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ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WACH, WCIV) -  Cheaper gas prices is creating booming business at the beach.

According to AAA Carolinas, South Carolina has the cheapest gas in the nation, which has many tourists and locals heading to the beach.

Many businesses on Isle of Palms said the Memorial Day weekend has been busier than usual, thanks to the dropping gas prices and the good weather.

Coconut Joe's manager Debra Butt says says she already seen more traffic on Isle of Palms.

"Anytime gas prices are lower for people who are coming from places like Greenville or somewhere, we have found it makes our business better," Butt said. "It makes it easier for people to travel for short trips which Memorial Day really is that three day weekend."

And thanks to cheaper gas, business is up in other places too, like at the Seaside Inn.

"Gas is higher than it was last year of course, but the fact that they've seen it creep down a little has made people a little better about paying more to stay somewhere," said Front Desk Supervisor Tanya Brown.

Hotel leaders said they've seen more first time guests, and extended stay visitors, than in years past.

"We have noticed that we've picked up a lot more business. People are willing to stay a little longer. to enjoy the vacation time and beach," Brown said.

Leaders are also thankful for the beautiful weather blanketing the lowcountry.

"Because of the fact that the weather is good a lot of people end up staying an extra night," Brown said.

Boardwalk Food owner Larry Linville is happy to see the sunny skies. He said this weekend has been his businesses best since opening in 2006.

"Looks like we are going to beat our record from last year, looks like this Memorial Day weekend is probably going to be the best three days so far since we've been in business," Linville said.

More tourists also means more traffic this Memorial Day.

Highway Patrol officials say they encourage people to practice patience while on the road over the holiday. Travel experts estimate 420,000 South Carolinians are expected to hit the roads over the course of the holiday weekend.

(WCIV contributed to this report.)