10 Insider Tips to Live Like a Local in Myrtle Beach
Even as a visitor, embracing local life in the Myrtle Beach area is effortless, thanks to the abundance of beach homes and condos favored by vacationing families. For those considering Myrtle Beach as a primary or second home, this expert guide outlines the top 10 ways to truly live like a local.
Invest in Flip-Flops
In the Myrtle Beach area, casual attire reigns supreme—even for residents. Most restaurants and attractions embrace relaxed dress codes, and with our mild climate, locals sport flip-flops well into fall. Myrtle Beach locals embody a laid-back vibe, cherishing their coastal paradise without rush.
Venture Inland
Beyond the 60 miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline, the Myrtle Beach area spans 12 distinct communities, including inland gems like Conway, Aynor, and Loris. These historic towns offer authentic Southern charm—our locals' best-kept secret. Enjoy genuine Southern cuisine, historic museums, and family-friendly festivals.
Learn to Shag
The Myrtle Beach area is the birthplace of South Carolina's state dance, the shag—a slotted swing dance featuring improvisation to beloved beach music. During 'spring and fall migrations,' locals flock to North Myrtle Beach's Main Street and Ocean Drive for top shag clubs. New residents should try a lesson or two.
Cook Local Cuisine
Mastering regional dishes immerses you in coastal culture. Myrtle Beach boasts fresh seafood, rice, grits, sweet potatoes, peaches, and berries from early spring. Must-tries: Atlantic blue crab in any style and chicken bog, a flavorful Lowcountry chicken-and-rice staple.
Get to Know the Music Scene
Beyond beach music for shag dancing, locals enjoy the Long Bay Symphony and frequent concerts. Summer brings free outdoor performances, perfect for savoring life in this premier vacation spot.
Take Advantage of Shoulder Season Discounts
Year-round residents love local perks: flash your ID for discounts at restaurants and attractions, or snag buy-one-get-one deals. Shoulder seasons make exploring affordably tourist-like.
Become a History Buff
Proud of their heritage, Myrtle Beach locals frequent museums like the Horry County Museum in Conway, with exhibits, programs, and historic district tours. Southern plantations, some predating the Revolutionary War, highlight the area's Lowcountry roots.
Play Ball
Root for the home team: the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, Class A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. Their April-to-September season at TicketReturn.com Field offers thrilling games, family entertainment, and local discounts.
Explore Your Artsy Side
Visitors often overlook Myrtle Beach's cultural treasures. Locals invest in annual passes to Brookgreen Gardens—home to the nation's largest outdoor sculpture collection amid ancient oaks—or the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum for contemporary visual arts.
Shop Local
Support area boutiques and artisans at Market Common or downtown districts. Iconic local finds include handwoven Pawleys Island rope hammocks from The Original Pawley's Island Rope Hammock Shop, a tradition since the 1800s.
