Comparing the Top 55+ Communities Near Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach continues to attract active adults who want warm weather, easy access to the coast, and a strong sense of community after retirement. Many buyers Dan and Jan Sitter work with are relocating from out of state and want help comparing 55+ communities without sorting through sales pitches or outdated information.

This guide breaks down some of the most popular 55+ communities near Myrtle Beach, who each one is best for, and what you should know before deciding where to live.

Quick Snapshot: Choosing a 55+ Community Near Myrtle Beach

Before we get into specific neighborhoods, keep this in mind:

• “Near Myrtle Beach” often includes Conway, Murrells Inlet, Little River, and areas just over the NC line

• Distance to the beach matters less day to day than access to shopping, healthcare, and main roads

• HOA rules vary widely, even among 55+ communities

• Some communities feel social and active; others are much quieter

👉 Pro tip: Pick the lifestyle first. The right house comes later.

What Makes a Good 55+ Community in This Area?

Most 55+ buyers near Myrtle Beach are looking for:

• Single-level living or primary suites on the main floor

• HOA-managed maintenance for lawns and shared spaces

• Organized activities or clubs, at least at some level

• A sense of structure without feeling restrictive

Some communities lean heavily into social programming. Others are better for people who want peace, privacy, and fewer scheduled events.

Compare 55+ Communities at a Glance

Breakdown of the Top 55+ Communities Near Myrtle Beach

Del Webb at Grande Dunes (Myrtle Beach)

• Location: Northern Myrtle Beach, inland from the ocean

• Home Types: Single-family homes

• Price Range: Mid to upper range for 55+ buyers

• HOA Overview: Full amenities, structured activities, lawn care included

• Best For: Buyers who want a highly social, resort-style setting

• Things to Know: Higher HOA fees, busy calendar, close to tourist corridors

Cresswind Myrtle Beach (North Myrtle Beach / Little River area)

• Location: Near Little River, north of Myrtle Beach

• Home Types: Single-family homes

• Price Range: Mid-range

• HOA Overview: Clubhouse, fitness, organized events

• Best For: Active adults who want new construction without being in the center of Myrtle Beach

• Things to Know: Growing community with ongoing construction phases

Four Seasons at Prince Creek West (Murrells Inlet)

• Location: South of Myrtle Beach near Murrells Inlet

• Home Types: Single-family homes

• Price Range: Mid-range

• HOA Overview: Lawn care, clubhouse, pools, social activities

• Best For: Buyers who want an established 55+ community with strong neighborhood involvement

• Things to Know: Slightly longer drive to central Myrtle Beach attractions

Lakeside Crossing (Conway)

• Location: Conway, west of Myrtle Beach

• Home Types: Manufactured homes in a gated setting

• Price Range: Lower than many stick-built 55+ communities

• HOA Overview: Maintenance, amenities, and activities included

• Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who still want structure and social options

• Things to Know: Manufactured housing is not right for everyone and affects financing options

Myrtle Trace (Conway)

• Location: Conway, near Highway 501

• Home Types: Single-family homes

• Price Range: Lower to mid-range

• HOA Overview: Light HOA with basic rules and maintenance

• Best For: Buyers who want a quieter 55+ neighborhood without heavy programming

• Things to Know: Older homes may require updates

Woodlake Village (Murrells Inlet)

• Location: Near Murrells Inlet

• Home Types: Condos and townhome-style units

• Price Range: Lower to mid-range

• HOA Overview: Exterior maintenance and common areas

• Best For: Buyers who want low-maintenance living and smaller footprints

• Things to Know: Condo HOA documents and reserves should be reviewed carefully

Del Webb at Carolina Shores (NC Border)

• Location: Just over the North Carolina line near Calabash

• Home Types: Single-family homes

• Price Range: Mid-range

• HOA Overview: Full Del Webb lifestyle model

• Best For: Buyers open to living outside South Carolina for value and space

• Things to Know: State taxes, insurance, and healthcare networks differ from SC

HOA Fees and Rules: Read This First

HOAs are part of nearly every 55+ community near Myrtle Beach.

Review these carefully:

• Monthly dues and what they cover

• Rules on rentals, guests, and parking

• Pet limits

• Exterior modification policies

Dan and Jan Sitter help buyers review HOA documents in plain language before they commit, especially for out-of-state clients.

Newer vs Established 55+ Communities

Newer communities

• Modern layouts and energy efficiency

• Fewer immediate repairs

• Construction nearby during build-out

Established communities

• Mature trees and stable routines

• Known HOA operations

• Older roofs, HVAC, or interiors to inspect

There is no right answer. It depends on your comfort level and timeline.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make

• Choosing based on amenities alone

• Ignoring HOA rules until after closing

• Underestimating drive times for healthcare

• Not visiting during peak season

• Falling in love with a house before understanding the community

How Dan and Jan Sitter Help 55+ Buyers

Dan and Jan Sitter specialize in helping retirement and relocation buyers compare 55+ communities near Myrtle Beach with clarity.

They help by:

• Matching lifestyle priorities to neighborhoods

• Explaining HOA rules and costs clearly

• Touring communities for out-of-state buyers

• Comparing total monthly costs, not just home prices

FAQ: 55+ Communities Near Myrtle Beach

Are all residents required to be 55 or older?
Most communities allow a percentage of residents under 55, but rules vary.

Can family members visit?
Yes, short-term guests are usually allowed. Long-term stays may be limited.

Are 55+ communities more expensive?
Not always. HOA fees add cost, but maintenance savings often offset it.

Do these communities allow rentals?
Some do, many restrict them. Always check before buying.

How close are most 55+ communities to the beach?
Most are 10–30 minutes away. Direct beach access is rare in age-restricted neighborhoods.

Are pets allowed?
Yes, but limits on size or number are common.

Thinking About a 55+ Community Near Myrtle Beach?

Choosing the right retirement community is about more than the house. It’s about how you want to live every day.

👉 Want help comparing 55+ communities near Myrtle Beach based on your lifestyle and budget?
Reach out to Dan and Jan Sitter for a personalized list, HOA details, and honest guidance before you make a move.