7 Carolina Beach Towns With Myrtle Beach Vibes, But Better (2024)

Bordering Virginia to the north, Tennessee to the west, and Georgia to the southwest, the Carolinas offer some of the most incredible adventures in America, from taking a scenic drive through the Smokies in North Carolina to discovering the rich history of South Carolina’s Charleston, one of the most beautiful destinations in the U.S. The Southeastern states are also recognized for their magical beach scenes, Myrtle Beach, being one of the most visited.

Attracting over 17 million tourists annually, the city is famous for being one of the perfect family beach destinations in the U.S. and guarantees plenty of fun activities off the shore. It’s also known for its world-class golf courses, top-notch oceanfront resorts and villas, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. The city is also loved for its affordability. However, it can get quite busy during the peak season, and others might prefer a quieter vacation scene.

Fortunately, the Carolinas are home to plenty of beach towns with Myrtle Beach vibes, but better in some ways. Here are the ones to include on your bucket list this year.

7 Murrells Inlet, South Carolina

This town offers a rich history, beautiful beaches, golfing experiences, and a quiet atmosphere

The Seafood Capital of South Carolina, Murrells Inlet, is a small coastal gem with a lot to offer, from fascinating water excursions to picture-perfect sculpture gardens, and plenty of delicious restaurants. First settled in the early 1700s, the town’s history is one of the richest in South Carolina.

Like Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is also home to amazing golf courses, spectacular beaches, and multiple family-friendly experiences. Exploring Brookgreen Gardens, the Marshwalk, and Huntington Beach State Park is fun for the entire family. It makes a quiet and laid-back alternative to Myrtle Beach, whose crowds can make visiting not so fun.

6 Pawleys Island, South Carolina

Explore breathtaking scenery, a rich history, and pristine beaches in a laid-back, low-key setting

Pawleys Island is a scenic beach town in South Carolina that's a great alternative to Myrtle Beach, thanks to stunning sandy stretches and its laid-back, low-key vibe. The island has a long history that began in the 1700s and some of the original buildings and rice plantations still exist.

It boasts breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and golfing. The town is also home to world-class gardens, delicious seafood restaurants, and some of the most haunted places in South Carolina.

5 Southport, North Carolina

This coastal gem offers impressive waterfront scenery, stunning beaches, and a long history in a quiet atmosphere

Southport NC

A vacation in Southport, America’s happiest seaside town, stands out with a picturesque waterfront location and proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches in North Carolina. You can stroll through its streets to discover its long, fascinating history, delicious restaurants, and some of the best shopping along the coastline.

There are many beautiful attractions, including the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry, Southport Fishing Pier, and Silver Coast's Tap & Tasting Room. From amazing sandy stretches to historic charm, Southport shares a lot of similarities with Myrtle Beach, but its small-town feel and quiet vibe make it a better beach destination.

4 Surfside Beach, South Carolina

Enjoy a great beach scene in a family-friendly, quiet, and relaxing setting

Surfside Beach's 2-mile spectacular coastline guarantees unforgettable travel experiences for beach bums looking for a quiet, relaxing beach vibe. It has always been referred to as “the family beach,” thanks to its clear waters, well-maintained clean beaches, and the presence of lifeguards.

Apart from beach activities like surfing, boating, swimming, and kayaking, vacationers will also come across lots of inland adventures, including strolling through a dog park with their furry friends and exploring the flea market.

3 Carolina Beach, North Carolina

Explore vibrant nightlife, dining, shopping, and a variety of accommodations with a small-town feel, and a laid-back vibe

One of the best beach towns in North Carolina, Carolina Beach offers something for everyone, from incredible shopping experiences to vibrant nightlife to a wonderful variety of dining options. Its beaches are some of the most gorgeous on North Carolina’s coast, and unlike Myrtle Beach, it comes with a small-town feel and a laid-back atmosphere.

Vacationers will also find an incredible selection of accommodations in the town, from cozy bed and breakfasts to lavish resorts.

2 Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Stunning beaches, amazing golfing experiences, and a family-friendly atmosphere in a quiet, relaxing setting

One of the most beautiful beach towns in the Carolinas, Hilton Head Island, shares many similarities with Myrtle Beach, including stunning white-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, and a family-friendly atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do on the island, from taking a nature walk through the Sea Pines Forest Preserve to strolling the boardwalk, which is lined with unique stores and delicious restaurants.

What sets it apart from Myrtle Beach is its laid-back and quiet beach experience. The town’s culinary scene is amazing, and travelers can choose from a variety of cuisines, including Asian, American, and Italian.

1 Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina

Find pristine white sand beaches, an amazing dining experience, and lots of family-friendly fun, but with a laid-back, quiet vibe

Boats and homes along the dock in Ocean Isle, NC

One of the barrier islands in the Brunswick Islands, Ocean Isle Beach, is located right between Wilmington, North Carolina, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Although there are plenty of gorgeous white sand beaches on the coast of North Carolina, Ocean Isle’s beach scene is hard to match.

Often known as the “Gem” of Brunswick County, the town also offers fun ziplining, paddling, and sea turtle nesting experiences. The seaside town has an incredible variety of eats, from casual cafés to award-winning waterfront restaurants. What makes a better beach vacation than Myrtle Beach is its quiet and laid-back vibe, allowing tourists to enjoy a relaxing experience, away from crowds.