Are you looking for a beach vacation? Myrtle Beach may be right for you. But, first, you’ll want to know why it’s also known as Dirty Myrtle. We get into that and much more in this article.
Keep reading to learn more about Myrtle Beach and why so many people flock there yearly.
Where Is Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is a coastal city on the Atlantic Ocean by the northeastern tip of South Carolina. It’s less than three hours north of Charleston, South Carolina, and an hour and a half south of Wilmington, North Carolina.
Dirty Myrtle sits on approximately 60 miles of shoreline. It has a population of almost 34,000.
Why Is Myrtle Beach a Popular Tourist Area?
Myrtle Beach is known for its beaches, golf courses, and souvenir shops. You’ll first notice the souvenir shops lining the streets when driving into the seaside city.
You can get T-shirts for $5, bathing suits, towels, shells, kites, and more. From practical to weird, the souvenir shops have something for everyone and have been a staple in Dirty Myrtle for decades.
Golf is another reason for Myrtle Beach’s popularity, as professional golfers and celebrities frequent the city’s many golf courses. The year-round mild weather and beautiful South Carolina landscape make the city a golfer’s paradise.
Finally, the beaches are the biggest attraction for tourists. A vast sandy shoreline draws people from all over the country to sunbathe and get a glimpse at dolphins, fishing, and watersports. Hotels and campgrounds line the beaches of Myrtle Beach, so it’s relatively easy to find lodging on the water.
Pro Tip: Spend the night at one of these 7 Amazing Myrtle Beach Campgrounds while visiting Dirty Myrtle.
Where Did the Name Dirty Myrtle Come From?
No one seems clear on where the name Dirty Myrtle originated. It may have been due to an old popular beer called Dirty Myrtle.
Some think it could be due to the water quality and that the ocean often looks brown on this stretch of the Atlantic Coast versus its blue color in Florida. Or it could have been a nickname from the ’90s when Myrtle Beach was known for its nightclubs and strip joints.
But one clear thing is that residents don’t like the name and wish it would go away. Can you blame them?
Is Myrtle Beach Really Dirty?
The city of Myrtle Beach is clean. However, the ocean water is a different story. While standing on the beach, you’ll see the water looking murky most of the year. It’s simply not as clear as the Atlantic to the north or south.
And swim advisories sometimes go into effect due to bacteria such as fecal coliform, caused by storm runoff from city streets.
Is Visiting Myrtle Beach Worth it?
Visiting Dirty Myrtle is worth it. From beautiful beaches to family-friendly campgrounds, it’s an excellent destination between the spring and fall.
Remember that summers are jam-packed in Myrtle Beach, so if crowds aren’t your thing, you might want to check it out in the shoulder seasons.
Have you ever been to Myrtle Beach? Tell us your favorite things to do in the comments!
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