Visit Myrtle Beach expands sensory-friendly efforts

With April marking U.S. National Autism Acceptance Month, Visit Myrtle Beach is expanding its sensory-friendly initiatives this year.

From a children’s book that inspires neurodiverse travel to a television series on Peacock featuring travellers on the autism spectrum, the family-friendly destination is amplifying its dedication to accessibility.

The destination continues to lead the way with a wide range of certified autism-friendly attractions, accommodations and experiences, ensuring that families and travelers of all abilities can enjoy a welcoming vacation.

Visit Myrtle Beach has released a new children’s book, “Splish, Splash, Squawk! Finding Joy in a Sensory-Friendly Vacation” created to help families with children on the autism spectrum feel more confident and excited about travel.

Available through White Garment Publishing Group and now on Amazon, the story encourages families to embrace the magic of vacation while gently addressing sensory sensitivities in a fun and accessible way.

This spring, Visit Myrtle Beach will also debut the first AI-powered travel assistant created by a destination specifically for neurodiverse families.

Named Maris after the main character in “Splish, Splash, Squawk!”, the virtual guide will live on the Visit Myrtle Beach website and provide personalized recommendations for sensory-friendly experiences, tips on accessibility and guidance for navigating the destination with ease.

The new docu-series, “Travelling the Spectrum,” is also now available on the Peacock streaming network.

Created in partnership with The WorkShop Content Studios, the unscripted show follows the inspiring stories of three families with members on the autism spectrum as they take sensory-friendly vacations to the Myrtle Beach area, showcasing the transformative power of travel.

“We want every family who visits to feel welcome and better understood,” said Stuart Butler, chief marketing officer at Visit Myrtle Beach, in a statement. “By listening to personal stories and working with experts in the autism community, we’re learning how to create travel experiences that are more inclusive. It’s a collaborative effort and we’re proud to see our community and tourism partners embracing these efforts in such a meaningful way.”

Accessible trip-planning resources and more information on the numerous initiatives to promote and foster inclusivity throughout the region (including a sensory-friendly pledge and partnerships with the Autism Travel Club and Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program) can be found at visitmyrtlebeach.com/autism.

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