Staybridge Suites

Staybridge Suites looks like your typical chain hotel, inside and out. The cream and taupe building with brick accents is complemented by well-manicured lawns that extend to a large pond with a bench under a tree. Inside, the hotel has the hallmark of a modern budget-friendly hotel thanks to a renovation done in 2015. The lobby is mostly functional, used for checking in at the front desk, and perhaps pausing to sit in one of the modern cream chairs. Further in, there’s the breakfast room behind a brick fireplace, the coziest space in the hotel with floral carpets and plenty of plush brown and blue seating and wooden tables. The nature photography on the walls adds a touch of panache to the space, while the fireplace and flat-screen TVs welcome guests to gather in the evenings to socialize. The hotel may feel like a chain property, but guests report a rapport with staff that creates a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. Due to the low rates and kitchenettes in the suites, most guests are families and couples on a budget beach vacation. 

Travelers must be willing to forfeit a beloved Myrtle Beach beachfront location at Staybridge Suites, as the beach is a 12-minute drive away. That’s not to say that there aren’t some noteworthy places closer to the hotel.

• Five-minute drive to River Oaks Golf Course
• Seven-minute drive to the Coastal Grand Shopping Mall, with dozens of stores a movie theater
• Eight-minute drive to Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum
• Nine-minute drive to Family Kingdom Amusement Park
• Nine-minute drive to Broadway at the Beach Shopping Mall, complete with an IMAX theater
• 12-minute drive to Pine Lakes Country Club
• 10-minute drive to Myrtlewood Golf Course
• 11-minute drive to Myrtle Beach International Airport 
• 14-minute drive to Myrtle Beach National Golf Course
• 18-minute drive to Myrtle Beach State Park

All the rooms are more or less identical in decor, though they vary in terms of structure from studio-style units to one- and two-bedroom suites. Design-wise, they feature a contemporary decor such as dark wooden furniture and carpeted floors. There’s some color in the orange and blue accent bed pillows and the nature-themed photography on the walls. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and kitchenettes with refrigerators, microwaves, coffeemakers, sinks, two-burner stoves, dishwashers, cutlery, glassware, and cookware. Bathrooms are basic with shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries. Despite no weekend housekeeping services, the rooms are clean. Rooms have either parking lot views or much nicer views of the hotel's back gardens and pond. 

Features here are in line with the overall chain vibe of this property. There’s an outdoor pool and hot tub, both surrounded by loungers. An outdoor basketball court and grills are great additions to enjoy a day by the pool. There’s a small gym with three LifeFitness cardio machines and free weights. A full restaurant or bar isn’t available on-site but there are dining options like a free hot and cold breakfast buffet in the mornings, a snack shop with food and drinks for sale, and an evening reception during certain days of the week. Three meeting rooms and a business center can be used by business travelers. All guests will appreciate free perks like Wi-Fi, parking, and a laundry room (bring detergent or purchase it for a nominal fee).