North Myrtle Beach, SC
- About the City
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transportation
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
North Myrtle Beach is a coastal resort city in South Carolina, part of the Grand Strand. It's known for its family-friendly beaches, being the birthplace of the state dance, the shag, and its more laid-back atmosphere compared to its neighbor, Myrtle Beach.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
- Administrative Role: North Myrtle Beach is a city in Horry County and is not a county seat . It is a primary city within the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC Metropolitan Statistical Area .
- Region: The city is located in the state of South Carolina, along its famous coastal region known as the Grand Strand, a 60-mile stretch of beautiful Atlantic Ocean beachfront .
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Historical Names: The city itself was created in 1968 from the consolidation of four distinct beach communities: Cherry Grove Beach, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive Beach, and Windy Hill Beach . These names are still used to refer to different neighborhoods within the city .
- Nicknames: North Myrtle Beach is often called the "Home of the Shag" because the area, particularly the Ocean Drive Beach section, is recognized as the birthplace of South Carolina's official state dance, the shag, a rhythmic partner dance done to beach music .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Foundation: While European settlement in the area dates back to the 1740s, the City of North Myrtle Beach was officially incorporated on May 7, 1968 . The four smaller towns that formed it had themselves developed in the years following World War II .
- Age: The city is 58 years old (as of 2026).
Geographical Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 33°49′20″N 78°40′52″W (33.822216, -78.680974) .
- Location: North Myrtle Beach is situated on the Atlantic Ocean in the eastern part of Horry County. It is bordered to the southwest by the town of Briarcliffe Acres and to the northeast by the community of Little River. It lies approximately 15 miles (24 km) northeast of the city of Myrtle Beach .
- Elevation: The city has a very low elevation, with the center at approximately 7 feet (2 meters) above sea level .
- Geographic Type: It is a classic coastal resort city, characterized by its oceanfront location, sandy beaches, and intracoastal waterways.
City Type and Economic Specialization
- Primary Type: North Myrtle Beach is a premier tourist and resort destination and a residential resort community .
- Economic Specialization: The local economy is heavily driven by tourism. Key specializations include:
- Beach Tourism: Miles of public beaches attract millions of visitors annually .
- Golf Tourism: Numerous championship golf courses in and around the city extend the tourist season into spring and fall .
- Entertainment and Retail: Large-scale developments like Barefoot Landing offer shopping, dining, and live entertainment, including the House of Blues and the Alabama Theatre .
- Water Sports and Recreation: The area is a hub for fishing, parasailing, jet skiing, and casino cruises departing from the nearby Little River Inlet .
Population and Demographics
- Population: As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of 18,790 . This represents significant growth from 13,752 in 2010 and just 1,957 in 1970 .
- Population Class: Based on its 2020 population, it is a small city.
- Demographic Features: The city has a higher median age (48 in 2000), reflecting its popularity as a retirement destination and a place for vacation homes, alongside a family-oriented atmosphere . The population swells dramatically during peak tourist seasons.
City's "Visiting Card" (Brief)
North Myrtle Beach offers a more relaxed and family-oriented alternative to its bustling southern neighbor, Myrtle Beach. Famed as the "Home of the Shag," this Grand Strand gem is a place where visitors can enjoy wide, beautiful beaches, world-class golf, and a vibrant entertainment scene at Barefoot Landing, all while soaking in the friendly, community-focused atmosphere of its historic beach neighborhoods like Cherry Grove and Ocean Drive .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
North Myrtle Beach has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa). This is characterized by mild winters, hot and humid summers, and plentiful precipitation throughout the year. The city enjoys a long season for outdoor and beach activities.
Average Temperatures
The climate is generally mild, with a significant temperature difference between winter and summer .
- Warmest Month: July and August, with average high temperatures around 30°C (86°F) .
- Coolest Month: January, with average low temperatures around 3°C (37°F) .
Precipitation and Humidity
- Rainfall: The city receives ample rainfall, with the wettest months typically being July and August, often due to afternoon thunderstorms .
