Saturday, June 14, 2025
U.S. vacationers are embracing Myrtle Beach in 2025 for its perfect blend of peaceful state park escapes and lively boardwalk attractions along South Carolina’s Atlantic coast. From nature trails to oceanfront entertainment, the destination offers a complete summer experience.
American travelers are heading into the 2025 summer season with a strong desire for destinations that offer sun-drenched beaches, vibrant attractions, and a mix of relaxation and adventure. According to Tripadvisor’s Summer Travel Index, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, has secured its place among the top travel choices this year, alongside major hotspots like Las Vegas and New York City.
Drawing on search data and survey responses for trips scheduled between June 1 and August 31, the index reveals that Myrtle Beach is standing out not just for its affordability, but also for the wide range of experiences it offers. Whether it’s families looking for beachside fun, couples in search of quiet escapes, or friend groups planning long weekends, Myrtle Beach is delivering a complete summer vacation package.
Why Myrtle Beach is Capturing Attention in 2025
Located along the 60-mile Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach is far more than just a beach town—it’s a multi-faceted coastal destination that caters to every kind of traveler. With golden beaches, top-tier golf courses, a thriving boardwalk, and a growing culinary scene, the city strikes a rare balance between vibrant activity and laid-back coastal living.
The combination of natural beauty and family-friendly entertainment continues to draw visitors year after year. Its consistent ranking among America’s favorite summer spots demonstrates how well Myrtle Beach adapts to evolving travel trends, offering both nostalgia and novelty.
Where to Stay Along the Strand
With more than 400 hotels in the greater Myrtle Beach area, accommodations range from budget-friendly options to full-service oceanfront resorts. For travelers prioritizing peace and direct access to the beach, standout properties such as Island Vista and the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes provide exceptional comfort in quieter, scenic locations.
These resorts offer amenities like ocean-facing pools, beachside dining, and spacious suites, making them ideal for those seeking both relaxation and convenience. Being situated away from the busier boardwalk area ensures guests can enjoy a more tranquil experience while still being close to the city’s top attractions.
A Walk Down Myrtle Beach’s Iconic Boardwalk
One of the biggest draws to the city is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade. Stretching 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, the boardwalk serves as the heartbeat of summertime activity, buzzing with energy from day to night.
Here, visitors can stroll past souvenir shops, enjoy sweet treats, and take in panoramic views from the SkyWheel—a massive observation wheel that offers air-conditioned gondolas. The boardwalk is also home to a collection of local eateries, beach bars, arcades, and open-air entertainment that captures the classic spirit of a summer beach town.
This stretch of shoreline delivers not just attractions but also unforgettable memories, especially for first-time visitors experiencing the coast in its most festive season.
A Quieter Side of Myrtle Beach Awaits
While the boardwalk brims with energy, the area also boasts more serene and nature-filled experiences. Myrtle Beach State Park offers a refreshing alternative to the city’s busier beaches. With nature trails, picnic shelters, and a peaceful pier, the park allows guests to slow down and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
For a more adventurous outing, Murrells Inlet provides access to a unique ecosystem of saltwater marshes and calm waterways. Visitors can rent kayaks or join guided eco-tours to explore this quieter corner of the South Carolina coast, where native wildlife and gentle waters offer a different perspective on coastal beauty.
This blend of excitement and tranquility makes Myrtle Beach ideal for travelers who want options—whether it’s paddleboarding at sunrise or watching fireworks on the beach at night.
Coastal Cuisine and Local Flavors
Food plays a central role in the Myrtle Beach experience, especially when it comes to seafood. Dozens of oceanfront restaurants and dockside grills serve up fresh catches daily, including shrimp, crab, oysters, and locally inspired dishes.
Popular venues specialize in coastal classics like peel-and-eat shrimp and fish tacos, while other spots lean toward upscale dining with panoramic views. Diners can enjoy waterfront tables, live music, and vibrant atmospheres that perfectly complement the vacation vibe.
Many local restaurants also feature handcrafted cocktails and craft beers from area breweries. Whether enjoying a cold drink at a rooftop bar or savoring grilled seafood at a historic oceanfront cottage, every meal becomes a moment to remember.
A Timeless Destination with Modern Appeal
Myrtle Beach’s continued rise on the summer travel charts is no coincidence. The city has evolved to offer something for everyone—without losing the welcoming charm that made it popular in the first place.
The 2025 Tripadvisor Summer Travel Index confirms that today’s American traveler wants more than just a beach—they want variety, value, and a destination that can entertain, refresh, and inspire. Myrtle Beach delivers exactly that. Its mix of classic Americana and evolving experiences keeps it fresh, exciting, and perfectly suited for the modern vacationer.
From sunlit mornings by the ocean to evenings filled with seafood, music, and laughter, Myrtle Beach invites travelers to make the most of every moment. And in 2025, it stands ready to welcome visitors with its signature Southern warmth and plenty of summer magic.
