Myrtle Beach is an Autism-Friendly Vacation Destination
We believe everyone can find where they belong at The Beach. Families traveling with loved ones who are autistic or have sensory sensitivities may need additional support when planning a vacation, and the Myrtle Beach area offers a growing number of resources, accommodations and sensory-friendly experiences designed to help make travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
An Autism-Friendly Destination
Surfside Beach, the City of Myrtle Beach and Horry County are recognized as autism-friendly destinations through partnerships with Champion Autism Network (CAN). What began with Surfside Beach becoming a certified autism-friendly destination in 2016 has grown into a broader community effort across the Grand Strand.
Area attractions, hotels, restaurants, public safety agencies and Myrtle Beach International Airport have all played a role in creating a more welcoming experience for travelers with autism and sensory needs.
Travel Resources
Myrtle Beach International Airport offers several accessibility resources for travelers who may need additional support, including a Quiet Room near baggage claim where families can decompress after a stressful travel day.
Travelers may also encounter the airport's P.E.T.S. (Pups Easing Travel Stress) therapy dog teams, who provide comfort and companionship to passengers throughout the terminal.
Learn more about the P.E.T.S. program at Myrtle Beach International Airport.
Families can also find information about the Autism Travel Card and other sensory-friendly travel resources available throughout the Myrtle Beach area.
The Myrtle Beach Welcome Center participates in Project Lifesaver, a program designed to help quickly locate individuals who may wander due to autism, dementia or other cognitive conditions.
Staying and Dining at The Beach
Several hotels and resorts throughout the Myrtle Beach area offer accommodations or services designed with sensory-friendly travelers in mind. These may include trained staff, quieter room locations and options that can help make check-in and the overall stay more comfortable.
Families can explore current sensory-friendly lodging options through our Autism-Friendly Vacation Guide.
Dining out can also be challenging for families with sensory needs, but a number of Myrtle Beach area restaurants have taken steps to create more welcoming experiences for autistic guests and their families.
Visit our sensory-friendly places guide to find current restaurant, lodging and attraction options.
Sensory-Friendly Attractions and Activities
Many Myrtle Beach area attractions offer sensory-friendly experiences or accommodations throughout the year.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach offers sensory-friendly programming and resources for guests who may benefit from a lower-stimulation experience. WonderWorks and other area attractions also provide sensory-friendly events or accommodations at select times.
Explore our guide to sensory-friendly attractions in Myrtle Beach.
Savannah’s Playground in The Market Common is an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities, with accessible play areas and spaces for children and families to explore together.
And, of course, there is always the beach. Many families have shared that the rhythm of the waves, open space and sensory experience of the sand and water can be calming for family members with autism or sensory sensitivities. With 60 miles of coastline and numerous public beach access points, families can find a spot that works best for their needs.
Hear From Families Who Visit The Beach
The Stein family, repeat visitors with a child on the autism spectrum, shares their appreciation for Myrtle Beach in the video below.
A Family Perspective
Patty Moliterno of A Mother’s Random Thoughts has shared her family’s experiences visiting Myrtle Beach with her autistic son, including how they prepare for attractions, entertainment and other activities. Her perspective offers helpful insight for families planning their own sensory-friendly vacation.
Plan a Sensory-Friendly Myrtle Beach Vacation
From accessible travel resources and welcoming accommodations to sensory-friendly attractions and outdoor experiences, the Myrtle Beach area continues to work toward making The Beach a place where everyone can belong.
Visit our Autism-Friendly Vacation Guide for current sensory-friendly places, travel resources and planning information.