It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Atalaya Castle gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Murrells Inlet, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I engaged Nate as a consultant to search for the right Assisted Living Facility for”
“Very professional and friendly office staff. They are also easy to communicate with. I recommend”
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work here at Always Best Care over”
“This is a great company and I would recommended to everyone. I have been with”
“I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident Always Best Care of the Midlands”
“This is a company that truly cares about its employees and the seniors they care”
“Nice people to work with”
“Gina Berry takes time explaining why home care and Always Best Care is the best”
“I am a current client of this provider From a caretakers/daughters point of view: This service”
“Always Best Care is a great company to work for and if you are looking”
“The Staff, the care teams and the owners are one of a kind! They take”
“Nate took the time to meet with me and my family and help make sense”
“Hello to all of my Always Best Care friends, I'd like to wish you and your”
“I am a current client of this provider It is essential to us, he really needs”
“This is one of the best companies I’ve worked for in a long time. The”
“I am a current client of this provider It depends on who they hire for the”
“I am a current client of this provider I would have had to quit my job”
“I am a current client of this provider They have made it positive by being friendly”
“I am a current client of this provider The agency would have to make it a”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver has changed a lot for me”
“I engaged Nate as a consultant to search for the right Assisted Living Facility for my mom. This service is no cost to the family. He spent quite some time getting my mom's preferences clarified and then searching for matching AL facilities. All of this was done in less than two days. He and I talked through the options and I relayed the two I felt were best to mom. Nate personally picked mom up from rehab and took her on those tours, which was a godsend because I live in another state. During both tours, he texted me "play by plays" as to how it was going. He helped me and mom choose the right place for her budget and needs - and was very patient with us as my mom took longer than expected to make the final decision. She was talking about needing a new TV and Nate provided her/us with a link to some that were on sale that met her needs. Once the decision was made, Nate accompanied the AL staff member to mom's rehab and sat through the entire long paperwork process to ensure mom understood what she was signing. Again, he kept me in the loop by texting me regularly about how things were going during the meeting. He checked in a couple of times after that and prior to mom's move asking how our prep was going and if we needed anything. On one call, I did ask for a referral to a specific service we needed. He didn't have an established one, so he researched it and got one for me promptly. During and shortly after moving day, Nate checked in again to see how mom was settling in. I've been amazed at the personalized engagement that we received from Nate. Anytime he said he would do something, he did it and he did it promptly. If anything was delayed, he updated me immediately. This is in stark contrast to Tara at Senior Care Authority that provides this service as well. She promised me things during our initial call and didn't follow through on most of them. During our text exchanges, she never answered my specific question - always danced around it. Within a handful of days, I said "nope!", researched more, and came across Nate and this service. Ahhhh, what a breath of fresh air to receive what you asked for. I have no doubt it saved me countless hours glued to my computer, trying to compare facilities. I highly recommend Nate and his consulting service - it was an excellent experience and he was a lifesaver!”
“Very professional and friendly office staff. They are also easy to communicate with. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services for any senior in need. Also, if you ever need a job, please go and apply. They are always hiring weekly and offer competitive rates.”
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work here at Always Best Care over the past six months. Melisa and Nate have been wonderful and thanks for molding me into becoming a great leader. Professionalism is the key to success ????✨⭐️ I am looking forward to many years to come.”
“This is a great company and I would recommended to everyone. I have been with them for 3years Their caregivers are insightful and have so much compassion especially Mariah and Sabrina they are some of there champs they both have great personality and are very Professional. The owners are great and they run a great company.thank you for all that you guys do ????”
“I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident Always Best Care of the Midlands Team ensured that I was well informed, and my loved one received the best care possible. The compassionate care was delivered not only by the care professionals, but by the support team. The owners even checked in with us to offer support and guidance. They exceeded our expectations!”
“This is a company that truly cares about its employees and the seniors they care for! Nate and Melisa offer regular training for caregivers so they they can provide the best care possible!”
“Nice people to work with”
“Gina Berry takes time explaining why home care and Always Best Care is the best choice for your family’s needs. The Team at Always Best is thoughtful and supportive they go out of their way to make you feel heard and understood. They customize the care plan, care team and schedule. I recommend them to anyone considering aging in place.”
