Myrtle Beach tourism officials are reporting signs of stabilization in Canadian visitation after a challenging start to the year. Visit Myrtle Beach representatives, including VP Brand and Communications Diane Charno, Public Relations Manager Denielle Van Dyke, and Canadian Representative Sana Keller, were in Canada this week for events in Burlington, Ontario, on September 1 and Ottawa on September 2, engaging with approximately 70 guests to discuss new offerings and destination updates.
While Canadian visitation and spending remain below last year’s figures, with Visa card spending data indicating a roughly 30% year-over-year decline at its peak in March, the situation has improved. Charno noted that from April through July, conditions have normalized, showing only a slight decrease. Despite a weaker summer last year, Canada continues to be Myrtle Beach’s most significant international market, contributing the majority of its international visitors among the 18 million annual visitors to the area.
Those Canadian visitors making the trip are spending more, with an approximate 6% increase in spending per visitor year-over-year. The typical Canadian stay in Myrtle Beach remains around 10 days. The Grand Strand, known for its 100 kilometers of beaches and over 80 golf courses, continues to attract Canadian visitors, with golf being a particularly popular draw. Myrtle Beach is often referred to as the golf capital of the world due to its high number of courses.
The destination emphasizes its long-standing relationship with Canadian families, many of whom have made Myrtle Beach a multi-generational vacation tradition. This connection is also evident in events like the Can-Am Days, which celebrated its 65th year in March. Affordability is another key selling point, especially given higher airfares and economic pressures. The destination-wide Make More Myrtle Moments campaign, involving over 45 hotels, offers promotions such as a fourth night free with a three-night booking or two extra nights with a five-night booking. Many hotels also provide special rates for Canadians year-round.
Although there are no current nonstop flights from Canada to Myrtle Beach, driving remains a popular and economical option, taking about 13 hours from Toronto and 15 from Ottawa. Myrtle Beach International Airport offers over 50 nonstop routes from U.S. cities, providing one-stop connectivity from Canadian gateways. Visit Myrtle Beach has maintained its investment in the Canadian market, supporting travel advisors through education, Brand USA programs, and advertising.
Looking ahead, Myrtle Beach is experiencing significant development in accommodations, dining, and attractions. More than 80 properties are undergoing renovations, new construction, or conversions, including new branded hotels like several Margaritaville projects. The culinary scene is also expanding, with events such as the Grand Strand Chef’s Table, scheduled for October 16 at the International Culinary Institute, evolving into an annual fall food and wine event. Guy Fieri’s Flavortown, an entertainment complex combining dining, duckpin bowling, and an arcade, recently opened, with a grand opening celebration featuring the celebrity chef planned for September 10.
Other upcoming fall events include the 47th annual Loris Bog-Off Festival on October 17, Conway’s transformation into the City of Halloween, S.C., and Little River Waterfront Fright Nights from September 24 to October 31. The Myrtle Beach Jazz Fest will celebrate its 10th anniversary, and the inaugural Myrtle Beach Songwriters Festival is set for November 13-14. In 2027, Myrtle Beach will mark 100 years of golf, tracing back to the opening of Pine Lakes Country Club in 1927.
