‘It has paid off handsomely’: Myrtle Beach boardwalk celebrates 10 years
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade celebrates 10 years of bringing a path for beachgoers to experience the ocean and city skyline all at once for more than one mile.
A plan before the recession, the boardwalk was built after the recession and had a grand opening May 15, 2010, which featured TLC’s “Cake Boss,” Buddy Valastro, who made a 1,000-plus pound flip-flop cake for the occasion, according to The Sun News’ archives.
And, of course, in Myrtle Beach fashion, flip flops were required attire for the event, which brought hundreds out near the old pavilion site.
The Myrtle Beach city council debated building the boardwalk during an economic downturn, said Mark Kruea, the city’s spokesperson.
“Council wisely decided that it would be a good investment and opted to go ahead with it,” Kruea said. “The goal was to be ready with a new feature for Myrtle Beach as the nation pulled out of the economic doldrums. This was a bold decision, and it has paid off handsomely.”
Having the boardwalk open in 2010 gave Myrtle Beach a “much-needed boost” as the economy began to turn, Kruea said, and the city was able to recover quicker than most communities.
Since 2010, the boardwalk has been extended on its north-most point and now ends near the Hilton at 16th Avenue North. The walkway maneuvers past iconic Myrtle Beach spots, like the Gay Dolphin, the SkyWheel, the Bowery, as well as retail stores and restaurants, and ends at its southern-most point at 2nd Avenue North.
The boardwalk has seen a handful of hurricanes, it’s been a finish line for Myrtle Beach Marathon runners, and a place to enjoy a drink while listening to the Carolina Country Music Festival.
Though the 10-year anniversary is happening amid the coronavirus pandemic, the boardwalk is open to the public.
