When We Say “Shag,” We Don’t Mean Carpet.
Lat. 33.81601 | Long. -78.68002
Horry County
Acronym To Know… SOS (Society of Stranders)
The Myrtle Beach Name.. And The Grand Strand Moniker.
The first recorded name for the Myrtle Beach area was coined by its original inhabitants – the region’s Native Americans, who called the area “Chicora,” meaning “the land.” The first European settlers to inhabit the area called it “New Town.” The settlement was eventually dubbed “Myrtle Beach,” a tribute to the wax myrtle trees common to the area… And the beach, of course.
The “Grand Strand” moniker is the handiwork of a local newspaper columnist, who in 1945 penned the name for the 60-mile stretch of coastline running from Georgetown on the southern end to Little River in the north.
Sam Smith - Editor | Dunes Village Resort
North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
THE “BIRTH” OF SHAG
1963 “ish”
The Shag finds its roots in the 20s when the Jitterbug and Charleston were king. Through the years, as music evolved and Myrtle/North Myrtle Beach grew, the shag came into shape. The explosion of Motown music was very influential to the dance and culture. When more and more bands from the Carolinas began playing at the beach, they created a wonderful sub-genre called Beach Music. A new Motown/Beach sound.
The smooth steps and gliding moves of the shag are thought to originate from folks dancing on the beach and not wanting to kick up sand.
When teenagers flocked to NMB in the 60s to visit the great beach clubs and shag the night away, they began a tradition that happens several times a year - the S.O.S. The Society of Stranders isn’t just a society which includes shag clubs all along the east coast, but is also what we call the pilgrimages to North Myrtle Beach by thousands looking to dance, relax, see old friends, reminisce, and create new memories. These yearly events include the Spring Safari, D.J. Throwdown, and Fall Migration. Beach clubs like Ducks, The Spanish Galleon, The O.D. Arcade, and the most famous one - Fat Harold’s. It’s such an economic boom to the area, but the cultural significance can not be overstated. In fact, thousands of people exist today because their folks met at S.O.S. or during Spring or Summer break and got married. READ MORE.
Bands like The Drifters, The Tams, and the Catalinas have created both lasting songs and lasting memories. Many of the great beach bands still perform today and there has been a renaissance of newer groups with original charts recently.
Trailer & soundtrack from the 1989 Zelda Barron film, "Shag," with Phoebe Cates, Scott Coffey, Bridget Fonda, Annabeth Gish, Page Hannah, Robert Rusler, Carrie Hamilton, Jeff Yagher & Leilani Sarelle.
Hazeled Into Existence.
On October 15, 1954, Hurricane Hazel struck. Many homes and businesses vanished, and others were made uninhabitable. Beach communities were paralyzed by the destruction. Daunted by the prospect of rebuilding, many elected to sell their property at bargain prices. Thus, larger parcels became available for hotel sites and other commercial enterprises. By removing older dwellings and expediting land consolidation, Hurricane Hazel actually accelerated development.
The beach boomed in the 1960s. Summer tourism increased, and new golf courses expanded “beach season” into spring and fall. In 1968 Cherry Grove, Ocean Drive Beach, Crescent Beach, and Windy Hill consolidated into North Myrtle Beach. Atlantic Beach declined the invitation to join. In the 1970s, multistory condominiums and hotels began replacing single-family housing on the oceanfront. On the marsh at Cherry Grove, numerous “channels” were dug, draining and filling wetlands for more development. By the early twenty-first century the rapid increase in housing units had strained local resources and infrastructure to the limit. READ MORE.
Featured North Myrtle Beach Lodging…
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![Aerial view of a golf course with a putting green and sand bunkers near a pond, surrounded by trees and a large clubhouse.]()
Barefoot Resort & Golf
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![Beachfront resort with outdoor pool, lounge chairs, and view of sandy beach and ocean.]()
North Beach Resort & Villas
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![Outdoor patio with tables and chairs, surrounded by potted trees and a building with columns.]()
Mar Vista Grande
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![Balcony view overlooking the ocean with patio furniture and a clear blue sky.]()
Royale Palms Condominiums
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![Sandy beach area with lounge chairs, palm trees, and a high-rise hotel building. Features outdoor games, such as Connect Four, and a clear blue sky overhead.]()
Avista Resort
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![Oceanfront balcony with white chairs overlooking the beach and sea under a blue sky with clouds.]()
Bay Watch Resort
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![Beachfront resort with outdoor pool and palm trees, overlooking the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.]()
Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort at Grand Dunes
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![Beachfront resort buildings with balconies and a boardwalk surrounded by palm trees.]()
Marriott's OceanWatch Villas at Grande Dunes
Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing Attractions
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![Exterior view of a theater building at dusk with illuminated sign and architectural features like columns and arches.]()
Alabama Theatre
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![People enjoying a lively event, waving napkins in the air at a restaurant with checkered tablecloths and dim lighting.]()
House of Blues
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![Two crocodiles in a river, one lying on top of the other, surrounded by greenery.]()
Alligator Adventure
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![Sign for "LuLu's Beach Arcade" with palm trees and colorful lettering on a brick building.]()
LuLu's Beach Arcade
North Myrtle Beach Golf Course Directory
At Rockefellers Raw Bar, they are committed to satisfying each and every customer with great food and excellent service. They offer a wide variety of Crawfish, Scallops, Mussels, Oysters, Crab Legs, Shrimp, Tuna, Lobster, Steaks and much more!
Whatever you're in the mood for, you can find it there! Relax in one of their comfortable captain's chairs and watch the bartender prepare your favorite seafood dishes!
3613 Highway 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 361-9677
Main Street Highlights.
This vibrant one-mile strip of the Carolina Coast is the birthplace of the Carolina Shag and music has long been at the core of its culture.
The Home of Shag
As the Fat Man always said, “You haven’t been to the beach until you have visited Fat Harold’s Beach Club.”
It is the Home of the Shag. Fat Harold’s was inducted into the Carolina Beach Music Awards Hall of Fame back in 1996. Fat Harold’s was Named CBMA Club of the Year 13 times before withdrawing from consideration to let some of the other great clubs in the industry get recognized.
They are located on Main Street in the Ocean Drive Section of North Myrtle Beach. Fat Harold’s has the Best DJs spinning the tunes 7 nights a week. Make plans to join them in the Shag City Grill for somethin’ good to eat and the coldest drinks at the Beach. Then plan to dance the night away
212 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582
(843) 249-5779
From that perfect date night dress to a comfy and casual outfit, Apricot Lane Boutique has everything you need to create the perfect look for any occasion. You can count on their expert staff to help you find what you’re looking for — and if they don’t yet have it, they will do their best to get it! They are a locally-owned and operated women’s clothing store in North Myrtle Beach, SC, that prides itself on putting the customer and its community first. It’s part of a franchise philosophy that has served the brand and its customers for over 25 years.
643 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-3269
Visit their bake shop in person for their delicious sweet treats and an ever changing menu. They bake small batch daily to ensure freshness.
613 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582
(843) 663-9475
Board & Brush
WELCOME TO THE NORTH MYRTLE BEACH
DIY WOOD SIGN & WOOD PROJECT WORKSHOP!
Are you looking for a night out with friends? Is your inner DIY itching for a fun new project without having to buy all your own supplies and make a mess at your house? Then “Book A Workshop” for the ultimate paint and sip experience at Board & Brush Creative Studio in North Myrtle Beach.
617 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 310-8775
Kelly's K-9 Kitchen offers homemade dog treats and cat treats. They are a small hometown bakery with a big passion for making delectable tasty treats for all of your 4-legged family members.
Their mission is a simple one... Create treats and snacks for your dog or cat using only the finest ingredients. Their treats contain no artificial preservatives or dyes. They also make gluten free treats.
601 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582
704-616-3760
Coastal Green Wellness focuses on education, while providing access to lab-tested federally legal cannabis. With storefronts in South Carolina and Georgia, Coastal Green offers CBD, THC, and other minor cannabinoids.
679 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582
843-663-2020
In 1948 Hubert and Leona Hoskins moved from Murrells Inlet to Ocean Drive to open one of the first restaurants on the Grand Strand. Hubert's untimely death in 1955 forced Mrs. Hoskins to accept the help of her daughter and son in law, Joan and Bryan Floyd. The newlyweds purchased the restaurant and the door opened for numerous brothers, sisters, and other family members to experience the family tradition of Hoskins.
In 1987 Lenton and Tina Yates purchased the restaurant from her father and now their oldest son Travis has returned home to assist his family carry on a tradition that he has come to appreciate.
405 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 249-2014
Located on Main Street in the Ocean Drive section of North Myrtle Beach, Flynn’s Irish Tavern is a locals favorite and a must stop for annual and first-time visitors to the Grand Strand. Just a short walk from the wide, sandy beaches and first-class accommodation of Ocean Drive.
421 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 29582
(843) 249-6533
The Gallery On Main
The Gallery On Main features unique fused glass decorative and functional pieces by local artist Rose L'Abbate in a contemporary setting. As a supporter of the local art community Rose also displays paintings, pottery, photographs, and jewelry by local artisans.
