MYRTLE BEACH
MYRTLE BEACH
As the US approaches the 250th anniversary of its Constitution, Myrtle Beach offers travellers a living connection to the country’s story. From preserved farmsteads and renowned art to the beloved Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach invites visitors to explore its history through creativity, nature, community, and shared joy
WRITER: LAUREN KANIA | PROJECT MANAGER: ALFIE WILSON
Named one of the top family-friendly beach destinations year after year and amongst the fastest-growing metros in the US, the colourful coastal city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, boasts more than just white sand and seafoam-blue waves, but endless fun, entertainment, and history, making it the perfect destination for every type of traveller.
Myrtle Beach’s expansive, golden shore stretches along 60 miles of coastline and is known as the famed Grand Strand, featuring high-rise hotels, resorts, award-winning restaurants, five-star entertainment, and so much more.
The city is home to over 90 championship golf courses, more than 2,000 restaurants, high-end shopping, amusement parks with everything from waterslides and roller coasters to racetracks, live theatres rivalling London’s West End, nightlife, gardens, and historic museums. One of the most iconic scenes and popular attractions for thrill-seekers is the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel – the 187 foot (ft) observation wheel boasting unparalleled views over the city, beach, and Atlantic Ocean.
Most travellers are drawn to the waterfront itself, where you can find spectacular sandy shores to soak up the sun, splash about in the turquoise waves, build sandcastles fit for royalty, partake in sea fishing trips where you can
whittle away the hours with a rod and line, or just embrace the magic of the moment as the sunset lazes its way across the horizon.
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade is the epitome of the vacation spirit, as evidenced by its timeless amusement arcades, fresh seafood restaurants, and general atmosphere of laughter and adventure. Equally, witness exceptional performances and attractions at Broadway at the Beach, the Broadway Grand Prix, and Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach – perfect for those wanting a bit of excitement.
With countless activities, world-class coastlines, and fun for every member of the family, it’s no wonder that millions flock to Myrtle Beach time and time again. Indulge in an unforgettable holiday and learn for yourself why the sandy shores draw in people of all generations for a once-in-alifetime trip.
BEACH
DID YOU KNOW?
• The name Myrtle Beach originates from the many wax myrtle trees once abundant in the area.
• The famous Sports Illustrated magazine, launched by Henry Luce in 1954, was conceived during meetings held at Pine Lakes Country Club in Myrtle Beach.
• Myrtle Beach is the mini golf capital of the world, with more mini golf courses per square mile than anywhere else. It is also home to the US ProMiniGolf Association’s Master’s Tournament.
• The city was once home to the largest crocodile on exhibit in the US – Utan, who was 18 ft long and weighed over 2,000 pounds.
Industry Insights
MYRTLE BEACH AREA CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
DIANE CHARNO, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Stretching across the breathtaking South Carolina coastline, Myrtle Beach continues to evolve as one of the US’ most beloved seaside destinations, offering a world-class, year-round experience
Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, tells us how Myrtle Beach is redefining what it means to relax, reconnect, and rediscover joy by the ocean.
Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk us through the origins of Visit Myrtle Beach and its initial vision?
storytelling, strategic partnerships, and a deep connection to our community, we invite travellers to discover the joy, warmth, and authenticity that make the beach so special.
THE MYRTLE BEACH Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (Visit Myrtle Beach) blends authentic Southern hospitality with forwardthinking marketing to showcase the city’s inclusive spirit, rich culture, and natural beauty. From landmark attractions like Brookgreen Gardens and The Carolina Opry Theater to its growing reputation for culinary and cultural tourism, Diane Charno,
Diane Charno, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications (DC): Visit Myrtle Beach was established to share the beauty, culture, and welcoming spirit of South Carolina’s Grand Strand with the world. From the very beginning, the goal has been clear: to grow our tourism economy by inspiring visitors to experience this exceptional coastal destination year-round.
Today, that founding vision continues to guide us. Through creative
OT: What is the strategy for promoting Myrtle Beach as a go-to destination that offers sunshine, smiles, and unforgettable memories?
