Myrtle Beach, SC
Frequently Asked Questions

• Where is Myrtle Beach?

   Myrtle Beach is a resort town on a long stretch of beach on the South Carolina coast.

• Why is Myrtle Beach so Popular?

   It's popular because there is so much to do, between all the beaches and diverse attractions.

• What is the Grand Strand?

   The Grand Strand contains Myrtle Beach, but is a bigger area, including sixty miles of coastline starting at the northern border of the state of South Carolina. It's actually an island but it's connected by bridges so many people don't realize they've left the mainland when they drive down the Grand Strand. Read more about the Grand Strand.

• What is Myrtle Beach All About?

   Well, it really has something for everyone. There are of course long stretches of sandy beaches and all sorts of accommodation choices, from budget camping to upscale vacation rentals. In addition, there is a dizzying assortment of things to do and places to see. There are water parks, golf courses, outdoor malls, carnival attractions on the beach, and just a general festival atmosphere on the beach that attracts everyone from young families to RVers in their golden years, as well as a fair share of international visitors.

• What is a Good Time to Visit Myrtle Beach?

   Myrtle Beach used to be a vacation spot, with summertime populations swelling noticably. The local population still balloons, but in recent years Myrtle Beach has become a year-round destination, as well as a very very popular second-home location. People seem to think that any time of year is a great time to visit Myrtle Beach, and we agree! Wintertime is the least-crowded time to come to Myrtle Beach, but Spring, Summer and Fall are the best beach weather.
  There are lots of families in summertime, and this is also when lodging rates are at their highest. Cooler months mean lower prices and fewer people, but in Myrtle Beach, some things close in the off season. In Fall, the hotels are cheaper, and the humidity isn't so oppressive, but you have to watch out because the early part of Fall is also the peak of hurricane season. Winters are mild, but there are cold fronts that roll in.

• Are There Some Places on the Grand Strand Where I Can Get Away From the Crowds?

   Murrels Inlet is a quieter fishing village about ten miles north of Myrtle Beach, and you'll find that it's a lot less congested here.

• What is The Shag?

   The Shag was a dance with a bad reputation, created in the 1940's and 1950's. It was forbidden to dance the Shag anywhere in the South except at the beach. Myrtle Beach became the hot spot to do this slow, racy version of the jitterbug. Because people did the dance on the beach, music good for Shaggin' was called Beach Music. There was a Shag look: bleached out beach hair, crew cuts for men, and tailored Khaki pants, which later transformed itself into the Preppy look. Shag culture grew and grew, and peaked in the early 1960's. Then it lot its rebellion image, and became respectable. Now it's a beloved tradition and the so-called Shag culture is still honored by people in the Myrtle Beach area. It's also the South Caroline state dance and you'll see it done at parties and weddings across the region.

• Isn’t Myrtle Beach Too Expensive For Most Tourists These Days? There has been so much development and upscaling lately.

   Nope, not at all! You will still find budget motels along the strip in Myrtle Beach, surviving just fine amidst trendy new condos and resorts.