Local

From dining to golf, here’s insight into Myrtle Beach’s growing popularity

Stories by Sun News journalists, with AI summarization

Myrtle Beach continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for diverse lifestyles by expanding its appeal across various domains. From being ranked a top moving city by U-Haul to its recognition as a hotspot for retirees, the area draws residents and visitors alike for its affordability, mild climate, and amenities. Golf remains a vital driver of its popularity, with multiple courses earning recognition from national publications and hosting high-profile tournaments like the Myrtle Beach Classic. Additionally, attractions like Myrtle Beach International Airport, voted the best small airport in the U.S., and curated holiday events underscore the city's ability to combine lifestyle convenience with unique experiences.

Myrtle Beach’s burgeoning food scene also earns accolades, enhancing its reputation as a well-rounded coastal haven.

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories below were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

A golfer tees off on the 18th hole at TPC Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet. By The Sun News

NO. 1: THESE GOLF COURSES NAMED THE BEST IN SC. WHERE DID MYRTLE BEACH AREA COURSES RANK?

These public golf courses were named the best in South Carolina by Golfweek Magazine. How did Myrtle Beach area golf courses perform in 2024? | Published June 7, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

Caledonia was one of two Grand Strand golf courses that again made Golf Digest’s biennial list of America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, which is appearing in the magazine’s June issue. By Steve Jessmore

NO. 2: THE READERS HAVE VOTED. THIS WAS THEIR FAVORITE MYRTLE BEACH AREA GOLF COURSE IN 2024

The Myrtle Beach area is full of well-respected golf courses. Which Pawleys Island golf course was readers’ favorite in 2024? | Published June 29, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

Homes along the canals of Hog Inlet in the Cherry Grove section of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. By JASON LEE

NO. 3: HORRY NAMED A TOP SC PLACE TO RETIRE. HERE’S WHERE IN MYRTLE BEACH AREA BEST FOR RETIREES

Several cities and communities in Horry County were rated as the best places for retirees to settle. Here’s why they made the list. | Published July 11, 2024 | Read Full Story by Terri Richardson

Travelers make their way through Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR.) Oct. 14, 2021.

NO. 4: THIS SC CITY HAS THE BEST SMALL AIRPORT IN US, A USA TODAY RANKING SHOWS. HERE’S WHY

This South Carolina city has the best small airport in the US, according to USA Today. Here’s why it’s great. | Published October 3, 2024 | Read Full Story by Maria Elena Scott

Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens in Murrells Inlet is now about to start it’s 25th year and is one of the south’s most celebrated holiday destination. A national travel magazine just named the Myrtle Beach area as one of the 28 best holiday cities in the U.S. for 2024. By JASON LEE

NO. 5: NATIONAL MAGAZINE SHARES BEST CHRISTMAS SPOTS. WHAT MYRTLE BEACH, SC AREAS MADE THE LIST?

A magazine dedicated to luxury international and domestic travel wrote about their top U.S. destinations for Christmas. Which South Carolina cities made the cut? | Published November 21, 2024 | Read Full Story by Elizabeth Brewer

Looking North in the Shore Drive area of Horry County, tourists swim in the Atlantic Ocean as the Myrtle Beach skyline shows in the background. May 29, 2024. By JASON LEE

NO. 6: SC CITY NAMED TOP MOVING DESTINATION IN US. SOUTHERN CITIES DOMINATED FOR NEW RESIDENTS

The coastal South Carolina city was among other states, including Florida, as top moving destinations in the United States. Here’s what other Southern cities are popular. | Published January 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Emalyn Muzzy

The clubhouse and moss draped live oaks are your view from the tees of the 18th hole of Caledonia Golf and Fish Club. By Steve Jessmore

NO. 7: THESE MYRTLE BEACH AREA GOLF COURSES ARE SOME OF THE NATION’S BEST. HERE’S THE LIST

Golfweek recently published its list of America’s Top 200 resort golf courses. Here’s how Myrtle Beach and South Carolina courses ranked. | Published February 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

Southern Living named Hook & Barrel one of the 12 best restaurants in the Myrtle Beach area.

NO. 8: THESE ARE THE 12 BEST RESTAURANTS IN THE MYRTLE BEACH AREA, ACCORDING TO SOUTHERN LIVING

From fine dining to relaxed favorites, Southern Living says these 12 restaurants are the best around Myrtle Beach. How many have you tried? | Published March 1, 2025 | Read Full Story by Maria Elena Scott

This report was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by McClatchy journalists. It was edited by journalists in our News division.