DC: Our strategy begins with storytelling – connecting people to place through emotion and experience. We showcase Myrtle Beach’s incredible diversity of offerings, from outdoor adventure and live entertainment to culinary discovery and relaxation by the sea. Initiatives like ‘The Beach is for everyBODY’ embody our inclusive spirit, whilst multi-channel campaigns
and influencer collaborations share the real Myrtle Beach story across audiences worldwide. At the heart of it all is a simple truth: the beach isn’t just a destination – it’s a feeling.
OT: How do you promote off-season travel?
DC: Our message is that Myrtle Beach is a year-round destination. With mild weather, exceptional value, and a vibrant calendar of events, every season brings something special.
Fall and winter visitors enjoy fewer crowds and one-of-a-kind experiences such as Nights of a Thousand Candles at Brookgreen Gardens, The Great Christmas Light Show in North Myrtle Beach, and The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.
Industry Insights
Seasonal campaigns and travel packages make it easy for visitors to see that the beach shines brightly –even beyond the summer months.
OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?
DC: We’re seeing tremendous energy around the revitalisation of downtown Myrtle Beach, which is reimagining the heart of the city with new dining, attractions, and public spaces. We’re also expanding our culinary tourism initiatives, including collaborations with the James Beard Foundation, to spotlight our local chefs and the authentic flavours of the Carolina coast.
Looking ahead, as the US celebrates its 250th anniversary, we’ll be honouring the region’s rich history, from our Gullah Geechee heritage to the generations of families who’ve made Myrtle Beach their seaside tradition.
At Visit Myrtle Beach, our mission is clear: to build the future of coastal tourism whilst preserving what makes this place timeless.
OT: Can you tell us more about your initiative, “The Beach is for everyBODY”, and what this entails?
DC: ‘The Beach is for everyBODY’ is a community-wide inclusion initiative that celebrates travel for all. Led by
Visit Myrtle Beach in partnership with Champion Autism Network, Autism Travel Club, and TravelAbility, the programme encourages local businesses to take a pledge of patience, understanding, and accessibility.
Many partners also complete autism awareness training and offer sensory-friendly experiences for families. Originally inspired by Surfside Beach’s recognition as an autism-friendly destination in 2016, this effort continues to expand throughout the destination, ensuring that Myrtle Beach remains a welcoming place where every traveller feels at home.
OT: Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Myrtle Beach?
DC: Myrtle Beach is a rare blend of natural beauty, coastal culture, and genuine Southern hospitality. With 60 miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf, vibrant dining, and endless entertainment, it’s a place where travellers can reconnect with nature, with loved ones, and with themselves.
“Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply seeking serenity, Myrtle Beach offers an experience that feels both timeless and new every time you visit”
– Diane Charno, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Conway, the L.W. Paul Living History Farm brings early 20th-century Carolina farm life to vivid reality. Music lovers will discover the soul of our region through beach music and the Carolina Shag, South Carolina’s official state dance, still celebrated in local clubs and festivals. For nature enthusiasts, Huntington Beach State Park and our protected preserves offer encounters with wildlife and even the rare Venus flytrap, which grows naturally only in this part of the world.
to ensure this coastline remains as pristine and inspiring for the next generation as it is today.
OT: What challenges does the tourist industry in Myrtle Beach face?
DC: Like many destinations, we face challenges tied to workforce availability, evolving traveller behaviour, and economic fluctuations. Seasonality is another key factor, influencing both operations and marketing.
But our strength lies in collaboration amongst city leaders, hospitality partners, and our team at Visit Myrtle Beach. Together, we continue to evolve, diversify, and innovate to ensure the beach remains strong, resilient, and competitive on a global stage.
OT: Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Myrtle Beach?
DC: Yes, very much so. Our growth in visitation, development, and community engagement tells a powerful story. As we expand initiatives in accessibility, culture, and culinary tourism, we’re attracting new audiences whilst honouring our traditions.
Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply seeking serenity, Myrtle Beach offers an experience that feels both timeless and new every time you visit.
OT: What cultural experiences and natural wonders should visitors not miss?
DC: Our region is rich in art, history, and nature. Brookgreen Gardens combines sculpture, Lowcountry heritage, and landscape design in one breathtaking setting. In nearby
OT: Have any sustainable tourism initiatives been implemented to protect the landscape and waters of Myrtle Beach?
