August 4, 2010
Golfing Myrtle Beach With Festiva Hospitality Group
Known as “The Golf Capital of the World,” Myrtle Beach, S.C., is peppered with over 120 championship golf courses that offer the true golf enthusiasts an endless array of year-round choices. Located near the heart of the Grand Strand just minutes south of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet, Festiva Hospitaly Group’s Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation East provides luxurious accommodations while offering highly discounted rates at 8 area golf courses for any Festiva member staying at the resort.
While on vacation at Ellington Festiva members will enjoy the privilege of green fees being waived and only having to pay the cart fee of either $25 or $30 to play a full round on one of 8 unique courses. With the average green fees ranging from $65 to $95, golfers will benefit greatly from these savings while still having the pleasure of selecting from a variety of courses and playing levels. Located on Wachesaw Plantation East, Ellington is ideally nestled only a few minutes from each of the 8 courses.
Considered year-in and year-out as one of the top courses in the Myrtle Beach area, Wachesaw Plantation East was built on a former rice plantation amongst mossy oaks
and pristine lakes. The championship course was designed by award-winning architect Clyde Johnston and features rolling mounds and hills giving the 18-holes a Scottish-flair. The nationally televised course offers five sets of tees to ensure an enjoyable game for all ages and skill levels. Wachesaw East has also been mentioned on multiple “best of” lists over the past 14 years in such publications as Golf Digest, Golfweek and Golf for Women. In 2007 Wachesaw East was named “Course of the Year” by the Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association, a distinguished honor amongst such a rich golfing community.
Also located in the Southern Grand Strand area are Indian Wells and the International Club, each with their own distinct list of accolades. The International Club, caressed by lakes, pine forest and pristine wetlands, has received a 4 Star Rating from Golf Digests “Best Places to Play” in addition to being honored with the “Best Greens in Myrtle Beach.” Another option is Indian Wells, named “2004 Course of the Year” by the Myrtle Beach Golf Course Owners Association and home to one of the Grand Strand’s Dream 18, a list of the toughest holes in the area. Both courses also offer 5 sets of tees to accommodate all levels of play.
Below is a list of all golf courses where Festiva Hospitality Group members enjoy golf privileges:
● Wachesaw East - Murrells Inlet, S.C.
● International Club - Murrells Inlet, S.C.
● Indian Wells - Garden City, S.C.
● Wicked Stick - Surfside Beach, S.C.
● Indigo Creek - Murrells Inlet, S.C.
● Heron Point - Myrtle Beach, S.C.
● Island Green – Myrtle Beach, S.C.
● Founders Club – Pawleys Island, S.C.
With over 120 golf courses, the majority of which are public, Myrtle Beach is a true paradise for the avid golfer. For more information on golfing in the area visit the Myrtle Beach Golf Association at www.mbga.com. For reservations visit Ellington online and for information about becoming a member with Festiva Hospitality Group call toll-free 866-229-0022.
July 16, 2010
Huntington Beach State Park
South Carolina’s Huntington Beach State park is 2,500 acres of coastal preserve nestled just south of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet. Comprised of beaches, marshland, Atalaya Castle and an Educational Center, Huntington Beach State Park is ideal for spending a day away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Named after Archer M. Huntington, the park is home to Atalaya Castle where the Huntingtons spent the winter months. Atalaya, meaning “watchtower” in Spanish, is named for the 40 foot tall brick water 
tower inside the courtyard that dominates the 30 room property. The castle, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built during the Great Depression using only local construction workers and is designed after Moorish architecture. Huntington, a noted scholar and philanthropist, donated the castle and land to the state after his death. Every September for the past 35 years Atalaya has been host to the prestigious Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival which boasts over 100 artists.
Nature lovers will enjoy the Educational Center, featuring a saltwater touch tank with loggerhead turtles,
a baby alligator and many other aquatic species. The center was built to help educate visitors on the importance of human interaction with the critical ecosystems that are found along the coastal area. An array of programs are also available at the center such as Birding, a class that teaches beginners the basics of the hobby. With more than 300 recorded species the park is considered one of the top spots on the East Coast for birding. Another favorite program is Feeding Frenzy, which provides visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a sting ray and other sea creatures.
Huntington Beach State Park also has 3 miles of private beach access that are perfect for sun bathing, swimming, fishing and a leisurely stroll. The beach is typically not as crowded as the public beaches north in Myrtle Beach giving visitors a chance to truly relax. In addition the the beach hikers can also enjoy a 2 mile trail around Sandpiper Pond where alligators are regularly spotted. Picnic tables and grills are also located on the grounds.
