By Katelyn Mayer, Licensed Realtor in PA & MD | Relocation Specialist
When I travel, I always bring my real estate lens along for the ride. Whether I’m exploring a neighborhood’s livability, gauging rental potential, or simply observing how an area “feels,” each trip doubles as a little market research. Our October 2022 visit to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina was no different.
We stayed at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Suites, and while it was a wonderful place to relax, it reaffirmed something important: not every beautiful stay equals a wise real estate investment.
🏨 Ocean Enclave: A Luxury Hotel, Not a Long-Term Option
Let me be clear—Ocean Enclave is stunning. It’s modern, clean, oceanfront, and full of resort-style amenities. It was perfect for a short family getaway. But as a licensed Realtor in Pennsylvania and Maryland and a relocation specialist, I wouldn’t recommend it as a second-home or vacation property option.
Why? Because Ocean Enclave functions more like a luxury hotel. It’s part of the Hilton Grand Vacations network, so it operates under a timeshare/vacation club model. That means you’re not buying real estate—you’re buying access. There's little flexibility or equity growth, and you don't own a deeded property you can truly customize or rent out independently.
For those looking to relocate, invest, or buy a true second home, Myrtle Beach still offers great opportunities—but they’re found elsewhere.
🚴♀️ Broadway at the Beach Adventure (and a Little Drama)
One of our favorite outings was biking to Broadway at the Beach, a bustling entertainment and dining complex. However, here's a key pro tip:
🔒 Bikes are not allowed on the boardwalk walkways, and ours were nearly towed after being locked up. Always check local rules before exploring on two wheels!
Once we got settled, we had a great time feeding the fish, dining at one of many restaurants, and catching a surprisingly good magic show—a fun way to wrap up the day.
🏴☠️ Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show: Worth the Hype?
On October 17, we attended the popular Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show.
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✅ The show itself was energetic and well-produced—definitely a win for families.
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❌ The dinner, however, was underwhelming. If you're a foodie, consider dining elsewhere before the show.
🏡 Realtor’s Take: Myrtle Beach Market
Despite Ocean Enclave being more suited for vacationers than investors, Myrtle Beach continues to offer great potential in the second-home and rental property markets.
Buyers should consider:
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Condos with flexible rental policies
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Beach cottages or townhomes in walkable neighborhoods
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Gated communities with short-term rental approval for investment purposes
And because I specialize in relocation from PA and MD, I work with clients who are looking to escape the snow, enjoy coastal living, or invest in a place where they can vacation now and retire later.
Final Thoughts
Not every great vacation spot is a great real estate investment—and that’s okay. Ocean Enclave was a fantastic resort stay, but for those looking to own, rent, or build equity, there are smarter options in the Myrtle Beach area.
If you're dreaming of life near the coast or considering a second property in the Carolinas, I can help guide the process—from finding the right neighborhood to connecting you with local agents you can trust.
📍 Katelyn Mayer
Licensed Realtor in Pennsylvania & Maryland
🏠 Relocation Specialist | 🧭 Smart Property Advocate | 🌴 Coastal Dream Chaser
📩 Let’s talk about your next move—whether it’s across state lines or just closer to the beach.
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