Your Itinerary for a Myrtle Beach Day Trip from Pawleys Island

Tucked away in the serenity of Pawleys Island, Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort offers a coastal escape unlike anywhere else. This peaceful retreat, surrounded by oak-lined streets and quiet beaches, is ideal for rest and relaxation. But if you’re craving a bit of excitement, a touch of city buzz, entertainment, shopping, and dining, Myrtle Beach is just a 45-minute drive away. Close in distance but worlds apart in atmosphere, you can enjoy the best of both: a day full of thrills, then a peaceful return to the calm shores of Pawleys Island in the evening.

Morning: Hit the Road and Dive into Adventure

8:30 AM – Depart Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort

Fuel up with a coffee from Starbucks on-site, and hit US-17 N for a scenic drive toward Myrtle Beach. The journey takes about 45 minutes and offers glimpses of Lowcountry charm along the way.

9:15 AM – Arrive at Broadway at the Beach

Start your day where the action never stops—Broadway at the Beach. This entertainment complex has something for every traveler:

  • Ripley’s Aquarium is an underwater wonderland filled with colorful marine life, touch tanks, and the famous glidepath tunnel where sharks swim overhead.

  • WonderWorks adds an interactive twist to science, featuring 100+ exhibits that engage your mind and thrill your senses—from hurricane simulators to a ropes course suspended in air.

Take your time here—Broadway at the Beach is a destination in itself.

Midday: Shop & Savor the Flavor

12:00 PM – Explore The Market Common

Next, drive 10 minutes south to The Market Common, an upscale shopping and lifestyle district. Designed like a charming small town, it boasts walkable streets, boutique stores, and locally-owned shops. Whether you’re after unique home goods, stylish clothing, or handmade gifts, you’ll find something worth bringing home.

Stroll around, pop into a bookstore or grab a quick espresso from a trendy café. It’s a great place to unwind in between stops.

1:00 PM – Lunch at Hook & Barrel

Just a short drive away is Hook & Barrel, a standout spot in Myrtle Beach’s culinary scene. With a focus on fresh, sustainable seafood, this restaurant balances elegance with a relaxed coastal vibe.

Try the she-crab soup (a regional favorite), seared scallops, or their wood-grilled catch of the day. For non-seafood lovers, they offer perfectly cooked steaks and garden-fresh vegetarian options too.

Afternoon: More Fun & Finds

2:30 PM – Coastal Grand Mall

Whether you’re a serious shopper or a casual browser, the Coastal Grand Mall offers a change of pace. With over 100 stores including Dillard’s, Belk, and H&M, it’s the perfect place to pick up vacation essentials, gifts, or just cool off in the A/C.

Grab a smoothie or snack at the food court before heading to your next destination.

4:00 PM – Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

No visit to Myrtle Beach is complete without walking the iconic boardwalk. This 1.2-mile stretch offers more than just sand and surf, it’s alive with the sounds of live music, the scents of boardwalk fare, and the sights of classic beach amusements.

Snap a photo at Plyler Park, grab an ice cream cone, or try a round of mini-golf at one of the themed courses lining the coast. It’s a perfect cap to your Myrtle Beach adventure.

Evening: Dinner and Homeward Bound

5:30 PM – Dinner at The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood

For dinner, go big and go Southern. The Original Benjamin’s Calabash Seafood is a buffet legend in these parts. With over 170 items, everything from crab legs and fried oysters to Southern comfort sides, it’s a seafood lover’s dream. The nautical décor and family-friendly atmosphere make it a fun and filling final stop.

7:00 PM – Return to Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort

As the sun begins to set, drive back to the peaceful retreat of Pawleys Island. After a day full of sights, sounds, and flavors, there’s no better feeling than returning to the calm, quiet charm of your home base.

Summerhouse pool

End Your Day Where It All Begins

Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or solo, Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort is the perfect starting point (and ending point) for your Myrtle Beach adventures. With spacious accommodations, resort-style pools, on-site dining, and access to world-class golf and beaches, it’s your ideal escape. Book your stay today and discover why so many choose Litchfield as their peaceful place by the sea! 

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