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In the heart of South Carolina’s 60-mile (97-kilometer) Grand Strand of prime Atlantic shoreline, Myrtle Beach attracts 20 million visitors a year seeking sun, surf, and subtropical temperatures. The boardwalk, complete with the 187-foot (57-meter) SkyWheel and amusement park rides, is a family-friendly draw and offer plenty of things to do in Myrtle Beach, while its 80-plus golf courses, designed by pros like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, earn a place on putters’ bucket lists. Don’t miss festivals like the Carolina Country Music Fest and Bike Week—and there’s never a bad time to savor local seafood and Carolina-style barbecue.
In general, the best time to visit Myrtle Beach is peak season (June through August), even though this period is during hurricane season, which runs from June through November. In the summer, the temperatures are warm and ideal for relaxing on the beach—but since it is peak season, expect to encounter the largest crowds. Although you can golf year-round, the best months are April and October, when the temps are pleasant and there’s very little rain.
Unless you plan to spend all your time on the boardwalk and beach, you’ll need a car to get around the city. Ocean Boulevard and Kings Highway (also known as Highway 17) run north and south along the Grand Strand, parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. The Highway 17 Bypass, referred to by locals as simply “the Bypass,” is the Grand Strand’s westernmost route, allowing travelers to avoid most of the city and downtown areas. Local bus service is provided by Coast RTA, with routes running along major thoroughfares and from the Grand Strand.
While there might be more things to do in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach—located 15.9 miles (25.6 kilometers) northeast of Myrtle Beach proper—is a calmer, more family-friendly vacation spot. You’ll find the top area attractions at Barefoot Landing, a complex featuring shops, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EST (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 17 | Tours 58 | Reviews 7,552 |
Myrtle Beach is well-known for its boardwalk and promenade. This wooden walkway boasts beach access, amusement park rides, and dozens of shops and restaurants. The inland attractions are now gaining similar popularity, particularly the Broadway at the Beach shopping center and entertainment complex.
...MoreA long weekend is the ideal amount of time to spend in Myrtle Beach. A span of 3–4 days provides plenty of time to explore the entire boardwalk and the Broadway at the Beach tourist area. Plan other days with a day trip to Charleston or golfing and fishing in North Myrtle Beach.
...MoreThe most popular part is the boardwalk and promenade. This area has long been the city’s main thoroughfare and tourist attraction, offering a wealth of things to do in Myrtle Beach such as amusement park rides, family-friendly activities like miniature golf, restaurants with water views, and souvenir shops, making it a must-visit stop on your itinerary.
...MoreThe best times to visit Myrtle Beach are early June and late August, the bookends of summer’s peak season. It’s a popular vacation destination and the warm summer weather provides ideal conditions for swimming, surfing, and spending nights soaking up all the fun on the boardwalk.
...MoreNothing says love like long strolls down the boardwalk at night. Private charter boat rides on the ocean and romantic waterfront dining will set the mood for an unforgettable night. Equally alluring are rides on the SkyWheel, a visit to La Belle Amie Vineyard, and a dinner burlesque show.
...MoreYes, you can walk on Myrtle Beach at night. The beach within Myrtle Beach State Park closes at 10pm. You can walk or swim at all other beaches at night at your own risk. You cannot sleep on the beach or set up items at night.
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