Myrtle Beach is not just about sun and surf—it’s a destination rich in history. From its early days as a small fishing village to becoming one of the East Coast’s premier vacation spots, Myrtle Beach’s transformation is both fascinating and fun to explore. Let’s take a step back in time and discover how Myrtle Beach evolved over the years, all while enjoying the best of the present-day charm it has to offer.
1700s: A Fishing and Farming Settlement
Myrtle Beach’s history stretches back to the 1700s when it was a quiet area inhabited by Native American tribes, followed by European settlers. The land was initially used for farming and fishing, with early settlers relying on the nearby Waccamaw River for transportation and trade. The area was known as New Town before it became the beloved Myrtle Beach we know today. Its natural beauty and coastal location eventually made it an ideal place for settlers to call home, but it would be a long time before it became a tourist hotspot.
1900: The Birth of Myrtle Beach
In 1900, the area officially became known as Myrtle Beach, named after the fragrant myrtle trees that lined the coast. This was the beginning of the area’s transition from a rural farming and fishing community to a resort destination. The completion of the Carolina Coastal Railway and the Intracoastal Waterway made it much easier for tourists to reach the area, and soon, visitors began flocking to Myrtle Beach for its beautiful beaches and mild climate. In 1920, the construction of the Myrtle Beach Pavilion marked the area’s first major entertainment venue, providing a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
1940s-1960s: The Golden Age of Myrtle Beach
Following World War II, Myrtle Beach entered a period of rapid growth and development, beginning in the 1940s and continuing into the 1960s. With the arrival of new hotels, motels, and family-friendly attractions, the town quickly became a top vacation destination. The Myrtle Beach Pavilion and the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk played significant roles in this transformation, offering entertainment, rides, and games that attracted tourists from all over the United States.
During this period, Myrtle Beach also became a hub for live entertainment, with music venues, theaters, and comedy clubs sprouting up around town. The area’s reputation as a lively, family-friendly resort solidified, and many of the town’s iconic attractions and restaurants were born during these decades.
1970s-1990s: Expanding Horizons
The 1970s through the 1990s marked a significant shift in Myrtle Beach’s landscape, as it became even more established as a top-tier vacation spot. In 1995, Broadway at the Beach opened, adding an exciting new dimension to the area with its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Over the years, more shopping centers and entertainment complexes, like The Market Common, followed suit, offering a modern contrast to the historical charm of the area.
This period also saw an explosion of new high-rise hotels, condos, and vacation resorts, transforming the city’s skyline and giving visitors more options for where to stay. Myrtle Beach continued to thrive as both a family vacation spot and a destination for golfers, thanks to its numerous world-class golf courses that began popping up during this time.
2000-Present: The Modern Myrtle Beach
Today, Myrtle Beach is a bustling resort town that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern amenities and attractions. The city continues to evolve with the times, offering tourists a wide variety of experiences. In 2011, the opening of the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel added an iconic landmark to the skyline, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline from 187 feet above the beach.
Additionally, attractions like The Market Common, The Hollywood Wax Museum, and TopGolf Myrtle Beach have added to the area’s appeal, making it a diverse destination for all types of travelers. Despite the rapid growth, Myrtle Beach has managed to preserve its historic sites and landmarks, allowing visitors to experience both the old and new sides of the city.
Notable Historical Landmarks to Visit
Myrtle Beach’s history is alive and well in several key landmarks that showcase its evolution over the years:
- The Myrtle Beach Pavilion: Though demolished in 2006, the site remains a significant part of the town’s history. Today, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and surrounding areas continue to serve as a hub for entertainment and tourism.
- Hopsewee Plantation: Located just outside of Myrtle Beach, this 18th-century plantation offers a glimpse into the area’s colonial past, showcasing life on a rice plantation during the 1700s.
- The Conway Historic District: A short drive away, Conway’s charming streets and preserved buildings provide a glimpse of life in early South Carolina, from colonial homes to historic churches.
- Brookgreen Gardens: This beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve is not only a tranquil place to visit but also a rich part of the area’s history, featuring works of art and exhibits that tell the story of the Lowcountry.
Step into Myrtle Beach’s History at Ocean Reef Resort!
Ready to experience Myrtle Beach’s rich past while enjoying all the modern comforts of today? Ocean Reef Resort is the perfect base for your historical journey through Myrtle Beach. With its oceanfront views, comfortable accommodations, and prime location near the boardwalk, you can soak in the city’s history while enjoying the latest attractions. Book your stay at Ocean Reef Resort today and make history come alive!
