North Myrtle Beach SC, United States
- 15,579 people
- 8 places to visit
- 33.816, -78.68
Places to Visit (8)
North Myrtle Beach, located in Horry County, South Carolina, is a popular coastal resort city known for its scenic beaches and vibrant tourism industry. Established in the late 1940s, the city was formed through the consolidation of several small beach communities, including Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill. North Myrtle Beach boasts a subtropical climate, characterized by warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. The city covers approximately 9.4 square miles and had an estimated population of around 16,000 residents as of the 2020 Census, with the number swelling significantly during the tourist season.
The area is celebrated for its beautiful stretches of sandy beaches, which are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports. North Myrtle Beach features a range of family-friendly attractions, including the famous Cherry Grove Pier and the popular Barefoot Landing shopping and entertainment complex. The city is also known for its vibrant live music scene, particularly the famous Shag dance, a regional dance style with deep roots in the area. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy numerous parks, golf courses, and eco-tours that highlight the region's natural beauty, including the nearby Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge. North Myrtle Beach is part of the larger Grand Strand, which encompasses a 60-mile stretch of coastline along South Carolina’s northern shore, combining to offer a broad array of dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities that cater to tourists and residents alike.
As a well-established vacation destination, North Myrtle Beach hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the North Myrtle Beach Art and Wine Festival and the annual Fourth of July festivities, attracting visitors from all over the country. The city's infrastructure has developed to support tourism, featuring an extensive selection of accommodations, from oceanfront hotels to vacation rentals, as well as various dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. Overall, North Myrtle Beach combines natural beauty, recreational activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a beloved location for both tourists seeking leisure and locals enjoying the coastal lifestyle.
Facts about North Myrtle Beach
- North Myrtle Beach was formed in 1968 through the merger of several smaller communities, including Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill, making it a unique blend of distinct neighborhoods.
- The city is home to the famous 'Shag' dance, which originated in the 1940s along the Grand Strand, making it a cultural hotspot for enthusiasts and dancers.
- North Myrtle Beach boasts a family-friendly atmosphere with over 60 distinct golf courses nearby, making it a popular destination for golf vacations, often referred to as the 'Golf Capital of the World.'
- Every summer, North Myrtle Beach hosts the 'North Myrtle Beach Summer Concert Series' at the Cherry Grove Community Center, featuring free outdoor concerts that attract thousands of visitors.
- The city's Ocean Drive section is known for the iconic 'OD Pavilion,' which has been a beloved amusement hub since the 1950s and offers classic family fun like arcade games and a Ferris wheel.
- North Myrtle Beach is recognized for its stunning birdwatching opportunities, especially at the nearby Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens, where visitors can see various species in their natural habitat.
- The area is also known for its extensive miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches that provide a unique and spacious coastline experience compared to other crowded beach destinations.
- In 1972, North Myrtle Beach became the first city in South Carolina to have a 'No Motorized Watercraft' policy in several local waters, promoting a more peaceful environment for recreational activities.
- The city's cultural diversity is celebrated each year with the North Myrtle Beach Irish Fest, which showcases Irish music, food, and dance, standing out from many other typical beach town events.
- North Myrtle Beach is strategically located near the Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge, providing easy access to nature trails, wetlands, and a rich ecosystem for environmentally-conscious tourists.