On 03FEB, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina hosted a virtual welcome back event for Canadian media as the destination eagerly awaits the return of more Canadians.
The event opened with a brief video of the destination’s ribbon cutting ceremony from late 2021, held when the Canada-U.S. land border was finally reopened.
While Myrtle Beach representatives, including Canadian/International Account Manager Kimberly Hartley and Public Relations Manager Julie Ellis, do not have numbers, both of them said that there are Canadians in Myrtle Beach this winter destination, but the destination is always excited to have more.
According to one representative, on the day the border reopened 08NOV, the destination received calls from travellers and travel advisors interested in booking.
While Myrtle Beach has commonly been a drive destination for many Canadians, there are other options for getting there. Ellis, the main speaker at the event, highlighted that Porter Airlines flies to Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) from YTZ starting on 09MAR through 28MAY on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Other gateways to MYR include DTW and IAG.
Can-Am Days Festival 2022
In addition, Myrtle Beach’s Can-Am Days Festival returns following a pause due to the pandemic for its 61st edition, running from 12-20MAR 2022. Canadians enjoy hotel bookings and attraction discounts, as well as deals and specials within the destination’s market. Ellis noted that no coupons are needed, but individuals must present a Canadian ID to receive savings. Other attractions during Can-Am Days Festival include special activities and events for Canadian visitors.
A full list of promotions, activities, and events can be found on Myrtle Beach’s web site.
New and Returning in 2022/2023
Ellis said that in addition to its existing offerings, new attractions are planned for Myrtle Beach in 2022. Notable new additions include the reconstruction of Surfside Pier, which was initially destroyed in 2016 by Hurricane Matthew. Expected to reopen this summer, the newly pier will be built with a stronger structure, plus a restaurant and vending space.
Springhill Suites and Courtyard Marriott, which replaces the former Breakers Resort, is expected to open this spring, at 26-stories tall with a pool and a lazy river. The Hangout - Broadway at the Beach is also expected to open this spring, and will hold family-friendly food options, as well as both indoor and outdoor live music throughout the year.
Major events are also back at Myrtle Beach, with the Carolina Country Music Festival set to return between 09-12JUN. Other events coming back include the World Championship Chili Cook-Off and the Moo & Brew food, music, and beer festival, among others.
COVID-19 Health & Safety Protocols
According to Ellis, Myrtle Beach is operating in accordance with state and district protocols regarding COVID-19. Mask use is encouraged, but not mandated throughout the city. Masks are still required in certain areas such as specific businesses and events, as well as in the airport, on all flights, shuttle buses, and the Myrtle Beach Area Visitors Center.
Proof of vaccination is not required at local businesses at this time, and Ellis said she was unaware of any local businesses requiring vaccination passports. She also recommended calling ahead to see if a specific hotel, restaurant, or other businesses would require a vaccination passport.
Ellis highlighted that some regional testing centers in Myrtle Beach’s Broadway street offer PCR tests for around USD $140.
Still Myrtle Beach
Those who have visited Myrtle Beach before can still experience its landmarks and attractions, which were the main focus of the event. One highlight includes the iconic SkyWheel along the boardwalk, which was renovated for its 10th anniversary.
Other highlights include Myrtle Beach’s natural offerings, including its two state parks in Myrtle Beach State Park & Huntington Beach State Park, as well as Atalaya Castle, Brookgreen Gardens, Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, and more.
Guests can enjoy shopping and dining at Broadway at the Beach, Market Common, and Barefoot Landing, as well as over 1,800 restaurants including a variety of international fare. Other attractions include the Boardwalk, 20 kilometers along the oceanfront with the SkyWheel, Ripley’s Aquarium, live shows, and more.
Other activities for guests to enjoy include golf (and its miniature variant), water sports, bike riding, fishing, and more.
For more information on Myrtle Beach, visit its web site.
