You're driving down North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, and honestly, the options for groceries are everywhere. You’ve got the massive big-box stores that feel like a workout just to walk through, and then you’ve got the specialty spots that charge an arm and a leg for a head of lettuce. But then there’s the Publix Super Market at Village Shops at Grande Dunes. It sits at 7925 N Kings Hwy, and if you live in the northern end of the city or you're just passing through for a golf weekend, you probably already know this isn't your average supermarket. It’s kinda become a local hub for people who want high quality without the chaotic energy of the tourist-heavy stores further south.
People around here call it the "Grande Dunes Publix," even though technically anyone can shop there. It opened its doors to serve one of the most upscale communities in Myrtle Beach, but the vibe is surprisingly grounded. You walk in, and it’s clean. Like, really clean. That matters when you're buying seafood in a beach town.
What Makes the Publix Super Market at Village Shops at Grande Dunes Different?
Location is everything. If you're staying at the Marina Inn or living in the Mediterranean-style villas nearby, this is your pantry. Most people don't realize that this specific location—Store #1513 for the nerds who track that stuff—was designed to blend into the aesthetic of the Village Shops. It doesn't look like a giant beige box from the outside. It has that upscale, coastal architecture that makes the whole errand feel a little less like a chore and more like a quick stop on the way to the beach.
The inventory reflects the neighborhood. You’ll find the standard Gallon of milk, sure. But the wine selection here? It’s arguably better than some of the dedicated liquor stores nearby. They stock the heavy hitters—Cayarri, Veuve Clicquot, and some niche Oregon Pinot Noirs that you wouldn’t expect to find next to a bin of onions.
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Then there’s the "Pub Sub" factor.
If you haven't had a Chicken Tender Sub from the deli, have you even been to South Carolina? The line at this location can get long during the lunch rush because the staff actually knows how to build them. They don't skim on the toppings. Pro tip: use the Publix app to order ahead. It’s the only way to skip the 15-minute wait while everyone else stares longingly at the Boar’s Head turkey.
The Pharmacy and Grocery Layout
Navigating a grocery store shouldn't require a map, but so many of them do these days. The Publix Super Market at Village Shops at Grande Dunes keeps a pretty traditional layout, which is a relief. You hit the produce on the right, the bakery smells hit you immediately—specifically that scent of fresh Italian bread—and the pharmacy is tucked in the back corner.
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The pharmacy staff here actually stays for years. That’s rare in retail. You get to know the pharmacists, and they get to know your prescriptions. They also offer those free screenings and basic vaccines that everyone forgets they need until they're already at the store. It’s convenient.
Beyond the Aisles: The Village Shops Experience
Shopping at this Publix isn't just about the groceries; it’s about the fact that it’s anchored in the Village Shops at Grande Dunes. You can grab your eggs and bread, then walk a few doors down to a boutique or grab a coffee. It feels like a village. Hence the name.
The parking lot is worth mentioning because, in Myrtle Beach, parking is usually a nightmare. Here, it’s spacious. You aren't fighting three rows of tourists in minivans just to get a spot near the cart return. It’s easy in, easy out.
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Why Quality Trumps Price for Grande Dunes Locals
Let's be real: Publix isn't the cheapest. If you want the absolute lowest price on a bag of flour, you go to the warehouse clubs. But people shop at the Publix Super Market at Village Shops at Grande Dunes for the "Publix Guarantee." If that cantaloupe you bought is mushy inside? They take it back. No questions. No attitude.
They also lean heavily into the "GreenWise" brand. For the health-conscious crowd in Grande Dunes, this is a big deal. The organic section isn't just a sad corner with two bruised apples; it’s a full-service experience with plenty of gluten-free, keto, and vegan options that actually taste like food.
Surprising Facts About This Specific Location
- The Aprons Cooking School Influence: While this specific store isn't a full-blown cooking school location like some of the massive Florida hubs, the Aprons program influence is felt in the ready-to-eat meals. The "Grab and Go" section here is massive. We're talking fresh sushi made on-site and meals that actually look like they came from a restaurant.
- Holiday Orders: During Thanksgiving and Christmas, this Publix becomes the nerve center for the neighborhood. They do full-course catering. You can basically buy a whole lifestyle in a box and pretend you cooked it.
- Community Support: This store is a major contributor to local food banks. You’ll often see the donation bins at the front, and the staff actually encourages the "Register Crusade" donations for schools and hospitals without being annoying about it.
Is It Worth the Trip if You're Visiting?
If you're staying in a rental house on the North end, yes. Don't go to the crowded stores on the bypass. The Publix Super Market at Village Shops at Grande Dunes is quieter, better stocked, and the staff is genuinely friendly. They still do that thing where they offer to take your groceries to your car. Most people say "no thanks," but the fact that they ask says a lot about the culture.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
- Download the App: Honestly, it’s the only way to manage the BOGO (Buy One Get One) deals. The "Weekly Ad" in the app shows you exactly what’s on sale before you even leave the house.
- Check the BOGOs: Publix is famous for this. If you aren't buying the BOGO items, you're paying too much. They usually rotate the essentials like pasta, soda, and snacks.
- Order the Sub Ahead: I cannot stress this enough. If it's 12:15 PM and you walk up to that deli counter without an online order, you're going to be there for a while.
- Visit the Bakery: Ask for a free cookie for the kids (or yourself, no judgment). Their "Mountain Bread" is also arguably the best grocery store bread in the South.
If you need a reliable, high-end shopping experience that doesn't feel pretentious but still offers the good stuff, this is the spot. It’s a staple of the Myrtle Beach community for a reason. You get what you pay for, and at Grande Dunes, you're paying for a lack of stress and a better loaf of bread.