Nestled along the South Carolina coast, the Grand Strand is a 60-mile stretch of beautiful beaches and charming communities, stretching from Little River near the North Carolina border to Georgetown in the south. But how did Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand come to be one of the most sought-after destinations for both tourists and new residents?
The area’s story begins with the first settlers—the Withers family—who established their home near what is now known as Withers Swash in the late 1700s. This freshwater inlet, nestled in present-day Myrtle Beach, became a focal point for early settlers seeking fertile land and access to the coast. The Withers family’s influence remains etched in the area’s history, even lending their name to one of its early landmarks.
Fast forward to the late 1800s, and the Burroughs family played a pivotal role in shaping Myrtle Beach’s identity. Originally a remote, untamed stretch of coastline, the enterprising family envisioned its potential as a bustling seaside destination. Their efforts in developing the area, including infrastructure like railways and beachfront amenities, laid the groundwork for what Myrtle Beach has become today—a vibrant community and tourist hotspot.
The term “Grand Strand” was later coined to describe this picturesque stretch of coast, encompassing not just Myrtle Beach but the many unique communities that make up the region. Each offers its own distinct character, from the historic charm of Conway to the seafood-rich Marsh Walk in Murrells Inlet.
Today, the Grand Strand is more than just a single destination—it’s a vibrant collection of communities, each offering its own personality, charm, and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of Myrtle Beach or the tranquil waters of Little River, there’s a perfect spot here for everyone.
Vibe: Myrtle Beach is the vibrant heart of the Grand Strand, offering a dynamic blend of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty. The city seamlessly blends a lively tourism-driven atmosphere with a welcoming community spirit, offering residents and visitors a dynamic yet hospitable environment. The city's lively atmosphere is complemented by ongoing developments aimed at enriching its cultural landscape.
Cost of Living: Myrtle Beach provides a diverse range of housing options, from oceanfront condos to suburban single-family homes, catering to various budgets. While beachfront properties may come at a premium, the overall cost of living remains competitive compared to other coastal cities, making it accessible for many.
Employment Opportunities: The city's economy is predominantly driven by tourism, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. While there are ongoing discussions to expand into the tech industry, particularly with developments like the subsea cable landing station, current job opportunities are largely centered around existing industries.
Recreation Opportunities: Myrtle Beach offers an abundance of recreational activities:
Beaches and Waterways: Miles of sandy shores and the Intracoastal Waterway provide endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Golf: Known as the "Golf Capital of the World," Myrtle Beach boasts numerous affordable and high-quality golf courses. The city hosts the Myrtle Beach Classic, a PGA TOUR event, further cementing its status in the golfing community.
Trails and Parks: The development of the East Coast Greenway through Myrtle Beach offers extensive trails for walking, running, and cycling.
Organized Sports: Various leagues and facilities support organized sports for all ages, fostering a strong sense of community engagement.
What Makes It Unique:
Myrtle Beach's tourism-driven economy provides residents with year-round access to amenities typically found in vacation destinations, such as entertainment venues, diverse dining options, and attractions. The city's commitment to enhancing its downtown area, now known as the Arts and Innovation District, reflects a dedication to cultural and economic development. Additionally, the establishment of the DC BLOX Cable Landing Station positions Myrtle Beach as a significant hub for global digital connectivity, potentially paving the way for future growth in the tech sector.
The city also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, including the renowned World Championship Chili Cook-off and the Carolina Country Music Fest, which draws major artists and thousands of fans to the area each summer. These events contribute to Myrtle Beach's vibrant community spirit, offering residents diverse cultural and entertainment experiences.
Vibe: The Market Common is the epitome of a thoughtfully designed, walkable community. Spanning 3.9 square miles, it blends urban convenience with suburban comfort, creating a vibrant environment where residents can live, work, and play without ever leaving the neighborhood. Its master plan prioritizes green spaces, accessibility, and a strong sense of community.
Cost of Living: Housing options range from chic apartments and townhomes to elegant single-family homes. While living in The Market Common may come at a premium compared to other areas, residents find it worth the investment for the convenience and lifestyle amenities the community offers.
Employment Opportunities: The Market Common hosts a variety of businesses, from local boutiques to larger retailers and professional services. Its proximity to Myrtle Beach International Airport and other commercial areas also supports a wide range of employment options.
