Myrtle Beach shops report slow season as summer ends, hope for Labor Day boost

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — Summer is coming to a close in Myrtle Beach, and with Labor Day weekend ahead, shops on the boardwalk of Myrtle Beach say business has been slow this season.

“No one’s making money right now, it’s pretty slow,” said Myrtle Beach Anime employee Jonah Eckert.

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The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce shared a press release stating that it has been a challenging season, but the area performed better than anticipated.

“While Tropical Storm Debby did impact early August occupancy, the overall summer performance remained strong,” said vice president of brand and communications, Diane Charno.

While the chamber said foot traffic hasn’t changed too much, boardwalk businesses said that things have felt different this season.

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Its been a weird year. You know usually its busy on the weekends, the week days its not so much,” said manager of Unique Gift Shops Matan Morovitz.

Short Term Rentals (STR) lodging statistics showed July and August hotel occupancy had been down an average 3.4% this year compared to last:

• July 2024 Average Occupancy – 76.5%, down, 1% YOY
• August 2024 Average Occupancy – 64.9%, down 3.4%

Some owners think they know why it has been a slower summer than usual

“I would say economy, that’s what i think. People don’t want to spend their money as much,” said Morovitz.

With Labor Day weekend approaching, businesses are hoping more will visit before the winter comes.

I think i like interacting with people, I like talking with people, and asking about where they are from, or if they are on vacation or anything, so i hope it picks up,” said Eckert.

The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce said the city remains a top summer beach destination this year.