Huntington Beach State Park is open Saturday – Thursday 6 a.m.- 6 p.m. and Friday 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. There are varying admission charges for the park, castle and different programs. For information call (843) 237-4440 or visit online. For lodging check out Festiva Hospitality’s resort, Ellington at Wachesaw Plantation in Murrells Inlet. Guests staying at Ellington receive free passes to Huntington Beach State Park.
July 8, 2010
Shopping in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, S.C., is a vacation destination overrun with a variety of entertaining activities for visitors to the area. Shoppers will find the area to be a perfect paradise overflowing with a multitude of options ranging from outlet malls to local specialty shops and of course the shopping and entertainment complexes.
One of two megaplexes in the area Barefoot Landing is located on a 27-acre lake in North Myrtle Beach and is compiled of countless shops, numerous restaurants and multiple entertainment venues all accessible by a boardwalk. While the hardened shoppers spend their time amongst the endless stores and boutiques others can catch a show at one of Barefoot Landings venues such as the Alabama Theatre or House of Blues. Also located in the shopping complex is Alligator Adventure, a zoo specializing in reptiles that features over 700 alligators and crocodiles.
The second shopping megaplex is Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach. The 350-acre
complex is home to over 100 specialty shops laid out over three distinct villages that provide the consumer with a plethora of options. Like Barefoot Landing, Broadway at the Beach also offers a variety of other entertainment options for the non shopping fanatic such as putt putt, IMAX Theatre and an aquarium. Visitors should plan to spend all day at either Barefoot Landing or Broadway at the Beach as both are filled to the brim with shops and activities.
For those who are more interested in saving money do not worry, the Myrtle Beach area can accommodate your outlet shopping needs. With a location in North and South Myrtle beach the Tanger Outlet Center is a must visit for the bargain shopper. The outlet centers are home to such major name brands as Polo, Liz Claiborne, Banana Republic and many more. Since all the stores are stocked with overstock and out of season clothes the prices are highly discounted, making the outlet malls a must visit for shopping aficionados.
In addition to these great shopping options the area is also home to a multitude of small 
communities only minutes outside Myrtle Beach like Little River, Windy Hill and Murrells Inlet, all of which boasts a variety of locally own shops and galleries. Stroll down the Marsh Walk in Murrells Inlet which offers views of wildlife then stop at the Lazy Gator, a unique gift shop with over 15,000 square feet of shopping paradise. After visiting the shops along the Marsh Walk be sure to stop at one of the many restaurants.
Myrtle Beach is a shoppers haven and offers a large and varied assortment of options. While visiting the area check out one of Festiva Hospitality’s resorts or go to www.festiva.travel for more information on accommodations.
June 18, 2010
Myrtle Beach Live Entertainment
With 13 million visitors a year, Myrtle Beach, S.C., is one of America’s top destinations for a family vacation and it is easy to see why. Widely known for its miles of beaches, large selection of world class golf courses, shops and seafood restaurants, the town has plenty to offer. While the area is well known for each of these Myrtle Beach is now also considered a great destination for its variety of year-round live entertainment. With an array of shows including music, dance, comedy, dinner theater and major concerts the area has something for everyone.
It all began in 1986 when entertainer and entrepreneur Calvin Gilmore opened the Grand Strand’s first major theater, The Carolina Opry. The theater presents three award winning shows: The Carolina Opry, Good Vibrations and The 
Carolina Opry Christmas Special, all of which have been highly acclaimed by such publications as The New York Times, CNN and USA Today. Each show consists of a collection of live musical performances and has been voted Best Live Show in Myrtle Beach a multitude of times.
With over 2,600 seats the Palace Theater is home to a variety of tribute acts, concerts and their smash hit Le Grand Cirque Adrenaline. The show is a spellbinding event with elaborate costumes, state-of-the-art lighting and acrobats that fly high above the spectators and has been compared to the world famous Cirque du Soleil. Be sure to contact either The Carolina Opry or The Palace Theater ahead of time to reserve your tickets as shows often sell out.
If you’re trying to kill two birds with one stone then be sure to check out either Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede or Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. Both locations provide guests with a large four course meal while they are 
treated to an extravagant live show. The Dixie Stampede is a western style show with dancers, cowboys, wagons and comedians while Medieval Times hearkens back to the days of dragons, castles, jousting knights and fair maidens. Either is a viable option for a fun filled night with the family!
