The Grand Strand continues to receive numerous positive national coverage highlighting the growing the region as a top destination in U.S., with several news outlets highlighting this past May how the region stands out as an affordable and accessible destination for summer travel, coastal experiences and family fun.
National recognition from respected travel publications and rankings helps elevate the Grand Strand's visibility among potential visitors, meeting planners and investors. These accolades provide trusted third-party validation of what we already know: our region offers exceptional beaches, family-friendly attractions, outdoor recreation, affordability and authentic coastal communities.
Whether highlighting Pawleys Island's natural beauty, Myrtle Beach's value and entertainment options, or Conway's quality of life and outdoor experiences, this positive coverage strengthens the Grand Strand's competitive position in the tourism marketplace. Increased exposure drives travel consideration, supports local businesses, generates economic impact and helps sustain the jobs and quality-of-life benefits that tourism provides throughout Horry and Georgetown counties.
Pawleys Island Voted Best Beach in South Carolina
Capturing much of the headlines is Pawleys Island, which was voted "Best Beach in South Carolina" in May by the annual USA Today/10 Best Readers' Choice Poll. Pawleys claimed the top ranking for the third year in a row with the article stating, "Situated on South Carolina's Hammock Coast, beach access abounds across the shores of Pawleys Island, a tiny town located on the eastern edge of Georgetown County. While the community is home to just over 100 residents, the population swells in the warm months, when beachgoers arrive to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing."
What's more, Travel + Leisure also recently featured Pawleys Island, spotlighting its beaches, golf and laid-back atmosphere. The article was written by Kristy Tolley and published on May 13. Tolley shares, "Developed as a summer resort in the 1700s, Pawleys Island, South Carolina, is one of the East Coast’s oldest beach vacation destinations. Located about 35 miles south of Myrtle Beach, the laid-back summer escape encompasses both the historic barrier island and part of the mainland, and is the perfect, laid-back alternative to its bustling neighbor.
Myrtle Beach Spotlighted as The Place for Summer Travel
On May 19, Sandy Page published and article in Go World Travel that shared 7 Stunning U.S. Beach Destinations to Take Your Summer to the Next Level h that showcased seven "iconic American shores" and how they "set the gold standard for beach lovers." Myrtle Beach made No. 4 on the list.
For the article, Page writes, "The Myrtle Beach area in South Carolina has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. If you are looking for a little bit of everything, this is a great spot. Myrtle Beach has plenty of beach accommodations. If you want to explore some history, there are many historical sites nearby. Golfers will also be happy to hear that Myrtle Beach has golf courses."
Additionally, FamilyVacationist named Myrtle Beach as the Top 5 destination on their list of "11 affordable family vacation destinations in the U.S.: FamilyVacationist’s 2026 guide." The article, written by Dave Parfitt, shared that "Myrtle Beach is among the most budget-friendly vacation spots."
He continued to highlight that the destination is ideal for families with "amusement parks, arcades, and live entertainment like the epically entertaining Medieval Times dinner theater."
Conway Noted as a Perfect Town for Retiring
My Family Travels recently placed Conway, S.C., on their list of 11 Affordable South Carolina Towns Perfect for Retiring on Social Security Alone. The article was written by Derek Holloway on May 18 and placed Conway as No. 6 on the list.
In the article, Holloway writes, "Conway sits along the Waccamaw River with a riverwalk that makes morning strolls feel genuinely restorative. The historic downtown is full of character, with antique shops, local cafes, and community events filling the calendar throughout the year. It offers a coastal-adjacent lifestyle at a fraction of the cost of nearby Myrtle Beach, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious retirees."
What's more, Travel + Leisure named Sun Outdoors Myrtle Beach, located in Conway, among the top campgrounds in the U.S.
