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Beaches and Communities

60 Miles of Beaches and 14 Coastal Communities

There are 14 coastal communities that make up the Grand Strand, which is the 60 miles of coastline that we fondly call, The Beach. The 14 communities all have their own unique vide, culture and way of life that appeals to all types of visitors and locals with a variety of entertainment, restaurants, shopping and more.

Myrtle Beach

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North Myrtle Beach

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Conway

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Little River

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Carolina Forest

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Surfside Beach

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Pawleys Island

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Garden City Beach

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Socastee

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Litchfield Beach

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Murrells Inlet

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Beyond The Beach: Explore Litchfield Beach, SC

 

Litchfield Beach is nestled between Huntington State Park and Pawleys Island. Just a short drive south of Myrtle Beach, this beach town is worth a visit.

Beyond The Beach: Explore Conway, SC

Conway is a historic river town located just about 15 miles inland from downtown Myrtle Beach. Conway is the county seat for Horry County (the county that encompasses the majority of the Grand Strand) and is ripe with history and culture.

Founded in 1732, many of the homes in downtown Conway are well over 100 years old. In addition to the architecture, the town’s other oldest residents are its beautiful live oak trees which decorate the downtown landscape and are protected by a unique tree ordinance.

Beyond the Beach: Explore Aynor, SC

Join us as Visit Myrtle Beach explores all the restaurants, things to do, and history that makes Aynor, SC a must-see town while visiting the Myrtle Beach area.

Beyond The Beach: Carolina Forest, South Carolina

We are exploring the restaurants, golf and shopping that makes Carolina Forest, SC a casual and family-friendly community outside of Myrtle Beach. SC.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is the hub of the Grand Strand's 14 unique communities. There's so much to do and see in this exciting town.

Beyond The Beach: Little River, SC in the Grand Strand

Little River, South Carolina is the northernmost Grand Strand community, located on the North Carolina border. This quaint village offers great seafood, eco tours, sightseeing tours, festivals, and a Big M Casino boat.

Beyond The Beach: Explore Atlantic Beach, SC

Atlantic Beach is a small oceanfront community nestled within North Myrtle Beach. They have a rich history and a great vision for the future!

Beyond The Beach: Explore Murrells Inlet, SC

Murrells Inlet is a fantastic destination just south of Myrtle Beach, SC! It's the seafood capital of South Carolina and it's a lot of fun! For fishing, watersports, and dining and entertainment enjoyment, check out Murrells Inlet!

Explore Garden City Beach, SC
Garden City Beach is one of the Grand Strand's 14 unique communities. Located just a few minutes south of Myrtle Beach, it's a great little town and a destination unto itself.
Beyond The Beach - Explore Pawleys Island, SC

Pawleys Island, South Carolina is the southernmost Grand Strand community. This quaint village boasts their "arrogantly shabby" lifestyle with delicious coastal restaurants, pristine beaches, history lessons and high-end shopping.

Explore North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is one of 14 neighborhoods that comprise the greater Myrtle Beach area (also known as the "Grand Strand." It's a vibrant community and well worth a visit.

Beyond the Beach: Explore Loris, SC

Loris, South Carolina is a quaint town about 40 mles inland from Myrtle Beach. It boasts loads of Southern charm, and it's home to the annual Loris Bog Off Festival each October!

Beyond The Beach: Explore Socastee, SC

 

Socastee, South Carolina is one of the 14 communities that make up the Grand Strand area. It has some interesting historic sites, one of 10 operating swing bridges in SC, watersports, great restaurants and more!

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Beach FAQ

Can you have alcohol on Myrtle Beach?

No, alcohol is not permitted on any public beach in the Myrtle Beach area. 

Can you walk on the beach at night in Myrtle Beach?

Yes, you can walk on the beach at night in Myrtle Beach, however, there is a curfew in effect from midnight to 6am for juveniles under age 18. 

Can you smoke on Myrtle Beach?

No, smoking on the beach is prohibited. 

Can you take sand from Myrtle Beach?

Taking sand from the beach is actually illegal! 

Why are there no tents at Myrtle Beach?

Beach tents must be placed above the high tide line, should not exceed 12' by 12' and must not impede any lifeguard's line of sight. In North Myrtle Beach, tents are not allowed from May 15 to Sept. 15. The City of Myrtle Beach does not allow beach tents from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Horry County beaches restrict tents year-round. 

Can you swim in Myrtle Beach at night?

Swimming at night is strongly discouraged due to safety risks. Obey all beach safety flags displayed at beach accesses and lifeguard stands. 

Can you have umbrellas at Myrtle Beach?

The City of Myrtle Beach's regulations restrict the use of tents and other shading devices, excluding umbrellas and small toddler tents, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Tents and canopies are allowed after Labor Day and until Memorial Day. Beach tents can be placed above the high tide line, should not exceed 12' by 12' and must not impede any lifeguard's line of sight. 

North Myrtle Beach prohibits tents from May 15 to Sept 15. Only umbrellas with a center pole no larger than 7' 6" in height and a circular shade no greater than 9' in diameter are allowed.

What does the red flag at Myrtle Beach mean?

The single red flag in Myrtle Beach signifies no swimming and a high swimming hazard due to surf and strong current. A double red flag signifies that the water is closed to the public. Please visit our website to learn what the flag colors mean. Please reference the signs posted at the nearest beach access. 

Is the water blue in Myrtle Beach?

The ocean water in Myrtle Beach is a beautiful blue color, sometimes appearing to be dark teal in certain places of the Grand Strand. 

What is the South Carolina coast called?

The northern section of the South Carolina coast is called the “Grand Strand” and refers to the 60 miles of coastline and 6 popular beaches of South Carolina due to the area’s vast beaches and variety of activities. The Grand Strand also describes the 14 communities along the coast from Little River to Pawleys Island and inland to Conway.

Know Before You Go

The Myrtle Beach Police Department is committed to the safety and well-being of Myrtle Beach residents and the millions of tourists who flock to the popular destination each year. Please know that summer is a busy time at The Beach, and everyone is expected to follow the laws and show respect to others.