Summer brings warmer weather and longer days, making it the perfect time to get away. But choosing the right destination can feel overwhelming. Skip the guesswork and book a flight from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) to start your vacation planning off on the right foot. From white-sand beaches and vibrant cultural attractions to standout dining, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone. Once you arrive, you’ll see why it’s a go-to summer destination—and a standout among the many beach and coastal vacations to consider this season.
Beach and Coastal Vacations
The U.S. offers an impressive range of beach and coastal getaways ideal for summer, with Myrtle Beach standing out as a favorite. Whether you’re taking in ocean views from the iconic SkyWheel or swimming in the warm gulf waters of Miami, it’s hard to beat a classic beach vacation.
Destinations like Bar Harbor and Cape Cod provide a quaint, picturesque atmosphere with scenic shorelines, while spots such as Monterey and Half Moon Bay offer stunning coastal views along the Pacific. For those drawn to palm trees and surf, Coronado Beach and Santa Monica Beach are excellent choices. Along the East Coast, the Outer Banks deliver a laid-back charm, while Port Aransas and the shores of Lake Michigan offer additional options for relaxing by the water.
No matter your style, the variety of coastal experiences makes it easy to find the perfect destination for sun, relaxation and seaside fun.
City Experiences and Events
If you’re looking for a mix of city energy and ocean views, Myrtle Beach is the perfect vacation spot. From kid-friendly attractions to vibrant nightlife, the area is filled with summer events for every age and interest.
For thrill-seekers, Family Kingdom Amusement Park offers exciting rides right along the coast, where visitors can enjoy roller coasters, carnival games and ocean views all in one place. More family-friendly options include local zoos, aquariums, museums and shopping malls, making it easy to plan a full day of activities. Ripley’s Aquarium, for example, features a wide range of marine life and interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit attraction. However, these experiences aren’t just for kids, they offer entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Fans of live music will find plenty to enjoy in Myrtle Beach as well. From local bands and karaoke to DJs and waterfront performances, there’s always something happening. The area’s growing craft beer scene also provides ample opportunities to unwind, while the lively food truck scene adds even more variety to your dining options.
If your trip overlaps with the first Friday of the month, don’t miss the F1rst Friday ArtWalk. Held downtown, this event showcases the city’s vibrant art scene through galleries, restaurants and live music performances. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and connect with the creative community.
Family-Friendly Destinations and Packages
Planning a trip the whole family will enjoy isn’t always easy. Balancing time for relaxation with keeping kids entertained can be a challenge, which is why Myrtle Beach continues to stand out as a top choice. With the right planning—and the help of kid friendly vacation packages—it’s possible to create a trip everyone will love.
As mentioned above, Myrtle Beach is packed with activities for all ages. There’s no shortage of playgrounds, pools and games rooms, making it easy to keep kids active and engaged throughout your stay. Many resorts are designed with families in mind, offering on-site amenities and built-in entertainment. Dunes Village Resort features a kids’ club, waterpark and children’s menu, creating a well-rounded experience for families.
If you’re comparing destinations, options like Disney, including the Star Wars theme park and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or scenic regions like the Finger Lakes, are popular choices for family travel. You can also find seasonal events such as the Blueberry Arts Festival that add a unique element to your trip.
To simplify your search, consider using a family-friendly filter when browsing accommodations and kid friendly vacation packages. This helps narrow down options and ensures you’re booking a stay that meets your family’s needs.
Avoiding Crowds and Heat
Summer is peak tourist season at Myrtle Beach, but that doesn’t mean your vacation has to be filled with large crowds. While July travel — especially around the Fourth of July — marks one of the busiest months, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this popular destination at a more relaxed pace. Fortunately, many summer destinations in the area offer a slower pace of life, even during high-demand periods.
Myrtle Beach’s variety of getaway options is one of the reasons it stands out for family trips. For something different, consider exploring nearby state parks. Spending the Fourth of July camping under the stars can be just as memorable—and often more peaceful—than a crowded beach, while also helping you avoid the summer heat.
