Myrtle Beach is a popular destination that drew 18.2 million visitors in 2024, but many travelers are looking for more than just sun and sand. If you’re ready to explore beyond the beach and Boardwalk, this guide will lead you to Myrtle Beach’s promising grown-up drink scene, featuring refreshing cocktails, locally sourced spirits, and delightful beer options.
Brazilian Cachaça and Craft Cocktails in Downtown Myrtle Beach
When wandering through downtown Myrtle Beach, don't miss out on the chance to sample Brazilian cachaça, the sugarcane spirit that forms the foundation of caipirinhas. This unique drink offers a refreshing option, perfect for the hot coastal climate. Grab a seat at one of the lively local bars that specialize in craft cocktails, where local mixologists are eager to impress with their inventive takes on classic drinks, often featuring regional ingredients.
Must-Try Cocktail Spots
- The Chemist offers a laboratory-inspired atmosphere where expertly crafted cocktails take center stage. Try their take on the classic caipirinha for a twist on the traditional.
- Tidewater Grill is known for its laid-back vibe and a menu of creative cocktails that pair perfectly with their seafood offerings.
Local Beer Crawl in the Grand Strand
Myrtle Beach’s craft beer scene is burgeoning, making it an inviting stop for beer enthusiasts. Numerous breweries dot the landscape, each offering their own unique spins on the craft. A local beer crawl from RipTydz Oceanfront Grill to Grand Strand Brewing Company allows you to taste the local flavors with beach views included.
Suggested Stops
- RipTydz Oceanfront Grill: A lively spot with a fantastic outdoor atmosphere, perfect for sipping beer while enjoying the sea breeze. Look for specials on local brews.
- Grand Strand Brewing Company: Home to memorable ales and a welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to ask about their seasonal releases!
Twelve 33 Distillery: Crafting Local Spirits
A culinary gem in Little River, just a short drive from the hustle of Myrtle Beach, is Twelve 33 Distillery. Here, they focus on crafting spirits using locally sourced materials, including their unique take on rum and whiskey. A distillery tour is highly recommended, as it provides insight into the brewing and distilling process, often concluding with tastings that showcase their artisanal approach to spirit-making.
Experiences Offered
Participating in one of their tastings or distillery tours offers a chance to learn about South Carolina’s distilling traditions while indulging in premium spirits that tell a story of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Best Cocktails to Pair with Myrtle Beach Seafood
No visit to Myrtle Beach is complete without enjoying the delicious seafood options available throughout the area. Pairing your meal with the right drink can elevate the dining experience immensely. Cocktails featuring fresh local ingredients and flavors (think lime, basil, and mango) can make an amazing accompaniment to everything from lowcountry shrimp to freshly caught fish.
Top Recommendations
- Pineapple Ginger Mojito: Perfect alongside fried calamari or shrimp dishes. The refreshing blend of pineapple with a ginger kick rounds out any seafood platter.
- Spicy Cucumber Margarita: This cocktail adds a fun twist to your tacos or grilled fish, balancing heat and coolness in every sip.
Conclusion
Myrtle Beach may be famous for its sandy beaches and boardwalk, but just a stone's throw away, you'll find a diverse drinking scene full of craft cocktails, local beers, and expertly distilled spirits. Step beyond the ordinary as you sip on Brazilian cachaça, explore local craft beers, and indulge in thoughtfully crafted cocktails that pair exquisitely with fresh seafood. This getaway might just turn into a delicious tradition of discovering local tastes that make you feel like a local every time you visit.
