1. Dead Dog Saloon
City: Murrells Inlet, SC
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (843) 651-0664
Address: 4079 US 17 Business
Description: The Murrells Inlet Dead Dog established itself as a local favorite with what is hailed as the largest outdoor deck—and hence, outdoor bar—on the Grand Strand. The bar sits right on the water, and you can enjoy awesome views while taking in the music.Dead Dog opened a second location at Coastal Grand Mall in Nov 2006. The huge location has two bars and three bandstands.Both locations have live music every night of the week, and they take that music outside on the patio during the summer. Dead Dog draws an eclectic crowd ranging from bikers to barristers. Both locations have a better-than-basic menu for seafarers and landlubbers. The atmosphere is fun, and there’s no cover charge. Both locations are open for lunch and dinner.
2. Creek Ratz
City: Murrells Inlet, SC
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (843) 357-2891
Address: 4065 US 17 Business
Description: One of Murrells Inlet’s newer offerings, owned by the son of a longtime local, Creek Ratz has quickly become a favorite of both locals and tourists. Why? Rustic, nautical appeal. Spectacular views. Good food. Friendly service. Interesting clientele. It also has a reasonably priced menu, a full raw bar, happy hour, live entertainment, and plenty of TVs on which to watch your favorite sporting events. Enjoy shagging—on the edge of one of America’s most beautiful creeks—on Sunday afternoon. Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 p.m. Creek Ratz is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and is very family-friendly.
3. Hot Fish Club Gazebo
City: Murrells Inlet, SC
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (843) 357-9175
Address: 4911 US 17 Business
Description: The original “Hot and Hot Fish Club” was founded near the end of the 18th century and might have been Murrells Inlet’s first dining establishment. Out back behind the restaurant, the Gazebo—overlooking an undeniably spectacular view of the Inlet, offers the South Strand’s best view for live nightly entertainment from Wednesday through Sunday. The food is better than average. To start, try the Key West Crabcake and Jack Jennie’s Blackened Shrimp. There is also a raw bar and several tempting sandwich selections. Locals patronize this bar, and for many reasons. Discover them for yourself.