Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is more than just a coastline; it's the heart of the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of natural beauty along the Atlantic. While often associated with its active boardwalk, amusement parks, and endless entertainment, this coastal city offers a unique blend of spirited energy and quiet allure. Millions of visitors are drawn to its wide beaches and warm weather each year, making it one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States.

Beyond the popular attractions, Myrtle Beach holds a deeper narrative, one shaped by indigenous peoples, early European settlers, and visionary developers. It's a place where the echoes of maritime history linger, and local legends add a touch of intrigue to the salty air. Whether you're seeking lively diversions or a peaceful sunrise stroll along the shore, Myrtle Beach promises an experience that resonates long after the sand leaves your shoes.

From Chicora to Myrtle Beach: A Timeline

The area now known as Myrtle Beach was originally inhabited by the Waccamaw and Winyah indigenous peoples, who called the region "Chicora," meaning "the land." European exploration began in the early 16th century, with a Spanish settlement established briefly about 30 miles south in 1526. However, the region remained largely undeveloped for centuries, serving primarily as hunting and fishing grounds for scattered settlers.

One of the earliest European families to settle the area was the Withers family, who received land grants along the coast. A prominent waterway, Withers Swash, still bears their name. In 1822, a devastating hurricane swept R.F. Withers' house into the ocean, resulting in 18 drownings and prompting the family to abandon their coastal plots. The land gradually returned to forest until 1881, when the Burroughs and Collins Company, a timber and turpentine firm, acquired much of the Withers family's property.

At the turn of the 20th century, the growing community was known as "New Town." Franklin Burroughs, one of the company's founders, envisioned transforming it into a resort destination. Though he passed away in 1897, his sons continued his vision, extending a railroad to the beach and opening the Seaside Inn in 1901. Around 1900, a contest was held to officially name the area. Franklin's widow, Addie Burroughs, suggested "Myrtle Beach," inspired by the abundant wax myrtle shrubs growing wild along the shore. The Withers post office was soon replaced by the first Myrtle Beach post office.

Myrtle Beach was incorporated as a town in 1938 and became a city in 1957 when its permanent population exceeded 5,000. The 1920s saw further development with the construction of upscale resorts like Arcady and the grand Ocean Forest Hotel, which became a social hub for nearly 30 years before its demolition in 1974. The Intracoastal Waterway opened in 1936, further improving accessibility, and the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base was established in the 1940s, serving as a military town for almost 50 years. The opening of the Myrtle Beach Pavilion in 1949 and the formalization of golf packages in 1967 solidified its reputation as a premier vacation spot, eventually earning it the title of "Golf Capital of the World." In 2010, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk opened, quickly gaining recognition as one of the best boardwalks in the U.S.

Myrtle Beach offers a diverse range of experiences, from its expansive shoreline to unique attractions. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade stretches 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, featuring the iconic Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, arcades, and shops like the legendary Gay Dolphin Gift Cove. For those seeking natural beauty, Myrtle Beach State Park, one of South Carolina's first state parks, provides miles of trails, fishing piers, and beach access. Just a short drive away, the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk offers waterfront dining with views of a saltwater estuary, often accompanied by live music.

Beyond the main strip, explore Brookgreen Gardens, a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve located between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. Your admission ticket is valid for seven consecutive days, allowing ample time to explore its sculpture gardens, native wildlife zoo, and Lowcountry trail. The area is also renowned as the "Mini-Golf Capital of the World," with over fifty courses, and is the birthplace of the Carolina Shag dance. For a quieter experience, consider a sunrise walk on the beach or hunting for shark teeth while shelling.

The best time to visit Myrtle Beach depends on your preferences. For warm, sunny beach days and swimming, the peak summer months of June through August are ideal, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s. Expect larger crowds and higher hotel rates during this period. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) are excellent choices. Spring offers comfortable weather in the mid-70s to low 80s, while fall sees temperatures in the mid-70s and upper 60s, perfect for beach walks, golfing, and festivals. Even winter (December through February) can be a good option for a quieter, more relaxed vacation with lower hotel rates, though temperatures are cooler.

Myrtle Beach is a highly accessible destination, with Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) offering domestic and international air travel. The area is also easily reachable by car, particularly from cities like Atlanta, Raleigh, Charlotte, and Jacksonville. The region, known as the Grand Strand, stretches for 60 miles, so understanding the layout can be helpful. U.S. Route 17 has both a Bypass and a Business route; 17 Business, also known as King's Highway, runs closer to the beach. The city is committed to accessibility, having been designated an "autism-friendly" city and destination in 2018 by the Champion Autism Network (CAN), offering sensory-friendly experiences and training for city employees. Accommodations are plentiful, ranging from beachfront hotels and high-rise condos to beach homes and campgrounds, with a lodging capacity comparable to Las Vegas.