DC: Sustainability is a cornerstone of our long-term vision. Programmes like Keep Myrtle Beach Beautiful empower residents and visitors to care for our coastline. City and county partners invest heavily in dune restoration, beach renourishment, and clean water initiatives to preserve our natural resources. For us, sustainability isn’t a campaign – it’s a commitment. We’re determined
Events like The Carolina Opry Theater’s 40th anniversary celebrate our entertainment legacy, whilst continued investments in the region’s future promise that Myrtle Beach will keep inspiring travellers for generations to come.
Our story is still being written, and every visitor adds a new chapter.
Tel: (800) 356-3016
info@visitmyrtlebeach.com www.visitmyrtlebeach.com
SPARK YOUR IMAGINATION IN MYRTLE BEACH
Nestled in a dynamic coastal destination, Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is a modern oceanfront hotel where visitors can retreat to an oasis of relaxation at our luxurious Hibiscus Spa, where tranquillity takes on a whole new meaning
MARRIOTT MYRTLE BEACH RESORT & SPA AT GRANDE DUNES
Enjoy oceanfront bliss at our Myrtle Beach resort!
Escape to Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes and discover oceanfront bliss. When you’re ready to venture out, find championship golf courses at Grande Dunes and family entertainment at Barefoot Landing and Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy all-day dining and a variety of delicious international cuisine while taking in stunning ocean views at our on-site restaurants and bars.
Bask in the sun, play in the surf, or take a dip in our indoor and outdoor pools. At Hibiscus Spa, discover a comprehensive menu of
wellness services and stay on track with your gym routine in our complimentary health club.
Our luxury Grande Dunes resort and spa also boasts 45,000 square feet of venue space, perfect for all types of events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. Ideal for family vacations, our resort showcases oceanfront hotel rooms and suites with luxury amenities and private balconies overlooking Myrtle Beach and the ocean. Here, you can plan a uniquely memorable getaway at an unbeatable waterfront location. Our resort is home to 405 spacious, elegantly appointed guest rooms and an impressive range of added amenities to help you make the most of your vacation.
Designed for relaxation, each of our resort rooms offers plush bedding, high-speed WiFi, and a flat-screen TV, while many boast a mesmerising view of the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Equally, Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes offers a 24/7 fitness centre, complimentary self-parking, indoor and outdoor pools, an expansive oceanfront patio, championship golf and tennis, four exquisite on-site dining outlets, and so much more.
For those seeking a more sophisticated venue for an event in the Northern Myrtle Beach area, take advantage of our resort’s adaptable venue space – which comprises 11 unique venues in total – and expert planning services.
Just moments away from the silky white sands of Myrtle Beach, there are limitless opportunities to enjoy all the unique qualities
of the city. Kick off your shoes and explore the 60 miles of beach known as ‘the grand strand’, visit National Geographic’s number three boardwalk in the nation, indulge in one of the 1,500 local bars and restaurants, or simply bask in the 218 annual days of sunshine.
There’s a reason why over 14 million people venture to Myrtle Beach every year, and our beach resort and spa provides the ultimate space to relax, kick back, and embrace all that this luxurious and magical location has to offer.
We look forward to welcoming you and your family to our Myrtle Beach resort.
HIBISCUS SPA
Our serene oceanfront spa, named after the boldly exotic flower that blooms throughout the state of South Carolina, is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate –the ultimate pampering experience to bring your vacation to the next level. From soothing massages and body treatments to invigorating facials and nail services, our day spa will boost your overall well-being while you enjoy your stay at our newly renovated Myrtle Beach resort. There are treatment options for the entire family, so you can ensure each member of your party enjoys their individualised experience.
Transform from stressed to refreshed from the moment you set foot into the Hibiscus Spa, delving into the myriad treatment options at your disposal. By blending ancient healing techniques with modern advances and state-of-the-art products, our day spa offers everything you need to create a oncein-a-lifetime stay that embodies all things luxury.
Bring a memory of your vacation home with you by visiting our spa gift shop, where spa enthusiasts and novices alike can treat themselves to some of the products used during our treatments – or grab a gift for someone special and allow them to have a taste of what’s waiting for them at the Hibiscus Spa.
