· US

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States

Dive into Sunshine and Smiles in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina! Myrtle Beach isn't just a destination; it's a feeling. Imagine warm sand between your toes, the salty ocean breeze in your hair, and the sounds of laughter …

#Beach destination#Tourist hotspot#Golfing paradise#Family-friendly#Entertainment hub

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Myrtle Beach.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

information not available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Myrtle Beach

Jan

13°2°

Feb

15°3°

Mar

18°6°

Apr

23°10°

May

27°15°

Jun

30°20°

Jul

32°23°

Aug

31°22°

Sep

28°19°

Oct

24°13°

Nov

19°8°

Dec

15°4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Myrtle Beach.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:

Beautiful Beaches: Myrtle Beach is known for its stunning white sandy beaches that stretch for miles along the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or participate in various water activities like surfing, parasailing, and jet skiing.
Golfing Paradise: Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for golf enthusiasts with over 100 golf courses in the area. The city is often referred to as the "Golf Capital of the World," offering a wide range of courses for players of all skill levels.
Entertainment and Attractions: Myrtle Beach is home to numerous entertainment options, including amusement parks, water parks, live shows, and shopping centers. Popular attractions include Broadway at the Beach, Ripley's Aquarium, and the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.
Dining and Nightlife: The city offers a diverse range of dining options, from fresh seafood restaurants to international cuisine and casual beachside cafes. Myrtle Beach also has a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and live music venues to enjoy after dark.
Family-Friendly Destination: Myrtle Beach is a great destination for families with children, as there are plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions available. Families can enjoy mini-golf, go-kart racing, and visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk for ice cream and souvenir shopping.

Overall, Myrtle Beach offers a combination of beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, entertainment options, and dining experiences, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a fun and relaxing beach vacation.

What to know

Traveling to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States, has several potential cons that travelers should be aware of:

Crowds: Myrtle Beach is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. This can lead to crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions, which may not be ideal for those seeking a more peaceful vacation experience.
Traffic: Like many popular tourist destinations, Myrtle Beach can experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly on the main highways leading into the area. This traffic can be frustrating and may result in longer travel times.
Weather: Myrtle Beach is located in a region that is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November. Travelers should be aware of the potential for inclement weather and plan accordingly.
High Prices: Due to its popularity as a tourist destination, prices for accommodations, dining, and activities in Myrtle Beach can be higher than in other areas. Travelers on a budget may find that their money doesn't stretch as far in Myrtle Beach as it might in other destinations.
Commercialization: Some travelers may find that Myrtle Beach has a more commercialized feel than other beach destinations. The area is known for its abundance of shops, restaurants, and attractions, which may detract from the natural beauty of the beach for some visitors.

Overall, while Myrtle Beach offers a lot to see and do, travelers should be prepared for potential crowds, traffic, weather risks, higher prices, and a commercialized atmosphere.

Myrtle Beach, located in Horry County, South Carolina, has a rich history intertwined with its development as a major tourist destination. Here is a detailed look at the history of Myrtle Beach, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

Native American Presence: The area that is now Myrtle Beach was originally inhabited by the Waccamaw and Winyah Native American tribes. They used the land primarily for hunting and fishing.
European Settlement: European settlers began moving into the area in the late 18th century. The region was initially used for subsistence farming and was relatively isolated.

Development in the 20th Century

Burroughs & Collins Company: In the late 19th century, the Burroughs & Collins Company, a timber and land company, played a significant role in developing Myrtle Beach. They were instrumental in building the first railroad to the area, which was completed in 1900, facilitating better access.
Naming Myrtle Beach: The town was named "Myrtle Beach" in 1900 after the wax myrtle trees abundant in the area.
Seaside Resort Development: During the early 20th century, Myrtle Beach began to develop as a seaside resort. The first hotel, the Seaside Inn, was built in 1901.
Incorporation: Myrtle Beach was incorporated as a town in 1938 and later became a city in 1957.

Significant Events

Hurricane Hazel (1954): This storm devastated Myrtle Beach, causing significant damage. However, the city rebounded and used the opportunity to modernize and expand.
Tourism Boom: In the 1960s and 1970s, Myrtle Beach experienced a tourism boom, becoming a popular destination for families and vacationers due to its sandy beaches and mild climate. The construction of attractions, golf courses, and shopping centers fueled this growth.

Historical Figures

F.G. Burroughs: A key figure in the development of Myrtle Beach, Burroughs was part of the Burroughs & Collins Company. His efforts in expanding the railroad and promoting the area were crucial to its initial growth.
Robert M. Grissom: As mayor from 1986 to 1998, Grissom played a significant role in the development and modernization of the city, making it more attractive for tourism and investment.

Important Landmarks

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk: Opened in 2010, the boardwalk runs along the oceanfront and is a central attraction for tourists.
Myrtle Beach Pavilion: Originally opened in 1948, it was a popular amusement park that operated until 2006. While the park itself no longer exists, it remains a nostalgic landmark in the history of Myrtle Beach.
The Carolina Opry: Established in 1986 by Calvin Gilmore, this theater is a major entertainment venue that helped establish Myrtle Beach as a destination for live performances.
Broadway at the Beach: Opened in 1995, this entertainment complex is one of the largest in the area, featuring shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Recent Developments

Economic Growth: In recent years, Myrtle Beach has continued to expand economically, with a focus on tourism, real estate, and retail. The city hosts numerous festivals and events, further solidifying its status as a vibrant tourist hub.
Environmental Initiatives: Efforts have been made to preserve the natural beauty of Myrtle Beach, with projects aimed at protecting the coastline and wildlife.

Myrtle Beach remains a dynamic city with a blend of historical charm and modern attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually.