Myrtle Beach was initially known as New Town until 1900 when it was renamed Myrtle Beach, inspired by the abundance of wax myrtle trees in the area.

Geographically, Myrtle Beach sits on the Grand Strand, a continuous 60-mile stretch of beach along the northeastern coast of South Carolina, forming part of the larger Atlantic Coastal Plain.

The city's permanent population has steadily increased, with a significant growth spurt observed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, attracting both retirees and young families.

Tourism is the dominant industry in Myrtle Beach, generating billions of dollars annually through attractions, accommodations, and related services, sustaining a large portion of the local economy.

Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, now closed, played a significant role during the Cold War, providing tactical fighter support and contributing to the region's economic development.

The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Carolina Country Music Fest and Bike Week, drawing large crowds and boosting tourism.

The SkyWheel, a towering Ferris wheel overlooking the ocean, is a prominent landmark and offers panoramic views of the coastline and the city.

Broadway at the Beach, a large entertainment and shopping complex, features theaters, restaurants, attractions, and retail stores, serving as a central hub for tourists and locals.

Myrtle Beach's cuisine reflects its coastal location, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, particularly shrimp, oysters, and locally caught fish.

The Myrtle Beach Pavilion, a historic amusement park that operated for over a century, closed in 2006, symbolizing a shift in the city's entertainment landscape.

The area has strong Gullah Geechee cultural influences, evident in its cuisine, music, and storytelling traditions, reflecting the heritage of enslaved Africans who lived in the region.

Golf tourism is a major component of the Myrtle Beach economy, with over 100 golf courses in the Grand Strand area attracting golfers from around the world.

The historical development of Myrtle Beach was significantly influenced by the Burroughs & Collins Company, a lumber and timber business that played a key role in shaping the early infrastructure and development of the area.

Conservation efforts are focused on preserving the delicate ecosystem of the coastal dunes and salt marshes that surround Myrtle Beach.

While not a UNESCO site, the broader Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor encompasses areas near Myrtle Beach, acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of the region to African American history.