Find our shop on the lower level next to the spa entrance, where you’ll be met with a collection of personalised skin care products which are infused with organic essential oils and plant extracts to sustain a blissful sense of well-being.
Staff at Hibiscus Spa are here to recommend the perfect products for your every unique need. Visit today to begin a journey of transformation at our tranquil day spa in Myrtle Beach. Embrace the opportunity to melt your stress away and soothe mind, body, and spirit by booking a facial,
massage, sport package, teen package, nail service, and more – all designed to refresh you during your stay and allow you to make the most of your time in the lush and unparalleled area.
Nestled within the stunning Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes, 8400 Costa Verde Drive
OFFERINGS
MASSAGES
• Hibiscus signature massage
• Deep tissue massage
• Mother-to-be massage
• Hot stone massage
• Couples massage
• Travel back massage
FACIALS
• Hibiscus signature facial
• Anti-aging facial
• Back facial
• Smoothing facial
BODY TREATMENTS
• Body scrub
• Body wrap
NAILS
• Express pedicure and manicure
• Hibiscus signature manicure
• Hibiscus signature pedicure
TWEEN SPA
• Tween massage
• Side-by-side massage
• Tween facial
• Makeup lesson
• Tween manicure and pedicure
PACKAGES
• Grand elite package
• Serenity package
• Heaven and earth
• Couples packages
• Tween package
Hibiscus Spa is a true oasis of relaxation with an array of rejuvenating services that transform each day into a mini vacation. This serene atmosphere makes it easy for you to unwind in luxury and experience an unparalleled slice of heaven that you’ll continue dreaming about for years to come.
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
843-449-8880
www.myrtlebeachmarriott.com
RECOMMENDS
Eat: FOR HISTORIC OCEANFRONT DINING...
Sea Captain’s House boasts over 60 years of extraordinary oceanfront dining. Famous for its superb dining, prime location on the beach, and warm hospitality, the restaurant has proudly built a reputation as the place for seafood and where friends and family meet year after year. With everything from award-winning she-crab soup to classic jambalaya, it’s no wonder Sea Captain’s House is a Myrtle Beach staple.
FOR AN AWARD-WINNING, SUSTAINABLE MEAL...
Built with passion for good food at the forefront, Hook and Barrel offers a fresh take on dining, providing visitors with distinctive, sustainable seafood dishes and local produce. With an ethical, eco-friendly environment dedicated to being friendly to the Earth, from the kitchen to the front of house, it will only take one nibble and you’ll be hooked.
Do:
FOR ENDLESS FUN IN THE SUN...
At Shark Wake Park , life’s just more fun on the water. This unforgettable outdoor water park boasts adventure for the entire family, from cable wakeboarding and kneeboarding to a floating obstacle course complete with slides, climbing towers, and more. Shark Wake Park is committed to building and operating some of the best familyfriendly outdoor entertainment across the entire continent.
FOR A SHOWSTOPPING EXPERIENCE...
If you only have time to see one show whilst on your holiday, make sure it’s at The Carolina Opry Theater
A Grand Strand landmark and nationally recognised attraction, the theatre’s grand columns and sparkling
cupola are unmissable, enchanting visitors to come and experience the excitement and showmanship for themselves.
Once inside, the grand lobby boasts 40 ft ceilings, a grand piano, and twin staircases that curve upward from either side of the lobby before leading to the luxurious auditorium. With newly installed upholstered seating, the performance space can comfortably accommodate up to 2,000 individuals with perfect sight lines from each seat.
The venue is perfect for hosting corporate annual meetings, awards ceremonies, graduations, local talent showcases, company anniversary celebrations, national touring acts, and so much more, as the stage is equipped with state-of-the-art production equipment.
Founded in 1986 with a vision that first-rate entertainment could thrive along the Grand Strand, The Carolina Opry Theater was the first show to open in Myrtle Beach and provided a breath of fresh air to the city. This sensational show went on to open its permanent theatre in 1992, further thrusting Myrtle Beach into the limelight.
In 1987, it was named the state’s Most Outstanding Attraction by the governor of South Carolina, and in 1992, USA Today credited it with starting the Myrtle Beach boom, attracting investment groups to follow suit and making the area as popular as it remains today.