If you prefer a more traditional beach experience, secluded rentals provide a quieter alternative. You can also find charming, lesser-known beach towns just 20-30 minutes from the airport. No matter which option you choose for your July travel, securing early bookings is key due to the area’s popularity during the busiest month of the year.
National Parks and Nature Spots
The U.S. is home to a wide range of national and state parks that are ideal for summer visits. Iconic destinations like Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park are often at the top of travelers’ lists, offering unforgettable landscapes—from geysers and hot springs to dramatic canyons and alpine rivers.
However, you don’t have to travel far to experience natural beauty. The Myrtle Beach area is home to scenic outdoor spaces perfect for a day of exploration. Myrtle Beach State Park features peaceful shoreline views, wildflower-filled meadows and well-maintained hiking trails. The popular Yaupon and Sculpted Oak trails are especially appealing for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. It’s also a great place for wildlife spotting, with the chance to see sea turtles, birds and other coastal species.
If you prefer a more relaxed way to enjoy the outdoors, the area also offers beautiful scenic drives along the coast, allowing you to take in the views at your own pace.
Popular U.S. Summer Destinations
Myrtle Beach stands out as one of the top U.S. summer destinations thanks to its blend of vibrant nightlife, family-friendly activities and outdoor attractions. Not to mention, it’s just a 1 hour and 45-minute flight from BLV, making it an easy and convenient getaway.
Beyond Myrtle Beach, destinations like Miami and Las Vegas continue to attract travelers looking for excitement. Located just 30 miles from Fort Lauderdale, Miami is easily accessible and known for its lively beaches and energetic atmosphere. Las Vegas, another BLV destination, offers a mix of entertainment, dining and nearby outdoor adventures, making it a strong choice for summer travel.
Other popular destinations worth considering include San Diego for its coastal charm, New York for its iconic city experiences and Charleston for its historic appeal and waterfront views. For those looking to explore nature, Sedona, Lake Tahoe and Traverse City provide scenic landscapes and opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Travel Tips and FAQs
Preparing for a summer vacation takes time and effort, so it’s important to understand all the essential travel information before finalizing your plans. A well-organized planning guide can help ensure nothing is overlooked.
Once you’ve chosen your destination, start by setting a budget. Knowing how much you can spend on excursions, accommodations and dining will help guide your decisions and shape a realistic itinerary. Your budget can serve as a practical roadmap, whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or a more active experience—like a road trip or even future adventures such as hiking the canyon.
As you plan, consider which upgrades are worth the added cost. When visiting an attraction like an amusement park, skip-the-line tickets can help you make the most of your time. If you want to explore your destination more deeply, walking tours or booking private guides can provide a more enriching and personalized experience.
Your travel dates also play a key role in the planning process. Pricing, availability and crowd levels can vary depending on the time of year. For instance, Myrtle Beach is a great option for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere during the summer months. It can also be ideal for budget-conscious travelers, with roundtrip BLV flights ranging from $100–$250 throughout July 2026.
Vacation Deals and Packages
Traveling can be expensive, but finding the right vacation deals and packages can make a big difference. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or longer trips, there are several ways to make your plans more budget-friendly.
If you’re searching for deals, a useful tool to consider is Skyscanner. This travel search engine compares flights, hotels and car rentals to help you find the best options, including luxury vacation packages. It’s important to note that Skyscanner does not handle bookings directly; instead, it redirects you to other sites where you can reserve your flight and hotel package.
For frequent travelers, travel credit cards can also add value. With each trip, you can earn points toward free or discounted flights, upgrades or perks like extra nights of accommodation. At BLV, travelers can use Allegiant Always Rewards® points when booking flights. In addition to rewards, purchasing travel insurance can provide added financial security and peace of mind in case unexpected issues arise.
No matter how you plan your trip, Myrtle Beach offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and convenience. With easy access from BLV, your ideal summer getaway is closer than you think.