If you're staying Vista Blue in Myrtle Beach, you're in luck—not just because of the proximity to the beach, but because you're just minutes away from some key places that can make your stay even better. Whether you’re looking to stock up on snacks, fuel up the car, a forgotten necessity, or fill a prescription, the area has everything you need without having to go far. Local Grocery Stores Kroger - 9610 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572  Just a few minutes from Vista Blue, this large grocery store is a go-to for all your essentials. Whether you need fresh produce, deli items, or beach-day supplies, Kroger has you covered. Bonus: you can order online and have your groceries delivered or pick-up for free.  https://www.kroger.com/ Walmart Super Center - 10820 Kings Rd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 A short drive away, this store will supply any forgotten items you may need to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.  Bonus:  Order online and have your items delivered or pick-up. https://www.walmart.com/ Nearby Pharmacies CVS Pharmacy - 3914 Highway 17 S Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 Offers prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, sunscreen, or anything else you forgot to pack. Convenient and well-stocked, it’s less than 10 minutes from Vista Blue. Walgreens - 7801 N Kings Hwy Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 This location offers a full-service pharmacy, health essentials, and a photo center. Great for quick pickups, and it’s close enough for a short drive on your way in or out of the area. Fuel Up: Nearby Gas Stations Circle K - 7707 N Kings Hwy Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 This location is open 24/7 and offers snacks, drinks, and clean restrooms—ideal for a quick fuel and convenience stop on your way to or from the beach. Shell - 9616 N Kings Hwy Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 Located near Kroger, this Shell station is convenient and easy to access, with plenty of pumps and a small store inside for beverages and travel needs. Medical Assistance:  Nearby Urgent Care CareNow Urgent Care - 9820 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29572 In case of a medical issue that necessitates the need of a medical professional, CareNow Urgent Care is only a short drive away from Vista Blue.  This location opens at 8 am every day of the week.  Bonus:   Book online to secure an appointment time that works with your vacation plans.   CareNow Urgent Care Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, knowing where key places to find all of your essentials will help you to fully enjoy your stay.  Vista Blue puts you within reach of both convenience and relaxation.

When traveling, relaxation is the key.  Packing a day kit helps to anticipate everyone’s needs, so you you can maximize your time relaxing.  Use this comprehensive list to help you tailor your day kit. Use this checklist to help you prepare for a relaxing and enjoyable day exploring with your loved ones.

Myrtle Beach is a sun-soaked paradise known for its 60 miles of sandy shoreline, lively boardwalk, and endless attractions. But like any popular destination, when you choose to visit can make a big difference in your experience. Whether you’re seeking peace and quiet or non-stop action, timing is everything. Here’s how to make the most of your Myrtle Beach getaway by planning your trip at just the right time. Spring (March to May): Mild Weather and Fewer Crowds If you want pleasant weather without the summer rush, spring is your time. Temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, making it ideal for outdoor activities like golfing, relaxing on the beach, or strolling the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Spring also offers several events: Myrtle Beach Marathon  (March) World Famous Blue Crab Festival  (May) Carolina Country Music Fest Kickoff Events It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to relax. Summer (June to August): High Energy, Temps, & Crowds This is Myrtle Beach’s peak season. With warm ocean temperatures and buzzing nightlife, summer delivers the full beach town experience. But it comes with packed beaches and long waits at popular spots. If you're traveling with kids, this might be your best bet due to school schedules and the abundance of family-friendly activities like: Fireworks at Broadway at the Beach Summer Nights at The Market Common Oceanfront concerts and festivals Just be sure to book accommodations early and pack plenty of patience with your sunscreen. 3. Fall (September to November): Peaceful, Picturesque, & Budget-Friendly Fall is Myrtle Beach’s best-kept secret. The crowds thin out, but the weather remains warm enough for beach days well into October. The ocean is still swimmable, and attractions remain open with shorter wait times. This is also a prime time for foodies and music lovers: Myrtle Beach Oktoberfest Pawleys Island Wine & Food Gala Atalaya Arts & Crafts Festival This an excellent option for travelers who value tranquility. 4. Winter (December to February): Quiet Charm & Holiday Spirit With average highs in the 50s and 60s, it’s ideal for golf, coastal walks, and off-season shopping. Winter is also a magical time to explore Myrtle Beach’s festive side: Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens Christmas Shows at The Carolina Opry and Alabama Theatre New Year’s Eve Fireworks and Events This is the ultimate season for a peaceful retreat or romantic getaway. Bottom Line: Timing Is Everything Whether you’re seeking quiet relaxation, family fun, or a romantic coastal escape, Myrtle Beach has something to offer year-round. To make the most of your trip, consider what kind of experience you want—and time your visit accordingly.

