Loco Gecko

One of the latest additions to the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and oceanfront lineup is Loco Gecko Beach Shak, a come-as-you-are bar and grill within steps of the Atlantic Ocean. This Caribbean-themed eatery was added on to the Captain’s Quarters Resort property in 2012.

The Food

Much of the menu is about what you would expect from a beach bar and grill – burgers, pizzas, wings, nachos. But there are some surprising items on the appetizer lineup, like the Rocky Mountain Oysters (not the kind that come from the ocean), Mermaid Purses (fried dumplings stuffed with pork or vegetables and topped with a sweet Thai chili sauce), and the Ragin’ Cajun Corn Cobs (buttered and dredged in spices). There are more than a dozen equally creative burger and sandwich options, like the Spicy Redneck (burger topped with onion straws and remoulade) and the Suntanned Clucker (grilled chicken sandwich with dill pickle chips). Patrons can build their own pizzas by selecting from a long list of toppings, including a Chocolate Junkie dessert pie covered in chocolate chips. Frozen drinks and cold beer are the hits of the bar menu.

The Atmosphere

This place is laid-back and very casual, with many people walking up from the beach to enjoy drinks, lunch or dinner. The open-air, Key West-style structure is appropriately decorated with wood walls and antique signs. The mood is fun in the sun, even on rainy days.