Surfside Beach is a charming coastal town located in Horry County, South Carolina, just south of Myrtle Beach. Here are some key highlights about Surfside Beach:

Beaches: Known for its beautiful, wide sandy beaches, Surfside Beach offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere compared to some of the busier areas of Myrtle Beach. The town is often referred to as "The Family Beach."

Local Attractions: Besides the beach, Surfside Beach has a variety of local attractions, including parks, fishing piers, and golf courses. The Surfside Pier is a popular spot for fishing and enjoying sunset views.

Recreation: The town provides various recreational activities such as water sports, beach volleyball, and biking. Surfside Beach also features a few parks with picnic areas and playgrounds for families.

Dining and Shopping: There are several local restaurants and shops, many of which emphasize fresh seafood and Southern cuisine. The area has a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants.

Events: Surfside Beach hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, holiday celebrations, and beach activities, which foster a strong sense of community.

Accessibility: The town is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 17, making it a convenient destination for tourists visiting the Grand Strand area.

Surfside Beach combines the charm of a small beach town with the amenities of a popular tourist destination, making it a great spot for families and visitors looking for a quieter beach experience.

Surfside Beach, South Carolina, has a rich history that reflects the broader development of the Grand Strand area, known for its beautiful beaches and tourism. Here’s an overview of its history:

Early History

• Indigenous Peoples: Before European settlement, the region was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Waccamaw and Pee Dee tribes, who lived along the rivers and coastal areas.

• Colonial Era: In the 18th century, European settlers arrived, primarily British, and began to establish plantations and agricultural communities in the area.

19th Century

• Agriculture and Logging: The area was mainly agricultural, with crops like rice and cotton being cultivated. Logging also became an important industry as the demand for timber grew.

• Post-Civil War: After the Civil War, the region saw gradual development, but it remained mostly rural and underdeveloped compared to other coastal areas.

Early 20th Century

• Emergence of Tourism: The early 1900s marked the beginning of Surfside Beach's transformation into a tourist destination. The development of railroads and roads improved access to the area.

• Naming: Surfside Beach was originally known as "Surfside," a name reflecting its coastal location. In the 1950s, it was officially designated as Surfside Beach.

Mid-20th Century Development

• Incorporation: Surfside Beach was incorporated in 1964, solidifying its status as a town and allowing for more organized development and governance.

• Tourism Boom: The post-World War II era saw a significant increase in tourism, with many families visiting the area for its beaches. This led to the construction of hotels, motels, and rental properties.

Modern Era

• Growth and Community: The town continued to grow throughout the late 20th century, with a focus on preserving its beach environment while accommodating tourism. The town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and efforts to maintain a small-town feel despite the influx of visitors.

• Hurricane Impact: Like many coastal communities, Surfside Beach has faced challenges from hurricanes, most notably Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Hurricane Florence in 2018, which caused significant damage but also led to resilience and rebuilding efforts.

Current Status

Today, Surfside Beach is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly environment, and local events. It has a vibrant community that balances tourism with a commitment to preserving the natural beauty and charm of the area.