Under $100: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Stretching along South Carolina’s coast is this 60-mile string of pristine beaches, complete with beachfront boardwalk, the old-fashioned Family Kingdom Amusement Park and celebrity-designed golf courses. But its hidden gems are what give this summer retreat its charm.

Start your day with breakfast at Eggs Up Grill, a local landmark dishing out a menu of breakfast favorites, including signature omelets, stacks of pancakes and platters of loaded home fries. Prices are fair, so you won’t be shy to fill up.

© Todd Lipsky | Dreamstime

You can walk off your breakfast buffet along the shore of Myrtle Beach State Park. Go on a walk to scope out loggerhead sea turtles, or opt for a hike on the Sculpted Oak Trail or Yaupon Trail. Check out the official website for details on everything you can do in the park, including where to find the Nature Center.

If you happened to save some room during breakfast, you can use a few extra bucks to go on an introductory helicopter tour of the area. OceanFront Helicopters offers a two-mile ride along the beach for $20 a person.

At lunchtime, check out Farlo’s Burrito Bar to get a bang for your buck. You can’t miss the carne asada — house-marinated steak left to soak in Farlo’s special flavor and grilled fresh to order.

Brookgreen Gardens © Andrew Kazmierski | Dreamstime

In the afternoon, further explore the natural excitement of the South Carolina region at the Brookgreen Gardens. Enjoy pontoon boat rides for $8 a ticket, and be sure to explore the events calendar to see what’s happening when you go. And if you haven’t yet had your fill for an extra dose of wildlife, visit the local T.I.G.E.R.S. Preservation Station.

End your day with a meal at Atlas Tap House, a small tavern and restaurant known for its craft beer, bourbon and barbecue selection. Go for happy hour for the 10-for-$10 wings deal beginning at 10 p.m. and extending through midnight.