This Popular Southeastern Beach Destination Is Just As Fun In The Fall

Fall is when most of us are thinking more about Halloween parties, Thanksgiving turkeys, and shopping for Christmas gifts than a trip to the beach. Still, some coastal locations retain their appeal as those long summer days become a bittersweet memory. One such place is Myrtle Beach in South Carolina.

In 1966, Bruce Brown's laid-back surf documentary "The Endless Summer" popularized the sport, following two dudes around the globe as they chased the sun and perfect waves. Until recently, Myrtle Beach's Endless Summer Festival was very much in the same spirit: To keep those summer vibes going as long as possible.

The Endless Summer Festival may be defunct for now, but that hasn't stopped the people of Myrtle Beach from making the most of the warm weather long into the fall. Each year, the town and the surrounding area kick into high gear with a fall festival season that incorporates a wide range of outdoor events, even as the temperature dips and the days grow shorter. As a result, Myrtle Beach is still buzzing at a time when other resort towns are thinking about packing up for the winter.

Situated at the center of a 60-mile sweep of beaches known as the Grand Strand, few ocean skylines shout old-fashioned seaside fun more than the city of Myrtle Beach. While it boasts plenty of modern amenities, the spectacular 187-foot tall Ferris wheel, the boardwalk, and the classic Pier 14 combine to create a nostalgic image of a summer vacation by the coast. And who can take a trip to the seaside without getting sucked into all the tasty snacks available? 

Luckily, foodies are catered to as the Myrtle Beach fall festival season gets underway. The annual I Love Seafood Fest pairs the freshest ocean eats with live music and cooking demonstrations while the Beach n' Chili Fest hosts the World Champion Chili Cookoff. Luckily there is plenty of cold beer on hand for those chili tastings.

Chefs from local restaurants gather at the Taste of the Market Common and Taste of the Town culinary events in Myrtle Beach, providing samples of their favorite dishes. A little further inland, you can get a true taste of South Carolina at the Loris Bog-Off Festival, where hundreds of vendors serve their version of Chicken Bog, a staple of the region made with chicken, rice, sausage, and spices. Meanwhile, fiery Jamaican flavors can be enjoyed along with reggae beats at the Myrtle Beach Fall Jerk Fest.

The fall season in Myrtle Beach also has a diverse program of music and cultural events to enjoy. Music lovers can savor the Waves of Praise Gospel Fest or catch one of the many eclectic acts that gather at the annual Jazz Festival. The town loves to celebrate different cultures and more live performances take the stage at the Irish-International Festival, where thousands of people visit each year to chow down on robust Irish cooking and traditional Italian dishes while listening to live tunes. 

Over at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, a range of delicacies from Souvlaki to Baklava are available at the Greek Festival, plus traditional folk dancing. People with kids also have plenty to enjoy at the annual Surfside Fall Family Festival, which offers children's activities to keep the little ones entertained.

Things get loud during the week of the Myrtle Beach Fall Bike Rally when hundreds of Harley-Davidson enthusiasts from across the country ride into town on their hogs, while fans of four-wheeled muscle can enjoy the Jeep Jam with races and obstacle courses on the beach. The automobile excitement doesn't stop there; at the Britfest British Car Show, you can enjoy a nice English cuppa while perusing classic British motors. Lastly, those who fancy running outside can take part in the annual half marathon. Whatever you choose at Myrtle Beach, it's sure to be a good way to sign off for the year before the winter arrives.