The Carolina Opry Theater is a true cornerstone of Myrtle Beach’s entertainment legacy, celebrating nearly 40 years of unforgettable performances that continue to capture the heart and spirit of the city.
Sleep: FOR A DESTINATION THAT EMBODIES RELAXATION...
Located on Pawleys Island, The Pelican Inn is an eight-room beachfront B&B that defines what it means to embrace relaxation. With Southern hospitality, Lowcountry cuisine, a history dating back to 1840, a private dock over the salt marsh, and family fun around every corner, the inn is ideal for those looking to embrace all the amenities Myrtle Beach has to offer without the hassle of the crowds.
FOR A LUXURIOUS AND MEMORABLE GETAWAY...
For a uniquely lush and exceptional stay, the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes is the location to book for all of your holiday desires.
The resort is located in the heart of Northern Myrtle Beach and boasts incomparable oceanfront views from its 405 spacious and elegantly appointed guest rooms alongside an impressive range of luxury resort amenities to ensure visitors are able to make the most of their stay.
Designed for the ultimate relaxation and oceanfront bliss, the resort also offers spa treatments at the Hibiscus Spa, where tranquillity-seekers can indulge in massages, facials, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and more. Recharge and rejuvenate with these services and find yourself transformed from stressed to relaxed through ancient healing techniques merged with modern advances and premier products.
The resort also has both indoor and outdoor pools, four on-site dining outlets, 11 unique venues, over 35,000 square ft of event space, a 24/7 fitness centre, complimentary self-parking, and immediate access to the Grand Strand’s 60 miles of beach.
The Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes makes for the ideal location for all types of events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations to business endeavours. The ample facilities, space, and oceanfront patio allow individuals and companies to utilise this luxurious retreat for their next big venture.
The resort truly sparks imagination and encourages Myrtle Beach visitors to explore the dynamic coastal destination to the fullest. Your beachfront holiday begins here with carefully curated experiences everyone can enjoy without leaving the steps of the opulent property.
Pawleys Island
CAROLINA SHAG In Focus
For nearly a century, there has been a dance so influential and intoxicatingly joyful that it has captured the spirit of the coast, with pivots, belly rolls, and boogie walks defining its unique whirling cadence.
THIS DANCE, WHICH has become more of a social phenomenon, is the Carolina Shag.
Having been described as ‘a cold beer on a warm night with a hot date and no plans for tomorrow’, ‘doing the jitterbug on Valium’, and the ‘swing dance of the South,’ the dance truly lives in a class of its own.
The Carolina Shag was declared the official state dance of South Carolina in 1984; however, its origins date back all the way to the 1930s to the traditional Shag, which was then slowed to the rhythm of the Carolinas.
The dance owes its flair to the influence of Black dancers and musicians and has evolved from a combination of dances into one big melting pot that is still celebrated and practiced today.
This quick, fun, and sociable dance’s popularity is due, in part, to the fact that anyone can learn the moves,
no matter age or previous dance experience. It breaks down barriers and brings people together with a singular purpose – to have fun and enjoy the moment. The basic dance step is a smooth six-count, eight-step pattern danced in a slot.
The best Shagging spots in Myrtle Beach today are the Spanish Galleon Night Club and Fat Harold’s Beach Club, where you may be lucky to see a few Shag legends tearing it up on the dance floor on any given evening. There’s even an annual national competition in Myrtle Beach, exemplifying how popular and culturally significant the dance remains.
The sheer power of the dance and the timeless appeal make it a must-do activity for anyone visiting the area. If you’re looking to take part in a true South Carolina tradition, do the Carolina Shag.
THE CAROLINA OPRY: A Conversation with Founder Calvin Gilmore
As The Carolina Opry celebrates its 40th anniversary, founder Calvin Gilmore reflects on four decades of family, hard work, and the enduring magic of live music
Please introduce us to the Carolina Opry, including your status as a legendary theater and the variety of performances offered.
Calvin Gilmore: This year marks our 40th anniversary, which is really something special to me. When I opened The Carolina Opry back in 1986, I never imagined it would grow into what it is today—or that it would become the foundation for live theatre in Myrtle Beach. At that time, there was nothing like it here. We helped create a new kind of entertainment destination along the coast, and to see it still thriving after four decades is one of my proudest accomplishments.
