There are a few hidden gems here in the Cherry Grove area that everyone should see when they visit. At the risk of spilling our secrets and creating more crowds, we’re going to share three of them here with you.
First, there’s the beach area known as Hog Inlet. Depending on who you speak with, it can be spelled Hogg or Hog but the spelling doesn’t matter. What does is the peace that this pristine stretch of beach offers. Tucked at the very Northern end of Cherry Grove Beach, this secluded beach features views of both the tidal area and the ocean. You won’t find crowds here and you’ll want to be sure to get there early and take everything that you need because there are no stores within walking distance (or bathrooms either!). To get there, drive all the way North on Ocean Boulevard until you can’t go any further. Find a spot to park and look for the walkway (tucked between trees to the left of the condos). We promise you won’t find a prettier, more private beach here in North Myrtle Beach. Be careful though. The currents here are a bit stronger and there are no lifeguards.
Vereen Memorial Gardens is another beautiful spot to add to your list of “must sees”. Rich in history, the grounds were once owned by the Vereen family as part of a 400-acre plantation. The plantation had been in the Vereen family as far back as the colonial era. In 1972, Jack Vereen, donated 115 acres of the land to the Horry County Historical Commission. The property was first deeded to the Vereen family in 1797 when it was given to Jeremiah Vereen Jr., the descendant of French Huguenots who arrived on the North American continent in 1680. In addition to this, the park maintains historical significance for a number of other reasons. George Washington visited the land during his Southern Tour. Since during the time of his tour, there really wasn’t any connecting infrastructure or hotels, Washington’s diary notes that he stayed at the home of Jeremiah Vereen. Vereen then served as a guide for the President and his crew on their two-mile hike across the plantation as they continued on their journey. The park is also home to the Kings Highway, a waterway used during some of the country’s most historic expeditions, such as that of Lafayette in 1777. While much of the Kings Highway today has been paved over, the stretch of highway that exists in the Vereen Gardens still maintains its original appearance.
This beautiful park is filled with pathways and wooden boardwalks that take you through several pristine salt marshes and to a few small islands. You’ll enjoy an expansive view that includes the Intracoastal Waterway and the distant waterfront of Little River. The park is easy to access as it is located just off of Highway 17 on the right heading north just before you get to the North Carolina line. Dog and stroller friendly, you can bring the little ones and your fur babies for a few hours of exploration and exercise. The experience is unique and the cost? Nothing!
The third and final pick of things to do here in North Myrtle Beach, is a visit to La Belle Amie vineyard. Located just off of route 9 in nearby Little River, this beautiful vineyard is rich in history. La Belle Amie Vineyard is owned and operated by an amazing lady named Vicki. Once you meet her, you’ll have a friend for life. The vineyard began as a 38 acre family farm passed down to Vicki in 1993 when she relocated from Texas to care for her aging mom who had been born and raised on the farm. The wine and gift shop was built in 1999, in part from trees removed from the building site. Family wine making began with Vicki’s ancestors from the south of France and were passed down to their Uncle Gifford, who continued the tradition. Every year Uncle Gifford made wine from “the old grapevines.” “The old grapevines” still thrive today and consist of four large vine arbors–two of the vines are over 130 years old and the other two are about 110 years old. The grapes from these vines are used to make the grape preserves sold at the shop. (Source: https://labelleamie.com/our-story/). With daily entertainment, homemade wines, a huge gift shop, and a beautiful, setting, you can’t go wrong! Tours are available (and we highly recommend). Many daily events are free but there is a slight charge for some events. They typically reduce the admission fees if you bring canned goods to donate to the local food bank. For more information, visit their website link above.
We hope you’ll take a look at these hidden jewels in and around North Myrtle Beach. Remember, Boulineau’s is your one-stop shopping destination for everything you need for a great beach vacation here in Cherry Grove. Since 1948, we’ve been providing locals and visitors with a unique one-of-a-kind shopping experience coupled with exceptional customer service. Stop by today and experience the Boulineau’s difference. You’ll see why Boulineau’s is “where everybody goes”!
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