More to Love, More to Do: What’s New in Myrtle Beach for 2026
If you thought Myrtle Beach couldn’t get any better—think again.
2026 is shaping up to be a big year at The Beach, with brand-new attractions, major events, crave-worthy restaurants, and exciting new places to stay popping up all across the Grand Strand.
Stretching 60 miles along South Carolina’s coast and made up of 14 unique communities, Myrtle Beach continues to evolve while keeping the classic experiences visitors know and love front and center. Whether you’re planning your first visit or your fifteenth, there’s more than enough new to explore this year.
Here’s a look at what’s new (and what’s next) in Myrtle Beach for 2026.
Getting Here Just Got Easier
Traveling to Myrtle Beach is smoother than ever thanks to the newly expanded A-Concourse at Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR). The upgrade adds six new gates, modern amenities, and improved passenger flow—making arrivals and departures faster, easier, and more comfortable.
With nonstop flights from more than 50 destinations on 10 airlines and an airport located just over a mile from the ocean, your beach vacation starts almost the moment you land. It’s no wonder MYR is consistently recognized as one of the nation’s top small airports.
New Attractions & Can’t-Miss Events
Live Entertainment Gets Bigger Than Ever
The Carolina Opry Theater is celebrating 40 years of world-class entertainment with one of its most exciting concert lineups yet. The 2026 season will bring Grammy winners, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers, country superstars, and beloved music icons to the Grand Strand—making Myrtle Beach a must-visit for live music fans.
PGA TOUR Action Returns
The ONEFlight Myrtle Beach Classic returns May 7–10, 2026, bringing the world’s top professional golfers back to the legendary Dunes Golf & Beach Club. Now in its third year, this PGA TOUR event continues to grow with expanded fan experiences and high-energy moments in the Golf Capital of the World.
A Fan-Favorite Show Gets a Tropical Twist
Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is celebrating 15 years with an all-new South Pacific Celebration, featuring vibrant costumes, island-inspired dance, and thrilling fire performances. It’s a fresh addition to a family-friendly favorite that continues to wow audiences of all ages.
Beachfront Music, Country Style
The Carolina Country Music Festival is back June 4–7, 2026, celebrating its 11th year with a powerhouse lineup featuring Blake Shelton, Post Malone, Luke Bryan, and Riley Green. Few things beat live country music with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop.
Big Upgrades at Pelicans Ballpark
Home of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Pelicans Ballpark is undergoing a $20 million renovation that includes field improvements, upgraded seating and suites, and new meeting space. Completion is expected in spring 2026—just in time for another season of baseball, fireworks, and family fun.
Dining Meets Play in North Myrtle Beach
Alley Oops is bringing its “Dine. Bowl. Play.” concept to North Myrtle Beach in spring 2026, combining great food with bowling lanes, arcade games, and virtual reality experiences—all under one roof.
A Stunning New Chapter at Brookgreen Gardens
Brookgreen Gardens has unveiled a brand-new welcome center and a $17 million conservatory featuring a dramatic Great Hall, scenic courtyard, immersive botanical displays, and a striking floor-to-ceiling Green Wall. With plans for a future butterfly center, this iconic attraction continues to raise the bar for natural beauty and education. Opened early 2026.
Downtown Arts on the Rise
The former Broadway Theater in downtown Myrtle Beach is being transformed into a 300-seat, state-of-the-art performing arts center as part of the city’s growing Arts and Innovation District. Developed in partnership with the City of Myrtle Beach and Coastal Carolina University, the venue is slated to open summer 2026.
Pickleball Takes Center Court
Opening fall 2026, The PicklePort will be a premier indoor and outdoor pickleball destination featuring climate-controlled courts, covered outdoor play, instruction space, a pro shop, and areas designed for spectators and socializing.
A New Era of Thrills at Family Kingdom
Family Kingdom Amusement Park is marking its 60th anniversary with a major milestone: a custom single-rail roller coaster designed exclusively for Myrtle Beach. Manufactured by RMC, the new coaster will stand 100 feet tall, reach speeds of 50 mph, and join three additional new rides. Opening summer 2026, it’s a bold blend of classic nostalgia and modern thrills.
New Restaurants & Drinks Worth the Trip
Myrtle Beach’s food scene keeps getting better, especially in downtown areas where local entrepreneurs are leading the charge.
Downtown Dining Hotspots
Historic 9th Avenue North continues its revival with standout spots like Winna’s Kitchen, Boteco VIP, The Dolly Llama, and The Tasting Room on 9th, offering everything from inventive comfort food to sweet treats and wine-forward experiences.
Oceanfront Sips & Small Plates
Located on the iconic Surfside Pier, The Whistling Duck pairs ocean views with locally sourced charcuterie, creative appetizers, and fine wine—perfect for sunset dining with a coastal vibe.
Big Names at Broadway at the Beach
Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. are opening a new indoor-outdoor distillery and brewery at Broadway at the Beach in spring 2026, complete with a beer garden, full-service bar, and immersive experiences.
Guy Fieri Brings the Flavor
Opening in 2026, Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown will be a massive 50,000-square-foot entertainment dining experience featuring a chef-driven menu, tiki bar, bowling lanes, and arcade games.
New & Renovated Places to Stay
Oceanfront Living on the Boardwalk
Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront opens February 2026, offering spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom oceanfront condos right along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk—complete with full kitchens, private balconies, and unbeatable walkability.
Resort Refreshes You’ll Love
Ocean Reef Resort completed a $15 million renovation in 2025, modernizing guest rooms, lobby spaces, fitness areas, and meeting facilities.
Captain’s Quarters Resort is finishing major renovations with updated rooms, enhanced pool areas, a new arcade, and a new restaurant, with completion expected late 2026.
Margaritaville Style Comes North
Opening spring 2027, Compass Hotel by Margaritaville in North Myrtle Beach will offer a boutique, experiential stay with indoor and outdoor pools, on-site dining, complimentary breakfast, a welcome drink, and happy hour in the Living Lounge.
Cherry Grove’s Oceanfront Addition
Hampton Inn & Suites Cherry Grove will add a seven-story oceanfront property next to the Cherry Grove Pier, expanding lodging options in one of the area’s most beloved beach communities.
Start Planning Your 2026 Myrtle Beach Trip
With new attractions, unforgettable events, and fresh places to eat, play, and stay, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year in Myrtle Beach. Whether you’re here for live music, family fun, golf, food, or oceanfront relaxation, there’s never been more to experience.