“I am a current client of this provider From a caretakers/daughters point of view: This service is a savior for me personally. It relieves me from having to miss a lot of work time to travel to my mothers appt, now I can meet her at the appt. and save this time. The care and service she is getting is TOP NOTCH! From how easy it is for my mother to schedule and the follow through is right on the money. From a person getting the services: Melissa is the best, she calls me weekly to remind me of my appointments coming up. I am very pleased with the services and absolutely pleased with the services provided. I know that this alone helps ease the mind of my daughter. Thank you to the team at Always Best Care!”
“Always Best Care is a great company to work for and if you are looking for care for a loved one, I highly recommend them. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and supportive. I work in the senior industry and recommend Always Best Care to my clients that need extra support in their home or while family is away. Always Best Care will respond immediately and truly show compassion to others.”
“The Staff, the care teams and the owners are one of a kind! They take the time to ensure your care needs are met. Highly recommend giving them a call if you have senior care or senior living questions or concerns.”
“Nate took the time to meet with me and my family and help make sense of the questions we had when it came to the short and long term care of our loved one. When you have an elderly parent or a loved one with disabilities there are so many questions and so many emotions. It can be so confusing and it was hard for us to find one person or one company that has the knowledge and grasp of this industry that Nate has. We cannot thank him enough for guiding us through this process and his amazing bedside manner!”
“Hello to all of my Always Best Care friends, I'd like to wish you and your families a Merry, Blessed Christmas and a Happy, Prosperous New Year! My brother, my dad, and I really appreciate everything you did for us this year. You're amazing! All the best for the Christmas season and 2023,”
“I am a current client of this provider It is essential to us, he really needs assistance daily, and I work full time. I like their team approach.”
“This is one of the best companies I’ve worked for in a long time. The owners, Nate and Melisa, genuinely care about clients AND staff. They go above and beyond to support, encourage, and help everyone they work with. Their doors are always open, they’re generous with their time, and they truly want their staff to succeed. Donna in the billing department is fabulous, always available to answer questions or help in any way; Katrina in scheduling puts in so much time and effort to accommodate everyone’s needs and it’s amazing how well she handles everything; Angel works diligently on recruiting and training, making sure there’s plenty of staff to provide quality care; and Jackie is an incredible CHAMP, making sure clients are properly reassessed and care givers have the right tools and knowledge to do their job. ABC is a fantastic, compassionate, caring team I’m proud to be a part of, and I’m proud to serve our clients, too.”
“I am a current client of this provider It depends on who they hire for the job. The people they hire can improve.”
“I am a current client of this provider I would have had to quit my job if it wasn't for them and they go grocery shopping. They can have more guidance for the client and what to do for the client.”
“I am a current client of this provider They have made it positive by being friendly and courteous. I like that I do not have to worry about them; they are honest.”
“I am a current client of this provider The agency would have to make it a lot easier for me to find out about the caregiver coming out and having someone on backup. The agency could provide better scheduling and the caregivers would not come in on time.”
“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver has changed a lot for me and has done errands for me. I would tell a friend that Donna is great.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Morse Park Landing with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Drunken Jack's Restaurant & Lounge or visit The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Murrells Inlet, SC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Murrells Inlet, SC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Murrells Inlet, SC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WMBF) - The South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a statewide Red Flag Fire Alert on Friday that is effective until further notice.SCFC says the alert discourages people from burning outdoors due to the elevated risk of wildfire from weather conditions.“In addition to dry fuels resulting from the lack of significant rain, forecasts are calling for very low relative humidity values – below 30% – and gusty winds across much of the state through the weekend," a statement read from the com...
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WMBF) - The South Carolina Forestry Commission issued a statewide Red Flag Fire Alert on Friday that is effective until further notice.
SCFC says the alert discourages people from burning outdoors due to the elevated risk of wildfire from weather conditions.
“In addition to dry fuels resulting from the lack of significant rain, forecasts are calling for very low relative humidity values – below 30% – and gusty winds across much of the state through the weekend," a statement read from the commission.
According to the commission, a Red Flag Fire Alert does not ban outdoor burning, but it does trigger certain county or local ordinances that restrict outdoor fires.
