What Is the Golden Mile in Myrtle Beach?

For a place with such an extravagant name, the Golden Mile in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is surprisingly understated.

While you won’t find a golden archway announcing your arrival, you will find a perfect stretch of beach that starts to grow wider, charming beach houses, and more folks moving at a more leisurely pace.

That doesn't mean you're far from the action. The Golden Mile sits just minutes from many of downtown Myrtle Beach's biggest attractions, yet will feel worlds away once you settle into a beach chair.

Here's everything you need to know about the Golden Mile and why many travelers consider it one of the best stretches of beach along the Grand Strand!

 

History of the Golden Mile

Long before Myrtle Beach became one of the East Coast's best known vacation destinations, this stretch of shoreline was the place to be for families looking for a little more space and a little less bustle.

The quaint beach cottages of the 1930s eventually brought dreamy oceanfront homes and cabanas, giving the neighborhood its signature character despite the city growing around it.

Nearly a century later, the Golden Mile has held onto much of its original character. The beach is still exceptionally wide, the historic cabanas remain, and the live oaks that line North Ocean Boulevard give it an 'escape from the city' feel.

Where is the Golden Mile in Myrtle Beach?

Myrtle Beach's Golden Mile occupies a prime stretch of oceanfront along North Ocean Boulevard, generally extending from 31st Avenue North to 52nd Avenue North.

It's about a mile-long stretch of oceanfront in the heart of Myrtle Beach. Much of its magic lies in its optimal location. Within a few minutes, you can be at many of Myrtle Beach's restaurants, golf courses, shopping, and attractions.

 

Why Do People Stay on the Golden Mile

Photo Credit: StacieStauffSmith Photos

Not everyone comes to Myrtle Beach looking for the same vacation. Some travelers want to be steps from the Boardwalk, while others are happiest spending most of the day with their toes in the sand. The Golden Mile tends to attract the latter! It's better suited for full on relaxation and providing respite for families who want beach time.

The neighborhood is also super walkable! You won't find any cafes or shops, but you will find some uninterrupted scenic views and beach wildlife. It still has great proximity to other Myrtle Beach amenities, just a short drive from downtown and all the entertainment located there.

What Sets the Golden Mile Apart From the Rest of the Grand Strand

One of the pleasures of Myrtle Beach is that no two stretches of coastline feel quite the same. The Grand Strand stretches for 60 miles, but very little of it holds a candle to the Golden Mile's tranquility.

While much of the Grand Strand is known for its vibrant mix of hospitality, family attractions and beach activity, the Golden Mile has remained primarily residential and decidedly quiet. It's less about the hotels and condos here and more about the stunning coastline and breathtaking ocean views.

It's also notably one of the widest stretches of sand in Myrtle Beach, SC, giving everyone a little more elbow room whether you're setting up for the day, taking a morning walk, or watching the sunrise with a cup of coffee in hand.

 

Things to Do Near the Golden Mile

Photo Credit: LisaCarter

While the Golden Mile is wonderfully low-key, it still boasts some "slow life" things to do!

Watch the Sunrise

The Golden Mile is a particularly good place to catch an awe inspiring sunrise. The beach is wide, the view is uninterrupted, and there aren't many better excuses for getting out of bed a little earlier than usual. Plus, you might just catch a fisherman reeling in lunch.

Walk or Bike Ocean Boulevard

A walk or bike ride through the Golden Mile takes you past the famed oceanfront homes and historic beach cabanas and lets you bop in and out at different access points. Several local bicycle rental companies, including Boardwalk Bikes, can deliver beach cruisers for your day out!

Enjoy the Beach

If you have your eyes on the Golden Mile, top priority should be relaxing on the beachfront. With direct beach access to the sandy shores, the Golden Mile is the perfect destination to take in the ocean views with a side of shell hunting and book reading. Grab a beach umbrella, build a sand castle, play in the Atlantic waves, and then stay for the sunset.

There's no wrong way to spend a beach day here!

Admire the Oceanfront Homes

The Golden Mile has some of the most interesting oceanfront homes in Myrtle Beach. Not because they're the biggest, although a few certainly are, but because no two seem alike.

Hop on a bike and take a gander. You'll find everything from traditional beach cottages to Lowcountry-style homes to sprawling modern estates. One can dream while on vacation on the Golden Mile!

Surf Fish

Never fished? You might just discover a new hobby here. There's something pleasantly uncomplicated about surf fishing on the Golden Mile. No charter boat needed! Just a rod, a bit of bait, and the Atlantic Ocean.

This wide stretch of beach gives anglers plenty of room to cast for species like whiting, pompano, black drum, and red drum, depending on the season. Early morning and sunset are prime times to reel in a big one.

Keep in mind that swimmers always have the right-of-way. South Carolina regulations require anglers to stay at least 50 feet away from anyone in the water, and fishing isn't permitted in front of the seasonal chair-and-umbrella rental areas. With a little courtesy and a good cast, there's plenty of beach for everyone to enjoy.

Note: A valid South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required for most anglers.

Enjoy a Quiet Beach Picnic

Sometimes lunch just tastes a little better with sand between your toes. Especially if you don't want to do dishes. Pack up sandwiches from downtown and set up your very own sand cafe.

There is a Food Lion grocery store around a mile south for picnic supplies.

 

Where to Stay Near the Golden Mile

If the Golden Mile sounds like your kind of beach day, you'll want accommodations that put you within easy reach. The Caravelle Resort is located just north of the Golden Mile. After a day exploring, you can return to an oceanview pool, a lazy river, spacious accommodations, and views of the Atlantic from your balcony.

Many options feature private balconies, kitchenettes, separate living areas, and separate bedrooms, making this an ideal spot for families, groups, or anyone planning an extended beach vacation! Book today and we'll see you with our toes in the sand on the Golden Mile!