Recreation Opportunities: The Market Common boasts a remarkable array of amenities. Residents and visitors can enjoy:
Grand Park and Valor Memorial Garden: Expansive green spaces perfect for picnics, outdoor activities, and peaceful strolls.
Savannah's Playground: A renowned all-inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities.
Recreational Facilities: A movie theater, bowling alley, and nearby athletic fields ensure there’s always something to do.
The Children’s Museum of South Carolina: A favorite for families, offering interactive and educational exhibits.
What Makes It Unique: The Market Common’s self-contained layout means everything you need is within reach. It features a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, from cozy cafes and fine dining to salons, spas, and fitness studios. Special events and seasonal markets add to the lively atmosphere, making it feel like a small town within the city.
Rooted in its history as the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, the community honors its military past through memorials and preserved landmarks. This rich history, combined with modern amenities, creates a one-of-a-kind neighborhood that continues to attract families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Vibe: Known as the “Family Beach,” Surfside Beach is a quaint coastal town with a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. It’s quieter and more residential than nearby Myrtle Beach, making it an ideal spot for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a peaceful slice of coastal living.
Cost of Living: Surfside Beach offers a mix of housing options, including beachfront homes, cozy cottages, and suburban neighborhoods. While beachfront properties come at a premium, homes slightly inland are more affordable and still close to the ocean.
Employment Opportunities: The local economy is primarily supported by small businesses, restaurants, and shops catering to residents and visitors. Many residents commute to nearby Myrtle Beach for additional job opportunities in tourism, healthcare, and retail.
Recreation Opportunities: Surfside Beach lives up to its reputation as a family-friendly destination with plenty of recreational options:
The Beach: With a more relaxed vibe than Myrtle Beach, Surfside’s beaches are perfect for families seeking a quieter experience. Lifeguards and well-maintained public access points make it safe and accessible for all.
Local Parks: Surfside Beach has several parks with playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, including Martin Park and Fuller Park.
What Makes It Unique: Surfside Beach takes pride in its community-focused identity. In 2021, the town rebuilt its iconic pier, a beloved landmark for residents and visitors alike, following damage from hurricanes. Known for its “Leave Only Footprints” initiative, Surfside Beach emphasizes sustainability and preserving its natural beauty.
The town also hosts seasonal events like farmers' markets, outdoor concerts, and holiday parades, fostering a strong sense of community. For those looking to escape the hustle of larger tourist towns, Surfside Beach offers a charming, close-knit environment with all the perks of coastal living.
Vibe: Carolina Forest is the epitome of a family-oriented community. With its suburban charm, excellent schools, and a strong sense of safety, it’s a favorite among families and young professionals. The continuous sidewalk along Carolina Forest Boulevard enhances the area’s family-friendly appeal, offering a safe space for runners, bikers, dog walkers, and parents with strollers.
Cost of Living: Carolina Forest offers a range of housing options, from affordable apartments to mid- and higher-end single-family homes. The area’s relatively low cost of living and modern housing developments makes it attractive to families and first-time buyers.
Employment Opportunities: While many residents commute to Myrtle Beach or Conway, Carolina Forest is seeing steady growth in local job opportunities. The development of small plazas provides space for small businesses and entrepreneurs, adding convenience and variety to the local economy. Nearby Coastal Carolina University and multiple Medical Centers are also major employers for the area.
Recreation Opportunities: Carolina Forest offers a wide range of recreational activities, from outdoor adventures to community-oriented spaces for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a scenic nature escape, a fun playground for kids, or a place to stay active, this area has plenty to explore:
Palmetto Adventure Land Playground: A popular destination for families, this large, pirate-themed playground is perfect for kids to explore and let their imaginations run wild.
Lewis Ocean Bay Heritage Preserve: This nearby 10,000-acre nature preserve is home to rare wildlife and beautiful trails, offering a peaceful retreat for hiking and wildlife spotting.
International Drive Ballpark and Fields: A community hub for sports enthusiasts, this ballpark hosts baseball games, tournaments, and other events, providing a great spot for family outings.
