Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, continues to captivate visitors and residents alike with its vibrant coastal charm and rapid growth. Known for its 60-mile Grand Strand, this bustling destination is experiencing a wave of fresh developments in 2025, from innovative attractions to modern residential projects. Recent updates from local news outlets, social media platforms like Instagram, and YouTube videos highlight the city’s commitment to enhancing its appeal as a top vacation and living spot. Let’s dive into the latest happenings shaping Myrtle Beach’s dynamic landscape.
New Attractions Elevate Myrtle Beach’s Appeal
Myrtle Beach thrives on its ability to offer something new each year, and 2025 is no exception. The Carolina Country Music Festival, a major draw, returned in June 2025 with headliners like Carrie Underwood and Morgan Wallen, attracting thousands to the city’s shores. Instagram posts from festival-goers showcased vibrant crowds and stunning beachfront stages, cementing its status as a must-visit event. Meanwhile, the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre, which opened in April 2024, continues to gain traction in 2025 with its diverse lineup of world-class performances. YouTube reviews praise the venue’s intimate setting and top-notch acoustics, making it a cultural gem for locals and tourists.
Another standout is PopStroke, a Tiger Woods-designed mini-golf experience at Broadway at the Beach. Since its March 2024 opening, it has become a family favorite, with social media buzzing about its creative courses and lively restaurant. These attractions highlight Myrtle Beach’s focus on blending entertainment with its coastal allure, ensuring visitors have fresh reasons to return.
Key Developments in Infrastructure and Hospitality
Myrtle Beach’s growth extends beyond entertainment, with significant infrastructure and hospitality projects underway. The Surfside Beach Pier, rebuilt to withstand hurricane-force winds after damage from Hurricane Matthew in 2016, remains a focal point in 2025. Recent Instagram updates show the pier bustling with visitors, though vendor spaces are still in progress. This iconic structure symbolizes the city’s resilience and commitment to its coastal heritage.
In hospitality, the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront completed a $30 million renovation in summer 2024, transforming its north tower into a luxurious Tapestry Resort by Hilton. YouTube tours reveal sleek rooms and waterfront amenities, positioning it as a premier stay option. Additionally, the Holiday Inn Club Vacations Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort, opened in April 2024, offers 152 villas with ocean views, catering to families seeking upscale accommodations. These projects reflect Myrtle Beach’s ongoing efforts to elevate its tourism offerings.
Key Point Summary:
- Carolina Country Music Festival drew massive crowds in June 2025.
- Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre and PopStroke add cultural and family-friendly attractions.
- Surfside Beach Pier thrives post-reconstruction, with vendor spaces developing.
- Major hotel renovations, like DoubleTree and Holiday Inn, enhance hospitality options.
Residential and Mixed-Use Growth in Myrtle Beach
The residential sector in Myrtle Beach is booming, driven by the city’s appeal as a place to live and vacation. In January 2025, the Myrtle Beach Community Appearance Board approved two major projects: the 360-unit Waypoint Apartments near Highway 17 and an Extended Stay America hotel off Highway 501. Local YouTube channels covering real estate note these developments will address housing demands and support tourism growth. The Waypoint Apartments, in particular, aim to offer modern living close to Myrtlewood Golf Club, appealing to young professionals and families.
A massive mixed-use development along U.S. 501 near Carolina Forest, slated for completion in 2027, promises to transform the area. Plans include 30 buildings, seven parking garages, and retail spaces, generating an estimated 26,572 daily trips. Social media discussions on platforms like Instagram highlight excitement about new shopping and dining options, though some express concerns about traffic. These projects underscore Myrtle Beach’s rapid expansion, with Horry County issuing 17,522 building permits in the 2023-24 fiscal year, valued at $1.54 billion.
Challenges Amid Growth
While Myrtle Beach flourishes, it faces challenges. A March 2025 wildfire that scorched 1,200 acres raised concerns, with Instagram posts showing smoky skies and firefighters in action. The blaze, fueled by high winds, threatened thousands of structures, but crews contained it without major damage. Additionally, a tragic mass shooting in April 2025 at a tourist hotspot left one dead and 11 wounded, prompting local leaders to address safety concerns. These incidents highlight the need for balanced growth with robust safety measures.
A Bright Future for Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach’s latest developments paint a picture of a city on the rise, blending its beach-town charm with modern innovation. From music festivals and new attractions to residential and hospitality projects, the Grand Strand continues to evolve. Despite challenges, the city’s resilience shines through, making it a top destination for 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re planning a visit or considering a move, Myrtle Beach offers endless opportunities to explore.
Plan your trip to Myrtle Beach today or explore its growing neighborhoods to find your perfect coastal home!