- Humidity: Humidity levels are high year-round, especially during the summer months, which can make the heat feel more intense.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June-August): This is the peak tourist season, with hot, humid weather and average highs in the upper 80s°F (around 31°C). This is the best time for swimming and all water sports, but also the most crowded .
- Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November): These are widely considered the best times to visit. Temperatures are comfortably warm, and humidity is lower. Spring brings blooming flowers, while fall offers still-warm ocean waters and fewer crowds .
- Winter (December-February): Winters are mild, with cool days and chilly nights. This is the quiet season, ideal for golfing, exploring nature, and enjoying local attractions without the crowds .
Water Temperature
The Atlantic Ocean waters are warmest from June through September, making for pleasant swimming conditions.
Landmarks and Attractions
The Beach Communities
The city itself is a landmark, comprised of four historic beach areas, each with its own distinct personality.
- Cherry Grove Beach: The northernmost point of South Carolina, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and the Cherry Grove Fishing Pier .
- Ocean Drive Beach: Often called "O.D.," this is the historic heart of the city and the公认的 birthplace of the shag dance. It's known for its retro motels and lively beach bars .
- Windy Hill Beach: A quiet, residential area developed after WWII, offering a more relaxed beach experience .
- Crescent Beach: A compact, central beach area with a mix of hotels, condos, and easy access to restaurants .
Barefoot Landing
This is a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located on the Intracoastal Waterway .
- Features: Over 100 stores and specialty shops, numerous restaurants with water views, and live entertainment venues.
- Key Attractions:
- Alabama Theatre: A 2,000-seat venue featuring a popular variety show, "The South's Grandest Show," and concerts .
- House of Blues: A renowned music hall and restaurant hosting national acts and gospel brunches .
- Alligator Adventure: One of the largest reptile zoos in the world, famous for its giant alligator, Utan .
Main Street
Located in the Ocean Drive section, Main Street is a hub of nightlife and shag culture. Its open-air bars, like Fat Harold's Beach Club and the OD Pavilion, are hallowed ground for shag dancers and host annual events like the Society of Stranders (S.O.S.) fall migration .
Ghosts and Legends Theatre
An attraction at Barefoot Landing that brings the region's haunted history to life through live-action shows, telling tales of the local spirits like the legendary Gray Man .
Transportation
Major Airports
- Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR): Located about 15 miles (24 km) south of North Myrtle Beach, this is the primary commercial airport for the region. It is served by major airlines like Delta, United, Spirit, and American Airlines .
- Grand Strand Airport (CRE): This airport is actually located within the city limits of North Myrtle Beach, just east of US 17. However, it serves primarily general aviation, charter flights, and banner planes, with no scheduled commercial airline service .
Major Highways
- US Highway 17 (US 17): The main coastal highway that runs through the city, connecting it to Myrtle Beach to the southwest and Wilmington, North Carolina, to the northeast .
- South Carolina Highway 9 (SC 9): A major route that provides the most direct access from Interstate 95 (at Dillon, SC) to North Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand .
- South Carolina Highway 31 (SC 31 - Carolina Bays Parkway): A limited-access toll road that runs parallel to US 17, offering a faster route from the southern end of the Grand Strand to the North Myrtle Beach area, connecting via the Robert Edge Parkway/North Myrtle Beach Connector .
Bus Service
The city is served by Coast RTA (Regional Transportation Authority), which provides public bus services throughout Horry County, connecting North Myrtle Beach with Myrtle Beach, Conway, and other surrounding areas .
Waterways
The Intracoastal Waterway forms the western border of parts of the city and is a significant route for boating and leisure. The Little River Inlet at the northeast end of the city provides access to the Atlantic Ocean for fishing charters and casino cruise boats .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Shrimp and Grits
No dish is more emblematic of the South Carolina coast than shrimp and grits, and in North Myrtle Beach, it's elevated to an art form. This classic dish features plump, locally caught Carolina shrimp sautéed to perfection and served atop a bed of creamy, stone-ground grits. The grits are slow-cooked until they achieve a smooth, velvety texture, enriched with butter and cheese. The shrimp are typically prepared with a flavorful combination of andouille sausage, bacon, onions, and bell peppers, all brought together in a light, savory sauce .
