Myrtle Beach Area Celebrates 10 Years of Sensory-Friendly Efforts During Autism Acceptance Month
Myrtle Beach, S.C. (April 1, 2026) – With April marking National Autism Acceptance Month, communities across the Grand Strand are honoring the region’s long-standing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility through a series of special occasions.
This year marks a major milestone as Surfside Beach celebrates the 10-year anniversary of becoming the first autism-friendly travel destination in the world. Since that designation in 2016, Surfside Beach has helped set the standard for accessibility in tourism, with leaders recently commemorating the occasion by re-reading the original proclamation and recognizing its lasting impact.
That initial effort has expanded across the Grand Strand, with Surfside Beach, the City of Myrtle Beach and Horry County now all recognized as certified autism-friendly destinations through partnerships with Champion Autism Network (CAN), which is also celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The nonprofit has played a central role in advancing autism-friendly initiatives throughout the area and today, the region includes 10 certified lodging properties, eight restaurants, five retail locations, 13 attractions and six service providers that have completed specialized training to better serve individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities.
The City of Myrtle Beach has also continued to invest in inclusive infrastructure, recently unveiling enhancements and expansion at Savannah’s Playground, a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive playground designed to accommodate children of all abilities. The playground features sensory-friendly elements, wheelchair-accessible equipment and spaces intentionally designed to support children on the autism spectrum and those with other developmental needs.
The recently released movie “Learning You” was filmed in Myrtle Beach and highlights the experiences of individuals on the spectrum and has generated regional media attention.
The award-winning docuseries “Traveling the Spectrum” has earned several recognitions, including a 2025 Telly Award. The first season is expected to be released soon on YouTube after premiering on Peacock network and the trailer for season two is now available.
Copies of the children’s book, “Splish, Splash, Squawk! Finding Joy in a Sensory-Friendly Vacation” created to help families with children on the autism spectrum feel more confident and excited about travel, are available at the Myrtle Beach Area Visitors Center.
“Visit Myrtle Beach is honored to recognize World Autism Awareness Month and the local efforts of our community and businesses to remain committed to building a destination where all visitors and residents feel welcome,” said Stuart Butler, President Visit Myrtle Beach.
Accessible trip-planning resources and more information on the numerous initiatives to promote and foster inclusivity throughout the region (including a sensory-friendly pledge and partnerships with the Autism Travel Club and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program) can be found at visitmyrtlebeach.com/autism.
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Editor’s Note: Visual assets available to download HERE (Credits in file names).
About Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Myrtle Beach isn’t just a beach. It’s The Beach. Popularly known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is one destination made up of 14 unique communities that stretch 60 miles along the northeast coast of South Carolina. Families, couples and those in search of a warm welcome will find more than just a day at The Beach when they come together to connect and enjoy vibrant entertainment and family attractions, including world-class golf, shopping and fresh coastal Carolina cuisine. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find you belong at The Beach – Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. For additional information on tourism offerings in the Myrtle Beach area, visit www.visitmyrtlebeach.com or call (888) Myrtle-1.
Media Contact:
Marlane White
Visit Myrtle Beach
[email protected]
843-916-729