For music lovers the Grand Strand also provides a medley of choices. The Alabama Theater focuses on country and western music and has featured such legends as George Jones, Loretta Lynn, Charlie Pride and the auditorium’s namesake, Alabama. If you have ever missed your favorite artist in concert 
then be sure to check out Legends in Concert, the place to go for the industry’s best impersonators, all of which sing in their natural voice. Some performances include the Beatles, Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. For live bands, The House of Blues regularly hosts jazz, blues, gospel and rock artists both local and from across the country. Be sure to attend the Gospel Brunch held each Sunday from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. The $20 price of admission includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and the soul wrenching gospel music of the House of Blues Gospel Band.
With a mixture of live shows the Myrtle Beach Grand Strand has become a hot spot of family entertainment. For more information on the shows visit www.mymyrtlebeach.com and for accommodations in the area check out www.festiva.travel.
December 7, 2009
Nights of a Thousand Candles
Christmas is near and the Lights are here! Brookgreen Gardens’ Night of a Thousand Candles is here. Brookgreen’s most popular annual event has been named one of the Top 20 events in the Southeast by the Southeastern Tourism Society. There are more than 4,000 candles lit each night and 145,000 mini and traditional lights on display.
Brookgreen Gardens is a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve just south of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. The 9,200-acre property includes several themed gardens with American figurative sculptures, the Low Country Zoo, and trails through several ecosystems on the property.
The ‘Night of a Thousand’ visitors will stroll through the gardens and view spectacular lighting displays along with hand-lit candles that illuminate garden paths.
Visitors will walk through the gardens to view the light and candle displays as well as open entertainment. Visitors are recommended to wear comfo
rtable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
Adult tickets are $10, kids ages 6-12 are $4 and children under 5 are free!
If you are in the area and would like to hear about this event call the Festiva Resorts Welcome Center (843)357-5239. Don’t forget to ask about our gift packages; all you have to do is meet the qualifications!
November 21, 2009
Oysters!
When someone mentions Oysters, pearls often come to mind. An oyster 
Typically, oysters are harvested only during months whose names contain the letter “r.” Click here to read an interesting history of oysters.
Oysters can be cooked different ways! 
Scalloped, 
Sixth Annual Murrells Inlet Oyster Roast at Spuds Restaurant on the waterfront on November 21, 2009. It was a very good turn out the weather was great!!!
If you are in the Myrtle Beach area and would like information on where to pick local oysters you can call the Festiva Resorts welcome Center at (843) 357-5233. Don’t forget to ask about our promotions in which you can receive a Visa card for taking a presentation for a minimum of 90 minutes.
October 28, 2009
Is Elvis really in the building?
Legends In Concert was founded in 1983 in Las Vegas, Nevada, and now is active in eight cities across the country. It has been voted the number one live tribute show in Myrtle Beach, and is surely an experience you will never forget. The acts change at least four times a year, so audiences experience a brand-new performance each season.
New Line-Up for Nov 2 – Dec 31
Legends In Concert is located just six miles south of the center of Myrtle Beach in Surfside Beach at the Surfside Beach Theater, also known as the “family beach.” The theater is located at 301 Business Hwy 17 South, Surfside Beach SC, 29575.
If you need help with directions you can call the Festiva Resorts Welcome Center (843)357-5233. Don’t forget to ask about how you can get 2 Adult Legends tickets for free. All you have to do is attend a minimum 90-minute presentation. Mention Code: Legends.
October 20, 2009
Let’s Go Shopping!
Everyone loves to shop, so why not visit the Tanger Outlet! The outlet stores have all of your department 
name brand items at outlet prices, and with the wide variety of options, you’ll find something for the whole family to enjoy.
The Outlet Center derives its name from founder Stanley K. Tanger who in 1981 opened the Burlington Manufacturer’s Outlet Center in Burlington NC. Tanger spent thirty years running a successful shirt manufacturing business, Tanger/Creighton Inc. in Reidsville, North Carolina, where he produced private label shirts for department stores and uniform shirts for the military.
His initial effort included opening five small “outlet stores” for his company where he sold excess inventory directly to consumers at a discounted rate.
Over the course of the next 28 years, Tanger built his company to its current portfolio of 33 outlet centers in 22 states across the nation. The company has ownership interests in or management responsibilities for approximately 10.2 million square feet of gross leaseable space.
There are two Tanger locations in the Grand Strand area.
4635 Factory Stores Blvd Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
10835 Kings Road Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
If you need directions to one of the locations call the Festiva Resorts Welcome Center at (843)357-5233.
