Myrtle Beach Celebrates Record-Breaking Fourth of July Travel As the nation celebrated Independence Day, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, welcomed an unprecedented surge in visitors, setting new records for the holiday. Record-Breaking Tourist Flow According to the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, hotel occupancy rates soared to an astounding 95% over the Fourth of July weekend, surpassing the previous record of 93% set in 2019. This surge in bookings translated to an influx of over 275,000 overnight visitors. Economic Impact The record-breaking travel had a significant impact on the local economy. Restaurants, shops, and attractions reported a surge in business, with many businesses enjoying their best sales day of the year. The surge in tourist spending is estimated to have generated over $150 million for the area. What to Know for Future Travelers For those planning to visit Myrtle Beach for the Fourth of July in the future, here are some key things to keep in mind: * Book accommodations early: With demand at its peak, it is essential to secure your hotel or vacation rental as far in advance as possible. * Plan for traffic: The influx of visitors results in increased traffic, particularly during peak travel times. Allow extra time for travel and consider using alternative routes or public transportation. * Explore attractions: Myrtle Beach offers a wide range of attractions, from amusement parks to waterparks to historical sites. Research your options and plan your itinerary accordingly. * Stay safe: Follow all safety guidelines, be aware of your surroundings, and stay hydrated in the warm summer weather. The record-breaking Fourth of July travel in Myrtle Beach is a testament to the destination’s enduring popularity. Visitors were drawn to the area’s beautiful beaches, festive atmosphere, and diverse attractions, making it an ideal spot to celebrate America’s Independence Day.Fourth of July Travel Surge to Break RecordsFourth of July Travel Surge to Break Records The upcoming Fourth of July weekend is poised to set new records for travel both locally and nationwide. Myrtle Beach International Airport is no exception, with a scheduled 568 departing flights between July 1 and July 8, surpassing the 480 flights during the same period last year. Airport spokesperson Lauren Wehrung advises travelers to arrive at least two hours before their departure due to the anticipated high volume. If the airport parking lot reaches capacity, directional signage will guide drivers to alternative parking options. According to AirDNA, Myrtle Beach short-term rentals are experiencing a surge in demand, with a 14.1 percent increase in vacationers expected. The city ranks as the second most popular destination for short-term rentals in the US, with an average nightly rate of $361.54. Nationally, AAA predicts that a record-breaking 70.9 million people will travel over the Independence Day weekend. “With summer vacations and the flexibility of remote work, more Americans are planning extended trips,” said Paula Twidale, AAA Travel’s Senior Vice President. Air travel is also expected to break records, with AAA estimating that 5.74 million people will fly to their destinations, a 12 percent increase from 2019. For those driving, INRIX transportation data suggests that road trips could take up to 67 percent longer than usual. Travelers are advised to leave before 10 am to avoid the worst of the traffic delays.Record-Breaking Travel for Fourth of July in Myrtle Beach Travelers flocked to Myrtle Beach in record numbers for the Fourth of July holiday, boosting the local economy and creating a bustling atmosphere. Accommodation Occupancy: * Hotels and resorts reported occupancy rates of over 95%, with many properties sold out. * Vacation rentals also saw high demand, with bookings reaching near capacity. Transportation: * Myrtle Beach International Airport experienced its busiest day of the year. * Traffic on Highway 17 was heavy, with delays expected near the city center. * Public transportation services, including buses and taxis, operated at peak capacity. Tourism Activities: * Beaches were packed with visitors enjoying swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. * The iconic Boardwalk was a hive of activity, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options attracting crowds. * Fireworks displays lit up the night sky, offering spectacular views from the beach and other vantage points. Economic Impact: * The influx of tourists is estimated to have generated millions of dollars in revenue for local businesses. * Restaurants, bars, and retail stores reported brisk sales. * Tourism-related businesses, such as tour operators and rental companies, saw increased demand for their services. Tips for Visitors: * Allow extra time for transportation due to heavy traffic. * Make dinner reservations in advance to avoid long wait times. * Be aware of beach closures and fireworks restrictions. * Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. * Respect the environment and dispose of trash properly.