If you think back to your childhood and remember some of the things that made family beach days so special, you may surprise yourself. If you're like me, then as an adult you'll agree that a day like this one on the beach (see below photo) is pretty close to perfect. The sun is shining, there are only a few other people around, and there's not a cloud in the sky. South Carolina has 187 miles of coastline and usually there's plenty of room for everyone. Right?

To the contrary, when we were kids the beach was probably a little more crowded than we remember - or we simply didn't notice. But the fact of the matter is that in today's world, during certain times of the year and on holidays it can be more difficult than ever to relax for long periods of time on the beach.

This beach has the perfect solution...an amazing boardwalk that provides ample opportunity to change the scenery for part of the day (or night).

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade spreads along the beach for 1.2 miles of oceanfront "distraction" from that busy beach. Or, just head there and skip the beach altogether!

You'll find a variety of fun and games and restaurants and shops here that are guaranteed to make you feel like a kid again - or at least like you're back in the 60s, 70s, or 80s.

Of course if skee ball and air hockey aren't your thing (anymore), then it's always fun just looking around...

People watching can be fun too. You just never know what you'll see on the boardwalk.

Another great thing about heading to this beach is...when you get hungry or thirsty...

there are loads of restaurants and eateries right on the beach! You simply can't go wrong.

Feel like just taking a walk away from all the people running around down by the waves? The boardwalk does have some quiet passages along the way.

And the good thing is you'll still be able to see the ocean!

You'll really feel like a kid again at night along the boardwalk. From June 12 - Sept 4, you can take in the boardwalk's free Hot Summer Nights event every Monday through Saturday night.

Featuring live music and special events including fireworks every Wednesday night at 10:00 p.m., Hot Summer Nights along the boardwalk is a blast. Get more details on their offical Facebook page.

A variety of events take place each year on the boardwalk, including Native Sons Salt Games which took place the first weekend in June...

...and the Carolina Country Music Festival taking place June 9-11, featuring Kenney Chesney, Jason Aldean and Darius Rucker. A whole list of other performers and more information can be found at this link.

Don't forget a ride on the famous Sky Wheel - where you'll be able to see the coastline for miles.

For good old-fashioned beachfront fun in South Carolina, you just can't beat the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade.

Getting there: You'll find various entry points to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk from 1st Avenue North all the way to 16th Avenue North.

What are your fondest - and nicest - memories of Myrtle Beach? We'd love to know in our comments!

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