Myrtle Beach is the heart of South Carolina’s Grand Strand, a long stretch of Atlantic coastline known for sandy beaches, oceanfront resorts, and a lively vacation atmosphere. The boardwalk runs along the central waterfront, with attractions, arcades, restaurants, and the SkyWheel overlooking the beach. Beyond the main strip, Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach offer shopping, dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Golf is another major part of the area’s identity, with numerous courses spread across the coastal plain.

A rental car makes it easy to discover the quieter parts of the Grand Strand and surrounding Lowcountry. Huntington Beach State Park offers wide beaches, maritime forests, and bird-filled wetlands, while nearby Brookgreen Gardens combines sculpture with extensive landscaped grounds. Murrells Inlet has a more relaxed fishing-village character, with waterfront restaurants and the MarshWalk overlooking the salt marshes. Further south, Pawleys Island provides a quieter coastal escape, while Georgetown adds historic streets and waterfront scenery. Charleston is also within reach for a longer road trip through South Carolina’s coastal landscapes.