Carolina Forest Bike Run Park (The Hulk): This challenging and scenic bike trail, also known as The Hulk, is perfect for mountain bikers and runners who want an off-road adventure.
Huger Park: A park dedicated to General Isaac Huger and donated to the county to preserve the 10 centuries old oak trees. Site upgrades have recently been approved with the addition of some picnic areas, making it a great spot for family gatherings and recreational activities.
Additionally, Carolina Forest is home to a public library, recreation center, and senior center, offering resources and activities for residents of all ages. These community spaces enrich the area’s family-friendly atmosphere and provide opportunities for learning, fitness, and social engagement.
What Makes It Unique: Carolina Forest is known for its exceptional schools, including Ocean Bay Elementary, Ocean Bay Middle, and Carolina Forest High School. The area is also home to the Academy of Arts, Science, and Technology, a magnet school offering specialized programs for high school students. Adding to the educational appeal is the upcoming Coastal High School, a new charter school currently under construction.
Vibe: Murrells Inlet is a picturesque coastal town known as the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina." With its laid-back atmosphere and rich maritime history, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, coastal charm, and incredible dining experiences. Its proximity to nature makes it a haven for those seeking a quieter lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.
Cost of Living: Housing in Murrells Inlet ranges from charming older homes and cottages to modern developments and gated communities. Waterfront properties, particularly along the marsh, are more expensive, but the area offers a variety of options for different budgets.
Employment Opportunities: The local economy is driven by hospitality, dining, and tourism, with many jobs centered around the town's renowned restaurants and the MarshWalk. Healthcare is also a prominent sector, with facilities like Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital serving the area.
Recreation Opportunities: Murrells Inlet is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike:
The MarshWalk: This waterfront boardwalk offers stunning views of the marsh, live music, and a wide variety of seafood restaurants. It’s a central hub for dining and entertainment.
Brookgreen Gardens: A nationally recognized sculpture garden and wildlife preserve, Brookgreen Gardens provides breathtaking scenery, art exhibits, and seasonal events.
Huntington Beach State Park: Located just minutes from Murrells Inlet, this park offers pristine beaches, birdwatching, and camping opportunities.
Fishing and Boating: With easy access to the ocean and nearby waterways, fishing charters, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities.
What Makes It Unique: Murrells Inlet is a town that thrives on its connection to the water. Its seafood reputation isn’t just a marketing slogan—the town’s restaurants are known for serving the freshest catches, often brought in by local fishermen. The annual Murrells Inlet Oyster Roast and other seafood-centric events highlight this strong connection to the ocean.
The community also boasts a rich history, with tales of pirates and ghost stories adding to its allure. For those looking for a slower pace of life, Murrells Inlet provides a serene, scenic retreat without sacrificing access to exceptional dining and outdoor adventures.
Vibe: North Myrtle Beach combines a laid-back coastal charm with a lively yet less chaotic atmosphere compared to Myrtle Beach. Known for its family-friendly environment and strong sense of community, it’s a popular destination for retirees, vacation homeowners, and families seeking a quieter beach experience.
Cost of Living: Housing options in North Myrtle Beach range from oceanfront condos and vacation homes to suburban neighborhoods and retirement communities. While beachfront properties come with a higher price tag, the area offers plenty of options to suit a variety of budgets.
Employment Opportunities: Much like Myrtle Beach, the local economy in North Myrtle Beach revolves around tourism, hospitality, and retail. The area is also home to smaller businesses that cater to locals, including restaurants, boutiques, and service providers. Additionally, the recently built Amazon facility offers a significant source of employment for residents.
Recreation Opportunities: North Myrtle Beach is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy a relaxed lifestyle:
Cherry Grove Pier: A historic pier perfect for fishing or simply enjoying the ocean views.
Barefoot Landing: A premier shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Beach Life: With miles of pristine beaches, North Myrtle Beach offers a more peaceful setting for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Golfing: The area is home to several top-notch golf courses, catering to the region’s strong golfing culture.
What Makes It Unique: North Myrtle Beach is perhaps best known as the birthplace of shag dancing, South Carolina’s state dance. The town hosts events and festivals celebrating this tradition, including the annual SOS (Society of Stranders) gatherings, which bring shag enthusiasts together for music and dancing.
