Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, known for its stunning beaches, thrilling attractions, and vibrant entertainment scene. If you’re visiting for a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or an adventure-packed trip, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a complete guide to the top 10 things to do in Myrtle Beach to make the most of your visit!
Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
1. Enjoy the Sun & Surf at Myrtle Beach
The heart of the city is its pristine shoreline, stretching for 60 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. This golden-sand beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Highlights:
- Relax on the beach – Find a spot to lay your towel and enjoy the ocean breeze.
- Water activities – Try jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and paddleboarding.
- Fishing piers – Cast a line off Apache Pier or Cherry Grove Pier.
- Sunrise strolls – The sunrises here are absolutely breathtaking!
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months.
2. Stroll Along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
One of the most iconic attractions in Myrtle Beach, this 1.2-mile-long boardwalk is packed with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Highlights:
- Myrtle Beach SkyWheel – One of the tallest Ferris wheels in the U.S. with breathtaking views.
- Live entertainment – Street performers and free concerts at Plyler Park.
- Souvenir shopping – Pick up beach gear, taffy, and souvenirs at local shops.
- Fireworks shows – Check out the spectacular nightly fireworks in summer.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the best ocean views and a lively boardwalk atmosphere.
3. Have a Blast at Broadway at the Beach
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This entertainment and shopping complex is one of the top attractions in Myrtle Beach, offering restaurants, bars, family-friendly fun, and nightlife.
Highlights:
- Ripley’s Aquarium – See sharks, stingrays, and even walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by marine life.
- WonderWorks – An interactive “upside-down” science museum with hands-on exhibits.
- The Simpsons 4D Experience – A fun, immersive ride for cartoon fans.
- The Pavilion Nostalgia Park – A retro amusement park with classic rides.
- Restaurants & nightlife – Eat at Hard Rock Café, Margaritaville, or Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.
Pro Tip: Plan to spend at least half a day here—there’s so much to see and do!
4. Explore Brookgreen Gardens
This beautiful 9,100-acre sculpture garden and wildlife preserve is a peaceful retreat from the bustling beaches.
Highlights:
- Sculpture Garden – Stunning works of art set against lush landscapes.
- Lowcountry Zoo – Home to rescued native animals like otters, alligators, and foxes.
- Botanical Gardens – Featuring seasonal flowers, fountains, and walking trails.
- Gullah Cultural Exhibit – Learn about the rich African American heritage of the region.
Pro Tip: Take a guided boat tour to explore the historic rice plantations within the gardens.
5. Take a Dolphin Cruise or Go Deep Sea Fishing
Myrtle Beach is one of the best places to spot dolphins in the wild! You can take a dolphin-watching tour or charter a fishing boat for an unforgettable day on the water.
Highlights:
- Dolphin Tours – Hop on a dolphin-watching cruise with companies like Voyager Deep Sea Fishing & Dolphin Cruises.
- Fishing Charters – Catch king mackerel, grouper, and snapper on an offshore fishing trip.
- Sunset Cruises – A romantic way to end the day, featuring stunning coastal views.
Pro Tip: Book a morning cruise for the best chance to see dolphins when they are most active.
6. Visit Family Kingdom Amusement Park
One of the few oceanfront amusement parks in the U.S., Family Kingdom offers thrills for all ages.
Highlights:
- Swamp Fox Roller Coaster – A classic wooden coaster with ocean views.
- Log Flume Ride – A refreshing splash ride perfect for hot days.
- Go-Karts & Bumper Cars – Fun activities for kids and adults alike.
- Splashes Water Park – A great way to cool off with water slides and a lazy river.
Pro Tip: Admission is free, and you only pay for the rides you want to go on!
7. Play a Round of Mini-Golf
Myrtle Beach is known as the “Mini-Golf Capital of the World”, featuring over 50 themed courses.
Best Courses to Try:
- Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf – A Greek mythology-themed course with towering structures.
- Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf – A Peter Pan-inspired course with waterfalls and caves.
