News Summary
As spring break approaches, Myrtle Beach faces temporary beach closures near the 24th Avenue North area due to the ocean outfall project. This crucial construction aims to improve water quality and manage stormwater effectively. While the beach is set to reopen around late March or early April, beachgoers should stay updated on potential renourishment efforts and enjoy the remaining open sections. Local representatives stress the importance of maintaining the beach environment and ensuring a safe experience for visitors this season.
Myrtle Beach Gears Up for Spring Break with some Beach Closures
Ahoy, Myrtle Beach lovers! The sun-soaked shores of this popular vacation spot are facing some temporary closures ahead of the bustling spring break period, which typically kicks off around late February and stretches all the way through mid-April. So, if you’re planning that much-anticipated beach getaway, here’s what you need to know.
Current Beach Closure Alert
The only beach access currently shut down is near the 24th Avenue North area. While this may disappoint some, rest assured the city is gearing up for some important construction work that will ultimately enhance the beach experience. The city of Myrtle Beach started an ambitious project in late 2024, known as the ocean outfall project, which aims to improve water quality and manage stormwater more effectively.
What’s the Ocean Outfall Project?
So, what exactly is the ocean outfall project about? In simple terms, it’s a plan that redirects 11 stormwater drains to a dedicated exit further out to sea. This is a big deal! It’s designed to filter out sediments and trash before they can reach our beautiful ocean, which helps maintain the beach’s natural beauty and keeps marine life happy.
When Will the Beach Reopen?
Now, the million-dollar question is – when will the beach be back in action? The expectation is that the closed beach area will reopen around late March or early April. Beachgoers might be able to watch the construction efforts from a safe distance, so there’s still a chance to soak in that sun while observing the progress.
What About Beach Renourishment This Spring?
Understanding Beach Renourishment
Now, if you’re wondering why beach renourishment is so crucial, here’s a quick rundown. These efforts typically happen every 7-10 years to protect our sandy shores from the wrath of storms and to preserve the natural wildlife habitats that call our beaches home. The last major sand replenishment was done back in 2018, after which Hurricane Ian in 2022 and Hurricane Debby in 2024 caused further erosion.
What to Expect During Renourishment
When beach renourishment does take place, expect temporary closures of sections along the beach, usually extending across 1,000-foot stretches for several days at a time. Whenever this happens, visitors are encouraged to stay updated by checking the Corps of Engineers’ website for the latest information on beach closures.
Big Plans, Big Sand Needs
As part of the upcoming beach renourishment, it’s projected that at least 200,000 dump trucks of sand will be used. This sand will be dredged from offshore “borrow areas” and transported to the beach via submerged pipelines. It’s a massive logistical operation but crucial for keeping Myrtle Beach the magnificent destination it is.
Final Thoughts
With spring break just around the corner, Myrtle Beach is preparing for a busy season—but remember, safety and environmental considerations come first. As plans for construction progress, be sure to stay informed and enjoy the beautiful pieces of the beach that are still open for relaxing and good times. Happy beach-going!
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