Several bans were instated across Horry and Georgetown counties on Thursday, as crews battled several fires.
“Much of it’s unavoidable, but a lot of it is human caused, and a lot of that human cause involves carelessness. That’s why, you know, our message is, you know, when the weather’s like it is right now...wind, low relative humidity, and dry....we just ask people to postpone their burning,” said Doug Wood, Director of Communications for SCFC.
One area that’s no stranger to wildfires, or burn bans-- the north strand, which took a hit during the Highway 31 fire back in 2009.
“Once it burned through the Barefoot community, it continued right back into the wooded areas. It impacted the unincorporated parts of Horry County, so that was something that we dealt with for a couple weeks off and on,” said Billy Floyd, chief of the North Myrtle Beach Fire Department.
Floyd told WMBF News after that devastating fire, the Barefoot area has become a ‘fire wise’ community, where residents have to follow a list of regulations.
The city of North Myrtle Beach also bans most types of outdoor burning, but Floyd said even in places with less strict burn bans, residents should still be cautious.
“Just because the burning may be allowed, you really need to make sure that the weather is appropriate before you go out and do things like that, so we don’t run into these situations that we’ve seen happen in Horry and Georgetown these weeks, where the fires are getting out of control real quickly,” said Floyd.
Wood said SCFC is a proponent of controlled burns, and doesn’t want to call a burn ban, but if risky conditions persist, they may have no other choice.
“The dangerous conditions we’re going to see over the next few days make a good portion of the state vulnerable to fires that can spread rapidly and be difficult to control,” said SCFC Fire Chief Darryl Jones. “These kinds of spring weather patterns are what make this time of year the traditional peak of our wildfire season.”
To check local restrictions, residents can contact their local fire departments.
The agency statement says SCFC firefighters responded to 183 wildfires in January alone, nearly double its five-year average for the first month of the year. The agency has already recorded more than 300 wildfires in February, and more than 100 in the state’s coastal region alone.
Stay with WMBF News for updates.
Copyright 2025 WMBF. All rights reserved.
MURRELLS INLET, S.C. (WPDE) — Peter Frank, 23, a solo canoeist who is currently traversing the 6000-mile "Great Loop" by canoe, stopped in the Wacca Wache Marina in Murrells Inlet Friday.His entire journey will take him from his starting point in Michigan, through the Great Lakes to the Erie Canal, down the Hudson River to New York, and then south along the Eastern Seaboard until he reaches Florida. After reaching the southernmost part of the loop, Frank will head north along the Gulf Coast, north to the Tennessee-Tomb...
MURRELLS INLET, S.C. (WPDE) — Peter Frank, 23, a solo canoeist who is currently traversing the 6000-mile "Great Loop" by canoe, stopped in the Wacca Wache Marina in Murrells Inlet Friday.
His entire journey will take him from his starting point in Michigan, through the Great Lakes to the Erie Canal, down the Hudson River to New York, and then south along the Eastern Seaboard until he reaches Florida. After reaching the southernmost part of the loop, Frank will head north along the Gulf Coast, north to the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway where he will connect with the Mississippi River, and travel the final leg of his journey to his home in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Frank's 16-month canoe trip began last June and is expected to end next January. This exact journey has only been completed one other time by expeditioner Verlen Kruger and his son in 1980.
Frank said he credits his passion for adventure to a tragedy he experienced in his youth.
After being struck by a vehicle at 14, he shattered two vertebrates in his spine and spent two years relearning how to walk.
Once he was back on his feet, Frank's lust for adventure took over.
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When he was 19, he sold everything he had, bought a unicycle, and unicycled across America raising over $34000 for a charity that helped his family when he was hospitalized.
Then, in 2022, Frank canoed the entire length of the Mississippi River, and from Louisiana, he biked 700 miles to Florida where he purchased "The Loon," his current canoe 46-year-old canoe designed by legendary Kruger himself.
"The Loon" is the same vessel Kruger and his son used to do the Great Loop in reverse in 1980, Frank said.
Although he still experiences chronic pain from his injury, in many ways, Frank believes what ruined his childhood gave him a second chance at life.
