Myrtle Beach Prepares for Spring Break Amid Beach Closures

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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Additional Resources

• Myrtle Beach Online
• Weather.com
• WPDE News
• MSN Money
• My Horry News