201 74th Ave N, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States | (888) 710-7049
Located directly on the beach
All rooms have kitchenettes and large flat-screen TVs
Rooms have ocean views
An on-site mini water park, lazy river, and multiple pools are popular among families
Spa features several treatment rooms
Freebies such as Wi-Fi and bike rentals
On-site dining includes a pizza parlor and beach grill
A bit removed from major attractions
Rooms are dated
Complaints of noise during peak season
Some features, such as the mini water park, are not open daily
Sand Dunes Resort & Spa is a 417-room budget hotel on Myrtle Beach with a few resort-style amenities, like multiple pools, a lazy river, a kid’s splash and play area, and a spa. The dated rooms and public areas hold this property back from achieving its full potential. However, rates are reasonable and families in particular often appreciate freebies such as bike rentals and Wi-Fi.
Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.
Scene
An overcrowded, often noisy property
From the outside, it looks like Sand Dunes Resort & Spa has it all: super low rates, multiple pools, a lazy river, direct access to the beach, on-site dining, and a spa. But often guests are disappointed by the drab, dated rooms, the removed location, and the fact that standout features -- such as the mini water park -- are not open daily.Because of its location on the beach and low nightly rates, the hotel attracts a plethora of college kids during spring break and the hot summer months. It’s also crowded during Bike Week each May, and these peak times translate to loud, crowded spaces.
Location
Located north of the main tourist attractions on Myrtle Beach
Located on the northern end of Myrtle Beach, Sand Dunes Resort & Spa is located some distance from major tourist attractions like the SkyWheel and Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, both more than five miles south. The property is also located about two miles south of the Carolina Opry. There are restaurants within walking distance, including chains like Cheeseburger in Paradise and Bonefish Grill. To fully explore the Myrtle Beach area, guests will most likely need to drive, take a taxi, or ride bicycles. The airport is about a 20-minute drive away.
Rooms
Rooms vary greatly in size and decor, but most are in major need of renovations.
Rooms at Sand Dunes Resort & Spa vary greatly when it comes to size, ranging from studios to three-bedroom suites. Some are individually owned. Decor and furnishings vary as well, with certain rooms slightly more updated in terms of appliances and furniture than others. The biggest problem is the lack of cleanliness that many guests have experienced: not enough towels, rooms not cleaned, sheets not changed, mold and mildew…the list goes on. There are also complaints of noise from rowdy partygoers depending on time of stay. Travelers looking for a family-friendly property with lots of amenities in a clean environment may want to go elsewhere if they're willing to spend a bit more. However, room perks include kitchenettes, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Features
Packed with amenities, including an on-site eatery and "Hall of Heroes" exhibit honoring members of the military
The hotel has a mini water park with waterfalls, slides, a zero-entry pool, an outdoor splash pool, and a lazy river. Guests should inquire before making reservations to find out when the water park will be available, as it's not open every day. Children can also enjoy free bike rentals.For adults, there’s an on-site spa and free access to a health club at an adjacent hotel. Guests also receive free or discounted admission to Wild Water & Wheels in Myrtle Beach, Diamondback Golf Course, O. D. Pavilion Amusement Park -- and a major discount off meals at Mango's On the Beach, the venue's restaurant. There’s also a "Hall of Heroes" exhibit, dedicated to members of the military and veterans. It houses a replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall, a Gold Dog Tag display, and a 9/11 display.
