” thru South Carolina history as much as I did.

Have a Wonderful Day,
Debbie

Trip Down Memory Lane

For an afternoon of history, one of a kind cars and lunch at a diner that takes you back to the 50’s, drive down to Murrells Inlet and visit the new Ragtops and Roadsters vintage car museum.
The display of cars changes but when we were there they had a 1917 Budweiser Beer Ford Model T delivery truck as well as my favorite a 1952 Jaguar. What a beautiful car! Every car has its history posted beside it. Take the time to read them; I’m sure you will learn something new and interesting. I know we did.
For the car collector, the museum also has several cars for sale. So take your checkbook, you just might be taking a “new” car back home with you!
After viewing the cars take a trip down memory lane at the recently opened 50’s style diner inside the museum called Woody’s. Enjoy the memorabilia and jukebox music while waiting for your order. Sandwiches, salads, and wings are highlights of the menu. For a real treat have an old time ice cream float. I opted for the orange soda float-Delicious!

Enjoy!
Debbie

Wine Tasting at it's Best

If you are a wine lover or just love being outdoors, add the LaBelle Amie winery on your list of things to do while in town. Located off Hwy 90, the LaBelle Amie winery is locally owned and home to monthly festivals, daily wine tastings and a very unique gift shop. Their gift shop offers wine related novelties, jewelry, and of course wine! For all of the at home chefs and grill masters, be sure and check out the gourmet spices, dressings, and sauces. My favorite is the Wasabi Ginger Dressing, wonderful for tuna steaks!
LaBelle Amie Winery welcomes you to walk thru the grounds of the former tobacco plantation, enjoy a picnic, or sit on a rocking chair on the covered porch area and escape with a glass of their private labeled wine. Guided tours of the vineyard are also available in advance and are a must for history buffs.
Inside their gift shop is a wine tasting bar where you can sample their wines. If your tastes sway towards the white wines, try my favorite, Phillippe-“High Maintenance”. They also offer a variety of muscadine wines which is a nice change from your usual whites and reds.
Their monthly festivals are a favorite spot for locals to enjoy live music, good company, and excellent wine! Bring your lawn chair or a blanket and plan to spend the afternoon. They also have several bonfires planned for the winter. Visit their website www.labelleamie.com for a complete list of festivals and business hours.
Before leaving, take time to meet Bella, the winery mascot. A beautiful white border collie, Bella is one of the main attractions of the winery. She always seems to find us for a game of catch with her tennis ball and enjoys being the center of attention.

Enjoy and Cheers!
Debbie

Christmas at the Beach

Although we probably won’t have a “White Christmas”, there are still plenty of festivals, shows, and decorations to put you in the Christmas mood while you are far from home. I would like to share my favorites with you that I look forward to every year.
I kick off my holiday season with the Intercoastal Christmas Regatta held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. The festivities start at 5:00 at the Little River inlet, traveling south to their finishing point at Petes Landing in North Myrtle Beach around 7:00. The parade can be viewed along the waterway at various restaurants and marinas. My friends and I normally enjoy it from Filets Restaurant by the swing bridge. We arrive early, grab a table by one of the fire pits, and enjoy a wonderful evening of hot chocolate and great appetizers while “judging” the decorations on the boat. Be sure to bring a unwrapped toy with you as the regatta benefits area children on Christmas morning.
My one, can’t miss event of the season, Nights of a Thousand Candles starts Dec. 5th and runs thru Dec. 20th on Friday and Saturday nights 3:00-10:00.
For an amazing evening of lights and music, take a trip down to Pawleys Island to Brookgreen Gardens for this mystical event. The sculpture gardens are transformed into a magical wonderland of illuminated garden paths, sparkling live oaks, and live entertainment. We make an entire evening out of it, enjoying roasted oysters and homemade soup, getting a front row seat for the one-man rendition of A Christmas Carol at 7:30 and sipping on a glass of wine while listening to the hand bell choirs. A remarkable experience not to be missed!
And last but not least, the holiday season isn’t the same without a hometown Christmas parade and a Santa sighting! North Myrtle Beach hosts their Christmas parade on Saturday December 6 at 5:30. Stop in at the International Café for a bowl of homemade chili and hot cocoa while waiting for the bands, floats, and of course the man of the hour, Santa!
Enjoy your holiday season and feel free to share some of your favorite Christmas traditions at the beach!

Happy Holidays,
Debbie

Snowbird FAQ

Shoveling snow, maneuvering icy roads, paying high heating bills? Escape the dreads of winter and come live at the beach with Southern Coast Vacations. While your neighbors are bundled up in 3 layers of clothing, you can be strolling down the beach or sitting on your oceanfront balcony with a good book in hand.
For our repeat snowbirds, thank you for staying with us and feel free to call us anytime to book your stay again for next year. For the “rookie” snowbirds who are looking at wintering with us for your first time, ask yourself what are you looking for in a winter rental? Internet access, laundry facility, pets allowed? We offer all of this and more. Please read over the following commonly asked questions to assist you in your winter getaway. If you find that your question has not been addressed, please feel free to contact us.

Where are your properties at?
We have properties from as far north as Cherry Grove to the far south as Garden City. We have oceanfront condos, condos on golf courses, and townhomes and houses that are just a short walk to the beach.

Do I have to pay all of my rent up front?
If you are staying for one month, you will pay your rent, taxes, and fees upon booking. If you are staying for multiple months, you will pay your first months rent and fees upon booking. You will then pay your monthly rent prior to the first of each month.