This is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of the region's coastal bounty and a cornerstone of Southern hospitality. You can find this iconic dish across North Myrtle Beach, from casual breakfast spots to waterfront bistros. Dino's House of Pancakes (2120 Hwy 17 S) is a local favorite where the dish has achieved "local legend status" for its authentic preparation using traditional, slow-cooked grits and perfectly seasoned local shrimp . For a unique twist, Boardwalk Billy's (1407 13th Ave. N) serves their version as a crispy shrimp and grits cake, topped with shrimp, smoked sausage, and a creamy sauce . Buoys on the Boulevard offers a "Southern Shrimp & Grits" showstopper with Gulf shrimp, andouille, and stone-ground yellow cheese grits .
She-Crab Soup
A true taste of Lowcountry comfort, she-crab soup is a rich and creamy bisque that warms the soul, especially during the cooler months. This traditional Southern soup is made with fresh blue crab meat and crab roe (the "she" part of the name), which gives it a distinct flavor and texture. It's finished with a touch of dry sherry and a swirl of heavy cream, creating a decadent and flavorful starter .
For the quintessential she-crab soup experience, locals and visitors alike recommend The Brentwood Restaurant & Wine Bistro (4269 Luck Ave., Little River). Housed in a charming, historic building just a short drive from North Myrtle Beach in Little River, their version is renowned as a must-try, combining fresh crab with a creamy, sherry-laced broth .
Calabash-Style Seafood
The nearby town of Calabash, North Carolina, just across the state line, has lent its name to a distinctive style of preparing seafood that is ubiquitous in North Myrtle Beach. Calabash-style seafood is lightly breaded and perfectly fried, resulting in a delicate, crispy coating that doesn't overpower the fresh taste of the fish, shrimp, oysters, or scallops. It's a simple, time-honored method that highlights the natural flavors of the catch .
Bennett's Calabash Seafood (1010 Highway 17 S.) is a local institution where you can experience this style, often offering a vast buffet with a wide selection of these fried delights . For a true sampler, Captain Archie's (2200 Little River Neck Rd.) offers a generous Seafood Platter featuring fried shrimp, flounder, oysters, and scallops, providing a perfect introduction to the coastal Carolina tradition .
Lowcountry Boil
Also known as a "Frogmore Stew," a Lowcountry Boil is less a stew and more a festive, one-pot feast. This social dish is a beloved tradition across the South Carolina coast. It's made by boiling new potatoes, corn on the cob, smoked sausage (like kielbasa), and fresh shrimp in a large pot with a robust blend of spices. The result is a hearty and flavorful meal that's typically dumped onto a newspaper-covered table and enjoyed communally .
Flying Fish Public Market & Grill (4744 Highway 17 S.) is a great spot to enjoy this dish. With its lively atmosphere and views of the Intracoastal Waterway, they serve a renowned Lowcountry Boil that captures the fun and flavor of this local tradition .
Themed Seafood Dining
Beyond specific dishes, North Myrtle Beach offers a variety of seafood experiences. For a refined evening, SeaBlue Restaurant & Wine Bar (503 Hwy. 17 N.) is known for its expertly prepared Pan-Seared Scallops, a more elegant take on local seafood . If you're looking for a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, Joe's Crab Shack (4846 Highway 17 S.) offers a fun menu full of crab-centric dishes and steampots . For those seeking a combination of steak and seafood, SOHO Steak & Seafood Sushi Bar (406 Main St.) provides a sophisticated dining experience .
Museums
North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum
For a deep dive into the local heritage, the North Myrtle Beach Area Historical Museum (799 2nd Ave N) is the premier destination. This charming museum offers a curated journey through the city's past, from its early Native American inhabitants and its development as a fishing village to its emergence as a beloved beach resort. Exhibits feature memorabilia from bygone decades, including a 1950s-60s jukebox, a vintage newspaper printer, and transistor radios, painting a vivid picture of mid-20th-century life .
