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Surfside Beach, South Carolina is a seaside senior vacation and retirement community in the Grand Strand.

Surfside Beach SC History

First known as Roach's Beach, the area was purchased in the early 1920's. The new owner, George J. Holiday, renamed the area Floral Beach for his wife Flora and daughter, Floramay. Principal industries were lumber and feed farming. In the late 1920's, a group from Columbia purchased and partially developed the land.

In 1952, most of the land was sold and the area renamed Surfside Beach. Hurricane Hazel in 1954 destroyed 18 of the beach's 65 houses, but did not discourage the developers. Lots were cleared, the sand was leveled and topsoil was brought in. T. J. Harrison, who later became the town's first mayor, opened the first grocery store in 1956.

Surfside Beach incorporated in 1964. By then, its reputation as a family beach was established and the town was becoming a popular place to retire. The new town government increased police protection, mosquito and sanitation control, and street lights and zoning ordinances resulted in increased property values. Public parking and walkways to the beach were established. Surfside Beach, as well as the rest of the Grand Strand, became one of the fastest growing parts of the country.

Surfside Beach South Carolina – Boasts Many Great Golf Courses

Today, the area boasts many great golf courses, beach and water activities. The town has a healthy economy and a cultural community that is attractive to seniors.