While visitors often assume that Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand are one and the same, the area is actually comprised of several unique communities. Hop in the car and discover what makes each so special!
North Myrtle Beach is perhaps best known as the home of South Carolina’s state dance, the shag. Though several beaches along the East Coast claim to be the birthplace of the legendary dance, North Myrtle Beach is the only one drawing thousands of shaggers several times each year who come to dance, party and enjoy the wide, beautiful beach. Another claim to fame? It’s also the girlhood home of Vanna White, America’s favorite game show hostess, and Kelly Tilghman, the Golf Channel’s shining star!
In the 1970s, several small towns – Windy Hill Beach, Crescent Beach, Ocean Drive Beach and Cherry Grove Beach – joined together to become North Myrtle Beach. United under one government, each, to some degree, retains its own identity with distinctive shopping areas, restaurants and amusements. In recent years, Ocean Drive’s Main Street has been revitalized with new shops and restaurants and is a hot spot for nightlife. Atlantic Beach, located between Windy Hill and Crescent Beach, chose to remain independent. Once called the “Black Pearl of the Atlantic,” it is a reminder of the days of segregated beaches.
Just up Highway 17 is Little River, a village with sweeping live oaks and a small-town feel. Long home to commercial fishing fleets, the industry still thrives here, though it has also become a favorite settling place of retirees looking for a quiet coastal lifestyle.
Calabash-style seafood is known around the world, and right across the North Carolina border, you'll find the town that made it famous! Though restaurants featuring the lightly-breaded and fried seafood are still prominent, Calabash has become popular for its variety of specialty shops and boutiques. There are also award-winning golf courses and excellent fishing.
Explore the towns of the North Strand. Otherwise, you’ll miss some of the best the Grand Strand has to offer! |