What are the benefits of staying for multiple months?
Many of our homeowners offer a discount if you stay for multiple months. If you stay 90+ days you do not have to pay sales tax on your rent.

What additional fees are there?
We charge a one time departure cleaning/linen fee/reservation fee. The charge varies depending on the property.

What linens are included?
We provide fresh sheets for each bed and towels. Kitchen towels are included but not dish clothes.

Do you have internet ?
Many of our properties are equipped with internet service. Please let our vacation specialists know if you will need internet service so that they can reserve the appropriate property for you.

Will I have phone service?
Many homeowners do provide local phone service for their guests. Long distance phone calls are not available from local property lines. If it is need our staff can ask the homeowner for any special requests.

Do you allow pets?
We have several dog friendly properties that are just a short walk to the beach. None of our oceanfront properties allow pets.

Where will I get my mail?
As our properties are all individually owned, we recommend that you rent a mailbox from the post office while you are here.

Is cookware provided?
The homeowners provide basic cookware for your stay. Dinnerware and silverware are also provided. Some units include wine glasses and extra cooking utensils but if there is something special you require, please bring it with you or ask our staff if it can be arranged.


Extras you may want to bring with you
· Extra blankets
· Iron-not all units provide them
· Beach towels
· Trash Bags
· Mixing Bowls/Serving Bowls
· Baking Dishes
· Colander
· Cleaning Supplies

Surf Fishing!

Today I went surf fishing with my father and brother. We got up early and grabbed some coffee and spent the morning on the beach. Here is a photo I took with my phone. It was a little overcast early but the temperature got up to the mid 80's, and it turned out to be a beautiful day.

We caught about 2 dozen fish, mostly blues but we pulled in a flounder, a spot tail, and a couple other species I could not name.

This is just another reason to come join us for your winter vacation!

It was a great experience, and I recommend when you come to this area you bring your fishing poles. Let me know if your heading out and I may join you!

Information for your pet!

Dear Fido,

Welcome to Myrtle Beach, SC where you can frolic on the beach, visit a dog park and shop at pet friendly complexes. We at Southern Coast Vacations have multiple pet friendly properties that are just a short walk to the beach for you and your family to stay at. When traveling, it is always smart to have the rules of the beach and the phone numbers for local animal hospitals. Please let us know if you need any other information.
Enjoy your stay!
The staff of Southern Coast Vacations

This information is for your parents!

Dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet are allowed on some beaches with restrictions during the summer. Dogs are not allowed on the beach or Ocean Boulevard from 13th Ave South to 21st Ave North in Myrtle Beach during any time of the year.

Here are a couple local pet hospitals in case of emergencies or meds.

Grand Strand Animal Hospital
3007 Church St.
Myrtle Beach
843-626-7661


Animal Hospital
2501 Hwy. 17 S
North Myrtle Beach
843-272-8121

Hospital and Medical Information

Dear Snowbird,
Walks on the beach, winery tours, shopping, and nights of eating out are just a few of the many things I am sure you have on your schedule for your winter stay at the beach. But you also are probably wondering, “What if I get a toothache?” or “Where is the closest hospital?”. Below is a list of just a few of our medical facilities that you can print out and bring with you for your winter stay. You can also feel free to call me at any time during your stay for information on the more enjoyable appointments in life, such as hair salons, day spas, golfing, and sightseeing trips in the area.
Enjoy your stay with Southern Coast Vacations,
Debbie
Southern Coast Vacations
1-800-978-4988

Conway Hospital
300 Singleton Ridge Road
Conway, SC
843-347-7111
www.conwayhospital.com

Seacoast Medical Center
4000 Highway 9 East
Little River, Sc
843-716-7000
www.lorishealthcaresystem.com

Grand Strand Regional Medical Center
809 82nd Parkway
Myrtle Beach, SC
843-692-1000
www.grandstrandmed.com

Myrtle Beach Dental Associates
8151 Rourk Street 82nd Parkway
Myrtle Beach, SC
843-449-4372
www.myrtlebeachdentalassociates.com

Carolina Family Dental
1240 Hwy. 17 S.
North Myrtle Beach, Sc
843-361-0500
www.yourcarolinasmile.com

Save Money on Winter Rentals!

Did you know that if you stay in Myrtle Beach for 3 months or longer you can save 12% off your stay? If you are staying longer than 90 days you can avoid sales tax and get a 12% discount.

Remember you need to commit to at least 3 months. You can pay for your say a month at a time and still get your discount but you need to make sure you let your management company know your length of stay.

If you have any questions or would like to view some of our properties please contact our office! We would love to have you spend your winter with us.

Southern Coast Vacations
1-800-978-4988

Snowbird Greeting!

This is a letter we supply to all snowbirds and winter rentals when they arrive. Just wanted to share it with you.

Welcome to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

I would like to take a moment and thank you for staying with Southern Coast Vacations and for giving us the opportunity to help make your winter vacation a memorable experience!

You are staying in a privately owned property that the homeowner has personally furnished. It should be equipped with everything that you need for your winter stay with us. If you find that you need any additional items, please contact me, and I will do my best to accommodate your requests.
Myrtle Beach is home to fabulous shows, tantalizing restaurants, and unique attractions, all of which will add to your stay. I will be more than happy to make any recommendations to you.
Once again, thank you for choosing Southern Coast Vacations and please do not hesitate to call or stop in to see me.

Have a Wonderful Stay!
Debbie
1-800-978-4988
1-843-663-6063

Winter Rentals in Myrtle Beach

This site will be dedicated to helping Snowbirds find the best property for thier winter rental.