The Carolina Opry Theater has become a true landmark on the Grand Strand, and I’m proud that it’s still family-owned and operated. My children have joined me in continuing the legacy, and together we’ve kept the same values that started it all— authenticity, excellence, and heart.
Today, our line-up includes The Carolina Opry, our flagship variety show that blends music, comedy, and dance; Time Warp, which celebrates the best hits of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s; and The Carolina Opry Christmas Special, which has become known as “The Christmas Show of the South.” Every show features live music, an incredible cast, and the kind of production quality you’d expect from a major entertainment capital—but with that warmth and sincerity that can only come from Myrtle Beach.
In your opinion, what makes the Carolina Opry stand out as a mustvisit location in South Carolina?
Calvin Gilmore: What sets The Carolina Opry apart is that everything you see and hear is completely live—no tracks, no tricks. There’s something powerful about that connection between the artists and the audience. You can feel the energy in the room, and that’s something technology will never replace.
I also think what makes us different is the people on our stage. I search all over the country for the very best talent, and I mean that sincerely. Every single person in our cast is talented enough to headline anywhere—they’re that good. You won’t find a more talented group of singers, dancers, and musicians anywhere. We don’t rely on big props or flashy sets to make an impression. We make you can feel in your soul people remember.
Then there’s the experience itself. We run this theater the same way we did in the beginning—with a lot of pride and personal care. We treat every guest like family. I still hear from people who came to our very first shows and now bring their kids and grandkids. That kind of loyalty is incredibly meaningful.
For travellers—especially those visiting from outside the US—it’s a chance to experience a genuine slice of Southern culture: great music, great people, and a warm welcome that makes you feel right at home.
Calvin Gilmore in 1986
The carolina opry theater - present day
Calvin Gilmore
Rolling Stone has called you a visionary; can you tell us a bit more about the history of The Carolina Opry and its importance in the city’s culture today?
Calvin Gilmore: When I started The Carolina Opry, Myrtle Beach was a very different place. The tourism scene basically shut down after Labor Day, and I believed there was potential for something more—a place where visitors and locals could enjoy high-quality entertainment all year long.
We opened with a small cast and a lot of faith, and that first season sold out almost immediately. Before long, we were performing to full houses night after night. It was the first live music theatre in Myrtle Beach, and it really changed the direction of the Grand Strand. Before long, other theatres started opening, and a whole entertainment industry was born here.
Over the years, our shows have been featured on NBC, CBS, and The Family Channel. But what I’m most proud of is that after all this time, The Carolina Opry is still a family-run business built entirely on hard work—not outside investors. It’s just our family, our team, and a lot of dedication behind the scenes. My kids are involved now, and they’ve brought fresh ideas whilst helping preserve the heart of what we do. That’s what keeps it authentic—and that’s what keeps it ours.
As we approach our 40th anniversary, I can honestly say that The Carolina Opry has become part of the cultural fabric of Myrtle Beach. Generations of families have made it part of their tradition, and that’s the best legacy I could ever hope for.
Please tell us more about the building itself and how the venue offers a truly unique experience.
Calvin Gilmore: From the start, I wanted to build a theatre that would make people say “wow” the moment they walked in. The 2,200-seat auditorium is designed for comfort and sound quality, with perfect sightlines and the best acoustics you’ll find anywhere. Our lighting and audio systems are state-of-the-art, and we’re constantly updating them to stay ahead.
The lobby and common spaces reflect our Southern hospitality—spacious, comfortable, and friendly. People often tell me they feel at home here, which is exactly what I want.
At Christmas, the whole building transforms into something magical. We decorate with miles of lights, a 30-foot Christmas tree, and towering toy soldiers, inside and out. It’s a sight to behold, and the atmosphere inside during our Christmas Special is unlike anything else in the South.
I think the theatre itself has become part of the experience—more than a venue, it’s a place people look forward to visiting year after year.
Can you tell us more about any upcoming shows and what sort of production visitors can anticipate?
Calvin Gilmore: This year’s line-up really captures who we are as a theatre.
• The Carolina Opry is where it all began. It’s still a crowd favourite because it offers something for everyone—country, pop, Broadway, gospel, comedy, and dance, all backed by some of the most talented musicians in the country. After 40 years, it’s still our signature show.
