HI Sportsmom-
I am sure you can find a great spot to rent at the beach for the amount you are looking for. Nomatter where you choose to rent their is a great bus/trolley company called Lymo (pronounced like limousine) that travels the entire Grand Strand. The Ocean Blvd route, the Key Attractions route and the Business 17 routes are just a sampling. For more route info, you can log on to their website at www.golymo.com
Have a wonderful time while you are here...and make sure you stay tuned to Beach TV to find out what's going on while you are here!