Whether you're in town for a beach vacation or a weekend getaway, getting around Myrtle Beach is relatively easy with several transportation options to suit every travel style. Car Rentals & Driving Best for:  Freedom to explore nearby attractions, shopping, and beaches at your own pace. Car Rental Agencies:  Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) has major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Parking:  Most beach access areas have paid or metered parking. Parking near Hibben Memorial or oceanfront parks may be limited during peak hours, so arrive early. 👉 Tip:  Look for city-operated parking apps or kiosks (like ParkMobile) to pay digitally. Public Transportation (The Coast RTA) Best for:  Budget-conscious travelers and those staying within Myrtle Beach, Conway, or Surfside. Operator:  Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority) Main Routes: Route 15N & 15S:  Run up and down Ocean Blvd. Route 16:  Serves the Grand Strand Mall and Market Common. Route 10:  Travels between Myrtle Beach and Conway (great if visiting inland). Fare:  $1.50 one-way, with discounts for seniors, students, and children. Buses:  Wheelchair-accessible and air-conditioned. Operating Hours:  6 AM – 9 PM (times vary by route) More Info:   www.coastrta.com Taxis & Rideshares (Uber / Lyft) Best for:  Short, direct trips—especially after hours or for airport transport. Availability:  Readily available in central Myrtle Beach. Wait times may vary in less touristy areas. Airport:  Rideshare pickup area is clearly marked at MYR. Fares:  Comparable to other U.S. cities but can spike during peak events or holidays. Local Taxi Companies: Myrtle Beach Discount Taxi Diamond Cab Carolina Taxi Biking Best for:  Casual beachside cruising and exploring scenic routes like the Boardwalk. Rentals:  Available from local shops like Beach Bike Shop  and Pedego Electric Bikes . Trails:  Waccamaw Neck Bikeway & Market Common trails. Bike-Friendly Areas:  Ocean Boulevard and The Market Common are popular for cyclists. Most beach access points have bike racks. Golf Carts & Scooter Rentals Best for:  Fun, local transportation especially in neighborhoods like North Myrtle Beach or Surfside Beach. Rental Shops:  Graham Golf Carts, Myrtle Beach Golf Carts. Rules: Must be 16+ with a valid license. Only allowed on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Not permitted after dark unless street-legal. Check with your rental company about city ordinances. Airport Shuttles Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): Offers rideshare, taxis, and private shuttles to major hotels and resorts. Nearby Points of Interest from Hibben Memorial Beach Area Broadway at the Beach  – 10–15 minutes drive SkyWheel Myrtle Beach  – 10 minutes Murrells Inlet MarshWalk  – 25–30 minutes south North Myrtle Beach  – 20–30 minutes north Quick Tips for Visitors Traffic:  Can get heavy during summer afternoons—plan activities in the morning or early evening. Weather:  Rainstorms pop up in the summer—check weather before biking or walking long distances. Apps to Use: Google Maps / Waze (traffic) Coast RTA App (transit tracking) ParkMobile (parking)

Easy-to-pack snacks that travel well whether you are driving or flying.

Traveling takes you away from your familiar comforts of home. However, bringing along a few essential items can enhance your overall travel experience by making it more enjoyable and relaxing. So next time you pack for a trip, consider including these items to make your travels more comfortable and pleasant. The Foldie Cost: $50 Key Features: A travel bag that folds into a small pack makes it easy to store. Large capacity for weekend trips. The bottom of the bag expands making the bag versatile for travel and packing needs. The bag is lightweight. The bag is made of water and tear-resistant fabric. There is a sleeve, allowing the bag to easily attach to a rolling suitcase. It adheres to the personal item dimensions required when flying. There is a water bottle holder on the side. There are pockets inside and outside of the bag. There is a cross-body strap that can be removed. Comments: This bag can fit quite a bit. It could hold two people's worth of clothing for a two-night trip. It is also lightweight, with many carrying options, so it is easy to move from place to place. Folding the bag can be tricky at first, but it is a key feature when not used. A great addition for all sorts of travel. Wander Plus Anti-Theft Bag Cost: $20 Key Features: Travel sling bag. Made of waterproof nylon. Adjustable shoulder strap. Slim design. Comments: This bag has four different compartments, three of which have zippers. The zippers on the front of the bag tuck in, which is a nice safety feature. The smallest pocket, which snaps closed, is a convenient place to store chapstick, sunglasses, and more. The adjustable strap is comfortable on the neck and shoulder and keeps the bag in place. The pockets are on the smaller side which will force the user to only bring the essentials. Wander Plus Neck Pillow Cost: $16 Key Features: Made of memory foam. Fits the curve of the neck. Adjustable. Ergonomic neck and chin wrap. Easily rolls up and stores. Shell is removable and washable. Made of cotton fabric. Comments: This is a very unique version of a travel pillow. It wraps firmly and comfortably around the neck which limits the amount of head movement while sleeping. In addition, the foam was thicker, so the head does not lean as much nor does it strain the neck like other travel pillows. The bag is a convenient addition ensuring the pillow stays dry and clean during travel. A worthwhile investment for those who like to sleep while traveling. Dreamsoft Travel Scarf Cost: $50 Key Features: Works as a scarf, wrap, and shawl. Can be styled in numerous ways. Made of organic cotton. Breathable and soft. Machine-washable. Comments: This is a very soft and comfortable addition to any outfit. Stylish and lightweight, it provides extra comfort and warmth when traveling. This is one of those items you never realize you need until you have one. Rinlist Travel Backpack Cost: $40 Key Features: Carry-on sized bag for flights Large capacity bag with five compartments The bag comes with two toiletry bags. Adjustable straps and thick padded back panels Provides two different handles to carry the bag Comments: The large main compartment fits clothing for several days. The bag provides many different compartments to easily pack a variety of items, which makes it extremely user-friendly. The bag expands, if needed, and stows easily under the airplane seats. An anti-theft pocket, placed at the small of the back, safely stores valuable items. BONUS ITEM Bridgette Brainna Essential Set Sexy Modest Boutique Cost: $99 Key Features: 3 pieces sold as a set.: square tank top, pants, and a cardigan Made of polyester and spandex Wrinkle-free Comes in 9 colors Comments: This outfit is extremely soft and comfortable. Comfortable enough to sleep in when needing to get on an extremely early flight the next day. The cardigan provides an essential extra layer for those who get cold easily in the AC, yet the outfit is lightweight enough to wear in the warmest of destinations. The outfit is versatile and will make you look great if you are traveling, food shopping, or going out to dinner.