"I don't know who I'll be when I finish. I like to think I'll be somebody a lot better than who I am now," Frank said.
Friday morning, Frank started in North Myrtle and traveled 22 miles to the Wacca Wache Marina in Murrells Inlet who offered to let Frank stay the night.
Saturday, he will travel from Murrells Inlet to Georgetown, and from there will continue down to Charleston.
Frank travels in a unique ensemble of traditional 300-year-old fur and leather seaman designs he sewed together himself. Inside The Loon, Frank carries 280 pounds of supplies
To support himself financially through his travels, he writes for various magazines and publications.
"As I'm standing here, speaking to you humbly, I feel I am a lot better than I was when I left," Frank said in Murrells Inlet. "I suppose the rivers have a way of sculpting not only rocks but spirits as well."
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina was recently featured on lifestyle magazine Southern Living’s website as a charming destination in the Grand Strand. The census-designated unincorporated area in Georgetown County is home to scenic natural views, historic sites and scenic marsh views.“Just South of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is an atmospheric fishing village that’s perfect for escaping the summer rush and falling in ...
Murrells Inlet, South Carolina was recently featured on lifestyle magazine Southern Living’s website as a charming destination in the Grand Strand. The census-designated unincorporated area in Georgetown County is home to scenic natural views, historic sites and scenic marsh views.
“Just South of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is an atmospheric fishing village that’s perfect for escaping the summer rush and falling in love with laid-back coastal living,” Southern Living says.
While Murrells Inlet is perhaps best known locally for its MarshWalk, a half-mile wooden boardwalk featuring restaurants, bars and boats overlooking the salt marsh, the area has plenty more to offer.
Here are some of the highlights the lifestyle experts at Southern Living recommend checking out on a trip to Murrells Inlet.
From gorgeous Grand Strand beaches to stately southern live oaks, Murrells Inlet is a nature lover’s paradise. The area is home to Huntington Beach State Park, a maritime forest featuring two trails, miles of coastline, the historic Atalaya Castle and some of the best bird watching in South Carolina.
Visitors interested in spending a day outdoors won’t want to miss Brookgreen Gardens. Beyond the breathtaking botanical gardens, visitors can learn about local wildlife at the lowcountry zoo, take in stunning sculptures and explore lowcountry historical sites.
For those interested in an evening at the beach, unincorporated Georgetown County areas are some of the only places in the Grand Strand where you can cozy up with a fire on the beach. Southern Living recommends getting a package with Coastal Bonfire Co., which will plan and set up a fire for you, so all you have to do is enjoy the beach.
Depending on when you plan your trip, you can enjoy the beach at The Pier at Garden City. Open from March through December, the pier offers more than just fishing. With a cafe, bar, arcade tackle shop and events like karaoke and live music during the tourist season, the pier has something for everyone.
While there’s no shortage of souvenir shops around the Grand Strand, Southern Living gives a special shout out to Lazy Gator Gifts in Murrells Inlet. The southern-style shop welcomes visitors with a wrap-around porch, colorful rocking chairs and an enormous decorative alligator. With clothing, decor, snacks and more, Lazy Gator has tons of options, including gifts made in the United States or right here in the Carolinas.
For foodies, Southern Living recommends visiting Lee’s Farmers Market. The family-owned shop offers imported goodies like gourmet meats and cheeses, as well as produce, prepared sandwiches and even fresh wine-making grapes from California.
From fresh seafood to craft beers, no trip to Murrells Inlet would be complete without indulging in the culinary scene. Of the establishments along the MarshWalk, Southern Living shouts out three seafood eateries.
Dead Dog Saloon, a local favorite serving up southern favorites, seafood and cocktails, is notable for its tributary walls covered with pictures of bygone canine companions. The Claw House features New England-style seafood plates with offerings like lobster rolls and raw oysters on the half shell. Rooftop spot Wicked Tuna offers visitors fresh, local seafood with a backdrop of live music and waterfront views.
Outside the MarshWalk, Southern Living recommends visiting Southern Hops Brewing Company for craft beers and locally sourced bites. For diners interested in Italian-style seafood, Costa Coastal Kitchen & Bar offers guest favorite dishes like scallops, linguine and crab cakes.
This story was originally published January 28, 2025 at 6:00 AM.
