Millions of visitors travel to Myrtle Beach annually and for good reason. Myrtle Beach remains one of the East Coast’s premier vacation destinations. Located in South Carolina, this coastal city offers pristine beaches, championship golf courses, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Thanks to a tourism infrastructure built over decades, the area provides accommodations for all budgets and preferences, from Myrtle Beach condo rentals to luxury vacation homes ideal for families and large groups.
Myrtle Beach is accessible year-round, with travel extending beyond traditional summer vacations. The mild weather during the winter months attracts golfers, retirees, and those seeking relief from the freezing northern winters. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options from fresh seafood to upscale steakhouses, along with diverse entertainment and recreational opportunities.
There is no shortage of activities and attractions available on Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or an extended vacation, you’ll find plenty of variety to inspire a return trip.
14 Fun Facts About the Grand Strand
Myrtle Beach is a great vacation destination with sunny beaches and warm waters! Many people flock to the beach year round to enjoy the 60 miles of white sand and the many attractions...but did ya know...
- Myrtle Beach’s first occupants were river dwelling tribes called the Waccamaw and Winyah Indians, who called the area “Chicora,” meaning, “the land." They inhabited the land from North Carolina's Lake Waccamaw to Winyah Bay near Georgetown. Kings Highway was originally an Indian trial.
- Long Bay, the coast that runs from Cape Fear to Georgetown was a popular spot for pirates in the early 1700s, including Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard. Pirates hid out in the inlets attacking ships transporting treasure. Drunken Jack, pirate of infamey by the locals, was noted to be left behind on an island with a huge stash of stolen rum - and was rumored to have died with a smile on his face.
- Myrtle Beach earned its name through a contest. Adeline "Addie" Burroughs submitted the name in a contest sponsored by the Horry Herald for local residents because of the many wax myrtle trees that grew in the area.
- The first Myrtle Beach hotel, Seaside Inn, was built in 1901 for a total cost of $3800. It had no electricity or plumbing but for just $2 a night, guests received 3 square meals, shelter, and easy access to the beach.
- Oceanfront lots in Myrtle Beach were sold for $25 in 1905. Buyers received a second lot if they built a structure on the property valued at $500 or more.
- Myrtle Beach is an island!!! Even though a man made one, Myrtle Beach has been separated from the mainland by the Intracoastal Waterway since 1936.
- The name Grand Strand, which covers an entire string of communities from the fishing village of Little River to historic Georgetown, was coined by Claude Dunnagan in his newspaper column December 3, 1949.
- The Grand Strand is famous for its ghost stories namely those of Alice Flagg and the Gray Man. Legend says that Alice can be seen in Murrells Inlet searching for her engagement ring thrown in the marsh by her disapproving older brother. The Gray Man is said to appear roaming the beach in Pawleys Island to warn of approaching bad weather as he did for his love after his accidental death.
- Illustrations of Myrtle Beach appeared on two Saturday Evening Post covers in 1957 and 1961 recognizing Myrtle Beach nationally as a vacation destination.
- Horry County is the largest county in South Carolina.
- Sports Illustrated was founded in Myrtle Beach in 1973 at the Pine Lakes International Golf Club.
- Vanna White, long-time hostess of Wheel of Fortune, was born in North Myrtle Beach.
- Myrtle Beach is the second most popular beach in the United States.
- Myrtle Beach has four sister cities: Burlington, Canada, Keighley, United Kingdom, Killarney, Ireland and Pinamar, Argentina.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrtle Beach
When is the best time of year to visit Myrtle Beach?
Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Tourism spikes during the summer months with hotter temperatures and busier beaches. Expect milder weather during the winter months which is ideal for golf enthusiasts.
How far is Myrtle Beach from major cities?
Myrtle Beach is located 95 miles north of Charleston, South Carolina and about 77 miles south of Wilmington, North Carolina. Charlotte is 170 miles northwest making it a popular destination for residents throughout the Carolinas.
What are the top attractions besides the beach?
Some of the top attractions on Myrtle Beach include the Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex, the Sky Wheel observation wheel, Ripley’s Aquarium, and several championship golf courses. Live entertainment theaters feature country music, comedy, and tribute shows.
Is Myrtle Beach family-friendly?
There are plenty of attractions and activities for all ages to include water parks, mini-golf courses, amusement rides, arcades, and kid-friendly restaurants. Many of the resorts offer children’s programs and family suites.
How long is the Myrtle Beach coastline?
The Grand Strand extends approximately 60 miles along the South Carolina coast. This shoreline encompasses neighboring beach towns from Little River to Georgetown with Myrtle Beach serving as the central hub.
What dining options are available in Myrtle Beach?
Visitors will find everything from fresh seafood restaurants to upscale steakhouses. The culinary scene ranges from international cuisine to Lowcountry specialties like shrimp and grits. Experience oceanfront dining or all-you-can-eat buffets serving up local favorites.
Are there golf courses in Myrtle Beach?
The Myrtle Beach area is known as the “Golf Capital of the World” and boasts over 90 championship courses designed by legendary architects. The courses range from oceanfront layouts to winding layouts through coastal forests and wetlands. The mild weather allows for year-round play.
What is the weather like in Myrtle Beach?
The summer months bring hot, humid weather with highs near 90°F, while the winter months bring milder weather with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the summer months with hurricane season lasting from June through November.
Can you walk the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk year-round?
The boardwalk remains open throughout the year. Visitors can access various beach access points, restaurants, shops, and attractions. Expect the summer months to bring the most activity. Cooler weather offers fewer crowds and pleasant strolls on the boardwalk.
What shopping opportunities exist in Myrtle Beach?
Mainstream shopping centers include the Tanger Outlets, Coastal Grand Mall, and the Market Common’s upscale retail district. Specialty boutiques can be found along the boardwalk as well as beachwear shops and souvenir stores.
We would love to host you in one of our professionally managed Myrtle Beach vacation rentals. Booe Realty has been a trusted vacation rental manager in Myrtle Beach since 1971. We offer a wide selection of Myrtle Beach properties ranging from 1 bedroom condos all the way up to 9 bedroom oceanfront houses along with everything in between.