What is ‘essential’? Here are businesses remaining open in the Myrtle Beach area
Many nonessential businesses have closed across the Myrtle Beach area due to an order by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
But what is considered essential? Grocery stores, fast-food and restaurants serving only pick-up or delivered orders remain open.
Beginning at 5 p.m. Tuesday, South Carolinians were ordered to stay home, unless they are going to work or out for essential needs, according to McMaster’s executive order. People can still visit family or exercise outdoors, so most golf courses along the Grand Strand and Horry County parks and trails are open, though state parks, like Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park, are closed.
Nonessential businesses include, but are not limited to, gyms, spas, bars, nightclubs, barber shops, hair salons, tattoo parlors, massage centers, bowling alleys, arcades, racetracks, indoor children’s play areas, theaters, museums, tourist attractions, department stores, florists, sporting goods stores and bookstores. Here is the full list of nonessential businesses.
Here are essential businesses that remain open on the Grand Strand (hours may be limited).
- Bike shops
- Chiropractors
- Liquor stores
- Grocery stores
- Restaurants (to-go or takeout only)
- Banks
- Beachwear stores
- Gas stations and convenience stores
- Gun stores
- Pet stores
- Veterinarians
- Home improvement stores
- Cell phone sales and repair
- Auto repair and tire
- Auto parts stores
- Auto and motorcycle dealers
- Boating supply stores
- Tax preparation
Brookgreen Gardens’ outdoor spaces remain open, though interior spaces are closed and public programs are postponed, according to its website. Brookgreen is offering discounted tickets, but asks visitors to purchase the tickets in advance to limit contact with its admissions staff.
Public beach access points remain closed following an order from Gov. McMaster more than one week ago. Local officials have warned people could be fined or arrested if they are caught using the public accesses. The beaches are open and accessible through private access.
This story was originally published April 8, 2020 at 8:36 AM.