• Time Warp is pure fun—a journey through the greatest hits of the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s with all the energy and flair of those decades. People love it because it takes them back to the best moments of their lives.
• And of course, The Carolina Opry Christmas Special is the highlight of the year. It’s a huge production with more than 35 performers, the Calvin Gilmore Band, and breathtaking holiday décor. It has truly become known as “The Christmas Show of the South”.
• We also host special concerts and touring artists throughout the year, so there’s always something new happening.
As we enter our 40th season, we’re celebrating the past but also looking ahead. We’ve added new numbers, new talent, and some surprises that honour how far we’ve come. It’s still live, it’s still family-run, and it’s still full of heart—just the way it started.
Plan Your Visit
The Carolina Opry Theater is located at 8901 N. Kings Highway, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
The Carolina Opry and Time Warp perform year-round on rotating nights, offering visitors unforgettable live entertainment in every season. Special concerts featuring national touring artists take place on select nights throughout the year, and the beloved Carolina Opry Christmas Special fills the theatre with holiday magic every November and December
Showtimes vary by season, with most evening performances beginning at 7:00 pm. and select matinees at 1:00 pm.
For tickets and show schedules, visit TheCarolinaOpry.com or call 843-9134000
original live production
Landmark Attractions
Brookgreen Gardens
A National Historic Landmark that seamlessly blends art, sculpture, and Lowcountry history amid stunning gardens and wildlife habitats in Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens has been a cultural centre for Myrtle Beach since its founding in 1931.
The destination is one of the US’s premier gardens, having become the first public sculpture garden in the country. This unique melding of art, nature, and history is not to be missed and will provide a truly one-of-a-kind perspective to any visitor’s journey.
L.W. Paul Living History Farm
Built to depict domestic life in Horry County from 1900-1955, the L.W. Paul Living History Farm was opened with the vision of educating future generations about life during the first half of the 20th century.
This unique facility allows individuals to sample the everyday life of a typical farming family during this era, with guests able to watch and partake in activities that would have been commonplace on traditional farms, making for a truly unique, educational, and hands-on experience for all ages.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
The heart of the city and a prime source of excitement, entertainment, and family fun, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade is a vibrant oceanfront stretch of 1.2 miles that defines the iconic downtown area. With endless dining, shops, and attractions such as the beloved, 187 ft SkyWheel, the boardwalk is a visitor favourite and an unmissable stop on your Myrtle Beach holiday. Stroll along the promenade and enjoy the incredible oceanfront views, pristine beach line, and high-intensity amusement offered at every turn.
Getting There and Around
FLYING IS A very common way for visitors, both nationally and internationally, to arrive at Myrtle Beach. For those landing from another destination within the US, Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) – ranked fourth in the ‘Best Small Airport’ category by USA Today 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards – is just three miles south of the city.
MYR is serviced by major airlines including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines, amongst others. For international visitors, many find it easier to fly into a major city, such as Atlanta, before catching a connecting flight to Myrtle Beach.
Once arrived, the best way to get around the area is via car if you are planning on venturing beyond your beachfront hotel. Rental agencies are situated near the baggage claim of MYR, or there is a plethora of taxis, rideshares, and hotel shuttle services within the terminal.
Alternatively, the local bus service covers all of the city’s major areas with 80 buses on 22 routes, and fares are very affordable. However, the buses have a tendency to stop running relatively early in the evenings, meaning you’ll have to plan in advance for any late-night endeavours.
There is no wrong time to visit Myrtle Beach, as every season has its own special offers to entice visitors with a memorable time.
From June to August, the weather is just right for swimming, sunbathing, and cannonballing into any water-based fun. March through May tends to be the most popular time for spring breakers, meaning it will be crowded but full of adventure and laughter at every moment. Fall ushers in milder temperatures with ample sunshine, making it an ideal time of year for golf lovers. In the wintertime, there are unmissable events such as the Nights of a Thousand Candles, Broadway at the Beach’s Christmas parade, and Winter Wonderland at The Beach.
No matter when you decide to visit Myrtle Beach, there will be joy, countless memories, and once-in-alifetime experiences that will make it a holiday you will reminisce on for years to come.
