Welcome to Myrtle Beach: A Car Lover’s Paradise!
When you think of a family vacation spot, the beaches of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina probably come to mind. But there’s a whole other side to this sunny destination that has been revving engines and turning heads for decades—yes, we’re talking about cars and motorcycles! Whether it’s the roar of a bike or the sleek design of a classic car, Myrtle Beach has become the ultimate haven for vehicle enthusiasts.
Year-Round Vehicle Events
It’s not just about sunbathing and boardwalk strolls in Myrtle Beach. Every spring, the area takes a thrilling turn as businesses roll out the welcome mat for bikers during popular bike rallies. Restaurants and stores pop up with signs that proclaim, “Welcome Bikers!” inviting motorcyclists into their establishments. But that’s not all! As summer fades and fall rolls in, the signs flip to greet Mustangs during Mustang Week and Jeeps at the Jeep Jam. It’s a season of automotive celebration along the Grand Strand!
Myrtle Beach proves to be more than just a pretty face, hosting not just one, not two, but a handful of significant vehicle events throughout the year. From three massive motorcycle rallies to an enormous car show and numerous weeks dedicated to classic rides, this beach town has been basking in the vehicle love since the 1940s when the first Myrtle Beach Bike Rally kicked off!
Why Myrtle Beach?
So why does Myrtle Beach lure in so many car lovers? Michael Leaventon, the organizer behind the beloved Run to the Sun classic car show, shares his insights. Originally launching about an hour away in Florence, the show found its new home in Myrtle Beach as it expanded. “It grew so much that in about the eighth or ninth year, they had to move it to Myrtle Beach because a lot of people are coming from out of town,” he reveals. With more than 157,000 accommodation units available, including hotels, rental homes, RV parks, and charming bed and breakfasts, there’s something for everyone—making it a breeze to host a budding automotive festival.
More than Just Cars
And when you’re not cruising through car events, Myrtle Beach has an endless array of activities to keep you entertained. From thousands of restaurants serving everything from seafood to soul food to countless shopping centers, there’s plenty to explore when the engines aren’t roaring. And let’s not forget the beach! “When you’re not out riding or driving or at (an) event, you can always go to the beach,” advises Lee “Spider” Webb, the marketing coordinator for the Myrtle Beach Bike Rally. How refreshing!
Riding with the Wind
The location of Myrtle Beach adds a cherry on top of the automotive sundae. With beautiful coastal roads perfect for cruising, it’s no surprise that Jeep Jam founder Steve Taylor recognized the need for a local Jeep event. After all, why should you have to travel far when Myrtle Beach has everything Jeep enthusiasts could desire? “Myrtle Beach has great options,” Webb adds, noting that the roads are not just scenic but also lead to other nearby charming destinations like Charleston and Wilmington.
A Community of Car Lovers
As if the sunny weather and beaches weren’t enough, Myrtle Beach has also attracted a vibrant community of car lovers. Carol Hadley, director of the Myrtle Beach Car Club, shares that many retirees are moving to the area and bringing their passion for vehicles with them. “A lot of the people that are coming down here have cars or trucks or motorcycles that they’re into,” she explains. It’s no wonder some of the biggest auto events here target enthusiasts with disposable income in their 70s!
People of all ages take part as well, including local residents! Around 25% of the Jeeps registered for Jeep Jam 2024 came from the Myrtle Beach area, highlighting just how much the locals love their machines. With camaraderie and community spirit flowing throughout the car clubs, there’s an unmistakable sense of togetherness in this large family of auto enthusiasts.
In short, whether you’re revving up for a motorcycle rally or admiring classic cars, Myrtle Beach is calling! With its perfect mix of exciting events, welcoming locals, and endless summer vibes, there’s no wonder this coastal city has revved its way to the top of every car enthusiast’s bucket list!
