If you’re dreaming of salty air, crashing waves, and a budget-friendly stay, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, offers budget-friendly beachfront motels and small resorts that don’t skimp on ocean views. Below is a curated list (updated in 2025) of 10 budget-friendly beachfront (or near the beach) motels/small hotels in Myrtle Beach. Prices and availability may vary seasonally, so always check before booking.
10 Best Cheap Beachfront Motels in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
1. Sea Crest Oceanfront Resort
Although technically more of a resort than a motel, Sea Crest offers oceanfront studio rooms at very reasonable prices (starting at around $60 for an “Economy Oceanfront”).
Why it’s good: Panoramic ocean views, private balconies, kitchenettes, and a classic beach vibe.
Tip: Shared or minimal amenities compared to larger resorts.
2. Ocean Plaza Motel
Located right on South Ocean Boulevard, this is a classic oceanfront motel with direct access to the sand.
Why it’s good: Easy direct access to the beach, moderate prices, good location according to guest reviews.
Tip: Rooms are basic; don’t expect luxury.
3. Wayfarer Motel
Located at 311 North Ocean Boulevard, this motel is very close to the beach, boardwalk, and major attractions.
Why it’s good: Central location, basic amenities, ideal for travelers looking to make the most of their time at the beach.
Warnings: Older building, limited amenities.
4. Polynesian Oceanfront Hotel
This oceanfront hotel is among the most affordable options found on booking sites.
Why it’s good: Enjoy the beach, the boardwalk atmosphere, and moderate prices.
Warnings: Reviews vary; rooms could be improved.
5. Oceanfront Viking Motel
A small oceanfront motel with a kitchenette and simple style.
Why it’s good: Clean, functional, close to the main area of Myrtle Beach without paying high resort prices.
Warnings: Modest amenities, classic decor.
6. Sea Hawk Motel
A classic oceanfront motel with classic motel style.
Why it’s good: Simple, affordable, and with easy access to the beach.
Warnings: Rooms can be basic; check recent guest reviews for cleanliness and maintenance.
7. Holiday Shores
This boutique/vintage motel-style hotel near the Atlantic Ocean has a retro charm. Why it’s good: Unique character, proximity to the beach, ideal for travelers looking for something different.
Warning: May have fewer amenities; budget-friendly stays, but not ultra-cheap.
8. Sandcastle Oceanfront Resort South Beach
Although classified as a resort, its more modest rooms often approach motel prices, especially in the off-season.
Why it’s good: Good beach access, multiple pools, and often good deals.
Warning: Some rooms are more luxurious, so choose carefully to stay within your budget.
9. Sand Dunes Resort and Suites
Again, more resort-style, but with affordable rooms, especially during the off-season.
Why it’s good: You can enjoy the beach, pool, and basic resort amenities without the luxury prices.
Warning: During peak season, the cheapest rooms sell out first.
10. Compass Cove Resort
This is a mid-range resort that sometimes offers motel-like rooms, especially for basic units.
Why it’s good: Good balance between an oceanfront experience and affordability.
Warning: The lowest rates may be for interior rooms (without ocean views), so check carefully.
How to Find Budget-Friendly Oceanfront Motels in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
1. Use Multiple Search Platforms and Filter Smartly
Use the major hotel aggregators (Booking.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, etc.), but always check the motel’s website.
In the filters, choose “oceanfront,” “beach access,” “ocean view,” or “on the beach.” But don’t rely on photos and maps to confirm.
Sort by price and then manually inspect the cheapest options to confirm they’re actually beachfront or very close to the sand.
2. Go beyond motels: Consider small beachfront hotels, inns, and studio/apartment accommodations.
Sometimes, small hotels, inns, or studio/apartment accommodations offer better value than traditional motels, especially when they’re beachfront or near the sand.
3. Explore local or lesser-known properties, not just big brands.
Large chains often have higher prices. Some of the best deals come from older motels, family-owned beachfront accommodations, or properties you discover through local listings or maps.
4. Check maps and satellite views.
Once you have a list of options, view them on a map (Google Maps, satellite) to see how close they are to the beach, if there’s a road or barrier, and how direct the access is. A spot may be “on the beach,” but you may have to cross a narrow road or path.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates and length of stay.
Shifting your trip from peak season to shoulder or off-season can significantly reduce rates.
Sometimes, a midweek stay offers much lower rates than weekend nights.
Some motels offer discounts for longer stays (more than 3 nights).
6. Negotiate directly.
After finding a motel through a booking platform, check their website or call them directly. They may offer a lower rate or waive fees.
Mention AAA, senior citizen, or member discounts, if applicable.
During the off-season, some motels may be open to negotiations.
7. Monitor deals and use alerts.
Set up price alerts (on platforms like Booking.com or Kayak) for motels in the area.
Subscribe to newsletters from Myrtle Beach travel platforms; they often promote last-minute deals or special offers.
Follow local motels and inns on social media. They sometimes post flash discounts.
8. Review guest photos & recent reviews carefully
Older motels may be of uneven quality. Focus on recent reviews and user photos that show the actual condition of the rooms, bathrooms, windows, and beach access. If several guests complain about noise, mold, or substandard amenities, don’t book.
9. Look for off-season or low-season stays.
After the peak season, many motels reduce rates to attract guests. Some clean oceanfront rooms may appear for less than $100 a night after mid-September.
10. Pay attention to the total cost, not just the nightly rate.
Consider all additional costs (parking, taxes, service charges). A motel with a slightly higher base rate, but without hidden charges, may be a better option overall.
Tips for Choosing and Saving Money
Book during the low or shoulder season; prices drop significantly outside of summer. Carefully review the room type: “oceanfront” or “beach view” may have an additional cost.
Check recent reviews to verify cleanliness, condition, and maintenance.
Consider motels with kitchens or kitchenettes to save on eating out.
Check beach access: walk right in, don’t cross streets or walk along long paths.
Compare the total cost (taxes, fees, parking): what seems cheap may not be.
