When people think of Myrtle Beach, they often picture sun, sand and summer vacations. But there’s far more to The Beach than first impressions. Stretching along South Carolina’s Atlantic coast, Myrtle Beach is a dynamic destination shaped by history, culture, innovation, accessibility and community. It's a modern coastal landscape filled with culture, art, excitement and reasons to celebrate.
Here are 8 interesting things that make Myrtle Beach truly stand out:
1. Tourism Powers the Community
Tourism isn’t just important here, it’s essential. The industry supports more than 80,000 local jobs, directly and indirectly, and helps fund public services, schools, infrastructure, and community amenities. Each year, more than 17 million visitors contribute to the region’s growth, making Myrtle Beach one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. Organizations like Visit Myrtle Beach use state-of-the-art destination marketing tools to attract visitors to the region and assisting them with their trip planning needs.
2. Lodging on a Las Vegas Scale
From classic beachfront hotels and high-rise condos to beach homes and scenic campgrounds, the Grand Strand offers accommodation bed units comparable to Las Vegas with the added bonus of ocean views and salt air.
3. The Boardwalk Blends History with Modern Design
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade stretches 1.2 miles along the oceanfront and was recently re-decked using eco-friendly composite materials. While the Boardwalk isn’t among the longest, it stands out for quality, activity and national rankings with National Geographic and Travel + Leisure ranking it among the top U.S. boardwalks. At just over a mile, it is very walkable and packed with attractions, dining and entertainment. In fact, it’s home to the iconic Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, arcades and souvenir shops like the legendary Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, which has welcomed visitors since 1946 and is often called “the nation’s largest gift shop.”
4. The Golf and Mini Golf Capital of the World
With 90+ golf courses and more than 3 million rounds played annually, Myrtle Beach proudly holds the title “Golf Capital of the World.” It also hosts major tournaments like the PGA TOUR’s ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic and the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship, the largest amateur golf tournament on the planet.
And for fun-sized competition? Myrtle Beach is also the Mini Golf Capital of the World, boasting over 30 imaginative courses and the only mini golf trail anywhere.
5. Sports Illustrated Was Born Here
In 1953, Sports Illustrated was conceived at Pine Lakes International Country Club in Myrtle Beach. Today, sports remain a major part of the region’s identity from the Myrtle Beach Pelicans baseball team and Coastal Carolina University athletics to NCAA championships, The Ripken Experience, and the annual Myrtle Beach Bowl.
6. Deeply Rooted in Music, Art & Dance
Myrtle Beach offers more live music performances annually than Nashville, hosts the Carolina Country Music Festival, and played a major role in the rise of legendary country band Alabama, which got its start at The Bowery, which is still open today.
The area is also the birthplace of shag dancing, South Carolina’s official state dance, and is rich with Gullah Geechee history, celebrated through museums, food, music and annual events. Cultural landmarks like Charlie’s Place and Brookgreen Gardens, the largest outdoor sculpture garden in the U.S., add to the region’s artistic depth.
7. A Leader in Accessibility
Myrtle Beach is committed to ensuring EveryBODY Belongs at The Beach. In fact, Surfside Beach was among the first sensory-friendly certified communities in the country (in January 2026, the town will celebrate its 10th year of certification). Throughout the Grand Strand, accessibility is prioritized across attractions, beaches and experiences, making the destination welcoming for travelers of all abilities.
8. Modern & Always Evolving
From revitalization efforts in the Arts & Innovation District to new restaurants, breweries and the restoration of historic venues like the Broadway Theater, Myrtle Beach continues to grow while honoring its roots. Currently, the region is going through a lodging renaissance with over a dozen new and improved accommodation properties recently opened or coming online soon.
Myrtle Beach isn’t just a vacation destination. It’s a vibrant cultural center and evolving, modern coastal community where people come together. Learn more at VisitMyrtleBeach.com.