MS
The Sun News
Maria Elena Scott writes about trending topics and what you need to know in the Grand Strand. She studied journalism at the University of Houston and covered Cleveland news before coming to the Palmetto State.
Widow Angela Anthony and widower Eric Richter met in a New Jersey grief support group four years ago. Now partners in business and love, the engaged couple aims to bring what Richter calls a “true sports bar” down to Murrells Inlet.Gator Zone Sports Bar & Grille recently opened with a full kitchen and bar, more than 20 draft beers and more than 30 TVs at 3453 Highway 17 Business in Murrells Inlet.“Her parents...
Widow Angela Anthony and widower Eric Richter met in a New Jersey grief support group four years ago. Now partners in business and love, the engaged couple aims to bring what Richter calls a “true sports bar” down to Murrells Inlet.
Gator Zone Sports Bar & Grille recently opened with a full kitchen and bar, more than 20 draft beers and more than 30 TVs at 3453 Highway 17 Business in Murrells Inlet.
“Her parents owned a diner in Patterson, New Jersey, for almost 44 years, so [Angela] comes from the service industry,” Richter said. “And I just always had an itch, so to speak, to possibly own a bar, restaurant or combination of both.”
Originally from New Jersey, Anthony and Richter live in Murrells Inlet and took inspiration from the reptilian inhabitants of South Carolina swamps.
“There’s alligators all over the place, and as a matter of fact, I have pictures here at my home where they’re crossing right across my front lawn, because of the way the ponds are and everything in the community here,” Richter said. “You really can’t go anywhere around here without seeing an alligator at some point.”
Located between Beaver Bar and Suck Bang Blow, Gator Zone also has an irreverent mascot to match its neighbors: Master Gator. The sunglasses-wearing reptile appearing on Gator Zone’s logo will “be plastered everywhere,” according to Anthony.
Richter first began toying with the idea for a local spot called The Master Gator years back. While plans for the restaurant’s name changed, Master Gator has evolved into one of Anthony’s nicknames for Richter.
“With all the hard work he’s put in and his vision coming to life, the name suits him perfectly,” Anthony said.
Gator Zone offers pub favorites like burgers, pizzas, wings and more, as well as a full bar. In addition to liquor and signature cocktails like the “swamp water” and the “mighty gator,” the bar has 24 draft options, including beers, hard cider and even prosecco.
“We’re all about putting the local beer, whether we have Grand Strand, whether we have Southern Hops, whether we have Tidal Creek,” Anthony said. “I mean, we want to support the locals as well, so we’re trying to do everything we can out of the business to support the locals.”
From 4 - 7 p.m. everyday, customers can enjoy happy hour specials including $2 off appetizers, which Gator Zone calls warm-ups, $1.50 off drafts and $1 off wines and cocktails.
For sports fans who don’t want to miss a play, Gator Zone is equipped with more than 30 TVs to broadcast games from the NFL, MLB, NHL and more.
“There really isn’t anywhere you’ll be in the building where you won’t be able to see what you’re looking for when it comes to sports,” Richter said.
If watching sports isn’t your thing, Gator Zone will feature video games and even a golf simulator in a private room, which Richter estimates will be available next month.
The restaurant will also host various social events, like trivia, karaoke, bingo and live music.
Whether you want to socialize, catch a game or just grab a bite to eat, Anthony and Richter say they’re excited to welcome visitors seven days a week.
Gator Zone is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
“The support from everyone, I mean, just walking on the MarshWalk and just talking to people about it, they’re very excited as well, so that gives us the energy and excitement,” said Anthony. “It’s a little bit of nerves, but it’s also a lot of excitement, so just talking to everyone makes me feel better, because everybody supports everyone here, which I truly, truly love about the area.”
If the beach—or anywhere near the water—is your happy place, you might consider South Carolina as a place to settle down now or one to file away as a potential candidate for retirement one day. The Palmetto State is probably best known for its unofficial Southern capital of Charleston, but its 187 miles of coastline are a close se...
