I had seen the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes on TripAdvisor and had tentatively reserved it for this year's July 4th week. We will be staying in Myrtle Beach for a national dance competition and I wanted to find a place that would allow us to get away from all of the craziness of Myrtle Beach and enjoy some peace and quiet. We had stayed at the Marriott Grande Dunes last summer and, while it was nice, it was so large and crowded that I was interested in finding somewhere else for this year.
I had the opportunity to travel to Myrtle Beach this past week on business and decided to take the opportunity to check out the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. Granted, it is the off season, but I have to say, this place appears to have everything I was looking for and more. Situated on the Intercoastal Waterway, it is close enough to the action and yet far enough away to be soooo relaxing, calm, and peaceful. The room (a Mediterrian Club Suite) complete with gas fireplace, was so large that I actually got tired walking from one end to the other! I had a gorgeous view of the marina and intercoastal waterway. I could also see Rt 17 (and heard it a little) but it was not distracting. There is a Lowe's Foods right across the road making it easy to fill up the very nicely equipped kitchen. There is a full size fridge with water and ice in the door, granite countertops - just gorgeous. The bathroom is very nice - almost as nice as our newly renovated dream bathroom at home.
Now, the food. OMG. It was restaurant week and so I got an amazing three course meal for $28. The appetizer was an asian shrimp dish - the most melt-in-your-mouth shrimp I think I've ever had. Very fresh - my mouth is watering just thinking about it. Tile fish was the main entree - fresh off the dock at Murrell's Inlet. And the desert - the most amazing creme brule I have ever had with a chocolate chip biscotti (I took it back to my room for later) and topped with frosted flakes covered in dark chocolate. I had to stop myself from licking the plate. Breakfast the next day was just as good - a gorgeous fruit plate and smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a bagel. And, the dining staff at dinner was particularly attentive. It was like I was dining in their own home - very, very welcoming and clearly proud of the experience they were providing. And, they should be! I didn't go there, but there is also a Ruths Chris Steakhouse right next door. Very upscale.
Parking is free which is a bonus over the Marriott Grande Dunes (they charge $12/day). Something a little unique is that there is no check in desk. Instead, there are two desks in the lobby where you sit to check in and out. Very homey.
Now I can't wait to go back this summer! We have a two bedroom, two bath suite and I know it will be a great place to relax and unwind during a very stressful competition week.
Oh, and one thing more thing to note. Once you have stayed there once you are entitled to a 20% discount for a return stay with some blackout dates (like the summer). But, this is still a great deal for a very beautiful property.
I am not a big Myrtle Beach fan as I find many places to be tired and run down and overall pretty trashy. However, this is a gem. I'm almost afraid to tell you about this for fear that it will make this place more popular. But, I can't keep it to myself! Try the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes. If you don't mind not being right on the ocean (but instead a short shuttle ride away) and are OK with an Intercoastal view instead of a beach view - then this will be a GREAT place to relax and be pampered.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
24 February 2012
Hi GHRNC! We appreciate your detailed review of the Marina Inn and thank you for reserving a room with us this coming summer. Yes, for folks that are looking for a place that is a step away from the heavy activity of Myrtle Beach, the Marina Inn is the perfect spot yet we are still close to all of the top activities and attractions. Thank you for appreciating the fresh & unique options that are available at WaterScapes, our award winning, sustainable dining restaurant. There is always something new and unique on the menu! We are very glad that you found your gem in Myrtle Beach. We look forward to your visit with us again this summer!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC