Question 1

What is the "Broadway at the Beach Kiosk Overpricing" scam in Myrtle Beach?

Accepted Answer

Vendor kiosks throughout the Broadway at the Beach entertainment complex — particularly in the central walkway areas near Celebrity Square and the lake — use aggressive "discount" framing to move overpriced merchandise including electronics accessories, skin care products, sunglasses, and novelty items. A common tactic is advertising a product at an artificially inflated "retail" price of $80–120 and then "discounting" it to $45 on the spot; the actual wholesale value is $5–10. Staff station themselves in walkways, physically approach passersby, and use high-touch demos to create an obligation to buy. Do not accept any product demonstration from a kiosk vendor without intending to buy. Walk past vendors who step into your path. If interested in a product, research its real price on your phone before engaging. Never take your wallet out at a kiosk without a firm price agreement.

Question 2

What is the "Ocean Boulevard Boardwalk Vendor Pressure" scam in Myrtle Beach?

Accepted Answer

Along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade — stretching from 14th Avenue South to the SkyWheel at 1110 N Ocean Blvd — and on Ocean Boulevard itself, roving vendors and booth operators sell items at prices far above their value while using aggressive tactics to prevent buyers from walking away once engaged. Common goods include hermit crabs sold as "low-maintenance pets" (they are not, and the accessories cost far more than the animal), airbrush t-shirts quoted at one price and rung up at another, and cheap sunglasses described as UV-400 designer brands. Short-change arithmetic is also a documented complaint at cash-only stands. Agree on a final price before handing over cash, and watch the transaction carefully. Check your change before leaving the stand. Never take custody of a product — including picking up a hermit crab — before agreeing to a price.

Question 3

What is the "Street Jewelry and Sunglasses Vendors on Ocean Boulevard" scam in Myrtle Beach?

Accepted Answer

Mobile vendors operating on and near Ocean Boulevard during peak summer season sell knockoff designer sunglasses, cheap jewelry, and beach accessories at prices presented as bargains. The quality is uniformly poor, warranties or return policies do not exist, and the products often break within days. Some vendors pressure buyers to take items without providing accurate pricing until after the customer has handled the goods. Do not engage with vendors who approach you on the street. Purchase beach accessories from fixed retail locations with posted prices and a return policy. Walk away if a vendor uses high-pressure tactics.

Street Scams in Myrtle Beach

Broadway at the Beach Kiosk Overpricing

Ocean Boulevard Boardwalk Vendor Pressure

Street Jewelry and Sunglasses Vendors on Ocean Boulevard

Experienced a scam here?