Guide to Myrtle Beach Bike Week

Apr 4, 2025

Ever heard the roar of thousands of bikes rolling into one place at the same time? That’s what happens every spring in Myrtle Beach when riders from all over the country head to the coast for one of the biggest motorcycle events in the country. Known as The Grand Strand Rally, bike week in Myrtle Beach draws in hundreds of thousands of riders, locals, and visitors each year. It usually runs for about ten days and turns the area into a nonstop mix of live music, vendors, and motorcycles just about everywhere you look.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to expect, where to go, and how to make the most of your time during Bike Week in Myrtle Beach.

The History Behind Myrtle Beach Bike Week

Myrtle Beach Bike Week got its start way back in 1940 when a small group of motorcycle riders gathered along the Grand Strand to enjoy the ocean views and open roads. It wasn’t the massive rally it is today. Just a few dozen riders met up to hang out, ride together, and enjoy the area.

Over time, that casual meetup started to grow, and as more people heard about it and Myrtle Beach became a popular spot, the rally picked up speed. By the 1970s and 1980s, riders from across the region were making the trip each year. These days, it brings in hundreds of thousands of people, with events, vendors, and live music happening throughout the area.

What began as a simple ride has turned into a yearly tradition for many. Once you experience it for yourself, it’s easy to understand why.

When is Bike Week in Myrtle Beach?

Luckily, there are actually two bike weeks in Myrtle Beach each year. The Spring Rally is the one that gets the most attention, but there’s also a Fall Rally for riders who want a second chance to visit later in the year. The spring event is the bigger event out of the two and brings in more people, while the fall version offers a different pace and a different feel. Both give riders a chance to enjoy Myrtle Beach on two wheels, just in different ways.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally

The Spring Rally usually takes place in May and has become one of the most talked-about motorcycle events on the East Coast. Riders pack the streets near Murrells Inlet, head up and down the Grand Strand, and meet at local bars, restaurants, and bike-friendly spots that go all out for the event. You’ll see custom builds, club rides, and people gathering in groups just to check out the bikes rolling by. It’s high energy, busy, and a big part of why this rally has such a strong following. The 2025 Myrtle Beach Bike Week Spring Rally will be held from May 9, 2025 to May 18, 2025. Click HERE for Spring Rally information. 

Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally

The Fall Rally typically happens in early October. It’s smaller than the spring event but still brings out a solid crowd. The weather is usually perfect for riding, and many of the same local hangouts stay active with riders coming in from nearby states. You won’t find the same crowd size as in May, but you’ll still see group rides, pop-up bike shows, and meetups around places like the MarshWalk and the area’s coastal backroads. It gives returning riders a chance to experience Myrtle Beach in a different season. The 2025 Myrtle Beach Bike Week Fall Rally will be held from September 29, 2025 to October 5, 2025. Click HERE for Fall Rally information.

What happens during Bike Week in Myrtle Beach?

Bike Week in Myrtle Beach is packed from morning to night. You’ll see bikes lined up for miles, people hanging out at local spots, and all kinds of events going on around town. Some riders come for the big group rides, others just want to check out the scene or catch up with friends they haven’t seen since last year. No matter what you're into, there’s always something happening.

A List of Activities at Myrtle Beach Bike Week

• Crude's Annual Veteran Ride
• Custom Bike Shows
• Live Music Performances
• Charity Rides
• Motorcycle Demo Rides
• Swap Meets
• Tattoo Contests
• Biker Games and Competitions
• Safety and Skills Workshops
• After-Parties and Social Gatherings

NOTE: this is a general list of events during Myrtle Beach Bike Week 2025 and events that have happened in previous years. This list is subject to yearly change. For up to date information, please visit the official Myrtle Beach Bike Week website. 

Where to Stay for Myrtle Beach Bike Week

With so much going on during Bike Week, it helps to stay somewhere close to the action. A lot of riders book early to lock in good rates and stay near popular meetup spots like Murrells Inlet or North Myrtle Beach. If you’re still looking for a place to stay, here are a few hotels and resorts that are either close to everything or are known for offering deals during Bike Week:

• Grande Shores Ocean Resort
• Avista Resort
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Murrells Inlet
• Myrtle Beach Resort Vacations
• Captain’s Quarters Resort

These spots tend to fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to book as early as you can.

