Vibrant Heart of the Grand Strand: Downtown Myrtle Beach

• HelloHey y'all
  [hey yawl]
• GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see ya lay-tuh]
• YesYup
  [yup]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks a bunch
  [thanks uh bunch]
• Excuse me/SorrySorry 'bout that
  [sorry 'bout that]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how yawl doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. You?
  [fine. yew?]
• Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak english?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [i aint catchin' on]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLet me see the menu, please
  [let me see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i don't do meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [check, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [im turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [im feelin' poorly]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [im fixin' to buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin']
• How much is it?How much does it run?
  [how much does it run?]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [that's steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do better on the price?
  [can you do better on the price?]

• What time is it?What's the time now?
  [whats the time now?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thirty]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomorrah]
• 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 point it out?
  [can you point it out?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

The area now known as Myrtle Beach was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Waccamaw and the Pee Dee. European settlers began to arrive in the late 17th century, with significant growth occurring in the 18th century. The town itself was officially founded in the late 19th century, with the arrival of the railroad in 1900, which transformed it into a popular resort destination.

In the early 20th century, Myrtle Beach's reputation as a beach resort grew, particularly after the establishment of the Myrtle Beach Pavilion in 1908. This amusement park became a central attraction for visitors. The expansion of hotels and accommodations along the coastline helped to solidify Myrtle Beach’s status as a vacation hotspot, attracting tourists from across the Southeast United States.

During World War II, Myrtle Beach's economy saw a shift as the area became home to military training camps, including the Myrtle Beach Army Air Field. The influx of soldiers and military personnel brought temporary growth to the local economy, and upon the war's end, many veterans returned to the area, further increasing tourism and development.

The 1960s brought significant social change to Myrtle Beach, paralleling the Civil Rights Movement across the United States. Efforts to desegregate public spaces, including beaches and restaurants, marked a pivotal moment in the city's history. Activists worked tirelessly to ensure equal access to the beautiful beaches and amenities that Myrtle Beach offered.

The late 20th century and early 21st century witnessed rapid development in Downtown Myrtle Beach, with a focus on revitalizing the area to appeal to tourists. Attractions such as the Boardwalk and Promenade, established in 2010, have become key features of the downtown landscape, hosting events, shops, and restaurants that celebrate the vibrant culture and history of Myrtle Beach.

Downtown Myrtle Beach is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach. If traveling from the northern areas like North Myrtle Beach, you can take Highway 17 South, which leads directly into Downtown. From the southern neighborhoods, such as Surfside Beach, simply follow Ocean Boulevard northward. Public transport options, including the Coast RTA bus service, also connect various neighborhoods to Downtown Myrtle Beach.

Downtown Myrtle Beach is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Bicycle rentals are available, and the area also has bike lanes for cyclists. For public transportation, the Coast RTA offers buses that run throughout the city, with several stops in Downtown. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available for more convenient travel.

Downtown Myrtle Beach is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to remain cautious, especially at night. Areas near the Boardwalk and beach can attract larger crowds, so keep an eye on personal belongings. Some off-beach neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, so avoid walking alone late at night in those areas. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are several medical facilities in and around Downtown Myrtle Beach, including urgent care centers. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, such as Grand Strand Medical Center. Keep a copy of emergency contacts and important documents readily accessible.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for the beach, but avoid overly revealing outfits when dining in restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting churches. Public Transport: Do follow local etiquette on buses, such as giving up your seat for the elderly. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or wave. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies, but don't consume food or drink while walking along the Boardwalk.

To experience Downtown Myrtle Beach like a local, visit the local markets for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Engage with local vendors at the Boardwalk and try the famous ice cream shops. Check out the free events that often occur at the Boardwalk, such as live music and festivals. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the beach at sunset or enjoy a morning walk when the crowds are thinner.