The Rich History of Myrtle Beach: From Sandy Shores to Vacation Paradise

Myrtle Beach is best known today as a thriving vacation destination filled with sunshine, seaside fun, and family-friendly attractions. But before it became the heart of the Grand Strand, this stretch of South Carolina beach had a much different story—one rooted in railroads, resilience, and remarkable transformation.

At Grand Palms Resort, we love to share the local history that makes our home in Surfside Beach and the southern Grand Strand so special. Here’s a look back at the history of Myrtle Beach and how it came to be the beloved vacation hotspot it is today.

Early Beginnings: The Grand Strand Before Myrtle Beach

Long before hotels and piers dotted the coastline, the area now known as the Grand Strand was home to Native American tribes like the Waccamaw and Winyah, who thrived off the land and rivers. The name “Grand Strand” refers to the 60-mile stretch of sandy beach that curves along the Atlantic Coast from Little River to Georgetown.

In the 1700s and 1800s, European settlers used the land mainly for timber, rice, and turpentine. The region remained relatively isolated, reachable only by boat or horseback—perfect for plantation life, but not yet a vacation destination.

The Birth of Myrtle Beach

The turning point came in the late 1800s when the Burroughs & Collins Company (later Burroughs & Chapin) saw the potential in the untouched South Carolina beach. They built the Conway & Seashore Railroad in 1900 to transport timber from inland Conway to the coast—but the train soon began bringing something else: people.

The first hotel, the Seaside Inn, opened in 1901, and the area quickly gained popularity as a quiet seaside retreat. It was named Myrtle Beach in 1907, after the abundant wax myrtle bushes that grow throughout the region.

Growth, Grit, and the Rise of Tourism

Through the 20th century, Myrtle Beach grew steadily—adding golf courses, amusement parks, and attractions that catered to families and snowbirds alike. The city incorporated in 1938 and again as a city in 1957, officially planting its flag as the central hub of the Grand Strand.

Despite hurricanes and economic challenges, the area continued to blossom. New roads, including the famous Ocean Boulevard, brought even more visitors, and the creation of the Myrtle Beach Pavilion became a magnet for beachgoers. By the 1960s and ’70s, the town had become a vacation institution, known for its laid-back charm, wide sandy beaches, and family-focused fun.

Surfside Beach and the Southern Strand

Just south of Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach emerged as its own quaint, welcoming alternative. Known as “The Family Beach,” this quiet community developed with a similar spirit but retained its small-town charm. Today, it’s the perfect place for travelers looking to enjoy the beauty of the South Carolina coast without the bustle of the city center.

Staying at Grand Palms Resort puts guests right at the heart of the area’s story—where they can enjoy both the history and the modern amenities that make this destination so iconic.

Myrtle Beach Today: A Timeless Vacation Destination

From a railroad stop in the sand dunes to a booming vacation mecca, Myrtle Beach has never lost its magic. Today, with over 20 million visitors a year, it continues to evolve—offering top-tier golf, entertainment, shopping, and dining, all wrapped in Southern hospitality.

Yet through all the growth, the core of the Grand Strand remains unchanged: wide beaches, beautiful weather, and a welcoming vibe that brings families back year after year.

Come Be Part of the Story

At Grand Palms Resort in Surfside Beach, we celebrate the rich past of our region while offering all the comforts and conveniences of a modern resort. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or just ready for the perfect South Carolina vacation, the story of Myrtle Beach is waiting for you.

Reserve your stay today and become part of the tradition. Call 888-913-4477 and one of our friendly resort representatives would love to help you make that vacation a reality.