Motorcycle Rides Around the Myrtle Beach Area

When you're not at an event or catching up with other riders, there are some solid spots to explore just outside the main rally areas. The roads around Myrtle Beach are mostly flat and easy to ride, with plenty of spots where you can take a break, grab food, or just enjoy the views. If you want to get out for a ride during Bike Week, here are a few popular routes to check out:

• Murrells Inlet to Georgetown: This ride takes you down Highway 17 with a few scenic spots and some quiet stretches of road. Once you get to Georgetown, you’ll find a small historic district and a few good places to grab lunch.
• Ocean Boulevard along the Grand Strand: This one’s all about the atmosphere. You’ll pass by the beach, local shops, and plenty of other riders. It’s a short ride, but a good one if you want to stay close and enjoy the view.
• Highway 17 from Myrtle Beach to Charleston: If you’re up for a longer ride, this one gives you a mix of beach towns, wooded areas, and open roads. Charleston makes a good turnaround point with restaurants and places to walk around.
• Conway Loop: This route gives you more of a quiet, backroad feel just west of the beach. It’s a nice way to slow things down for a bit and ride through some rural areas.
• North Myrtle Beach to Sunset Beach, NC: This is a quick ride up the coast that crosses into North Carolina. It’s a smooth and easy trip with a relaxing vibe and a few places to stop along the way.

Want a Local to Show You Around While You're in Town?

Bike Week gives you plenty of time to explore beyond the rally spots, and the Carolina coast has some great riding. Riders Share offers motorcycle tours in North Carolina led by locals who know the coastal highways and scenic backroads north of the Grand Strand. If you're arriving early, staying late, or just want to get away from the crowds for a day, a guided ride is a great way to see more of the area without planning every turn yourself.

Myrtle Beach Motorcycle Rentals with Riders Share

If you’re heading to Biker Week in Myrtle Beach and need a ride, Riders Share has you covered. We offer the largest selection of motorcycle rentals in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas, so you’ll have no trouble finding something that works for you. Whether you're flying in or just want to try out a different bike for the week, booking a motorcycle rental in Myrtle Beach through Riders Share is a convenient way to be part of the action. Rentals come from real riders, and the whole process is built with fellow riders in mind.

Myrtle Beach Bike Week & SC Motorcycle Riding FAQ

Is South Carolina motorcycle friendly?

Yes, South Carolina is a motorcycle-friendly state. The roads are well-maintained, the weather is usually great for riding, and the state hosts several major motorcycle events throughout the year. You’ll find plenty of routes to explore and a strong riding community, especially during Bike Week.

Is there a helmet law in Myrtle Beach?

South Carolina only requires helmets for riders and passengers under 21. If you’re 21 or older, wearing a helmet is your choice. That said, we recommend all riders and passengers wear a helmet, especially on longer rides or highways.

Is Myrtle Beach safe during Bike Week?

Yes, Myrtle Beach is generally safe during Bike Week, but like any large event, it’s smart to stay alert. Most people are there to have a good time and enjoy the rally, but it's still a good idea to keep an eye on your surroundings, especially in busy areas or late at night.

How crowded is Myrtle Beach during Bike Week?

It gets very crowded, especially during the Spring Rally. Expect heavy traffic on major roads, packed parking lots, and long lines at restaurants and bars. If you’re riding through town, give yourself extra time and be patient—there are bikes everywhere.

Join In on This Year’s Fun!

If you’ve been thinking about checking out Bike Week at Myrtle Beach, this is a good year to do it. The energy, the rides, and the people make it a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years, there’s always something new to see and do. Grab a bike, make some plans, and get ready for a week that’s all about riding and having a good time. For more information on Bike Week 2025, check out our blog: Myrtle Beach Bike Week 2025 Information - All You Need to Know at the link below.