Myrtle Beach, February 14, 2026

Myrtle Beach has been recognized as a leading spring break destination for 2026, joining other popular spots such as Cancun and Miami. This recognition by Spirit Airlines highlights the city’s vibrant tourism scene, enhanced by local businesses and attractions. With an estimated economic impact of over $26 billion from tourism, Myrtle Beach not only draws millions of visitors annually but also supports numerous jobs and fosters small business growth, proving its status as a desirable travel hotspot.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Myrtle Beach Soars as a Premier 2026 Spring Break Destination

Myrtle Beach continues to cement its reputation as a leading travel destination, now officially recognized among the top spring break hotspots for 2026, according to Spirit Airlines’ recent data. This achievement underscores the city’s enduring appeal and the thriving entrepreneurial spirit of its local businesses and community leaders who consistently enhance its vibrant offerings. The continued growth in visitor interest highlights the success of a dynamic local economy, fueled by both established attractions and innovative small businesses that collectively contribute to the area’s allure.

This recognition by a major airline is a testament to the hard work and foresight of individuals and enterprises across the Grand Strand. It demonstrates how focused private investment, coupled with a commitment to providing diverse entertainment and hospitality options, can position a region for significant economic benefit. Myrtle Beach’s consistent presence on such lists reflects a strategic approach to tourism development, embracing both its natural beauty and the lively, innovative businesses that cater to millions of visitors annually.

Myrtle Beach Ranks Among the Nation’s Elite

Myrtle Beach has secured its position among the top spring break destinations for 2026, according to Spirit Airlines data. The city joins popular locations such as Cancun, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Fort Myers, and Pensacola. This recognition highlights Myrtle Beach’s appeal with its beaches, nightlife, and entertainment options, making it a top choice for travelers. Notably, it is also the only destination from the Carolinas to make Spirit Airlines’ top 10 list.

Spirit Airlines’ internal data for searches conducted between January 5, 2026, and February 5, 2026, for travel between March 6, 2026, and April 26, 2026, revealed these trends. During the peak spring break travel period of March 12, 2026, through March 30, 2026, Spirit Airlines plans to operate nearly 10,000 domestic and international flights to these popular destinations.

Economic Vitality Driven by Tourism and Local Enterprise

The tourism sector is a cornerstone of the Myrtle Beach economy, generating a substantial impact. The estimated total economic impact of tourism in the Myrtle Beach area is more than $26 billion, accounting for indirect and induced effects. In 2024, direct visitor spending reached $13.2 billion, marking a 5.3% increase from 2023. This significant spending supports approximately 82,000 jobs across various core and related industries, including accommodation, food services, retail trade, and entertainment.

The success of the local tourism industry directly benefits residents through substantial tax contributions. In 2024, $59 million was collected via hospitality fees, serving as a key funding stream for local services and infrastructure. Additionally, visitors supply about 66% of local sales tax revenue, illustrating how tourism revenue contributes to community resources. Efforts by organizations like Visit Myrtle Beach have proven effective, with every $1 invested in advertising generating $143 in direct visitor spending and $20 in state and local taxes in 2023.

Investing in Infrastructure and Innovation

Myrtle Beach’s appeal is continually enhanced by strategic investments in infrastructure and a supportive environment for business development. The Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC) plays a crucial role in attracting, retaining, and growing sustainable businesses that create jobs, working in partnership with over 200 member businesses. Horry County, where Myrtle Beach is located, is one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing counties, offering a diverse mix of sites and buildings from industrial parks to business centers.

Recent developments, such as the establishment of a new Amazon facility and Pepsi Bottling Ventures’ state-of-the-art distribution center in North Myrtle Beach’s Palmetto Coast Industrial Park, signify a shift. These projects are transforming the area from a solely seasonal tourist destination into a thriving hub for commerce and industry, creating year-round employment opportunities and stimulating further economic growth.

The Power of Small Business and Entrepreneurship

The vibrancy of Myrtle Beach is deeply rooted in its small business community and entrepreneurial spirit. The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, with over 2,200 investors, supports professional development for its members, 80% of which are businesses with 25 or fewer employees. These small businesses are the backbone of the local economy, offering unique experiences that enhance the visitor experience and provide critical services to residents.

The city’s Economic Development Office actively promotes initiatives like the Arts & Innovation District and Opportunity Zones, providing business incentives and strengthening partnerships with small businesses and private investors. Programs and collaborations foster a skilled workforce, driving economic growth, and building a stronger community. For instance, the planned Arts & Innovation District in downtown Myrtle Beach aims to create a vibrant urban center with restaurants, shops, a brewery, a performing arts center, and creative co-work spaces for startups.

South Carolina’s Supportive Business Climate

On a state level, South Carolina’s tourism industry generates an impressive $29 billion annually and supports over 200,000 jobs, contributing $1.8 billion in state and local taxes. This robust performance is aided by a supportive business climate. In 2024, South Carolina ranked second overall in Area Development Magazine’s “Top States for Doing Business” for its strong business environment, available real estate, business incentive programs, and speed of permitting.

Initiatives like the “Small Business Regulatory Freedom Act” (H. 3021) aim to reduce regulatory burdens by requiring cost-benefit analyses for all regulations and introducing automatic expiration after seven years for new regulations. This legislative approach encourages a more dynamic and less encumbered environment for businesses to thrive, benefiting both local entrepreneurs and the broader state economy.

Key Features of Myrtle Beach as a Spring Break Destination

Looking Ahead: Sustained Growth and Opportunity

Myrtle Beach’s inclusion as a top spring break destination for 2026 is a clear indicator of its sustained growth and desirability. This success is not merely due to its natural beauty but is profoundly shaped by the proactive efforts of its business community, the innovative spirit of its entrepreneurs, and a local environment that values economic progress. The city’s ability to attract millions of visitors year after year creates a fertile ground for small businesses to flourish, from hospitality and retail to entertainment and services.

To ensure this momentum continues, it is essential for the community to remain engaged, supporting local businesses, embracing entrepreneurial ventures, and advocating for policies that encourage investment and reduce unnecessary burdens. By fostering an environment where innovation can thrive and private enterprise is encouraged, Myrtle Beach can continue its trajectory as a leading destination and a robust economic engine for South Carolina.

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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.