Avista Resort

The two imposing towers of Avista Resort are curved toward the ocean to allow for many condos to get full ocean views. Inside, the lobby is small with concentric shapes in the ocean-colored rugs and ceiling accents. Only one person per room is allowed in the lobby for check in to prevent overcrowding, which may be good since there are only three velour couches on a zig-zag print rug for guests to sit. Although some of the rooms and areas are dated or have reported cleanliness issues, public spaces like the restaurant with its gray-toned chairs and carpet and the lounge with an intimate atmosphere and blue-toned walls and furniture, appear pretty modern. Families are the main clientele and can be seen congregating mostly in the pool areas.

If a quiet beach expanse is of interest, it’s worth looking at Avista Resort, located on North Myrtle Beach. For those with a car, it takes about a 30-minute drive from the hotel to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, though it’s just three blocks from Main Street, which often has fun entertainment. There are some casual dining options within a 10-minute walk away and the OD Pavilion Amusement Park takes six minutes to reach on foot. It takes three minutes by car to reach the Surf Golf & Beach Club. Barefoot Landing, a shopping mall, is a 13-minute drive away. It takes 33 minutes by car to reach the Myrtle Beach International Airport. 

The condos at Avista Resort are all individually owned, so while they feature a charming design, some may show more wear or cleanliness issues than others. Generally, guests can expect brownish or blue carpets and white furniture that contrasts with the beige bedding and walls. Artwork varies from generic abstract or beachy prints. The standard amenities among the condos include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and kitchens with stoves, fridges, microwaves, sinks, coffeemakers, ovens, cookware, and platter ware. Take note that not all rooms have washers, dryers, or safes, so it’s best to request those items if you need them. Bathrooms vary in size but they all have shower/tub combos, Blu toiletries, and hairdryers. All rooms have balconies, though not all have full ocean views, and none allow for smoking, even among the smoking units. Be aware that housekeeping services are limited to towel and linen changes every four days of stay.

It’s unusual for a beachfront hotel in Myrtle Beach to have fewer than five water features, and Avista Resort is no different. It has indoor and outdoor pools, lazy rivers, hot tubs, and kiddy pools. The pool is serviced by a pool bar with drinks and meals, and the kids have their own "bar" with the Kids' Shack, serving non-alcoholic frozen drinks, ice cream, and hot dogs. There’s also a seafood and American restaurant for an indoor dining experience. The lounge bar offers food and drinks. Service goes into the later hours of the evening. While condos have kitchens, travelers who don’t want to cook breakfast can enjoy a paid hot and cold breakfast buffet. Room service is available. 

There are enough amenities to please a variety of travelers from a fitness center with dated cardio and weight equipment, to three fully-equipped meeting rooms for business travelers or events. Families can enjoy free DVD rentals, free tickets to some local attractions, and kid-friendly activities in the summer. Other perks include free Wi-Fi, free covered parking, and a coin-operated laundry room.