The rhythmic pulse of the dance floor has defined South Carolina’s Grand Strand for over half a century, creating a cultural legacy that refuses to fade. From the mid-century era, when teenagers flocked to North Myrtle Beach to “shag” the night away at the old Pavilion, to the modern-day dominance of high-energy nightclubs, Myrtle Beach remains a premier destination for those looking to move. This enduring passion for choreography isn’t just limited to the coastline, however; it finds its mirror in the high-stakes world of competitive television, where new stars like Diego Pooth are currently making history.

The Historic Roots of the Carolina Shag

Long before the advent of modern EDM, the sounds of big bands and jukeboxes echoed across the moonlit Atlantic waves. In the 1950s and ‘60s, the sawdust-strewn floors of beachfront clubs became the birthplace of the Carolina Shag, South Carolina’s official state dance. Today, that tradition is kept alive at legendary institutions like Fat Harold’s Beach Club and the OD Arcade & Lounge.

Known as the “Home of the Shag,” Fat Harold’s may look like a simple shack from the outside, but it serves as a multi-generational hub where everyone from college students to Baby Boomers gathers to celebrate the beach lifestyle. Similarly, the OD Arcade & Lounge remains a cornerstone of the community, hosting the Society of Shaggers (SOS) events where generations of dancers continue to slip and slide across the sand-covered floors.

Coastal Treasures and Diverse Rhythms

The Myrtle Beach nightlife scene offers far more than just nostalgia, providing a rhythm for every demographic. Ocean Annie’s Beach Bar has remained a staple for over two decades, offering a sun-soaked party atmosphere where guests can dance right on the pool deck or even in the water. For those seeking a bit of “hidden treasure,” the Spanish Galleon in North Myrtle Beach provides a high-energy mix of traditional beach music and modern beats, famously serving as the host for national shag dancing competitions.

The diversity of the Grand Strand is perhaps best exemplified by the contrast between The Bowery and Club Oz. The Bowery, a world-famous “hole-in-the-wall” honky-tonk, is where the country super-group Alabama famously began as the house band. It remains a must-see for fans of live country music. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Club Oz at Broadway at the Beach brings a “big city” flair to the coast. With Latin beats, techno sounds, and state-of-the-art light shows, it caters to a trendy, young crowd that prefers a faster pace.

Modern Beats and Inclusive Spaces

As the nightlife landscape evolves, venues like Malibu’s Surf Bar and 2001 Nightclub have solidified their place in the local lineup. Malibu’s, a beach-themed club at Broadway, is a favorite for the 20-something crowd, featuring top-tier DJs and popular “Ladies’ Night” specials. Meanwhile, 2001 Nightclub offers a “three-clubs-in-one” experience, housing Razzie’s Beach Club and Funky Town, ensuring that different musical tastes can coexist under one roof.

Even the younger demographic has a dedicated space to experience the energy of a nightclub. The VUE at Karma offers an alcohol-free environment for those 18 and over, featuring high-definition sound and video walls. This allows the next generation of dancers to enjoy a professional club atmosphere without the adult themes typically found in late-night venues. For a more soulful experience, the House of Blues at Barefoot Landing combines Cajun cuisine with world-class jazz and blues, including their renowned Sunday Gospel Brunch.

A New Era of Champions: Diego Pooth’s Double Triumph

While the social clubs of Myrtle Beach celebrate the joy of the dance, the professional stage recently crowned a new king of the ballroom. In a stunning display of talent, 22-year-old Diego Pooth secured his place in dance history by winning the 2025 “Let’s Dance” Christmas Special. This victory marks Pooth’s second major title of the year, following his earlier win in the main season, a feat that places him in an elite circle of performers.

Dancing alongside professional partner Ekaterina Leonova, Pooth delivered a performance that left both the jury and the audience in awe. Despite a slight wobble during a complex lift in their Slow Waltz, which earned them 27 points, the duo rebounded perfectly in their second performance. Their Jive was a masterclass in precision and energy, earning a perfect score of 30 points and clinching the “Christmas Dancing Star” trophy.

Legacy and the Future of the Floor

Pooth’s success mirrors the dedication found in the shag pits of South Carolina. The young star, who recently moved in with his girlfriend and their French Bulldog, Daisy, has been praised for his humble demeanor and tireless work ethic. By winning the double title, he joins the ranks of past champions like Anna Ermakova and Rúrik Gíslason, proving that the art of the dance is as competitive as it is celebratory.

Whether it is a sawdust-covered floor in North Myrtle Beach or a glittering television studio in Cologne, the drive to “dance the night away” remains a powerful cultural force. From the historic beach music of the 1950s to the televised triumphs of 2025, the dance floor continues to be a place where history is made and legacies are born.