When you step into Boulineau’s in Cherry Grove, you’re not just walking into a store. You’re entering a tradition that’s been part of North Myrtle Beach for generations. Established in 1948 by Frank and Louise Boulineau, the original grocery store was a cornerstone of the community until 1954, when Hurricane Hazel swept through and destroyed much of Cherry Grove. Out of that devastation came resilience: Boulineau’s was rebuilt, expanded, and has since grown into a four-block shopping village that serves locals and visitors with warmth, practicality, and a touch of coastal charm.
Boulineau’s is often described as the heartbeat of Cherry Grove, and for good reason. It’s a place where vacationers stock up for their beach rental, where locals gather for lunch, and where generations return year after year to find the familiar comforts of a family-owned institution.
Grocery & Market (Boulineau’s IGA)
At the center of it all is Boulineau’s IGA, the largest grocery store in the area. But calling it a grocery store hardly does it justice. This is a full-service hub where you’ll find:
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Fresh produce displayed with care, perfect for stocking up on summer fruits or crisp vegetables.
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Custom-cut meats and seafood, with butchers and fishmongers ready to help you plan a cookout or family dinner.
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Prepared foods and bakery items, from fresh-baked bread to cakes and pies that taste like home.
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Specialty items and national brands, ensuring you can find both everyday staples and vacation indulgences.
For travelers, the IGA is a lifesaver, whether you’re grabbing snacks for the beach, ingredients for a family meal, or a quick deli sandwich before heading out on the water.
Elizabeth’s Kitchen
One of Boulineau’s most beloved features is its cafeteria, Elizabeth’s Kitchen, which offers ocean-view seating. Imagine enjoying a plate of hot fried chicken while gazing out at the Atlantic. It’s a simple pleasure that keeps people coming back.
Highlights include:
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The fried chicken, often praised as a local favorite.
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A salad bar for lighter fare.
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Daily specials and hot meals that appeal to both families and solo travelers.
It’s casual, friendly, and welcoming — the kind of place where beachgoers in flip-flops sit alongside locals enjoying their lunch break.
Second-Floor Shopping & Lighthouse
Head upstairs and you’ll discover a different side of Boulineau’s. The second-floor gift shop is a treasure trove of:
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Beachwear and jewelry for those looking to add a little sparkle to their vacation.
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Home décor and Hallmark cards, perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
And then there’s the lighthouse observation deck. This scenic spot offers a quiet moment of reflection, a chance to take in the view, and a reminder that Boulineau’s is more than commerce. It’s part of the coastal landscape.
Specialty Departments
Boulineau’s is more than groceries and gifts. Its specialty shops reflect the needs of a beach town:
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Boulineau’s Ace Hardware: stocked with BBQ supplies, fishing gear, and tools for vacation projects.
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Platt’s Seafood Market: a local favorite for fresh fish, shrimp, clams, oysters, and homemade salads.
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Barnacle Beach Shoppe: souvenirs, beach gear, and even hermit crabs for kids.
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Ocean Treasures Resort Wear: stylish swimwear and resort clothing for those who want to look their best on the sand.
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The Dairy Hut: soft serve, milkshakes, sundaes, hotdogs, snacks, and more that can be enjoyed on an outdoor deck with a beautiful view.
Each Boulineau’s store along Sea Mountain Highway creates a collective shopping village that meets nearly every need of coastal living.
Fuel & Convenience: Boulineau’s Express
For those on the go, Boulineau’s Express is a quick-stop station offering:
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Gas and marine fuel for cars and boats.
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Propane refills for grills and RVs.
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Breakfast sandwiches, ice cream, and coffee, making it a cheerful stop on your way to the beach.
It’s fast, friendly, and practical — exactly what you want when you’re juggling vacation plans.
Legacy & Community
What makes Boulineau’s truly special is its legacy of family ownership and community commitment. For more than 60 years, the Boulineau family has invested in Cherry Grove, not just as business owners but as neighbors. Their motto: “If we don’t have it, you don’t need it,” reflects both confidence and care.
Boulineau’s has grown into a 175,000-square-foot shopping village, but it still feels personal. Staff greet customers with warmth, and the store’s presence anchors Cherry Grove as a place where tradition meets modern convenience.
A Local North Myrtle Beach Experience
Visiting Boulineau’s is more than shopping or running errands. It’s an experience of local culture, a chance to see how a family-owned business can shape a community. Whether you’re picking up groceries, enjoying fried chicken with an ocean view, or browsing souvenirs upstairs, you’re participating in a tradition that has endured for decades.
For leisure travelers, Boulineau’s offers both practicality and charm. It’s where you can stock your vacation rental, grab a bite, and discover a slice of Cherry Grove history all in one stop.
So next time you’re in North Myrtle Beach, make time for Boulineau’s!