Myrtle Beach anchors the 60-mile Grand Strand of South Carolina Atlantic coastline, a major family resort destination with a mix of wide sandy beach and classic boardwalk attractions. Atlantic tidal range of 4–5 feet significantly shapes the beach; low tide exposes firm sand popular for driving (on designated sections) and shelling.
Atlantic tidal range of 4–5 ft along the Grand Strand; low tide reveals broad, firm sand — the best time for surf fishing, jogging, and finding shells washed up overnight. Swimming in the lifeguarded zones is most comfortable at mid tide; modest shore break near 2nd Avenue Pier is surfable at mid tide; Myrtle Beach State Park Pier is one of the most consistent shore fishing spots on the Strand. Local note: the Grand Strand has over 1,200 restaurants; Myrtle Beach State Park at the south end of the resort strip provides the most natural and uncrowded beach access; vehicles are not permitted on the beach within city limits.
Nearby Beaches