Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Travel Guide

Discover Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's coastal paradise, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant boardwalk, thrilling attractions, world-class golf courses, and lively nightlife.

Myrtle Beach, located on the southeastern coast of South Carolina, is a gem of a destination that promises enchanting experiences for travelers of all ages. Known for its 60 miles of pristine sandy beaches, this coastal city is a haven for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike. Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or an adrenaline-pumping adventure on jet skis, Myrtle Beach offers endless opportunities to make the most of your seaside getaway. Beyond its inviting shores, Myrtle Beach is a hub of entertainment and attractions. The iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit, featuring a variety of shops, eateries, and amusement rides. Take a ride on the SkyWheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the United States, for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city skyline. For families, the Ripley's Aquarium and Family Kingdom Amusement Park provide hours of fun and excitement. Myrtle Beach is also a golfer's paradise, boasting nearly 100 golf courses designed by some of the most respected names in the sport. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll find a course that suits your skill level. When the sun sets, the city comes alive with vibrant nightlife options, including live music, theaters, and dance clubs. The Myrtle Beach area is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, ensuring that there's always something happening to enhance your visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Take advantage of the city's free summer concerts and fireworks shows, often held along the Boardwalk.
Use the local bus service, Coast RTA, for convenient and affordable transportation around the city.
Don't miss the fresh seafood; local restaurants offer some of the best southern cuisine.
Book your accommodations early if you plan to visit during peak season to ensure availability and better rates.

Neighbourhoods in Myrtle Beach

Broadway at the Beach

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

North Myrtle Beach

Downtown Myrtle Beach

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Myrtle Beach

Explore Myrtle Beach: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Myrtle Beach

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Broadway at the Beach

Discover the excitement of Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach's top destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, perfect for all ages.

4.6

Broadway at the Beach

Experience the ultimate blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, SC.

4.6

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Explore the captivating underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, home to diverse marine life and interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.4

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Experience the magic of marine life at Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, a family-friendly destination full of underwater wonders and interactive exhibits.

4.4

Best landmarks in Myrtle Beach

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Broadway at the Beach

Explore Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach's top shopping and entertainment destination offering attractions, dining, and vibrant nightlife for all ages.

4.6

Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach

Discover the marine marvels at Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, an enchanting underwater adventure for the whole family.

4.4

Barefoot Landing

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

4.6

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

Experience breathtaking views from the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, a must-visit attraction for tourists seeking adventure and stunning coastal panoramas.

4.6

Best restaurants in Myrtle Beach

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National House of Pancakes

Experience delightful breakfasts at National House of Pancakes in Myrtle Beach - where fluffy pancakes meet friendly service.

4.7

The Hangout

Experience unforgettable family dining at The Hangout in Myrtle Beach – where great food meets fun activities!

4.8

Sea Captain's House

Experience coastal dining at its finest at Sea Captain's House in Myrtle Beach—where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

4.4

RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and delicious American cuisine at RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar in Myrtle Beach.

4.2

Best bars in Myrtle Beach

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RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar

Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and stunning ocean views at RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar in Myrtle Beach.

4.2

The Bowery

Discover the vibrant energy of The Bowery, Myrtle Beach's iconic live music bar and restaurant, where great food and entertainment come together.

4.5

Beach House Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious coastal cuisine at Beach House Bar & Grill, the ultimate dining destination in Myrtle Beach.

4.2

8th Ave Tiki Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant 8th Ave Tiki Bar & Grill, a tropical paradise in Myrtle Beach offering delicious Mediterranean cuisine and fun nightlife experiences.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Myrtle Beach

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The Bowery

Discover the vibrant nightlife of The Bowery in Myrtle Beach, where live music and delicious cuisine create an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Tin Roof

Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere at Tin Roof, the ultimate bar and restaurant in Myrtle Beach.

4.2

The Treasure Club Myrtle Beach, SC

Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Treasure Club, Myrtle Beach's premier adult entertainment venue with vibrant performances and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

Pulse Ultra Club

Discover the energetic nightlife at Pulse Ultra Club, Myrtle Beach's vibrant gay bar with electrifying performances and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Myrtle Beach

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Broadway at the Beach

Discover the ultimate shopping and entertainment experience at Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach, a paradise for tourists with diverse attractions.

4.6

Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 17

Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant shopping experience at Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 17, your premier outlet destination.

4.5

Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach Hwy 501

Discover unbeatable deals at Tanger Outlets Myrtle Beach with over 100 stores offering designer brands and exceptional discounts in a beautiful setting.

