Tales from the Tide: Myrtle Beach's Ghostly Legends and Lore

Myrtle Beach, known for its sun-soaked shores, world-class entertainment, and vibrant boardwalk, also harbors a spine-chilling secret: a rich tapestry of ghost stories and haunted legends that add an eerie twist to its picturesque landscape. As you stroll along the sandy beaches or enjoy a night out, you might just find yourself sharing space with spirits from the past. Here are some of the most captivating ghost stories that haunt our beloved beach town.

The Grey Man of Pawleys Island

One of the most famous specters in the Myrtle Beach area is the Grey Man, a ghostly figure often seen on Pawleys Island. Legend has it that he materializes prior to hurricanes to warn residents to evacuate.

Sightings of the Grey Man often describe him as a tall figure dressed in grey clothing, who vanishes as quickly as he appears. Locals believe that those who heed his warning are spared from disaster, making him a protector or guardian spirit. Read more about the Grey Man here.

Alice Flagg's Tragic Tale

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Another haunting story revolves around Alice Flagg, a young woman from the 1800s. Her story is a romantic but tragic tale. Alice Flagg was part of an upper-class family and she fell in love with a man in a class lower than her own. Her brother, a doctor and respected member of the community, found out about the romance and demanded that Alice stop seeing the man. Alice continued to see her beloved and they became engaged.

Alice was sent away to boarding school in Charleston but her love endured. She remained engaged and wore her engagement ring on a ribbon around her neck. Alice became gravely ill and was sent home. While she was lying on her sickbed, her brother discovered the ring, tore it away from her, and threw it out the window into the marsh. Alice’s fever caused her to become restless. Her fever, compounded with her longing for her fiancé, caused Alice to beg anyone and everyone to help her find her ring. Unfortunately, no one ever went against her brother’s wishes and Alice passed away without her ring or her love.

It is said that her spirit roams the All Saints Episcopal Church Cemetery, searching for her lost ring. To summon her, some believe you must walk around her grave backward thirteen times while calling her name. Many visitors report feeling a mysterious tug on their own rings during these encounters.

The Haunted Brentwood Restaurant

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Dining at the Brentwood Restaurant and Wine Bistro is not just a culinary experience; it’s also a brush with the supernatural. This historic venue, once a home, is known for its ghostly occurrences, including objects moving on their own and unexplained noises. Diners have reported seeing apparitions in the windows, adding an unexpected thrill to their meals. Special ghost dinners are even offered, allowing patrons to enjoy fine dining alongside tales of the paranormal.

Plyler Park's Eerie Atmosphere

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Plyler Park, a popular gathering spot, is not just known for its fun activities; it also has a reputation for ghostly happenings. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, including cold spots and the feeling of being watched.

Some who visit Plyler Park have experienced strange noises that cannot be easily explained. These sounds range from whispers and footsteps to sudden cold drafts. Some witnesses claim to have heard laughter or cries echoing through the trees, adding to the park's haunted reputation. These auditory occurrences frequently happen in the park's quiet moments, hinting that they could be echoes from the past.

The park's history, intertwined with the lives of those who once inhabited the area, contributes to its haunted reputation. Ghost tours often include this location, where guides share stories of the spirits that linger in the shadows.

The Lucas Bay Light

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Just outside Myrtle Beach, the "Lucas Bay Light" is a local legend that dates back to the Civil War. Many believe it to be the ghost of a mother searching for her missing child, lost during a flood.

The light appears in the swamp off Gilbert Road (previously named Lucas Bay Road) , drawing curious onlookers hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious glow. This haunting tale adds intrigue to the natural beauty surrounding Myrtle Beach.

The Legend of Drunken Jack

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The legend of Drunken Jack is closely tied to the infamous pirate Blackbeard and the waters of Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.

According to the tale, Blackbeard and his crew of pirates landed in Murrells Inlet in the early 1700s with a large booty of rum. They decided to bury most of their rum treasure on a small island in the inlet, keeping only enough for a night of celebration.

The pirates, including a crew member named Jack, spent the night feasting on oysters and shrimp while drinking heavily. The next morning, nursing massive hangovers, Blackbeard and his crew hastily set sail after discovering a British vessel sailing their way, accidentally leaving Jack behind on the island.

Two years later, when Blackbeard and his crew returned to the inlet, they made a grim discovery. They found 32 empty barrels of rum and the skeletal remains of their forgotten comrade, Jack. The poor pirate had apparently spent his final days drinking all the buried rum before perishing on the island.

In honor of their ill-fated crew member, Blackbeard and his men named the island "Drunken Jack Island". Jack is said to return to the island on some nights, in search of more rum to drink.

The story has become a local legend, with the island still bearing his name today. Drunken Jack's restaurant is a locals seafood favorite that also honors the restaurant's namesake.

The Bowery's Ghostly Patron

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The Bowery, a Myrtle Beach landmark, is known for its lively atmosphere and ghostly activity. Legend has it that a man known as "Barman Joe" died suddenly on his barstool, but miraculously sprang to life soon thereafter just long enough to finish off his brew.

Patrons have reported hearing his voice singing near the bar, making for a hauntingly entertaining experience.

By the way, country supergroup Alabama, which was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2005, served as the house band at The Bowery for much of the 1970s.

Celebrate the Spooky Season with Us

Myrtle Beach may be a paradise for sun-seekers and beach lovers, but it also offers a unique glimpse into the supernatural. From tragic love stories to protective spirits, Myrtle Beach's ghost tales are as captivating as the ocean waves. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, these stories add an exciting twist to your next Myrtle Beach vacation at Grand Palms Resort, reminding us that even in paradise, the past can linger in unexpected ways. So, next time you're in Myrtle Beach, keep your eyes peeled—you never know what ghostly encounters await! Call 888-913-4477 for reservations.