Let's face it, meal planning, shopping, and cooking while on vacation are not typically what most people envision as relaxing. However, eating out, especially with children can be extremely expensive. Here we identified 5 different recipes that are easy to make and adaptable to preferences. In addition, we created a printable shopping list for each recipe, making shopping easy as well. Recipe #1 Beef Bibimbap Rice Bowls This 12-ingredient recipe takes longer to prep than it does to cook, around a total of 30 minutes. Each person eating can specially design his or her bowl to meet his or her preferences, making this delicious dish very easily adaptable. Adaptions: Change the beef to ground chicken or turkey meat to match eating preferences. Purchase gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate allergies. Limit the use of sriracha sauce to control the level of spice. Leave the sriracha sauce on the side for each individual to control the spice level in the dish. Substitute the white rice for brown rice. Recipe #2 Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Sausage Pan Dinner This simple meal uses one sheet pan. It can take a while to cook, so prepping before leaving during the day, and then throwing it in the oven while you shower and relax would make this meal an easy meal to make. Adaptions: Substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of the sausage. Use fresh garlic instead of the garlic powder. Use fresh onions, or leave them out. Recipe #3 Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl This is a very delicious meal that satisfies even the toughest critics. This meal is very low prep, is easy to make, and cooks quickly. Adaptations: Use pre-made teriyaki sause. Leave out one of the vegetables, or leave them on the side for people to add to their bowls as they desire. Use Toasted Sesame oil when cooking the vegetables. Substitute the turkey with ground beef. Leave out the ginger, garlic, or green onion, based on taste. Recipe #4 Chicken Fried Rice This simple dish will easily become a fan favorite. It cooks quickly and with minimal ingredients. Adaptations: Substitute brown rice for the white rice. Leave. the sriracha on the side for those who are interested. Substitute the chicken with pork, shrimp, or vegetables. Leave the egg on the side. Use gluten-free soy sauce to accommodate allergies. Use only one of the oils, toasted sesame oil provides more flavor. Recipe #5 Toasted Rice Bowl Recipe This flavorful dish is easy to make and does not take too long. Adaptations: Leave the corn on the side. Change the red bell pepper to an orange or yellow bell pepper. Limit the amount of chili flakes used to control the spice. Use brown rice instead of white rice. Shopping Lists The last thing anyone wants to do, while on vacation, is spend more time than necessary wandering around a supermarket trying to figure out what is needed. Even worse is possibly forgetting a key ingredient and making a return trip. To avoid all of that inconvenience and frustration, a shopping list has been created for each one of the recipes. This easy-to-print or read-on-your-mobile device list will make a shopping trip efficient. Happy Cooking! Please share any of your favorite recipes in the comments section.

Based on research completed by the Institute for Applied Positive Research, 97% of those asked said they feeling happier having a trip planned. In addition 80% of the respondants said they feel happier if they have a trip planned in the next six months. In essense, planning and going on vacation brings us joy. Likewise, in an article from Allina Health, going on vacation positively impacts our health is severn different areas, including, stronger familial relationships, improved mental health, and an increase in motivation. With so many reasons to plan and book a get-a-away, there are some aspects of going on vacation that can make the process stressful. Whether it is due to feeling overwhelmed by not knowing where to start or stressed by the thought of forgetting something, packing is one of those things that many people resist and procrastinate doing. Using a standardized packing list of the key essentials to pack is a helpful tool so that you do not forget a thing. Use this list the way it works for your needs. Here are some suggestions to get the most benefit: Print one list for each adult that is traveling. Cross off the items you do not need to pack OR highlight the items you do want to pack. Designate an area to gather all of the items you are planning on brining. Check off items as you gather them. Packing for Kids? Allowing your children to be a part of the packing process gives them a sense of control, builds their independence, and grows their self-confidence. Use this standard packing list to help your children pack for themselves. Some suggestions: Print one for each child. Circle the items your child should pack and cross of the items they should not pack. Have your child collect the items in one central location so that you can check through it before the items are packed.