City of Myrtle Beach

City of Myrtle Beach Municipal Water Report Information

The City of Myrtle Beach stands as both a residential community and popular vacation destination at the heart of the Grand Strand—a scenic 60-mile coastal stretch along South Carolina's northeastern shore. Our community of approximately 30,000 permanent residents welcomes millions of visitors annually who enjoy our pristine beaches, pleasant climate, and diverse entertainment options including nightlife, golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants, and live performances.

Historical records indicate Spanish explorers from Hispaniola were among the earliest European visitors, arriving approximately 50 miles north of present-day Myrtle Beach. By 1526, they established the first European settlement in the United States about 30 miles south of our current location. Though this settlement (San Miguel de Guadalupe) was abandoned the following year, it marked the region's discovery by European colonizers.

Despite slow population growth over the next three centuries, the late 1800s and early 1900s saw the area emerge as a vacation destination, albeit quite rural with sparse housing and few permanent residents. The ocean, sandy beaches, and natural wooded areas gradually attracted more permanent settlers throughout the 20th century.

Officially incorporated in 1938, Myrtle Beach achieved city status in 1957 when the permanent population first exceeded 5,000 residents. The name "Myrtle Beach" derives from the abundant local wax myrtle shrub and was selected through a community naming contest in 1900, with "Edgewater" as the runner-up. Previously, the area had been known variously as Long Bay, Withers, and New Town.

For nearly five decades, Myrtle Beach maintained a strong military presence, first hosting the U.S. Army Air Corps during the 1940s, followed by the Myrtle Beach Air Force Base starting in the 1950s. Following the base's 1993 closure, the property underwent redevelopment as the Market Common District, featuring an urban town center, extensive public green spaces, recreational fields, a large lake, and multiple walking/cycling paths. Warbird Park showcases static displays of three aircraft types formerly stationed at the base, alongside the Wall of Service memorial honoring military and civilian personnel who served there.

Today, Myrtle Beach has evolved into a nationally and internationally recognized destination. Our 900 city employees are committed to being "First in Service," ready to assist and address inquiries at any time. Welcome to the City of Myrtle Beach!