Here’s what to expect on the Fourth of July weekend in the Myrtle Beach area
Beaches, attractions and a firework show are still a go for July 4 weekend in the Myrtle Beach area.
While there is little doubt the 2020 Fourth of July celebration will look different compared to other years because of coronavirus, many activities should be open for the three-day weekend.
Here’s a look at what’s happening this weekend as locals and visitors prepare to celebrate across Horry County.
Isn’t the area seeing a spike in COVID-19 cases?
Horry County — which includes Myrtle Beach — has seen a dramatic uptick in cases during the last month, just like most of South Carolina. As of Sunday, there are 2,985 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Myrtle Beach area.
The county added about 2,500 cases to its count in June alone.
So, do I have to wear a mask?
Let’s put it this way — it’s strongly, strongly encouraged.
State and local leaders have not passed laws requiring masks, but it could happen in Myrtle Beach as early as this week. Other South Carolina cities passed laws requiring masks in restaurants and some stores. The Myrtle Beach City Council is set to discuss the issue later this week.
South Carolina health officials pleaded with people to voluntarily wear a mask to help slow the virus’ spread.
“We’re telling you in the strongest, most urgent terms to follow these rules and wear those masks,” Gov. Henry McMaster said at a press conference last week. “You know when you need to wear it and you need to wear it. Put it on.”
Is the beach open?
Yes.
Enjoy the sand, oceanfront views and splashing waves throughout the weekend. All beaches in Horry County, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach and Garden City are open. Though, health officials do ask people to practice social distancing and stay 6 feet apart to slow the spread of coronavirus.
The weather isn’t going to ruin our time on the beach, right?
There’s good news and bad news. Right now, high temperatures are expected to be near perfect in mid-80s degrees for July 3-5. Low temperatures are forecast to be in the mid-to-low 70s at night.
The bad news is there is a 50 percent chance for rain and thunderstorms throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. That could change later in the week, but it looks like parts of the weekend could see storms.
Can we use the pool?
Community pools — such as those found in hotels or some subdivisions — are available for use.
COVID-19 cannot be spread through the water in pools, according to the Centers for Disease Control. But, there is an opportunity for the disease to spread in areas around a pool. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has guidelines for people using pools, including practicing social distancing, removing sharable equipment and preventing sick people from being in the area.
Is it too late to make a hotel reservation?
Many Grand Strand hotels are expected to be full this weekend.
Hotel occupancy rates still lag behind last year’s pace, according to the Clay Brittan Jr. Center for Resort Tourism at CCU. For the weekend of June 14-20, Myrtle Beach area hotels had 91.5 percent occupancy, down slightly from 96.5 percent for the same week in 2019.
Short-term rentals are outpacing last year’s reservations rate, according to the center. In 2019, for the week of June 27-July 3, about 79.9 percent of short-term rentals were reserved at least two weeks in advance. This year that figure was at 83.4 percent. There is an even larger difference for the week of July 4-10 with 70.2 percent reserved at least two weeks early in 2019 and 97.7 percent this year.
Can we grab a bite to eat at a restaurant?
Many restaurants are open for service, though most have restricted the number of people allowed inside or their hours. That has led to lines outside some establishments as customers wait for a table.
Restaurants are allowed to offer dining room service, and the state is asking them to participate in a voluntary sticker program to show they comply with recommendations to slow COVID-19. DHEC admitted the regulations are just guidelines and not requirements.
Some Grand Strand restaurants have closed in recent weeks for cleanings after a staff member tested positive for coronavirus. Most have resumed service since the cleanings.
Can I go shopping?
Many retail businesses are open for customers, though some stores and shopping centers have rules to help slow COVID-19’s spread. It’s probably best to check with the individual retailer to see their regulations.
Are attractions open?
It depends on what attractions you’re thinking about visiting. Waterparks, bowling alleys, go-kart tracks and mini-golf courses are open. Regular golf courses remain open as well. Some amusements have changed their rules to adjust to COVID-19.
Other attractions — including concert venues, movie theaters and nightclubs — remain closed.
What about public parks?
Parks are open though officials ask people to practice social distancing and to wash their hands.
State parks in the area will also be open, though they have reached capacity several times on the weekend since they reopened.
Will there be fireworks?
Many places have canceled their firework shows to help slow the spread of coronavirus, such as Broadway at the Beach, Cherry Grove Pier and the Murrells Inlet Marshwalk.
The fireworks at the 2nd Avenue Pier in Myrtle Beach are still scheduled to light up the night sky around 10 p.m on Saturday.
Any final pieces of advice?
Local and state leaders encourage people to enjoy the beach, attractions and amenities throughout South Carolina, just to be responsible when doing so. That includes wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and to stay home if feeling ill.
“We need our visitors, we love them,” Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune said. Later adding, “It’s so crucial to follow guidelines.”
This story was originally published June 29, 2020 at 10:49 AM.