The community also benefits from a variety of parks and recreational programs, including water sports, nature trails, and seasonal events. Its relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere make North Myrtle Beach an appealing choice for those who want the coastal lifestyle with a bit more tranquility.
Vibe: Little River is a quiet coastal community that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspots. Known for its maritime charm, slower pace, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with a connection to the water.
Cost of Living: Little River offers a mix of housing options, including waterfront homes, charming cottages, and affordable suburban developments. With its smaller size and less commercialized nature, it’s often more affordable than its neighboring towns, making it a great option for retirees and families alike.
Employment Opportunities: While Little River itself has a limited job market, its proximity to Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach provides access to opportunities in tourism, hospitality, and healthcare. Locally, businesses like marinas, seafood markets, and charter fishing operations drive the economy.
Recreation Opportunities: Little River is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty:
Water Activities: The Intracoastal Waterway and nearby marinas offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Charter fishing tours are a major draw for residents and visitors alike.
Little River Waterfront: This picturesque area features seafood restaurants, shops, and stunning views of the water, making it a favorite spot for locals.
Golfing: Little River is home to several scenic golf courses that cater to players of all skill levels.
Annual Blue Crab Festival: One of the biggest events in the area, this festival celebrates the town’s seafood heritage with food, music, and family-friendly activities.
What Makes It Unique: Little River’s rich history and maritime culture set it apart. As one of the oldest settlements in the area, the town retains a sense of authenticity and small-town charm. The absence of high-rise developments and heavy commercialization gives Little River a unique appeal for those who value peace and simplicity.
The town also serves as the gateway to the North Carolina border, offering quick access to destinations like Calabash, famous for its seafood. For residents, Little River strikes a perfect balance between coastal living and a close-knit community atmosphere.
Vibe: Conway embodies classic Southern charm with its small-town atmosphere and strong sense of community. It’s a place where neighbors know one another, life moves at a slower pace, and hospitality is part of everyday life. Residents enjoy the unique contrast of a historic city that avoids the hustle of tourist destinations like Myrtle Beach.
Cost of Living: Known for its affordability, Conway offers a mix of homes with character, many featuring larger lots and unique facades. While recent developments have introduced some newer neighborhoods, the area retains its charm with historic homes and spacious properties.
Employment Opportunities: Most of Conway’s businesses are family-owned, contributing to its small-town vibe. Larger employers include Coastal Carolina University and Conway Medical Center, but the town thrives on its local restaurants, shops, and services.
Recreation Opportunities: Conway’s historic downtown is the heart of its recreation and culture:
Downtown Conway: The revitalized downtown area features charming storefronts, family-owned restaurants, and unique shops. Events like farmers' markets and seasonal festivals keep the community engaged year-round.
Seasonal Celebrations: Christmas in Conway is magical, with decorations that rival a Hallmark movie, and the city has recently embraced its new identity as “Halloween Town,” turning the fall season into another community highlight.
The Waccamaw River: A key feature of Conway, the river offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic views along the Riverwalk.
What Makes It Unique: Conway stands out for its historic charm and neighborly culture. The city’s architecture, lined with oak trees and Spanish moss, feels like a step back in time. Its focus on locally-owned businesses fosters a sense of community rarely found in larger towns.
Moving to Myrtle Beach doesn’t mean you’re limited to the city of Myrtle Beach itself. The Grand Strand is a diverse region made up of unique communities, each with its own charm, vibe, and opportunities. From the bustling heart of Myrtle Beach to the family-friendly neighborhoods of Carolina Forest, the small-town southern charm of Conway, and the peaceful coastal retreats of Little River and Surfside Beach, there’s truly something for everyone.
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of Myrtle Beach’s downtown, the quiet marshes of Murrells Inlet, or the walkable lifestyle of The Market Common, each area contributes to the rich tapestry of the Grand Strand. Together, these communities form a connected and welcoming environment where you can find the perfect place to live, work, and play.
As you plan your move, take the time to explore the Grand Strand’s many neighborhoods. By understanding what each area has to offer, you’ll not only find a house—you’ll find a home that fits your lifestyle. At Yarborough's Moving Service, we’re here to help make that transition as smooth as possible. Ready to make your move? Let’s get started!
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