Sun N Sands: Casual Beachside Dining in Myrtle Beach
What Sun N Sands offers
Sun N Sands is a casual American restaurant in Myrtle Beach that serves seafood, sandwiches, and traditional coastal fare in a relaxed beachfront setting. The menu leans toward fried seafood, burgers, and salads—the kind of food you expect near the ocean without pretense or high prices. It's the sort of place where you can walk in from the beach in flip-flops and nobody minds.
The restaurant sits close enough to the sand that you'll hear the waves while you eat. The interior is bright and informal, with beach-themed décor that doesn't try too hard. Service is straightforward and quick, which matters when you're hungry after a morning in the water or a long walk down the boardwalk.
Key Takeaways
- Sun N Sands serves fried seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads in a casual beachfront setting without table-service formality.
- The restaurant is located near the sand in Myrtle Beach, making it convenient if you're spending the day at the beach.
- Prices are moderate for a beachfront location, and portions are generous enough that many people split entrées.
- The menu includes options for people who don't eat seafood, though the kitchen's strength is in fried fish and shrimp.
The seafood and fried options
The kitchen does fried seafood well—fried shrimp, fried fish, fried scallops, and combinations of all three. These come with your choice of two sides, usually coleslaw, fries, hushpuppies, or a salad. The portions are large enough that many diners order one entrée and ask for an extra plate to split.
Fried platters are the backbone of the menu, but the restaurant also offers grilled fish if you want something lighter. Shrimp and fish tacos appear on the menu, as do seafood sandwiches—fried fish sandwiches, shrimp sandwiches, and crab cake sandwiches. These are less formal than a sit-down seafood house but more substantial than boardwalk grab-and-go.
Burgers, sandwiches, and non-seafood choices
If seafood isn't your preference, Sun N Sands makes burgers and chicken sandwiches. The burgers are straightforward—beef patty, standard toppings, nothing experimental. Chicken sandwiches come fried or grilled. These entrées also come with two sides, so you're not paying extra for the vegetables or starch.
Salads are on the menu as well, often topped with grilled or fried protein. A Caesar salad with shrimp or chicken is a lighter option if you want to eat something substantial without the deep fryer. The kitchen will modify most dishes if you ask—hold the mayo, substitute a side, grill instead of fry.
Pricing and what to expect
Entrées typically run between $12 and $20, which is moderate for a beachfront restaurant in Myrtle Beach. Appetizers—fried pickles, wings, shrimp—cost $6 to $10. Drinks are standard restaurant prices, and desserts are simple: pie, cake, or ice cream rather than anything elaborate.
The restaurant does not take reservations, so expect to wait during peak hours—lunch between noon and 1 p.m., dinner between 6 and 8 p.m., and all day on weekends during summer. Off-season and weekday mornings are quieter. The wait is usually 15 to 30 minutes during busy times, though it can stretch longer on holiday weekends.
When to go and what to bring
Sun N Sands is open year-round, though hours may shorten in winter. Summer hours typically run from late morning through late evening, seven days a week. The restaurant is casual enough that beachwear is fine—you don't need to change out of your swimsuit or cover-up to eat there.
The location near the beach means parking can be tight during peak season. Street parking fills up quickly, and the restaurant's lot is small. If you're visiting during summer or a holiday weekend, arrive early or be prepared to park a few blocks away and walk. Weekday visits in spring or fall offer easier parking and shorter waits.
The atmosphere and who it suits
Sun N Sands is designed for people who want to eat well without ceremony. Families with children fit in easily—the noise level is high enough that kids won't feel out of place, and the menu has options for picky eaters. Groups of friends, couples, and solo diners all show up regularly.
If you're looking for fine dining or a quiet romantic dinner, this isn't the place. If you want good seafood, fair prices, and a view of the ocean while you eat, it works well. The restaurant is also a good option if you're staying in a nearby hotel and don't want to drive far for lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
No. Sun N Sands operates on a first-come, first-served basis. During busy times—summer weekends, lunch hours, dinner hours—you may wait 15 to 30 minutes for a table. Calling ahead won't hold a spot, but the staff can tell you how long the current wait is.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
Most casual beachfront restaurants in South Carolina do not allow outside alcohol. Sun N Sands serves beer and wine, so you can order drinks there. Check with the restaurant directly if you have questions about their specific policy.
Is there outdoor seating?
Yes. Sun N Sands has some tables outside, though the amount of outdoor seating varies by location and season. Outdoor tables fill up quickly on nice days. If outdoor seating matters to you, arrive early or ask the host about availability when you arrive.
What if I have a food allergy?
Tell your server about any allergies when you order. The kitchen can usually accommodate requests to avoid certain ingredients or prepare food separately. Because this is a casual restaurant with a busy kitchen, be specific about what you need to avoid.
Is there parking nearby?
The restaurant has a small lot, but it fills up during peak times. Street parking is available nearby, though it can be hard to find during summer and weekends. Plan to arrive early or park a few blocks away and walk, especially during busy season.