Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, attracting millions of visitors each year with its sandy shoreline, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant nightlife. For budget travelers, finding affordable beachfront motels is a great way to enjoy ocean views without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer beach getaway, Myrtle Beach offers a wide variety of affordable oceanside accommodations.
Top 5 Affordable Beachfront Motels in Myrtle Beach
1. Sea Dip Oceanfront
Sea Dip Oceanfront offers affordable rooms and suites with direct beach access. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, free Wi-Fi, and rooms with kitchenettes, making it a great choice for extended stays.
2. Ocean Plaza Motel
Located on Ocean Boulevard, the Ocean Plaza Motel is known for its affordable rates and convenient location. Guests have access to ocean-view rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy access to local attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
3. Polynesian Oceanfront Motel
For travelers looking for simple beachside accommodations, the Polynesian Oceanfront Motel is a great choice. It offers affordable rates, ocean-view balconies, and a family-friendly atmosphere, along with indoor and outdoor pools.
4. Vancouver Motel
This family-friendly motel has a loyal following thanks to its clean rooms, friendly staff, and unbeatable oceanfront location. The Vancouver Motel is pet-friendly, making it ideal for those who want to bring their pets.
5. Sea Horn Motel
The Sea Horn Motel is a smaller, independently owned hotel offering direct beach access and affordable rates. It features outdoor pools, grills, and rooms with kitchenettes, perfect for family vacations.
List of Affordable Beachfront Motels in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
| Property | Type / Notes | Sample Rate / Room Type | Comments / Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort | Oceanfront resort with modest rooms | From US $65 for a low-rise room (2 full beds, microwave, mini fridge | Also oceanfront suites from ~$87 and higher. |
| Surfside Beach Oceanfront Hotel | Small oceanfront hotel in Surfside Beach (just south of Myrtle Beach) | Offers “relaxed affordability” and ocean views from all rooms | They emphasize value and private beach access. |
| Vancouver Motel | Modest motel (not full resort) | ~$62 / night (recently displayed low price) | May not be fully oceanfront, but in beach vicinity. |
| Aqua Beach Inn | Small, simpler property | ~$109 / night (for an ocean-adjacent stay) | It’s not a full luxury resort—more of a mid-level stay. |
| The Breakers Resort | Oceanfront resort / hotel | Listings show “oceanfront suites from ~$149 / night” | This is toward the higher end of “affordable beachfront,” especially in peak times. |
| Hotels / Oceanfront Hotels via Expedia / Travel Sites | Broad collection of oceanfront / beachfront hotels in Myrtle Beach | Some listings start around US $81 for oceanfront or ocean-view rooms | Many of these are not strictly motels but more modest hotels / resorts. |
Tips for Booking a Budget-Friendly Stay
Travel during the off-season: Rates are lower in spring and fall than in summer.
Book early: Budget oceanfront motels fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Compare amenities: Some motels include free breakfast or parking, which can save you extra costs.
Check reviews: Look for recent reviews to ensure cleanliness and service meet your expectations.
What You Can Expect
- The lowest beachfront / near-beach rooms you’ll find nowadays tend toward US $60-70 per night (for very basic accommodations, often off-peak). Sea Crest’s $65 low-rise rate is a good example.
- More comfortable rooms or true oceanfront balconies push rates into the US $80-$120+ range.
- Resorts or nicer properties (with more amenities) will often be US $130+ for oceanfront suites.
- Some of the cheaper motels may not be fully oceanfront, but “ocean-adjacent” or within a block or two—so check the map and photos carefully.
Conclusions
Budget oceanfront motels in Myrtle Beach allow travelers to enjoy the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean without breaking the bank. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo trip, these budget-friendly stays bring you closer to the sand and surf. With a little planning, you can enjoy ocean views, fun attractions, and Southern hospitality—all at a price that fits your budget.
