Myrtle Beach Area Communities

Atlantic Beach,
South Carolina

Q: What is Gullah Geechee?

The Gullah Geechee are descendants of West and Central Africans brought to the Southeast coast during slavery. They developed a distinct culture known for its language, food, crafts, and oral traditions. Atlantic Beach is part of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and proudly honors this heritage through events and community traditions.

Nicknamed "The Black Pearl", Atlantic Beach is a four-block oceanfront gem between Windy Hill and Crescent Beach in North Myrtle Beach. Founded in the early 20th century by Gullah Geechee families and Black entrepreneurs, it became a rare haven during segregation—where culture, freedom, and community thrived. Today, that proud legacy is alive and evolving. From the famous Atlantic Beach BikeFest to new vacation rentals, community festivals, and easy access to Grand Strand attractions, Atlantic Beach blends rich history with fresh momentum offering a one-of-a-kind getaway with soul, style, and staying power. Explore the area below or use our AI-powered trip planner to plan your visit.

Featured Places

in Atlantic Beach

Points of Interest

CJSS Skillern Family Art Museum!

Elliott Beach Rentals

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!

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Atlantic Beach FAQ

Known as “The Black Pearl,” Atlantic Beach was one of the few places African Americans could vacation freely during segregation. It became a vibrant, self-sustained community and remains a symbol of Black heritage, resilience, and pride along the South Carolina coast.

It’s peaceful, close-knit, and rich in cultural legacy. Atlantic Beach offers a quiet, uncrowded shoreline, with a strong sense of identity and pride. It’s a place to slow down, reflect, and connect with a meaningful part of the Grand Strand’s history.

Atlantic Beach hosts two major annual events that celebrate its rich cultural legacy. Atlantic Beach Bikefest, held every Memorial Day weekend, brings visitors together for a vibrant celebration of music, motorcycles, and community pride. In late August, the town also holds the Gullah Geechee Festival, featuring a parade, traditional food, crafts, music, and storytelling that honor the area's African American and Gullah Geechee heritage.

The Gullah Geechee are descendants of West and Central Africans brought to the Southeast coast during slavery. They developed a distinct culture known for its language, food, crafts, and oral traditions. Atlantic Beach is part of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor and proudly honors this heritage through events and community traditions.

Yes. Atlantic Beach sits between North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach, so you’re just minutes from a wide range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment, while still enjoying the town’s more peaceful, laid-back vibe. It’s a great spot if you want quiet beach time with easy access to everything else.