Known as The Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is home to lots of golf courses, wide miles-long beaches and plenty of family friendly things to do make this an affordable family vacation.

Myrtle Beach is one of the premiere resort communities in the country. The weather is fairly ideal with winters that are typically no colder than 57 degrees and summer highs that rarely exceed 90.

Much of the beachfront entertainment is free, as are several artistic and cultural events including those listed below. Summer is the best time to take advantage of these free activities.

1. The Beach – The area’s biggest attraction is the ocean. Visitors should bring beach towels, blankets, and chairs to avoid the cost of rentals.

2. Broadway at the Beach - This entertainment complex is in the center of Myrtle Beach includes street performers and a free pontoon ride for kids. Free fireworks on Tuesday nights. Feed the ducks and fish along Lake Broadway.

3. Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk - Experience nature along The Marsh Walk, which offers great views of the saltwater marsh, birds and beautiful scenery. Home to many waterfront restaurants. There is music in the air once evening rolls around.

4. Myrtle Beach festivals - Summer fests with free admission include the Sunday Fun Festival and the Beach, Boogie & BBQ Festival, which serves as the annual finale to summer. Other festivals throughout the year include the Shrimp & Jazz Fest and the Blue Crab Festival. All offer everything from Kids Zones to live music and shows.

5. Open Air Concerts – Come to the former Air Force Base in Grand Park or downtown Plyler Park to enjoy country, rock, blues, and oldies in the fresh, lakeside air.

6. Burroughs and Chapin Art Museum - Considered the Grand Strand’s home for contemporary visual art in all mediums since 1977, this museum has been a showcase for living Southern artists, including Myrtle Beach’s own Alex Powers, Dixie Dugan, and Ouida Salvo. The museum has exhibited works from some of America’s foremost names in the world of art, including those of John James Audubon, Ansel Adams and Jasper Johns. Special events are offered regularly including children’s programs. The museum is open Tuesday–Saturday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m.–4 p.m.

7. First Saturday Art Walk - Hosted by the Historic District Artists of Conway, this interactive experience is offered the first Saturday of each month. Working artists open their galleries and studios to visitors to discuss their crafts. Art Walk sights include glass-blowing and quilting demonstrations, wine receptions in galleries, and live music.

8. 4th of July Boat Parade - Decorated boats sail down the parade route with festival goers watching from equally decorated docks of the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk. The day concludes with a spectacular fireworks display in the Inlet, and awards for the best boat and dock decorations.

9. Free Fishing – There are eight fishing piers along the beach, as well as backwater creeks between Georgetown and Little River, where the crabbing is also good.