North Myrtle Beach has long outgrown its reputation as a simple boardwalk snack town. As of mid-2026, the local pizza scene has matured into a diverse landscape of wood-fired artisans, New York transplants, and family-owned institutions that have survived decades of shifting tides. Whether you are coming off a long day at Cherry Grove Beach or looking for a late-night pie after a show at Barefoot Landing, the options are extensive, but only a few truly stand out for consistency and flavor.

The Authentic Brick Oven Contenders

For those who prioritize the char and the smoky aroma of a traditional oven, two spots currently dominate the conversation.

Benito’s Brick Oven Pizza & Pasta on Highway 17 South remains a cornerstone of the local dining scene. There is a specific texture to a Benito’s crust—blistered on the edges but maintaining a structural integrity that prevents the "center-flop" often found in lesser wood-fired pies. The Quattro Formaggi is a local favorite here; it is not just a heavy layer of cheese, but a balanced blend that highlights the creaminess of ricotta against the sharpness of gorgonzola. The atmosphere is neighborhood-centric, making it more of a sit-down dinner destination than a quick slice stop.

Further south, Rapone Brick Oven Pizza offers what many consider a more sophisticated take on the Italian classic. The focus here is on premium toppings and a thinner, crisper profile. The Prosciutto & Arugula pie is a testament to their ingredient sourcing—the greens stay crisp, and the saltiness of the ham balances the rich mozzarella. If the goal is a quieter, glass-of-wine kind of evening, Rapone’s elevated vibe provides a necessary contrast to the high-energy beach bars nearby.

The New York Slice and The Main Street Shuffle

If the criteria for the best pizza in north myrtle beach involve a foldable slice and a thin, orange-rimmed crust, then the focus shifts toward the Main Street corridor and Highway 17 North.

Gino’s NY Style Pizzeria is the definitive answer for those seeking no-frills authenticity. This is where the "fold test" is passed with flying colors. The slices are oversized, the sauce is tangy rather than sweet, and the service is intentionally fast. It is the quintessential grab-and-go option for a beach day. The white pizza, heavy on the garlic and ricotta, is frequently cited as the sleeper hit of the menu.

Down on Main Street, Daniello’s Pizzeria & Pub offers a middle ground between a sports bar and a traditional pizzeria. Their pepperoni slices are notable for the slight "cup" and char that high-quality meat produces under heat. It is a loud, lively environment where the pizza serves as the perfect fuel for a night of exploring the local nightlife. For a slightly different flavor profile, their Buffalo Ranch Chicken pizza provides a spicy, creamy alternative that avoids the sogginess often associated with heavy toppings.

The Family Legacies: Staying Power in NMB

You cannot discuss the local food landscape without mentioning the institutions that have been serving the Grand Strand for nearly half a century. King’s Famous Pizza & Pasta is the gold standard for family-style Italian dining in the area. Having operated for over 45 years, it has become a generational tradition for returning vacationers. The crust here leans toward a classic medium thickness—substantial enough to satisfy a large group but still airy. The Supreme pizza is their calling card, loaded with a density of toppings that most modern franchises simply cannot match.

Georgio’s Famous Pizza on Main Street is another old-school contender. While some might find the dining room a bit nostalgic, the House Special remains a crowd-pleaser for those who want a reliable, traditional American-Italian pie. It is the kind of place that hasn't felt the need to change because the original recipe still works.

Unique Styles and Coastal Creative Pies

Not every great pizza follows the New York or Neapolitan blueprint. Some of the most popular spots in 2026 are those that have carved out a niche with specific regional styles.

Ledo Pizza brings a distinct Maryland-style influence to Highway 17 North. They are famous for their square-cut, thin-crust pizzas. Unlike the standard mozzarella-heavy pies, Ledo uses a high-quality smoked provolone that gives the pizza a unique, slightly savory profile. The sweet sauce is a polarizing but beloved feature, and the square cut makes it an ideal choice for feeding children or serving as an appetizer at a beach house party.

At Barefoot Landing, Ultimate California Pizza targets the crowd looking for innovation. This is not the place for purists, but it is the place for variety. With options ranging from BBQ chicken to vegan and gluten-free alternatives, it caters to the diverse dietary needs of large groups. The "Big Kahuna" style approach—piling on tropical and savory ingredients—works surprisingly well in the humid coastal climate of North Myrtle Beach.

The Logistics of a Great Pie: Delivery and Takeout

In a vacation town, the best pizza is often the one that arrives at your door while it is still hot.

  • For Speed and Reliability: Hungry Howie’s is often the go-to for many locals due to their flavored crusts (the Cajun and Garlic Herb remain top sellers) and efficient delivery network along the south end of the beach.
  • For the Cherry Grove Crowd: If you are staying on the north end, Babaka’s Pizzeria on Sea Mountain Highway is a vital resource. Their proximity to the residential rentals in Cherry Grove means the pizza doesn't spend 30 minutes in a delivery car. Their cheese pizza is remarkably affordable and consistently hits the mark for a late-afternoon snack.
  • For the Late-Night Fix: NY Pizza Kitchen on Main Street often stays active later than the more formal restaurants, providing a reliable option for those coming off the beach after sunset.

How to Choose Your NMB Pizza Spot

Choosing the best pizza in north myrtle beach depends entirely on the context of your meal. The local market is specialized enough that one size does not fit all:

  1. For a Date Night: Choose Crave Italian Oven & Bar. The atmosphere is stylish, the bar program is robust, and the Margherita pizza is handled with a level of delicacy that fits a more formal evening.
  2. For a Large Family with Kids: King’s Famous Pizza or Ledo Pizza are the logical choices. They are used to high volume, the prices are reasonable for the quantity, and the menus are broad enough to satisfy picky eaters.
  3. For the Solo Traveler or Quick Bite: Gino’s NY Style or a quick slice from Daniello’s on Main Street will get you back to the sand the fastest.
  4. For the Pizza Purist: Benito’s or Rapone. The commitment to the brick oven method is evident in every bite, and these establishments represent the highest culinary tier of pizza in the region.

As the 2026 season progresses, these establishments continue to set the bar. While new pop-ups and franchise locations appear every year along Highway 17, the core group of pizzerias mentioned here remains the backbone of the North Myrtle Beach dining experience. They offer more than just food; they provide a sense of place in a town that thrives on tradition and the simple pleasure of a well-made pie by the ocean.