Myrtle Beach, January 27, 2026
Myrtle Beach is preparing for substantial growth with new attractions, diverse dining options, and enhanced accommodations. This expansion reflects a commitment to innovation and economic prosperity, as local businesses thrive and new opportunities arise. The area is seeing significant private investment, fostering a collaborative environment for sustained economic development.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What new attractions are coming to Myrtle Beach in 2026?
Expect exciting new experiences including a 100-foot RMC Raptor Coaster at Family Kingdom Amusement Park, the state-of-the-art PicklePort for pickleball, and the Purdy Center at Brookgreen Gardens.
What new dining and entertainment venues will open in Myrtle Beach in 2026?
Get ready for Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown at Myrtle Beach Mall, a joint Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. at Broadway at the Beach, and the new seafood restaurant Big Fish.
How are lodging options improving in Myrtle Beach for 2026?
Discover new choices like Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront condos and the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville, alongside major renovations at Ocean Reef Resort and Captain’s Quarters Resort.
What kind of economic growth is projected for Myrtle Beach in 2026?
Myrtle Beach anticipates continued recognition as one of the fastest-growing metro areas, driven by private investment, job creation efforts by MBREDC, and initiatives for workforce housing.
What is the overall outlook for Myrtle Beach’s development in 2026?
The outlook is highly positive, reflecting a dynamic environment where private investment and entrepreneurial spirit are fueling significant growth across attractions, dining, and accommodations, supported by local government initiatives.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach’s 2026 Coastal Expansion: A Hub for Innovation and Growth
Myrtle Beach is set for a vibrant 2026, with an array of new attractions, diverse dining experiences, and enhanced stay options. This growth underscores the area’s ongoing commitment to entrepreneurial innovation and the resilience of local businesses.
The Grand Strand continues to attract private investment, signaling a robust economic environment. Local initiatives are actively promoting economic development and fostering a business-friendly climate. This collaborative approach between public and private sectors is crucial for sustained prosperity and job creation in the region.
New Horizons in Entertainment and Recreation
Myrtle Beach is introducing several new attractions for 2026, broadening its appeal for both residents and visitors. Family Kingdom Amusement Park is anticipating the debut of an RMC Raptor Coaster, marking its most significant addition since the Swamp Fox coaster opened in 1966. This new coaster is projected to be 100 feet tall and reach speeds of up to 50 mph.
For sports enthusiasts, The PicklePort is slated to open in late 2026, offering a state-of-the-art facility near the Myrtle Beach Airport with 12 climate-controlled indoor courts, 4 covered outdoor courts, and a championship court. Additionally, Brookgreen Gardens, located in Murrells Inlet, recently unveiled its Purdy Center, which includes a new Welcome Center and conservatory, expanding its educational programming and exhibitions.
Other entertainment options include the Carolina Opry Theater celebrating its 40th anniversary with a diverse lineup of concerts, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show introducing a new South Pacific Celebration for its 15th anniversary.
An Evolving Culinary Landscape
The dining scene in Myrtle Beach is experiencing significant expansion, with a focus on innovative and diverse culinary experiences. Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown is expected to open in early 2026 at the Myrtle Beach Mall, featuring a 50,000-square-foot restaurant, a tiki bar, bowling, and arcade games. Broadway at the Beach will welcome a joint location for Ole Smoky Distillery and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. in spring 2026, offering craft spirits, beers, food, and live entertainment in an indoor-outdoor setting.
Another anticipated addition to Broadway at the Beach is Big Fish, a seafood restaurant that will feature outdoor seating and a large deck overlooking the water. On 9th Avenue North, establishments like Winna’s Kitchen, Boteco VIP, and The Dolly Llama are contributing to a dynamic downtown dining environment with coastal-inspired cuisine.
The South Coast Beer Project and 357 Brewers are also set to open in spring 2026 in Carolina Forest and Grande Dunes, respectively, further diversifying the local craft beverage scene.
Enhanced Accommodation for Every Visitor
Myrtle Beach is seeing substantial investment in its lodging sector, with both new developments and significant renovations to existing resorts. Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront is scheduled to open in February 2026, offering modern one, two, and three-bedroom oceanfront condos along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Several established resorts have undergone or are undergoing major enhancements. The Ocean Reef Resort completed a $15 million renovation in 2025, updating guest rooms, the lobby, fitness center, and meeting spaces. Captain’s Quarters Resort is also in the process of major renovations, with updated exteriors, modernized rooms, and enhanced pool and recreation areas expected to be completed by late 2026.
Additionally, the Compass Hotel by Margaritaville in North Myrtle Beach will feature 150 guest rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, and dining options upon its completion in late 2026.
Myrtle Beach Economic Growth and Community Investment
Myrtle Beach continues to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States. The Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corporation (MBREDC) actively works to attract and retain businesses, contributing to job creation and capital investments. State and local investments in economic development agencies are crucial for attracting new industries to the area.
The local economy saw significant contributions from Horry County residents, totaling $30 billion in 2025. South Carolina as a whole is committed to fostering entrepreneurial innovation and growth, with programs providing funding and resources for startups. Efforts are also underway to address workforce housing needs, with the goal of creating affordable housing by March 2026 through a community land trust and partnerships with developers.
Key Features of Myrtle Beach’s 2026 Developments
| Category | Development Name | Key Features | Opening/Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attractions | RMC Raptor Coaster (Family Kingdom) | 100 ft tall, 50 mph coaster | 2026 Season |
| Attractions | The PicklePort | 12 indoor, 4 covered outdoor pickleball courts | Late 2026 |
| Attractions | Purdy Center at Brookgreen Gardens | Welcome Center, conservatory, expanded educational spaces | Early 2026 |
| Dining & Entertainment | Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown | 50,000 sq ft restaurant, tiki bar, bowling, arcade | Early 2026 |
| Dining & Entertainment | Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewing Co. | Joint distillery/brewery, craft spirits, beer, food, live entertainment | Spring 2026 |
| Dining & Entertainment | Big Fish (Broadway at the Beach) | Seafood restaurant, outdoor seating, large deck | 2026 |
| Accommodations | Ocean Escape Boardwalk Oceanfront | Modern 1, 2, 3-bedroom oceanfront condos | February 2026 |
| Accommodations | Ocean Reef Resort Renovations | $15 million renovation, updated rooms, lobby, fitness center | Completed 2025 |
| Accommodations | Captain’s Quarters Resort Renovations | Updated exteriors, modernized rooms, enhanced pools | Late 2026 |
| Accommodations | Compass Hotel by Margaritaville | 150 guest rooms, indoor/outdoor pools, fitness center, dining | Late 2026 |
Looking Ahead: Sustained Progress
Myrtle Beach’s trajectory for 2026 reflects a dynamic environment where private investment and entrepreneurial spirit are key drivers of economic growth. The ongoing development of new attractions, diverse dining establishments, and upgraded accommodations underscores the confidence in the region’s future. The local government’s efforts to facilitate business growth through initiatives like economic incentive programs and workforce development further bolster this positive outlook. As Myrtle Beach continues to expand and innovate, supporting local businesses and engaging with community-driven projects remains vital for fostering a prosperous future for all. Explore and experience the many new offerings that make Myrtle Beach a premier destination for years to come.
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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.
