About Myrtle Beach
It's called the Grand Strand and the Golf Capital of the World, but for families seeking sun and surf, Myrtle Beach is Vacation Central. This stretch of coastal paradise in South Carolina attracts beach-goers and thrill-seekers alike; it’s the perfect destination for the explorer in you. No matter which camp your gang falls into, you'll be glad you came when you stick your toes in the sand and feel the warm Atlantic breeze on your skin.
Sunny Days and Sandy Shores
Sun-worshippers flock to Myrtle Beach for good reason. Average temperatures in April and October are in the high 70s and the months in between are even hotter. July is Myrtle Beach's hottest month with the average high temperature a scorching 91 F. Winter highs are in the upper 50s. Put a few indoor activities on your agenda—strong rainstorms can blow in quickly, especially during the humid summer months, but the clouds tend to retreat quickly. Not only is the weather perfect—the average water temperature is a downright balmy 83 F in July.
Life’s a (Myrtle) Beach
Pack sunglasses because most of Myrtle Beach's attractions are under the sun. The city boasts 60 miles of beaches. Relax with a paperback, take a dolphin boat tour, rent a kayak, go parasailing—the possibilities are endless. And with more than 100 courses, Myrtle Beach is a golfing mecca. If you’re bringing the kids, you can take them to one of the dozens of miniature golf courses in the city. Or, enjoy family fun at one of the city's water parks, the Family Kingdom amusement park or a minor league baseball game. Prefer your entertainment air-conditioned? No problem—the city is also home to museums, an aquarium and plenty of outlet shopping. Myrtle Beach Bike Week hosts week-long rallies in late spring and fall that attract tens of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts, so you may want to avoid these weeks if you're after peace and quiet (or join in on the fun if this is your scene).
Tourism-Fueled Industry
With hundreds of hotels, restaurants, golf courses and other attractions, it's no surprise that Myrtle Beach's primary industry is tourism. In fact, the city has the country's greatest concentration of food-service workers. When you're tempted to hit another seafood buffet or indulge in ice cream, you can take pride in knowing that you're supporting the local economy.
Seaside Transportation
On any given summer day at the Myrtle Beach International Airport, you'll see a flood of excited vacationers arriving while tanned and rested travelers head home. The airport, located at the southern end of the city, is served by several major airlines. Greyhound has a station in town, but the closest Amtrak station is 70 miles away in Florence. If you drive into town—a smart move if you're hauling coolers and chairs to the beach each day—your route may take you on Interstate 95. From there, head 60 miles east to reach Myrtle Beach. Roll your windows down, and you'll smell the ocean before you see it.