The Grand Strand, a 60 miles stretch of beaches extending from Little River to Georgetown, includes North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island and Litchfield as well as the historic town of Conway located just west of the seaside communities. The area is a major east coast tourist destination attracting more than 10 million visitors annually. Appealing to vacationing families and students in the summer, the mild winter months attract golfers and snowbirds. With numerous restaurants and attractions the area is also home to minor league baseball, and farm team of the Texas Rangers, the Myrtle Beach Pelicans as well as Coastal Carolina University, a state-supported university located eight miles west of Myrtle Beach in Conway.
The South Strand, recognized for its family beaches and laid back atmosphere, includes of Surfside Beach, Garden City Beach and Murrells Inlet. Each region has a variety of attractions and entertainment as distinctive as its incredible landscape. Thousands of visitors stay along the South Strand each year; many return to buy property. Whether the area is home or home away from home, locals warmly welcome all who visit with the southern hospitality and charm the area is traditionally known for.
Surfside Beach Located just south of Myrtle Beach is the small seaside town of Surfside Beach, also known as the Family Beach. The town, accessible by a one lane sandy road, was named Surfside Beach in 1952. The region experienced significant growth during the late 1950s when the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base was reactivated by the United States Air Force. Surfside Beach sealed its reputation as the Family Beach during the 1960s and continued to grow through annexation as the town government developed its infrastructure. In addition to miles of beaches, today's visitors can enjoy area attractions that include the Surfside Beach Pier, and Wild Water & Wheels.
Located between Surfside Beach and Murrells Inlet is the small and unincorporated community of Garden City Beach. The region, which encompasses a peninsula, boasts of exceptional sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean and sunsets over the saltwater marshes of Murrells Inlet. The city has withstood several hurricanes including Hazel of 1954 and Hugo of 1989, both of which destroyed a significant number of beachfront structures. A long-standing landmark is the Pier at Garden City, formerly known as the Kingfisher Pier. Destroyed by Hugo, the 668 ft. pier was rebuilt in 1992. In addition to fishing, the pier houses a tackle shop, arcade, cafa and covered bar featuring live music during the summer months. For more than 30 years residents have enjoyed the annual July 4th Garden City golf cart parade. Traditionally, residents decorate their golf carts and drive through the community as onlookers cheer in delight. Other area attractions include the original location of Sam's Corner, a 24-hour restaurant famous for its hot dogs, and Sara J's, a seafood restaurant once ranked as one of the best restaurants in Myrtle Beach by AOL Travel.
The small fishing village of Murrells Inlet, located in Georgetown County, is world renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. This onetime fishing village, known as the Seafood Capital of South Carolina, has grown into a popular place for tourists and locals looking for a low key spot to relax and play. The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk attracts thousands of visitors each year with its Restaurant Row which includes al-fresco dining and entertainment, breathtaking views of the inlet, a booming nightlife and recreational activity such as boating, crabbing and fishing. The award-winning seafood and barbecue restaurants, in combination with spectacular views of the marina and saltwater marshes, make Murrells Inlet a distinctive and popular place to live. Residents pride themselves on the close nit community and come together through celebratory annual events such as the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade and Blessing of the Inlet. Ask any local what that dark soil in the marsh is called proudly tell you its pluff mud. Visit historic Murrells Inlet and experience the best of what the Lowcountry has to offer.
If you're searching for a pleasurable daytrip, historic Charleston is located approximately 83 miles from Murrells Inlet. As you travel south on Ocean Highway you'll pass through some of the state's most exclusive seaside communities. Stop in Pawleys Island and meander through the Hammock Shops. Famous for its original Pawley's Island hammocks, the shopping village also features exceptional restaurants and specialty shops. As you travel further south you'll discover Georgetown, the third oldest city and second largest seaport in South Carolina. Front Street, located in the historic district, is lined with unique shops, restaurants and museums. The Historic District of Georgetown has more than fifty homes, public buildings and sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places.