No more pencils, no more books, and no more school rules – just a summer of sand, surf and fun in the sun on the Myrtle Beach seashore. But just because the kids are out of school doesn't mean they have to stop learning. The Grand Strand puts its own twist on these “edu-tainment” options that are way more fun than the classroom:
* Aquatic Studies: Compass Cove guests can stay “on campus” and get a masters in this fun-filled field. Ride the water slides, swim in the pools and lazy river, or venture down to the beach for a more natural experience in the waves. Don't forget the field trips to Myrtle Waves and other area water parks.
* Botanical Arts: Don't let the fancy name fool you; a trip to Brookgreen Gardens is one of the most awe-inspiring courses on the Grand Strand. Located in nearby Murrells Inlet, about 15 miles south of Compass Cove, Brookgreen is the oldest and largest botanical sculpture garden on the East Coast. Check out the blooming gardens and pieces of art while the kids explore the Lowcountry Farm & Zoo. Cap the day with a sunset boat ride through the rice fields and tidal creeks.
* Driver's Education: You don't need a license for this course in Myrtle Beach, at least not at the many go-kart racing tracks on the Strand. Broadway Grand Prix, The Track, and Wild Water & Wheels are among the attractions where adults and kids can get behind the wheel for some high-speed action on the track.
* Economics: Compass Cove guests receive a complimentary Sun & Fun Rewards package that is packed with free passes and discounted tickets to some of Myrtle Beach’s top attractions. Save big and play hard.
* Lunch: All that “studying” can make a body hungry, and Myrtle Beach has you covered. Grab a bite and a drink at the on-site Compass Rose, Crow's Nest and Tiki Bar, or visit one of Myrtle Beach's many great restaurants for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Popular picks close to Compass Cove include Angelo's, Damon's, E-Noodles and just about anywhere at The Market Common.
* Marine Biology: Get up close and personal with a variety of sea life at Ripley's Aquarium. Located at Broadway at the Beach, this underwater world features sharks, stingrays and sea creatures from all over the planet all under one roof. If reptiles and land animals are more your speed, check out Alligator Adventure at Barefoot Landing, or Wacatee Zoo in nearby Socastee.
* Physical Education: There are plenty of places for play time in Myrtle Beach, but we recommend a few attractions where you can have fun and get in a workout. Rockin' Jump, which is adjacent to the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, lets kids have a blast on a rainy day in a safe, climate controlled environment. The Grand Strand also offers biking, hiking, fishing, sailing and more, so there's no shortage of opportunities to get active while having a great time.
* Science & Nature: Whether indoors or outdoors, these attractions offer lots of hands-on learning. WonderWorks at Broadway on the Beach is an interesting display of science-related attractions, while nearby Myrtle Beach State Park offers the opportunity to get out in the great outdoors and learn about the local ecology from park rangers and the education center.
* Theatrical Arts: If you love live entertainment, you've come to the right place. Myrtle Beach offers live shows at the Alabama Theatre, Carolina Opry, Legends in Concert, Medieval Times, Pirates Voyage and more. If music is up your alley, catch shows at B&C Pavilion Place, the House of Blues and free concerts at Hot Summer Nights on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Of course, you can always come to Myrtle Beach and let your mind unwind by relaxing on the beach. Either way, vacationing in Myrtle Beach in the summertime is always a smart move.