4.5

Coastal Grand Mall

Experience the vibrant shopping and dining at Coastal Grand Mall, Myrtle Beach's top destination for tourists seeking retail therapy.

4.4

Explore Myrtle Beach on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Myrtle Beach, mapped for you.

Myrtle Beach Essentials

Myrtle Beach is located in Horry County, South Carolina. The nearest major airport is Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), which offers numerous domestic flights and a few international options. Many travelers also choose to fly into Charleston International Airport (CHS) or Wilmington International Airport (ILM) and drive to Myrtle Beach, which takes about 2 hours. Additionally, Greyhound buses provide service to Myrtle Beach, and Amtrak trains stop in nearby Florence, SC, with connecting bus service to the beach.
Myrtle Beach offers a variety of transportation options, including car rentals, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. The Coast RTA provides a public bus service that covers the Grand Strand area, including Myrtle Beach. For a more leisurely mode of transport, bicycles and golf carts are popular and can be rented from numerous local vendors. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the beach and nearby attractions.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially along the tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case you visit more remote areas where card payments might not be accepted.
Myrtle Beach is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in less populated areas. Be cautious in neighborhoods such as the downtown area around Seaboard Street, which has higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and don't leave valuables unattended on the beach.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Myrtle Beach has several medical facilities, including Grand Strand Medical Center and Conway Medical Center. Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens are also widely available. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous urgent care centers throughout the city.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and casual clothing suitable for the beach. Don't walk barefoot outside of the beach area. Religion: Do respect places of worship and dress modestly if visiting a church. Public Transport: Do be courteous to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and Southern cuisine. Don't forget to tip your server, typically 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Myrtle Beach like a local, visit the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade, especially during the evening for a vibrant atmosphere. For a quieter experience, explore the Murrells Inlet MarshWalk. Attend a local event like the Carolina Country Music Fest or a minor league baseball game featuring the Myrtle Beach Pelicans. Don’t miss out on fresh seafood at local favorites like Sea Captain's House or enjoy a sunset cruise for a unique perspective of the coastline.

When is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Myrtle Beach

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 Myrtle Beach. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey y'all
  [hey y'all]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya later]
- YesYessir
  [yessir]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [please/no problem]
- Thank youThank ya
  [thank ya]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/My bad
  [excuse me/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
- Fine. And you?I'm good, how 'bout you?
  [I'm good, how 'bout you?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [can I see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay now, please
  [can I pay now, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [go away!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [call a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just browsing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much does it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [that's too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya give me a discount?
  [can ya give me a discount?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [it's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- 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 you show me (on the map)?
  [can you 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 Myrtle Beach

Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Myrtle Beach was inhabited by the Waccamaw and Winyah tribes. These tribes lived off the land, fishing, hunting, and farming in the rich coastal environment.
In the 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area. The land was part of a larger region known as the 'Grand Strand'. These settlers established small farming communities and engaged in trade with the native tribes.
In the late 19th century, the Burroughs & Collins Company, a timber and land company, purchased large tracts of land in the area. They saw potential in the region beyond its timber resources, which would later lead to the development of Myrtle Beach as a tourist destination.
In 1900, the area was officially named 'Myrtle Beach' after the southern wax myrtle, a native shrub that is abundant in the region. The name was chosen through a contest held by the Burroughs & Collins Company.
The arrival of the railroad in 1902 was a pivotal moment for Myrtle Beach. It made the area more accessible, leading to an increase in visitors. This development marked the beginning of Myrtle Beach's transformation into a popular vacation destination.
In the 1920s, the first hotel, the Seaside Inn, was built, and other accommodations followed. Myrtle Beach quickly became known for its beautiful coastline and recreational opportunities, attracting visitors from across the region.
During World War II, Myrtle Beach became an important training ground for the U.S. military. The Myrtle Beach Army Air Field was established in 1940 and significantly contributed to the local economy during and after the war.
The post-war era saw a significant boom in tourism. The Myrtle Beach Pavilion, an iconic amusement park, opened in 1948, further cementing the city's status as a family-friendly vacation spot. Hotels, motels, and other attractions rapidly spread along the coastline.
Myrtle Beach was officially incorporated as a town in 1938 and later as a city in 1957. The city continued to grow, with the development of golf courses, shopping centers, and entertainment venues, making it a diverse and vibrant tourist hub.
Today, Myrtle Beach is renowned for its 60-mile stretch of beaches, golf courses, and entertainment options. It hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, drawing millions of visitors annually and contributing significantly to South Carolina's tourism industry.