Grand Strand, South Carolina Travel Guide

Discover the Grand Strand: 60 miles of beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and vibrant entertainment in South Carolina's coastal paradise.

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Grand Strand

Stretching for 60 miles along the stunning Atlantic coast, the Grand Strand in South Carolina is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Known for its pristine sandy beaches, this destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant entertainment. Myrtle Beach, the heart of the Grand Strand, is famous for its bustling boardwalk, amusement parks, and an array of dining and shopping options. Beyond the beaches, the Grand Strand boasts world-class golf courses, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. The region is also rich in history and culture, with charming towns like Murrells Inlet offering a glimpse into South Carolina's past. Here, visitors can explore historic plantations, enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and take part in eco-tours of the nearby marshlands. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Grand Strand does not disappoint. Visitors can go fishing, kayaking, or take a leisurely boat ride to experience the area's diverse wildlife. The region is also home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring there's always something exciting happening. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or indulge in local cuisine, the Grand Strand has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Grand Strand.

Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Check out Broadway at the Beach for a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Take a sunset cruise or dolphin-watching tour for a memorable experience on the water.
Explore Brookgreen Gardens for beautiful sculptures and botanical gardens.
Try the local seafood; Murrells Inlet is known as the 'Seafood Capital of South Carolina.'

Top City Travel Guides in Grand Strand

The cities of Grand Strand, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Myrtle Beach

Explore Grand Strand: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Grand Strand

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Experience the magic of the ocean at Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, home to diverse marine life and interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.4

Huntington Beach State Park

Explore Huntington Beach State Park: A Coastal Paradise for Nature Lovers in South Carolina with Scenic Trails, Wildlife, and Historic Attractions.

4.8

Hollywood Wax Museum

Discover lifelike wax figures, thrilling mazes, and spooky haunts at the Hollywood Wax Museum in Myrtle Beach, a perfect family-friendly attraction.

4.6

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Experience the extraordinary at Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Myrtle Beach, where the bizarre and unusual come to life in a captivating attraction.

4.2

Best landmarks in Grand Strand

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Best Landmarks

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Barefoot Landing

Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, a perfect destination for family fun and relaxation.

4.6

Huntington Beach State Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Huntington Beach State Park, where pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.8

Brookgreen Gardens

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Brookgreen Gardens, where art, nature, and history unite in a stunning botanical paradise.

4.8

Alligator Adventure

Explore Alligator Adventure in North Myrtle Beach, a thrilling zoo experience featuring alligators, exotic birds, and captivating wildlife encounters.

4.6

Best restaurants in Grand Strand

Top-rated picks

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The Hangout

Discover The Hangout: Myrtle Beach's top family-friendly restaurant offering delicious meals and fun-filled atmosphere for all ages.

4.8

Sea Captain's House

Discover culinary excellence at Sea Captain's House in Myrtle Beach - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.

4.4

Carolina Roadhouse

Experience authentic American cuisine at Carolina Roadhouse in Myrtle Beach - where delicious meals meet Southern hospitality.

4.5

Big Mike's Soul Food

Discover authentic Southern flavors at Big Mike's Soul Food in Myrtle Beach - where comfort food meets warm hospitality.

4.4

Best bars in Grand Strand

Top-rated picks

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RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning ocean views at RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar in Myrtle Beach.

4.2

Dave & Buster's Myrtle Beach

Discover the thrill of dining and gaming at Dave & Buster's Myrtle Beach, the ultimate destination for fun and entertainment.

4.2

The Bowery

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Bowery, Myrtle Beach's premier live music bar and grill, offering unforgettable entertainment and delicious dining.

4.5

Hard Rock Cafe

Discover the rock 'n' roll spirit at Hard Rock Cafe Myrtle Beach, where great food meets iconic music in a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Grand Strand

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Bar Louie - Broadway at the Beach

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu at Bar Louie, the ultimate American grill and bar at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach.

3.9

Fat Harold's Beach Club

Dance the night away at Fat Harold's Beach Club, a vibrant night club and bar & grill in North Myrtle Beach, SC, known for its lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine.

4.5

3001 NIGHTLIFE

Dance the night away at 3001 Nightlife, Myrtle Beach's premier night club, featuring electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

Club Envy

Dive into an electrifying night at Club Envy, Myrtle Beach's premier night club with great music and vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable party experience.

3.6

Best shops in Grand Strand

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Broadway at the Beach

Explore Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach's ultimate shopping and entertainment oasis, where fun, food, and fantastic experiences await every visitor.

