Myrtle Beach | USA South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is an independent city in Horry County, situated at the center of the "Grand Strand," a continuous 100-km stretch of beach on the Atlantic coast. It is defined by its high-density tourism economy, its status as the "Golf Capital of the World," and its identity as a primary East Coast vacation hub.

Historical Timeline

Inhabited by the Waccamaw people. Primary governance began with its 1938 incorporation. A critical historical event was the 1901 construction of the Seaside Inn and the subsequent railroad extension, which transitioned the area from a timber and turpentine source into a coastal resort. The mid-20th century saw the establishment of the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base (1954), which anchored the economy until its 1993 closure. The 21st century has been characterized by massive commercial redevelopment, including the construction of the Boardwalk (2010) and the expansion of the "Broadway at the Beach" complex.

Demographics & Population

The population is approximately 38,000 (Metro area ~550,000). The demographics are White (68%), Black or African American (13%), and Hispanic or Latino (14%). The economy is almost exclusively driven by tourism, hospitality, and retail, hosting over 19 million visitors annually.

Urban Layout & Key Districts

The city is organized linearly along the coastline, bisected by the Intracoastal Waterway.

The Boardwalk / Ocean Boulevard: The high-density tourist core featuring the SkyWheel, amusement parks, and "oceanfront" hotels.

Broadway at the Beach: A 350-acre outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located inland from the beachfront.

The Market Common: A revitalized urban village built on the former Air Force base, featuring upscale retail and residential townhomes.

Restaurant Row: A northern stretch of US-17 known for a high concentration of seafood buffets and fine dining.

Dunes Section: An affluent northern residential district characterized by large estates and private golf clubs.

Top City Landmarks

Myrtle Beach SkyWheel: A 187-foot tall observation wheel that serves as the primary visual icon of the skyline.

Broadway at the Beach: Home to Ripley’s Aquarium, WonderWorks, and various themed theaters.

Myrtle Beach State Park: A 312-acre oceanfront preserve providing a natural alternative to the commercialized boardwalk.

Brookgreen Gardens: Located 30 km south; a National Historic Landmark featuring American figurative sculpture and a lowcountry zoo.

The Carolina Opry: The first variety show in Myrtle Beach, anchoring the city's live entertainment industry.

Barefoot Landing: A large shopping and entertainment district located on the Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach.

Transportation Network

Movement is automotive-centric and heavily congested during summer months. Primary arteries include US-17 (The Bypass) and US-17 Business. Public transit is provided by The Coast RTA. Commercial air service is via Myrtle Beach International (MYR).

Safety & "Red Zones"

The general safety level is low to moderate compared to state averages. Property crime and larceny are prevalent in tourist zones. Caution is advised at night along Ocean Boulevard and the Yaupon Drive corridor due to localized violent crime and drug activity. Environmental hazards include significant hurricane risk (June–November) and dangerous rip currents in the Atlantic.

Digital & Financial Infrastructure

Internet speeds average 500+ Mbps with fiber availability via HTC (Horry Telephone Cooperative) and Spectrum. Main mobile carriers are Verizon and AT&T. Card acceptance is 100%. ATMs are ubiquitous in the Boardwalk and Broadway areas.

Climate & Air Quality

Temperatures range from 4°C to 15°C in winter and 23°C to 32°C in summer. The city experiences extreme humidity and frequent sea breezes. Air quality is high.

Culture & Social Norms

The standard tipping percentage is 20%. A "High-Energy/Tourist-Friendly" greeting is standard. Dress codes are "Beach-Casual" (swimwear is common but usually restricted to the beach/boardwalk). The city is culturally defined by its "Shag Dancing" heritage, its "Mini-Golf" obsession, and its status as a "Spring Break" and "Biker Week" destination.

Local Cost Index

1 Espresso: $4.75 (USD)

1 Standard Lunch: $18.00 (USD)

1 SkyWheel Ticket: $17.00–$20.00.

Nearby Day Trips

Murrells Inlet: (20 km south; the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina" featuring the MarshWalk).

Pawleys Island: (40 km south; one of the oldest summer resorts on the East Coast).

Conway, SC: (25 km inland; a historic river town and home to Coastal Carolina University).

Facts & Legends

Myrtle Beach is home to over 80 golf courses and 30 miniature golf courses. Historically, it was the site where Sports Illustrated was first envisioned in 1954. A local legend involves the "Gray Man" of Pawleys Island, a spectral figure who reportedly appears on the beach to warn residents of impending hurricanes. Another legend concerns the "Ghost of Alice Flagg," a 19th-century woman rumored to haunt the Hermitage in Murrells Inlet searching for a lost ring.