Long Bay, Myrtle Beach, SC

Long Bay Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Long Bay is a well-established, tranquil residential neighborhood nestled in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Located just west of the Intracoastal Waterway and south of The Market Common, it offers a convenient central location that provides easy access to both the bustling oceanfront and the everyday amenities of the city. Unlike the high-density tourist corridors, Long Bay is characterized by its quiet, tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community, making it a favored enclave for year-round residents seeking a more subdued coastal lifestyle.

The neighborhood's history is tied to the broader growth of Myrtle Beach in the latter half of the 20th century, developed primarily as a family-oriented subdivision. Its name evokes the long, scenic stretches of beach the Grand Strand is famous for, yet the community itself is set back from the immediate coast, offering affordability and serenity. This positioning allows residents to enjoy the perks of a premier vacation destination while returning home to a peaceful, residential setting.

Housing & Real Estate

Long Bay's housing stock consists predominantly of single-family homes built from the 1970s through the 1990s, featuring classic Lowcountry architectural styles such as ranch-style houses, split-levels, and traditional two-story homes on spacious, landscaped lots. The neighborhood is almost exclusively owner-occupied, with a very low percentage of rental properties compared to areas closer to the ocean, contributing to its stable and well-maintained appearance.

Price ranges in Long Bay are typically moderate for the Myrtle Beach area, often sitting below the million-dollar barrier that defines newer, golf-centric communities, making it an attractive option for families, professionals, and retirees. Recent trends show steady demand as buyers seek established neighborhoods with larger lots and mature trees—amenities harder to find in newer developments. While some homes have been updated, the area also presents opportunities for renovation, appealing to those looking to add value.

Schools & Education

Families in Long Bay are served by the Horry County Schools district. The neighborhood is zoned for Myrtle Beach Middle School and Myrtle Beach High School, both of which are highly regarded within the county and offer a variety of academic programs, advanced placement courses, and extracurricular activities. The schools benefit from their location in the city, providing resources and partnerships not always available in more rural parts of the county.

For younger students, the specific elementary school zoning can vary within the neighborhood but typically includes nearby elementary schools known for strong community involvement. Additionally, the area is in close proximity to several private and charter school options, including the Coastal Montessori Charter School and St. Andrew Catholic School, providing educational alternatives for residents. Higher education is accessible via Horry-Georgetown Technical College and Coastal Carolina University, both a short drive away.

Parks & Recreation

Long Bay residents enjoy excellent access to both neighborhood-based and regional recreational facilities. The community itself features several small, common green spaces and quiet streets ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. A significant asset is its proximity to the Grand Park at The Market Common, a massive complex with multiple athletic fields, a playground, and a scenic walking trail around a lake, all just minutes from the neighborhood.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the neighborhood is a short drive from the beach access points at Myrtle Beach State Park or via 21st Avenue North. The Intracoastal Waterway is also nearby, offering opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. Golf is a major recreational draw, with dozens of world-class public courses, including several along the prestigious "Grande Dunes" corridor, all within a 10-15 minute drive from Long Bay's central location.

Local Dining & Shopping

Daily conveniences and dining are exceptionally accessible from Long Bay. The revitalized Market Common district is essentially the neighborhood's town center, offering a walkable streetscape with a diverse mix of national retailers, boutique shops, a Publix grocery store, and a wide array of restaurants ranging from casual cafes to upscale steakhouses. This provides a sophisticated alternative to the tourist-heavy Ocean Boulevard.

For more practical needs, major shopping centers like the Kroger on Oak Forest Lane or the Walmart Supercenter on Seaboard Street are just a few minutes away. Residents also have quick access to Kings Highway (Business 17), which is lined with a vast selection of local eateries, services, and big-box stores. This blend of upscale and everyday options means residents rarely need to venture far for quality groceries, a meal out, or household shopping.

Who Lives Here

Long Bay attracts a mix of permanent residents who value stability, convenience, and a genuine community feel. The neighborhood is popular with established families, mid-career professionals, and long-term locals who work in the city's tourism, healthcare, and education sectors. Its affordability relative to newer golf or waterfront communities also makes it a practical choice for first-time homebuyers in the Myrtle Beach area.

The community vibe is friendly and low-key, with a noticeable absence of the transient tourist population that defines other parts of the city. There is a strong sense of pride of ownership evident in the well-kept homes and yards. Retirees are also drawn to Long Bay for its central location, which simplifies access to medical facilities, shopping, and entertainment without the premium cost of an oceanfront address, creating a diverse, intergenerational neighborhood rooted in everyday coastal living.

Long Bay Market Data

Top Real Estate Agents in Long Bay, Myrtle Beach

Nearby Neighborhoods in Myrtle Beach, SC

← Back to all Myrtle Beach, SC real estate agents

← Back to all South Carolina real estate agents