Cities / Myrtle Beach / Central Myrtle Beach vs South Myrtle Beach
Central Myrtle Beach vs South Myrtle Beach: which is safer?
Central Myrtle Beach is the safer of the two — 70/100 against 70/100. Go with care. Central Myrtle Beach offers iconic coastal attractions, beachfront resorts, and lively entertainment by day, but visitors should exercise heightened awareness at night. Elevated rates of property crime, vehicle break-ins, and late-night bar-related altercations along Ocean Boulevard warrant basic street smarts.
Central Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
70
out of 100 · Go, stay aware
Central Myrtle Beach serves as the energetic commercial core of the Grand Strand, anchored by the oceanfront Boardwalk, the SkyWheel, and bustling retail corridors along Kings Highway. It is characterized by high seasonal tourist turnover, numerous hotels and vacation rentals, and an active nightlife scene.
- Walk score
- 64
- Bike score
- 52
Pros
- High police presence and active surveillance monitoring along the primary Boardwalk corridor
- Immediate, walkable access to premier beachfront attractions, piers, and dining hubs
- Substantial infrastructure investments focused on visitor amenities and pedestrian promenades
Cons
- Significantly elevated property crime and vehicle break-in rates compared to state and national averages
- Frequent late-night disruptions and occasional violent altercations near Ocean Boulevard nightlife spots
- Pockets of economic distress and higher housing vacancy in neighborhoods just west of Kings Highway
South Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
70
out of 100 · Go, stay aware
South Myrtle Beach is a high-traffic coastal corridor characterized by oceanfront high-rises, legacy motels, mini-golf courses, and souvenir shops along Ocean Boulevard and Kings Highway. It serves as a major tourist hub in summer, backed by residential pockets with higher-than-average rental turnover and seasonal vacancy.
- Walk score
- 60
- Bike score
- 52
Pros
- Direct, frequent public beach access points and proximity to Myrtle Beach State Park
- Abundant walkable beachfront dining, amusement attractions, and water parks
- Substantial seasonal police presence and municipal surveillance camera network along main tourist strips
Cons
- High property crime rate, notably vehicle break-ins and theft from unattended beach items
- Higher local poverty and seasonal housing vacancy compared to national averages
- Frequent late-night noise, traffic congestion, and rowdy crowds along South Ocean Boulevard during peak months