If the beach—or anywhere near the water—is your happy place, you might consider South Carolina as a place to settle down now or one to file away as a potential candidate for retirement one day. The Palmetto State is probably best known for its unofficial Southern capital of Charleston, but its 187 miles of coastline are a close second. From North Myrtle Beach on the North Carolina-South Carolina border all the way down to Hilton Head located just a couple clicks from the Georgia coast, each one of South Carolina's beach towns, barrier islands, and waterfront destinations is more scenic than the last. Here are eight of the most beautiful places on the South Carolina coast.
With more than 12 miles of pristine white-sand beaches, vivid sunsets, and endless activities, it’s no surprise this Lowcountry paradise is continually voted as a reader favorite in our annual South’s Best poll. Hilton Head Island will give you just the right balance of small-town warmth and world-class sophistication. Whether you are exploring its scenic bike trails, enjoying a round of golf at one of the island’s 23 renowned public courses, or savoring the catch of the day at a waterfront restaurant, Hilton Head Island has all the makings of a magical getaway.
Just a short drive from Charleston, Folly Beach, nicknamed the “Edge of America” by locals, is a quaint and colorful destination known for its laid-back beachtown vibes. There is no shortage of beach rentals, surf shops, and excellent waterfront restaurants. You can enjoy your vacation at a slower pace with a stroll down The Folly Beach Pier, or you can venture out to see the dolphins with a sunset boat tour. It’s a relaxed destination, where feeling the breeze in your hair is just one bike rental away.
This list wouldn't be complete without the shining star of the Grand Strand. With 60 miles of coastline to enjoy, Myrtle Beach is as versatile as it is beautiful.Enjoy a relaxed beach day hunting for shark teeth along the shoreline in North Myrtle Beach, or gear up for some action-packed fun at the beloved boardwalk. With so much to explore, Myrtle Beach is a do-it-all destination perfect for making memories.
Most vacationers won’t think of Murrells Inlet when they think of South Carolina, but as the seafood capital of the state, this neighborhood is worth adding to your itinerary. About a 30-minute drive from Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is a prime destination for fishing, watersports, and sunset viewing. One of the best ways to experience the inlet is to take a stroll along The MarshWalk, a half-mile boardwalk along its saltwater estuary. Head there for a divine waterfront dinner soundtracked by the swells of live music. From the MarshWalk you'll have excellent views of one of Murrells Inlet's most odd but worth-seeing attractions, Goat Island.
Known for its gorgeous sand dunes, diverse wildlife, and perfectly preserved maritime forest, Kiawah Island is a nature lover’s dream. This 10-mile-long barrier island grants you breathtaking views of the Kiawah River and the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re looking for luxury, Kiawah Island has that too. You can book a stay at a world-class resort or tee off at one of the five championship golf courses. However you choose to spend your getaway, Kiawah Island is an excellent place to unwind, unplug, and reconnect with nature.
Located near Beaufort, this barrier island is popular for its outdoor recreation and charming historic lighthouse. Make your trip memorable with a horseback ride along the beach or a paddleboarding session along the salt marsh. If you’re a fan of “Forrest Gump,” you won’t want to miss the Marsh Boardwalk Trail, where the movie’s Vietnam war scenes were filmed. At the end of this trail, you’ll find a platform overlooking the water, providing one of the best spots in the Lowcountry to watch the sunset and enjoy the ocean breeze.
These two neighboring beaches make for one peaceful getaway. Pawley’s Island is less than four miles long, but make no mistake, it has plenty to offer. As one of the oldest seaside resorts on the East Coast, Pawleys Island is rich with historical charm and timeless beauty. The island’s calm atmosphere and 25 mph speed limit make it a popular spot for family outings. Less than three miles up the road, Litchfield Beach compliments the old-world charm of Pawleys Island with modern comforts. Here you find tennis, golf, and uninterrupted peace and quiet.
This slice of Southern heaven is something out of a storybook. As the third oldest city in the state, Georgetown’s streets are lined with towering oak trees, 200-year-old-homes, and gorgeous historic properties. Cozied up beside the Sampit River is the heart of Georgetown, the Historic Downtown District. You will find many lively and colorful shops on downtown’s Front Street, which is just a few steps away from the Harborwalk. Thanks to stunning sunsets and scenic river views, a stroll along this boardwalk will have you feeling like the main character in your very own fairytale.
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