Myrtle Beach: Your ultimate sun-kissed getaway
There are many reasons to visit the sun-kissed shores of Myrtle Beach, yet these spots in particular will pull at your heartstrings.
For decades, Myrtle Beach has been a beloved destination for Canadians seeking a sunshine-filled getaway with endless opportunities for fun, but the true magic of Myrtle Beach lies in its warm southern hospitality. Here, every visitor isn't just welcomed—they're celebrated.
With over 100 kilometres of sandy coastline, the southern shores of South Carolina, known as the Grand Strand, span over 14 vibrant communities and offer over 2,000 restaurants with a wide range of cuisines for you to choose from. You can make waves on land or slow down by the water, depending on your mood.
“In downtown Myrtle Beach, you can hit the beach, stroll along the boardwalk, grab a drink, enjoy some great food, and ride the SkyWheel. There are endless opportunities,” said Denielle Van Dyke from Visit Myrtle Beach.
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, stretching from 14th Avenue to 2nd Avenue Piers, is an all-time family favourite, offering stunning ocean views, lively beachfront shops, and a wide range of restaurants to make every member of the group happy.
Choose your own adventure at the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, where two unique sections await. The first section invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in nature with the soothing sounds of Atlantic Ocean waves. The second section is a high-energy playground packed with beachfront attractions, delicious dining, and the iconic 187-foot SkyWheel. Whether you crave relaxation or thrills, Myrtle Beach has it all just a stone’s throw away!
The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, and is comprised of 14 communities along the South Carolina coast. (Getty Images)
But Myrtle Beach isn’t just about the attractions; it’s about inclusivity. The city boasts numerous accessible beach points and free beach wheelchairs designed for easy sand navigation. Since January 2016, Myrtle Beach has also been an autism-friendly city, thanks to Becky Large, founder of Champion Autism Network. Her awareness campaign ensures that families can enjoy a traditional vacation with less stimulation.
“I wake up every day to support our families with autism,” Large shares. “Living with autism can be tough, with overstimulation often leading to tantrums and meltdowns. Our families are thrilled to come somewhere they’re accepted. It means the world to them.”
And then there's the food. Myrtle Beach's southern hospitality shines brightly in its culinary scene. Take Winna’s Kitchen, a family-run restaurant in downtown Myrtle Beach.
Alongside southern comfort dishes like Shrimp and Grits and 'Silly Milly' lemon ricotta pancakes, Chef Jess Sagun offers something special called “The Number One.”
“Folks struggling with food scarcity can ask for ‘The Number One,’ and we feed them,” Chef Sagun explains. Patrons can add $5 to their meal to help provide for those in need. It’s truly the southern way.
Chef Jess Sagun (left) and The Weather Network reporter Jordyn Read share a meal at Winna’s Kitchen. (The Weather Network)
“We don’t do this alone; we partner with our patrons. It’s thanks to them,” she continues.
Winna’s Kitchen is one of over 2,000 restaurants visitors can choose from. Whether you’re looking for a casual restaurant to feed your family, a romantic fine dining experience with top chefs, or feasting on the local seafood caught the very same day, there is something for everyone.
Now, let’s talk about golf. Myrtle Beach is known as The Golf Capital of the World, with over 90 championship golf courses and more than 50 mini-golf options.
“The Beach caters to players of all skill levels. It truly is a golfer's paradise,” says Diane Charno with Visit Myrtle Beach.
A standout course is The Dunes Golf and Beach Club, which has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments.
“We have a long history here. It’s a slice of paradise. This past summer, we did extensive work on the course; it’s the best it has ever been,” says Dennis Nicholl, director of Golf at Dunes Golf and Beach Club.
The Dunes Golf and Beach Club is a standout golf course in Myrtle Beach. (Provided)
For those new to golf, Myrtle Beach has you covered. With over 30 mini-golf courses along the Grand Strand, this is a fantastic activity for all ages and skill levels. There is even a Myrtle Beach Mini Golf Trail you can explore, which includes unique courses like PopStroke that offer a unique golf experience with 18-hole putting courses designed for everyone.
“It's a professionally designed, elevated mini-golf. We have one course that’s ADA accessible, so the whole family can play. The other course is more competitive, perfect for friendly wagers,” says Wes Claflin from PopStroke.
Myrtle Beach is more than just a sunny escape for Canadians; it’s a vibrant beachfront community with endless possibilities. It offers something for everyone, ensuring that every family member can enjoy their own personal adventure while still making memories together.
No need to argue over activities—everyone has options for fun here. Satisfy the adventurer, delight the foodie, seek out thrills, or simply relax on the beach. With over 2,000 restaurants on the Grand Strand, over 90 championship golf courses, and over 100 kilometres of sandy beaches hugging the Atlantic Ocean, Myrtle Beach has you covered. Enjoy the celebrated southern charm, and know you’ll be celebrated too.