The Tanger Outlet has more than 100 different outlet stores which are owned and operated by the most popular, brand name manufacturers. Some of the stores include:
- Coach
- Ecko Unlimited
- Ralph Lauren
- Reebok
-
Nike
- Vans
- Nautica
- Timberland
- and many more.
After a long day of shopping hunger starts to arise. The Tanger Outlet offera a variety of restaurants:
Ben & Jerry’s
Famous Wok
Harry & David Le Gourmet Chef
Nutty Bavarian
Five Guys Burgers and Fries
Fresh Italian Kitchen
Fudgery
and many more!
If you are in the Grand Strand area and would like to go to the Tanger Outlets Call our Festiva Resorts Welcome Center at (843) 357-5233, ask about our Free Visa Card promotion and mention Code Tanger. All you have to do is go through a presentation of a minimum of 90 minutes. Call today to pick up your Visa Card!!!!!!!
October 16, 2009
Feeling Lucky?
The Sun Cruz Casino Boat has more ways to win! If you are in the Myrtle Beach area and are looking for some slots or table games this is the place to be. The casino boat sails twice daily from Little River, SC at BW’s Marina. 
This is an exciting Vegas style cruise, with Vegas style action, live entertainment, loose slots, and all of your favorite table games. If you don’t gamble there is a great view of the ocean. You can watch the sunset and let the wind blow through your hair. Best of all there is a mouth-watering full course lunch or dinner.
If you need transportation there is a shuttle bus service call (843) 280-2933 or you can contact Festiva Resorts Welcome Center (843) 357-5233 to get your free meal and $5 Casino Cash!
The Sun Cruz Casino is running a promotion for the 12 millionth passenger who will set sail sometime in October! That lucky passenger will receive:
- $1,200 CASH!
- VISIT EVERY PORT AND RECEIVE FREE HOTEL AND MEALS! $100 FOR EACH CRUISE IN Every Port!
The Casino has many different Games to play!!!!
- Over 375 Vegas-Style Slots, from 5¢ to $25—Featuring Over 60 of Your Favorite Pot O’ Gold Machines!
- Earn Cash Back Points on All Slot Play!
- Table Games Bets From $2 To $500!
- Real Blackjack!
- Live Poker—Texas Hold ’Em, Let It Ride & 3-Card Poker!
- Exciting Roulette!
- Thrilling Craps (5x Odds)!
-
Sportsbook Wagering!
-
Full-Course Lunch or Dinner!
- Free Drinks While Gaming!
- Live Entertainment!
- Special Group Packages Available!
http://www.suncruzcasinos.com/myrtlebeach/
Gambling Rules
- You must be 18 years old to board
-
You must be 21 years old to consume alcohol
-
You must have a Goverment – issued id to board vessel
Feel free to stop by Festiva Resorts Welcome Center and pick up a Fun Book for the Sun Cruz Casino Retail Value of $50 all you have to do is complete on of or presentations for a minimum of 90 minutes. Just Call (843)357-5233
October 15, 2009
Halloween Is Just Around The Corner!
Everyone is excited that Halloween is just around the Corner, and that it falls on a Saturday this year. No school for the kids so this day they can start early. Halloween is a day we can all dress up and get our faces painted and carve pumpkins. Festiva Resorts has provided some safety tips below to help adults and kids have a safe and great Halloween night!
Safety Tips!
- Make sure your kids are secured in the appropriate child safety seat or safety belt for their age and size.
- Children should go out during daylight hours unless accompanied by an adult.
- Instruct kids not to eat candy until brought home and examined by a parent.
- Make sure your child carries a flashlight, glow stick or has reflective tape on their costume to make them more visible to cars.
This year there is a Halloween Costume Party at Broadway at the Beach!
Time: 8pm
1325 Celebrity Circle
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
-Trick or Treating, 5pm-7pm at participating merchants
-Adult Halloween costume party in Celebrity Square, 8pm
-Costume Contest in Celebrity Square, 10pm with DJ Mixon Dixon. Cash prizes totaling $5,000. Free admission to the clubs with costume
-BOOVILLE at the Pavilion Nostalgia Park, 12pm-7pm. FREE professional photos of costumed kids.
Festiva Resorts is located in the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Plaza in Murrells Inlet. If you need help preparing for Halloween stop in or give us a call. Don’t forget to ask about the free Visa debit card. All you have to do is preview our property for a minimum of 90 minutes. You can spend our visa card anywhere visa cards are accepted!
Just Call (843) 357-5233 and ask how. Mention Code Halloween!
