More than 13 million tourists visit the Grand Strand each year. Horry County leads the state in tourism, accounting for over 38% of revenues. The traditional tourist season (the summer months) is continually expanding, resulting in a more even distribution of visitors throughout the year. The county's rapid growth is expected to continue, in the tourist sector as well as in other business sectors. Horry County is forecasted to gross approximately $7 billion in sales this year. Our retail sales rate grew at more than 150% of the national annual rate, with tourism accounting for over 50% of retail sales.

Retail sales, employment and construction are all intimately tied to the tourism industry. The Grand Strand is attracting a wider variety of tourists, both geographically and socio-economically, and this diversity helps cushion the region from any downturns in the national economy. During 2002, average lodging occupancy rate rose to slightly over 62% despite an increase in the number of rooms available with new lodgings. During that same period, admissions tax revenues rose by over 20% (based on preliminary figures). Admissions tax is paid on any recreational activity including golf and recreation parks.

Horry County's leisure travelers spent an average of $101.76 per person per day, and group business travelers spent an average of $208.11 per person per day. Visitors typically use their own car as their primary type of transportation (81 percent). Grand Strand visitors (59 percent) stayed in hotels, while 26percent stayed in condos and villas. Horry County Accommodations Tax collections for fiscal 2000-2001 were $12,986,719 and Admissions Tax collections for the same period were 9,780,348.

Golf is an important segment of the tourism economy, and has helped to bring this area international recognition. In 2003, the Grand Strand boasted over 120 completed golf courses with challenging layouts, stunning vistas, and impeccably maintained fairways and greens. Estimates show that approximately 4.02 million total rounds of golf were played. Area golf courses have been designed by some of the best-known names in golf, including Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Rees Jones, Greg Norman, Tom Fazio, and Davis Love III. Golf course architects have taken great care and consideration in protecting the natural habitat and wildlife indigenous to this area while creating technically challenging courses.

During 2002, the Myrtle Beach area hosted the world's largest amateur golf tournament, the DuPont Coolmax Worl Amateur Handicap Championship. There were over 4,000 golfers participating, representing all 50 states and 30 countries, playing on 80 courses. Additionally the area hosted the Golf Channel's chip, putt and drive competition for junior golfers. Many local courses host numerous golf tournaments which include some 60 Summer Family Tournaments and the national Father and Son Tournament.

Although golf is played throughout the year, spring and autumn are the busiest seasons due to the milder climate. Golf packages include room and green fees.