I just returned from my first vacation to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and I must say, I absolutely loved it! From the southern accents to the sweet tea and fried green tomatoes, I experienced southern charm first-hand for the first time in my life, as a Pennsylvania girl.

I've always believed that it's the little things that make vacations truly memorable. Late night snacks and movies, board games with the family and reading on the beach are just a few of my long time favorite things to do on any vacation. In addition to these simple things, here's a list of my seven favorite things I did with my family on our vacation to Myrtle Beach.

1. Broadway at the Beach

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Broadway at the Beach has something for everyone. It's no wonder it's rated #1 out of the 110 things to do at Myrtle Beach on TripAdvisor. While I enjoy shopping, the men in my family do not. Broadway at the Beach offers amusement park rides, an aquarium and unique stores such as Man Cave, Reigning Cats & Dogs and RideMakerz.

2. Golf Carting

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No car, no problem! During my week long vacation to Myrtle Beach, I saw more golf carts on the road than cars. The biggest problem we had was figuring out creative routes to avoid highways, since it is only legal to cross over highways on golf carts in South Carolina.

3. Horseback Riding on the Beach

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I've loved horses my entire life but have never gone horseback riding on the beach. Now, I want to do it every day for the rest of my life! Horseback riding on the beach at Inlet Point Plantation was by far my favorite thing to do in Myrtle Beach. Seven of us took the one hour island beach ride, and although it was hot outside and a bit pricey ($95/per person), we all agreed it was 100 percent worth it.

4. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

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For a hardcore shopper who loves the beach, shopping on the boardwalk is basically the best of both worlds. The Myrtle Beach boardwalk satisfied my beach view and shopping cravings. In addition to shopping, the Myrtle Beach boardwalk is home to the SkyWheel, a 187-foot tall ferris wheel with amazing views and air-conditioned carts.

5. Bike Riding on the Beach

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Although I personally did not ride any bikes on the beach, my cousin and her boyfriend biked on the beach and throughout town and had an amazing time! When traveling short distances throughout town, bike rides are a great way to exercise and save money, compared to the costs of renting a car or golf cart.

6. Wine & Dine

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During my stay in Myrtle Beach. I celebrated my 21st birthday. I had my first margarita at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, which is located in Broadway at the Beach. Although I had a great time at Margaritaville, my favorite restaurant from the trip was Boardwalk Billy's, where I tried fried green tomatoes for the first time.

7. Chillax

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Last but not least on my list, chilling and relaxing by the pool and beach is an essential experience to have when you visit Myrtle Beach! My family and I were lucky enough to stay in a spacious home on the beach with a pool area, so this is where I spent the majority of my time. If I were to take the trip again, I would definitely stay at a place that had access to a pool, especially if I was going during these hot summer months!

Have you visited or thought about visiting Myrtle Beach? What would you add to the list? Share your experiences and suggestions below!