Myrtle Beach sand is white, thanks to its makeup of quartz and calcite from shells. This light coloring gives the area the token white-sand beaches it's known for. Is the sand at Myrtle Beach soft? Yes, the sand at Myrtle Beach is known for its soft, silky texture.

Our 35,000-plus permanent residents and millions of visitors enjoy the wide beaches, the warm weather and an incredible range of entertainment, nightlife, golf, shopping, dining and live theatre.

Create unforgettable memories while enjoying 60-miles of wide, soft sandy beach. Be sure to bring your beach towels, a sheet and/or beach chairs before you get here so you don't have to rent them. Wake up early in the morning, run along the ocean shore and take in the fresh air.

In 1900, a contest was held to give the area an official name, and Addie Burroughs, widow of Franklin G. Burroughs, suggested Myrtle Beach because of the wax myrtle bushes growing abundantly here. That's when Myrtle Beach became Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is home to 60 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. There are many reasons why people call Myrtle Beach – “The Beach" – but one reason is our abundance of beaches, of course, all with soft sand, warm waves and plenty of sunshine.

Most beach sand is made up of quartz, “silicon dioxide, natural glass,” explained Leatherman. Rocks in rivers and streams erode slowly over time as they are carried to the ocean, where rolling waves and tides bombard them into even smaller particles. The finer the sand, the older it is.

Known lovingly as The Grand Strand, we are one destination made up of 14 unique beach communities, connected by a shared passion. We're the place where you can let loose, be you and go with your own flow. We're the sun on your face, the thrill of a roller coaster or the perfect bite of seafood.

The main reason families flock to Myrtle Beach is to swim in the mild waves and play along the 60 miles of coastline. Some spots along the Carolina shore offer opportunities for water sports like Jet Skiing or deep-sea fishing, while other areas are better for relaxing or playing with your children.

With over 60 miles of pristine coastline, Myrtle Beach is famous for its beautiful beaches. There is plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sand, sun, and surf. Take a swim in the warm Atlantic waters or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.

Over 35,000 people live in Myrtle Beach year-round and millions visit the city as a tourist destination.

It's easy to understand why more than 17 million people per year visit Myrtle Beach. From the first moment you arrive here, you'll feel that this is where you belong. Because this isn't just any beach. It's The Beach.

Scorecard. The main reason families flock to Myrtle Beach is to swim in the mild waves and play along the 60 miles of coastline. Some spots along the Carolina shore offer opportunities for water sports like Jet Skiing or deep-sea fishing, while other areas are better for relaxing or playing with your children.