One of the museum's most celebrated exhibits is dedicated to the history of the "shag" dance, which is officially recognized as South Carolina's state dance and has deep roots in the area's beach music scene . The museum also features exhibits on the region's abundant sea life and the impact of significant events like Hurricane Hugo. It's a small but informative stop, and visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff . The museum operates on a donation basis, making it an accessible and valuable cultural resource.
Nearby Museums and Cultural Sites
While North Myrtle Beach's museum scene is focused on its local history, it is just a short drive from a wealth of other cultural institutions in the broader Grand Strand area.
- Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum (Myrtle Beach) : Located about a 15-20 minute drive south in Myrtle Beach, this museum is a cultural haven for visual arts. Housed in a charming early 20th-century beach cottage, it features eleven rotating galleries showcasing everything from contemporary photography and sculpture to traditional Southern textiles. Admission is free, making it an accessible destination for art lovers .
- Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet) : Situated further south, this is a stunning confluence of art, nature, and history. It is America's first public sculpture garden, boasting the most significant collection of American figurative sculpture in an outdoor setting, with over 2,000 works by 430 artists set within beautifully landscaped gardens . It also includes a Lowcountry Zoo with native animals. A visit here is a full-day experience and a must-see for any visitor to the region .
- Ripley's Aquarium & Other Attractions (Myrtle Beach) : For a different kind of museum experience, the Myrtle Beach area offers attractions like the Hard Rock Cafe Myrtle Beach, which houses an impressive collection of music memorabilia including items from Elvis Presley and Paul McCartney . While not a traditional museum, it offers a fascinating look at rock and roll history.
Sport and Sports Legends
North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex
The primary hub for organized sports in the city is the North Myrtle Beach Sports Complex. This facility hosts a variety of tournaments and events throughout the year, particularly for youth sports. It features multiple baseball and softball fields, soccer/lacrosse fields, and is a regular venue for regional and national travel ball tournaments . The complex is a key part of the community, drawing teams and families from across the region.
Local Sports Teams
While North Myrtle Beach is not home to any major professional sports teams, its location within the Grand Strand means that professional sports are easily accessible. The Myrtle Beach area hosts minor league teams such as the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a Single-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs in the Carolina League, who play just a short drive away. The sporting culture in North Myrtle Beach itself is centered around community leagues, youth sports, and the many golf courses that dot the region, making it a destination for amateur golf tournaments.
Nearby Sporting Destinations
- Golf: The Grand Strand is often referred to as the "Golf Capital of the World," and North Myrtle Beach is at its heart. The city and its surrounding areas are home to over 80 golf courses, ranging from classic designs to modern championship layouts, attracting golfers from all over.
- Fishing: Given its coastal location, sport fishing is a major activity. North Myrtle Beach offers numerous opportunities for inshore and offshore fishing charters out of the nearby Little River Inlet, allowing anglers to pursue species like flounder, red drum, mahimahi, and marlin .
Universities and Educational Institutions
Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) - North Myrtle Beach Campus
Higher education is represented in North Myrtle Beach by a campus of Horry-Georgetown Technical College. HGTC is a comprehensive two-year college serving the northeast region of South Carolina. The North Myrtle Beach location is one of its four campuses, providing accessible education and workforce training to residents of the city and surrounding areas . The college offers a wide range of associate degree, diploma, and certificate programs, serving over 8,000 curriculum students across its campuses .
Nearby Universities and Colleges
For four-year universities, students and residents typically commute to institutions in nearby cities.
- Coastal Carolina University (Conway) : Located about 15 miles away in Conway, CCU is a public, comprehensive liberal arts university. It has grown rapidly in recent decades and offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. It's also a significant cultural and athletic presence in the region.
- University of South Carolina (Myrtle Beach) : The USC system has a presence in Myrtle Beach, offering select bachelor's degree completion programs and master's degrees to serve the local population.