Bay View Resort is located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, near the area’s best attractions. After getting checked in, stop by your condo to drop off luggage and get changed into swimsuits. Grab goggles, pool toys and water wings and head for the heated pool. Kids will have a blast at the children’s pool; it’s just their size. Relax in an inner tube while you float down the lazy river or unwind in the hot tub. The heated pool, children’s pool, lazy river and hot tub are all indoors so you can enjoy them even if the weather isn’t cooperating. The outdoor splash deck with fountains is perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Need an afternoon pick-me-up? You don’t have to go far; there’s a Starbucks On-Site, perfect for getting your caffeine fix. There’s also a fitness center on-site if you feel like a workout. Good news, Bay View is a beachfront resort. Slather everyone in sunblock, pull up a lounge chair and chill out with a magazine while the kids look for seashells or build the ultimate sandcastle.

Spacious One- to Two-Bedroom Condos sleep four to six guests (not including imaginary friends) with room to spare. You could even play a game (or five) of Twister if you want to. All condos have full kitchens because a full-size fridge beats a mini-fridge any day of the week – more room for snacks! Stock up on groceries at Food Lion, only a short drive from the resort. Bring the kids along to make sure that no one’s favorites are forgotten. Take advantage of the in-suite washer/dryer so that when you get home, all you have to do is unpack. While the laundry is going, let the kids choose one of the movies you brought from home to watch on the DVD player. I haven’t even told you the best part yet: the resort has daily housekeeping! That’s one thing you can cross off of your to-do list.

Fans of the late Robert Ripley (the creator of the “Believe It or Not” cartoons) will get a kick out of his collection of strange artifacts that are on display at Ripley’s Odditorium. Family Kingdom Amusement Park has almost forty rides and a water park. But wait, there’s more! Go for a ride on The SkyWheel (located at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk). At almost two-hundred feet tall, it provides the best views of the Boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean. The fully enclosed, climate controlled gondolas ensure that everyone who rides will be comfortable. Surprise the kids with a trip to The Children’s Museum of South Carolina where they can explore the interactive exhibits. The Big Bank allows children to learn about money while pretending to work at a bank. They can show off their creativity at The Imagination Playground. They will learn about the scientific method (without even realizing it!) at Water Works. It’s a win-win.