Family Vacations: Myrtle Beach

South Carolina's Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach, has been a favorite sun-and-sand destination for more than a century. The beach is named for the numerous wax myrtle trees growing along the shore. The Seaside Inn, which opened in 1901, became the first of many increasingly sophisticated resorts that have made this one of the top tourist areas on the East Coast.

Myrtle Beach shares its name with the adjacent city. The beach itself bustles with all sorts of activity. Parasailers fly above the ocean, surfers hang ten on the tide, and divers explore the depths below. Pushcarts stocked with frozen lemonade and shops overflowing with T-shirts and bright beachwear are always close at hand, as are plenty of children.

Myrtle Beach is known for its great family atmosphere, thanks to a lively boardwalk and numerous waterfront tourist attractions, including an amusement park.

Myrtle Beach Information

Address: Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce at 1200 North Oak St., Myrtle Beach, SC

Telephone: 843/626-7444 800/356-3016

To learn more about family vacation destinations, see:

Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.

Charleston City Guide: Find out where to stay, what to do, and where to eat when you visit Charleston.

South Carolina State Guide: Learn about Mobil Travel Guide-rated hotels and restaurants in South Carolina, as well as other recreational activities.

Scenic Drives: For those who think that getting there is half the fun, we have compiled more than 100 of the most scenic drives throughout the country.