Self-taught in the art of glass fusing, Rose has developed a style all her own which is clearly reflected in the unique pieces she offers. Prior to opening The Gallery On Main, Rose’s work was featured on Etsy, Amazon and at local craft shows. Encouraged by the overwhelmingly positive reviews of her work, she opened The Gallery On Main in June 2020.
611 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843.663.0008
Their “Key West” style restaurant features everything from fresh oysters on the half shell and nearly famous hot wings to mouth-watering burgers and perfectly grilled steaks.
661 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-0219
Bustling bar and grill serving American pub fare and live music. Duck’s has been a long-time North Myrtle Beach Favorite & Tradition on the Grand Strand. Duck’s has the hottest bands, and shag events like SOS.
231 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 663-3858
We Are So Excited To Introduce You Style Me Boutique's Sister Boutique.
685 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-2600
Whit’s Frozen Custard proudly serves premium custard made fresh daily. They are conveniently located in the heart of North Myrtle Beach on Main Street in the Shops on Main - only blocks from the beach. They offer 3-4 scoopable flavors each day that can be served in cones or cups. In addition, you can create your own custom treat by blending in toppings from their extensive list (they call those Whitsers).
691 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-1000
Wine Therapy offers Wine by the Glass, Wine To Go, and Customized Wine Tastings that will tantalize your taste buds for an enjoyable experience. They build your customized wine tastings based on your particular flavor profile and offer you new ideas of other kinds of wine that you will find exquisite and remarkable!
681 Main St, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843) 712-5209
Art.com Print.
Ocean Drive, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Print Price: $15
4898 Highway 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC
(843) 272-7077
Blueberry’s Grill was created from what was once a modest small restaurant serving classic breakfast dishes in Sunny Side Up Grill, Little River – a small town in South Carolina. With some help, they became what you see today. Blueberry’s Grill is a Mediterranean-themed American casual dining.
4856 Highway 17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-1000
With the freshest available ingredients, their classic Italian dishes offer modern twists on many favorites. Don't forget their wood-fired Italian pizza oven!
202 US-17 North, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-258-9633
On the Waterfront
AT BAREFOOT LANDING
Come experience innovative creations, bold flavors and exotic fare, Australian-style. One of Myrtle Beach’s most popular restaurants since 1999, we serve up mouthwatering dishes and an award winning wine menu – all in an upscale, family-friendly setting that will leave you feeling like you’re sitting in one of Sydney’s finest harborside restaurants.
4930 US-17 South, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843.361.0000
Established in 1988, Oscar's Food & Spirits was the dream come true for Oscar Frederick ("Freddie") Williams & his wife Carla. Originally from Pittsburgh, Freddie wanted a place at the beach where all of his beloved Steelers fans & Boilermakers could call their "home away from home." Oscar's has since grown to become a favorite spot for vacationers & locals alike. They strive to create a unique experience for all of their guests by offering one of a kind sandwiches & outstanding service.
4101 Highway 17 S, Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-272-0707
Cherry Grove Beach.
For the real beach lovers and anglers journeying to South Carolina’s Grand Strand, nothing beats Cherry Grove. Located at the northernmost end of North Myrtle Beach, Cherry Grove Beach offers a rich history of charming beach houses and cottages, kick-back shag music, and wide sandy beaches. Things move just a bit slower on Cherry Grove Beach. We welcome you to explore this beautiful place, stay for awhile or just a week. From spacious vacation homes to oceanfront resorts along the Atlantic beaches – find a place with a porch or balcony, sip a sweet tea and enjoy your time at the family-friendly beach that’ll leave you smiling every time you stay here. Read More.
When they opened The Shack in 2010, it was the vision of Scott Childers and Todd Fineran to give people in Cherry Grove a true taste of the South at an affordable price. Scott has 2 sons and Todd has 4 daughters, and they all work at the restaurant, giving it a true family feel. The Shack offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike to taste the bounty from the land and sea. So sit back, make yourself at home, and enjoy some true southern food with lots of souls.
1128 Sea Mountain Hwy, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
843-663-3636
THE FINEST, MOST AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE
At Roca Roja Cantina, they strive to provide you with the most unique Mexican Cuisine and experience as well as providing you the best views. They are on the Cherry Grove Marsh so the views are beautiful! They have live entertainment Tuesday-Sunday, so there is always something fun happening!
806 Sea Mountain Highway, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
(843)-663-2777
Crescent Beach.
This small neighborhood in the greater North Myrtle Beach area has always been one of the most visited places on the Eastern Seaboard. It is now known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful white sand beaches, and a large selection of restaurants, hotels, gift shops, and all other kinds of businesses geared towards tourism.
