Where to Go Barefoot in South Carolina: Beach Resorts Without Shoes Required

Barefoot Resort & Golf in North Myrtle Beach is the main destination for this style of vacation in South Carolina

Barefoot Resort & Golf sits on 2,300 acres in North Myrtle Beach and operates as a mixed-use community where guests can rent condos, townhomes, and hotel rooms without the formality of traditional resorts. The property centers on a barefoot lifestyle—you can walk from your accommodation to restaurants, shops, and the beach without needing shoes. The resort includes four championship golf courses, a lazy river, multiple pools, and direct beach access.

The barefoot concept means casual dress codes throughout the property. Restaurants range from beachside casual to slightly more dressed-up dining, but even the nicer venues do not require formal attire. This appeals to families and travelers who want to unpack once and move around freely without changing clothes multiple times a day.

Accommodations vary widely in size and price. One-bedroom condos sleep up to four people; three-bedroom units accommodate larger groups or families. Many units include full kitchens, which can reduce meal costs if you cook some breakfasts or lunches. Hotel-style rooms are also available for those who prefer daily housekeeping and do not need a kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Barefoot Resort & Golf in North Myrtle Beach is designed around a barefoot lifestyle where you walk between accommodations, restaurants, shops, and the beach without shoes.
• The resort spans 2,300 acres with four golf courses, multiple pools, a lazy river, and direct beach access included on the property.
• Rental options include hotel rooms, one-bedroom condos, and three-bedroom townhomes, with many units offering full kitchens to reduce meal expenses.
• Casual dress codes apply throughout the resort, so you can wear beach clothes to most restaurants and venues without changing.
• Peak season (summer and spring break) books months ahead, while fall and winter offer lower rates and fewer crowds.

What to expect during peak season versus off-season

Summer (June through August) and spring break (March and April) are the busiest times at Barefoot Resort. Pools and beaches fill up, restaurants have longer waits, and golf tee times book quickly. Nightly rates for condos and rooms are at their highest during these periods. If you travel during peak season, book your accommodation and any activities (like golf or spa services) several months in advance.

Fall (September through November) and winter (December through February, excluding Christmas week) offer a different experience. Fewer families are present, the beach is quieter, and rates drop noticeably. The weather is still warm enough for beach days in fall, though water temperature drops as winter approaches. Winter visitors often come for golf, as the courses remain playable year-round in South Carolina.

Golf, water activities, and on-site dining

Four golf courses operate within the resort: Barefoot Resort Championship Course, Dye Course, Fazio Course, and Love Course. Each was designed by a different architect and plays differently, so golfers can experience variety without leaving the property. Courses range from beginner-friendly to challenging, and the resort offers lessons and club rentals if you do not travel with your own equipment.

Water activities beyond the beach include a lazy river, multiple pools (some heated), and paddleboard rentals. The beach itself is wide and typically less crowded than public Myrtle Beach areas. Fishing charters and boat rentals can be arranged through the resort.

Dining options span casual to upscale. The Waccamaw River Grill serves seafood and steaks in a relaxed setting. Barefoot Landing, a nearby shopping and entertainment district (accessible by foot or short drive), adds more restaurant choices. Many guests cook in their condos, especially families staying multiple nights.

How to book and what to budget

Barefoot Resort operates its own booking system through its website, and rooms are also listed on major travel sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb. Booking directly through the resort sometimes offers package deals that bundle accommodation with golf or other activities.

Nightly rates vary by season, unit type, and how far ahead you book. A one-bedroom condo might range from $80 to $200 per night depending on season; three-bedroom units run higher. Hotel rooms typically fall between $100 and $250 per night. Golf rounds cost $40 to $100 depending on the course and season. Many visitors find that cooking some meals and staying multiple nights reduces the per-day cost compared to hotel-only stays in Myrtle Beach.

Getting there and what to bring

Barefoot Resort sits in North Myrtle Beach, about 30 minutes north of Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). If you fly in, renting a car is useful for exploring beyond the resort, though the property itself is walkable. Parking is free at the resort.

Pack light, casual clothing—shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear are the uniform. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat; the sun reflects off sand and water intensely. If you plan to golf, bring or rent clubs. Flip-flops or sandals are optional since the barefoot concept means you can go without shoes, but many people keep a pair handy for walking across hot pavement or into air-conditioned restaurants.

Nearby attractions beyond the resort

North Myrtle Beach and the surrounding Grand Strand area offer attractions within a short drive. Barefoot Landing, mentioned above, includes shops, restaurants, and live music venues. The North Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade runs along the beach and is free to walk. Huntington Beach State Park, just south, offers nature trails and beach access.

Myrtle Beach proper (about 20 minutes south) has additional restaurants, attractions like the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and entertainment venues. If you want to venture further, Georgetown (about 45 minutes south) is a historic port town with riverfront dining and shops. Most visitors, however, find enough to do within the resort and immediate North Myrtle Beach area to fill a week-long stay.

Who this resort suits best

Barefoot Resort works well for families with children because the barefoot, casual environment reduces stress about dress codes and the property offers multiple activities in one place. Golfers appreciate the four courses and the ability to stay on-site. Multi-generational groups benefit from the range of unit sizes and the mix of activities (some family-friendly, some adult-focused).

The resort also appeals to people who want a beach vacation without the typical resort formality. If you prefer casual, walkable communities over high-rise hotels and structured schedules, this property aligns with that preference. Couples looking for a relaxed getaway, especially in off-season, find good value and a quieter atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really go barefoot everywhere, or is that just a marketing name?

The barefoot concept is real but not absolute. You can walk barefoot on the property, to the beach, and around most common areas. Some restaurants and shops may have informal shoe policies, but most do not enforce them strictly. Many guests wear flip-flops or sandals for convenience and protection, especially on hot pavement. The barefoot name reflects the casual, no-shoes-required culture rather than a strict rule.

Is Barefoot Resort good for people who do not golf?

Yes. While golf is a major draw, the resort offers pools, a lazy river, beach access, water sports, and restaurants. Families with young children, couples, and non-golfers find plenty to do. The casual environment and walkable layout appeal to anyone seeking a relaxed beach vacation without formal resort structure.

What is the difference between renting a condo and a hotel room?

Hotel rooms include daily housekeeping and are smaller, typically one or two beds. Condos are larger, have full kitchens and living areas, and housekeeping is less frequent (usually weekly or by request). Condos cost more upfront but save money if you cook meals and stay multiple nights. Hotel rooms suit shorter stays or travelers who prefer daily cleaning.

Do I need a car to get around the resort?

The resort itself is walkable, so you can move between your accommodation, restaurants, and the beach on foot. A car is useful for exploring North Myrtle Beach and beyond, but not required if you plan to stay mostly on the property. The resort offers some shuttle services, and ride-sharing apps operate in the area.

When is the best time to visit for lower prices and fewer crowds?

September through November (fall) and January through February (winter, excluding Christmas week) offer the lowest rates and fewest visitors. Fall has warm weather and calm water; winter is cooler but still pleasant for beach walks and golf. Spring break and summer are peak season with higher prices and more crowds.