4.6

Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 17

Discover unbeatable deals and a diverse selection of your favorite brands at Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 17, the ultimate shopping destination.

4.5

Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 501

Explore unbeatable savings at Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 501, your ultimate shopping destination with over 100 brand-name stores.

4.5

Coastal Grand Mall

Explore Coastal Grand Mall, Myrtle Beach's premier shopping destination with diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for all ages.

4.4

Explore Grand Strand on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Grand Strand, mapped for you.

Grand Strand Essentials

Grand Strand, South Carolina, is accessible through various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), which offers numerous domestic flights and some international connections. For those driving, U.S. Route 17 runs along the coast of Grand Strand, making it easily reachable from other parts of South Carolina and neighboring states. Bus services, including Greyhound, also connect to Myrtle Beach.
Once in Grand Strand, several transportation options are available. The Coast RTA bus system operates routes throughout the area, including Myrtle Beach and surrounding towns. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the Grand Strand at your own pace. For those who prefer biking, many areas have dedicated bike lanes and rental services.
The official currency in Grand Strand, South Carolina, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the area for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller establishments or in more remote areas.
Grand Strand is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, and always keep an eye on your belongings. Areas such as the downtown Myrtle Beach area can experience higher crime rates, particularly at night, so it is advisable to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Myrtle Beach has several hospitals and urgent care facilities available for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, especially for beach activities. Avoid overly formal attire unless attending a special event. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be courteous to other passengers and the driver. Avoid loud conversations or playing music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A smile and a handshake are generally appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies and Southern cuisine. Avoid wasting food, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Grand Strand like a local, consider visiting the lesser-known beaches and local eateries. Attend local events and festivals to get a sense of the community spirit. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share tips about the best spots to visit. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby natural reserves and state parks for a break from the bustling tourist areas.

When is the best time to visit Grand Strand?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Grand Strand

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Grand Strand. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [Hay]
- GoodbyeBye
  [Bye]
- YesYea
  [Yea]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [No prob-lum]
- Thank youThanks
  [Thangs]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry 'bout that
  [Sorry 'bout that]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [How ya doin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [Good. You?]
- Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
  [You speakin' English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't git it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [Can I git the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [Leave me alone!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm not feelin' good
  [I'm not feelin' good]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [Just lookin']
- How much is it?How much?
  [How much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too high
  [That's too high]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya drop the price?
  [Can ya drop the price?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [What's the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [Can ya show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A ticket to...]

History of Grand Strand

Long before the Grand Strand became a tourist haven, it was inhabited by the Waccamaw and Winyah tribes. These Native American tribes thrived on the land, using the rivers and forests for sustenance. European settlers arrived in the 1700s, bringing with them new technologies and practices that would forever alter the landscape and culture of the area.
The Grand Strand's coastal location made it a prime spot for pirate activity in the 17th and 18th centuries. Infamous pirates like Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet are rumored to have used the inlets and coves of the area to hide their treasure and repair their ships. The tales of buried treasure and pirate lore continue to be a captivating part of the region's history.
During the Civil War, the Grand Strand's strategic coastal position was significant for both the Union and Confederate forces. Forts were built to protect the coastline, and various skirmishes took place in the area. The Union blockade of Confederate ports significantly impacted the local economy, which was heavily reliant on maritime trade.
Myrtle Beach, the heart of the Grand Strand, began its transformation into a vacation destination in the early 20th century. The completion of the railroad in 1902 made the area more accessible, leading to the establishment of the first hotels and resorts. The city's name, Myrtle Beach, was officially adopted in 1938, inspired by the native wax myrtle trees.
Post-World War II America saw a boom in automobile travel, which significantly boosted tourism in the Grand Strand. The 1950s and 1960s were marked by the construction of numerous motels, amusement parks, and golf courses. This era laid the foundation for the Grand Strand's reputation as a premier family vacation destination.
In 1954, Hurricane Hazel struck the Grand Strand with devastating force. The Category 4 hurricane caused extensive damage to properties and infrastructure, reshaping the coastline. The recovery efforts that followed led to stricter building codes and better preparedness for future storms, ultimately strengthening the community's resilience.
Over the decades, the Grand Strand has evolved into a melting pot of cultures, attracting visitors from all over the world. The area boasts a rich array of festivals, music, and culinary offerings that reflect its diverse heritage. From the Carolina Opry to the annual Blue Crab Festival, the Grand Strand offers a vibrant cultural experience for all who visit.