Why Myrtle Beach Is the Must-Visit Beach Destination This Summer
Myrtle Beach, a longtime favorite getaway, boasts a 60-mile stretch of South Carolina coastline packed with activities. It's arguably the top beach destination for summer, featuring live music of all genres (much free), food festivals, art events, and more.
The "something for everyone" appeal is exceptional, thanks to 14 diverse communities along the Grand Strand—from the lively Downtown Myrtle Beach boardwalk to the relaxed fishing village of Murrells Inlet. Whatever your vacation style, you'll find it here, along with a genuine sense of belonging.
Reaching Myrtle Beach is easier than ever, with 10 new direct flight routes launching in May and June, complementing extensive existing services. Before booking, explore our curated highlights of the summer lineup.
The Perfect Musical Lineup
Myrtle Beach's summer music scene is eagerly anticipated. The flagship Carolina Country Music Fest (June 10-13) is nearly sold out, featuring stars like Luke Combs, Darius Rucker, and Kelsea Ballerini. Tickets for the Thursday kickoff are available here. Bonus: Partnering with Tidelands Health for on-site COVID-19 vaccinations.
That same weekend, One The Show returns to North Myrtle Beach's Alabama Theatre on June 10, running six nights weekly through August 31. Produced by Grand Ole Opry owners, it blends country, gospel, Broadway, pop, rock, and comedy, earning consistent rave reviews. Off-nights feature stars like Josh Turner, Easton Corbin, Motown, and Beatles tributes.
At the Carolina Opry Theater in Myrtle Beach, the signature revue resumed in late April with hip-hop clogging, fiddling, and powerhouse vocals. Alternating nights host Time Warp, a '60s-'80s pop retrospective with effects and costumes. Summer specials include June 12's Salute to the Eagles, August 1's Allman Brothers Tribute, and September 12's AC/DC Experience.
Free music abounds too. The Music on Main Concert Series starts June 3, every Thursday through October 14 in downtown North Myrtle Beach. Family-friendly Sounds of Summer runs four Friday nights. Sundays at Myrtle Beach's Landing at the Boathouse feature acts like Jebb Mac Band and Acoustic Syndicate.
Thrills and Family Fun
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk's iconic SkyWheel celebrated its 10th anniversary with upgrades to the hub, gondolas, and dazzling new LED lights.
Nearby attractions include Ripley’s Believe It or Not (spot Han Solo’s blaster from Return of the Jedi); Ripley’s Aquarium (jellyfish and penguins highlights); Myrtle Beach Zipline Adventures (Thursdays-Sundays through July); and Family Kingdom Amusement Park, one of many along the Grand Strand.
Myrtle Beach claims the title of mini golf capital of the world, hosting the ProMiniGolf Association Masters. Options range from Hawaiian Rumble and Jungle Lagoon to Jurassic Golf. Classics like Mount Atlanticus shine downtown. For real golf, choose from beginner-friendly Myrtle Beach National West Course, Arcadian Shores, or pro-level TPC Myrtle Beach.
Savor Summer Flavors
With its coastal setting and rich waters, Myrtle Beach excels in seafood and summer dining, especially Murrells Inlet—hailed as the seafood capital. Visit historic Hot Fish Club or join Carolina Food Tours; DIY along the MarshWalk.
New gems like Crooked Hammock Brewery in North Myrtle Beach offer fried pickles, honey fried chicken sandwiches, and seasonal brews, plus sundowners at pier bar Tortuga Island. In Pawleys Island, Local delights with brunch like biscuits and gravy, often with live blues or jazz.
Don't miss BBQ and chicken bog trails. Top pick: Radd Dew’s in Aynor for ribs, chitterlings, chicken bog, and more—call ahead to confirm hours.
Artistic Inspirations
Discover Myrtle Beach's art scene at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet, home to the largest U.S. collection of American figurative sculptures and lush gardens. Summer Light; Art By Night (Wednesdays-Saturdays, June 9-August 21) features nine illuminated installations and live music. Visit anytime for the Lowcountry Zoo's wildlife conservation exhibits.
At Myrtle Beach Art Museum, Resilience by Leo Twiggs (June 1-August 28) showcases six decades, including Requiem for Mother Emanuel. Ongoing: Joe Karlovec's Private Property, Edward Rice's Beyond Depiction, and Lynn Clibanoff's Inside Out.
Prime Beach Experiences
The 60-mile coastline anchors every visit, with tailored beaches for all.
Nature enthusiasts love Huntington Beach State Park for pristine sands, lakes, trails, history, and camping. Anglers head to piers like serene Myrtle Beach State Park Pier or lively Garden City Pier with music, ice cream, and arcades.
For idyllic relaxation, Litchfield or Garden City beaches deliver perfect summer days.
