Family Resort: Check in and relax at the Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes. The phenomenal pool, featuring a delicious restaurant and comfortable hammocks, was enough to sell us. The exceptional service seemed like icing on the cake.

Editor's tip: An advantage to staying here is that there are no minimum-stay requirements (except on some holiday weekends), something you'll probably encounter with condo bookings. Always ask, though, because other resort properties frequently require at least two-night stays during the summer.

Condos: One of the best affordable properties we found is Atlantic Coast Resorts with clean, adequate condos and a great pool. We also like Roxanne Towers, which opened in 2004 and features tasteful, ocean-themed decor. Perhaps the crème de la crème of condo properties in the area, Island Vista blends the best of a condo and resort stay.

Hotel: You'll also enjoy the newly renovated Hampton Inn & Suites Oceanfront. Each guest room features a mini-fridge and microwave, comfortable beds, and puffy comforters. Cool off in their pool, or walk right out the back gate to the beach.

Editor's tip: Myrtle Beach's high season generally begins around Memorial Day. Rates build in June, spike around the Fourth of July, slack slightly the rest of the month, and really drop in August. For example, the same one-bedroom condo at Atlantic Coast Resorts is $159 per night in June, $219 the week of July 4, $189 the rest of July, and then $94 in August.

above: Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort at Grande Dunes sports the best pool experience in the entire area.