Our Myrtle Beach Adventure at Crown Reef Resort
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We just got back from our awesome vacation to Crown Reef Resort. It was one of the most fun and relaxing vacations we've ever taken.
The Resort
My son Cam was most interested in going to the ocean. Here in Ohio, we usually go to the lake or waterpark but the ocean is a whole other place to visit! The weather was really perfect for our vacation, mid-80's, sunny and not too humid. That is one thing I love about South Carolina, the low humidity!
Crown Reef Resort recently underwent a $7.5 million renovation – with more upgrades to come. One of the major perks of the hotel is located directly on the beach, offering more than 500 oceanfront rooms. Each has a balcony, which I loved. We stayed in an Oceanfront Queen Deluxe Suite which features a bedroom with 2 queen beds, 1 sleeper sofa, 1 hideaway bed and a full kitchen. Oceanfront Queen Deluxe Suites have a maximum occupancy of 8.
The suite is set up shotgun style — you open the door from outside into the main bedroom. There is a full kitchen, which was really convenient. We made a stop at the local supermarket and stocked up on snacks and drinks. I also recommend that you bring disposable plates/silverware, paper towels, etc.
Before anything else, we had to check out the ocean and the pool. The waterpark was amazing too!
The two enclosed water slides launch from an imposing four stories high. The two-person “EXPLOSION” tube slide pumps more than 2,500 gallons of water per minute.
The second “TWISTER” slide, a one-person body slide, pumps 800 gallons of water per minute, while the “KIDZ Twister” slide sits 8 feet tall and 20 feet long. The slides and other new water features will be enclosed during cooler months and will be open aired during the summer months.
If you are headed to the beach, here is a tip: Be sure to bring beach chairs and/or towels with you as chair rental is $35/day. We found that out after we had gotten there. Plan on spending at least 1 day at the beach. I also recommend boogie boards (we got ours at Target for $10), swim goggles, etc.
And while you relax by the pool, be sure to get a cool, refreshing Hawaiian shaved ice.
The Crown Reef also has a new Town Center - Dining & Fun Zone within the hotel featuring a brightly-lit arcade, Grab 'n Go Grill & Coffee Bar (this is where the breakfast buffet is located); Swirl Ice Cream & Sweet Shop, and Loco Gecko Restaurant.
We had dinner one evening at Loco Gecko — it's a fun place with a great view. The menu included burgers, pizza, fried fish, etc. It's open for lunch and dinner, and there is a bar available as well. I recommend you try the Cajun grilled corn, so delicious!
The Town
One of the great treats of this vacation (besides the resort, ocean, pool, etc.) was going to Hard Rock Cafe for lunch. I hadn't been to a Hard Rock Cafe in awhile, the food was so good! And the atmosphere so unique, loved the pyramid.
The day before heading back home, we decided to check out Broadway at the Beach. Broadway at the Beach offers unique specialty shops, exceptional dining, award-winning attractions, fabulous nightlife and relaxing accommodations.
And another place I highly recommend for breakfast, with their over 70 omelets, was Woodhaven Pancake House. I got a cheese omelet with a side of pancakes, which Cam got waffles and Walt got this delicious French toast:
The Deals
A few more money-saving tips:
- Use the Stay + Play Free deal at VMB resorts. This special offer through spring lets guests of the resort get buy one, get one free tickets at local attractions, such as WonderWorks museum, the Alabama Theatre and Legends in Concert. These are some of the most popular activities along the Grand Strand. Use these for your adult tickets, which are the most expensive.
- Carry your VMB discount card. Guests of VMB resorts also each get a special discount card that is good for varying discounts at hundreds of Myrtle Beach restaurants, attractions, bars, shops, golf and more. Just don't forget to use it!
- Coupons for Broadway at the Beach are available on their website. Be sure to print your coupons before you head out!
The Final Word
We had an amazing time. Be sure to check out Crown Reef for your next family adventure!
A big thanks to Crown Reef for hosting us. We were offered a free hotel stay but all opinions are my own. We had a great time and can't wait to go back!
