Ocean waters beckon in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Recent water quality report reaffirms ocean waters safe across the destination

Spring travel season has just started in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, an area best known for its gorgeous coastline of white, sandy beaches and welcoming ocean waters. While the quality of these waters was questioned recently in a South Carolina-based blog, a report released on March 18 from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control declared the entirety of the shores – from North Myrtle Beach to Garden City – safe for swimming, fishing and enjoying, just as they have been for years.

“More than 17 million visitors choose the Myrtle Beach area for their vacation each year largely because our beach and ocean waters are so beautiful and inviting. We’re excited to show that these waters are ready to once again welcome visitors from across Canada as we look forward to a successful spring and summer travel season,” said Brad Dean, president and CEO of the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.

While the beach and the ocean are the main event, the area is also home to hundreds of attractions to entertain the entire family, including many that showcase the area’s natural beauty. A boardwalk and promenade extending more than a mile of the coastline is full of restaurants and entertainment, including a 200-foot-high SkyWheel offering breathtaking views. Local favorite Brookgreen Gardens features acre upon acre of expertly maintained gardens, including a 100-year-old Oak Allee, surrounding hundreds of amazing sculptures on display.Myrtle Beach State Park and Huntington Beach State Park come to life this time of year with birds taking flight and soon the rare Loggerhead sea turtle will begin nesting on the shoreline. Visitors can also fish and crab right off many of the area’s piers before dining alongside the ocean at day’s end.

For more information on the area and to view seasonal deals, visit www.VisitMyrtleBeach.com.

The Myrtle Beach area, popularly known as the Grand Strand, stretches from Little River to Pawleys Island, comprising 12 distinct cities along the South Carolina coast. Home to 60 miles of sandy beaches, an assortment of entertainment and family attractions, Southern hospitality and world-class golf, the Myrtle Beach area presents the quintessential vacation experience.