- Dragon’s Lair Fantasy Golf – A medieval fantasy course with fire-breathing dragons.
Pro Tip:
Most courses stay open late into the night, making it a great evening activity!
8. Check Out the Hollywood Wax Museum
A fun attraction featuring life-like wax figures of your favorite celebrities, movie stars, and musicians.
Highlights:
- Pose with wax figures – Take selfies with Brad Pitt, Beyoncé, and Johnny Depp.
- Zombie Escape Experience – A fun, interactive haunted house challenge.
- Mirror Maze Adventure – A tricky and fun experience for all ages.
Pro Tip: Bundle tickets with Ripley’s Aquarium for extra savings.
9. Enjoy Live Entertainment & Dinner Shows
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Myrtle Beach is famous for its dinner theaters and live performances.
Best Shows to See:
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show – A swashbuckling adventure with acrobatics and a delicious meal.
- The Carolina Opry – A classic variety show featuring music, comedy, and dance.
- Medieval Times – Enjoy a feast while watching knights joust in a medieval castle.
- Alabama Theatre – Home to country music and variety performances.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak summer months.
10. Take a Day Trip to Murrells Inlet
Located 20 minutes south of Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet is a quaint fishing village known for its seafood and outdoor adventures.
Highlights:
- MarshWalk – A scenic boardwalk with incredible waterfront dining.
- Fresh Seafood – Try the famous Calabash-style seafood at Drunken Jack’s.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore the beautiful salt marshes.
Pro Tip: Take a sunset boat cruise for some of the best views in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
1. What are the must-visit attractions in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all interests. Some of the top must-visit places include:
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade – A lively oceanfront strip filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
- Myrtle Beach SkyWheel – One of the tallest Ferris wheels on the East Coast, offering panoramic views.
- Broadway at the Beach – A massive entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Brookgreen Gardens – A stunning sculpture garden and wildlife preserve.
- Myrtle Beach State Park – A beautiful, less crowded spot with nature trails and fishing piers.
- Ripley’s Aquarium – A popular attraction with a glass tunnel walk-through shark exhibit.
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show – A live-action pirate-themed performance with a full meal.
2. What is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for:
- Spring (March–May): Warm weather, fewer crowds, and blooming gardens.
- Summer (June–August): Peak season with hot temperatures, beach fun, and lively nightlife.
- Fall (September–November): Mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices.
- Winter (December–February): Cooler weather but great for golf, shopping, and holiday events.
Best time for beach lovers: Late May to early September.
Best time for budget travelers: Late fall and winter.
3. Are there free things to do in Myrtle Beach?
Yes! You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Myrtle Beach. Some great free activities include:
- Relaxing on the Beach – The beaches are open to the public and free to access.
- Strolling the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk – Enjoy the ocean views and street entertainment.
- Visiting Broadway at the Beach – Window shop, people-watch, and see free entertainment.
- Exploring Brookgreen Gardens (Certain areas have free admission days).
- Hiking at Myrtle Beach State Park – A small entry fee, but free if you have a state park pass.
- Watching the Fireworks – Weekly summer fireworks at Broadway at the Beach and the Boardwalk.
4. What are the best family-friendly activities?
Myrtle Beach is a top family vacation destination, offering activities for kids of all ages.
- Children’s Museum of South Carolina – Hands-on exhibits and fun for younger kids.
- Ripley’s Aquarium – Walk through an underwater tunnel with sharks and stingrays.
- Family Kingdom Amusement Park – Classic seaside amusement park with roller coasters and water rides.
- WonderWorks – A science museum filled with interactive exhibits and an indoor ropes course.
- Myrtle Waves Water Park – The largest water park in South Carolina.
5. How many days should I spend in Myrtle Beach?
- 1-2 days: Focus on the beach, Boardwalk, and Broadway at the Beach.
- 3-4 days: Add in amusement parks, dolphin cruises, and mini-golf.
- 5+ days: Explore nearby attractions like Murrells Inlet, Brookgreen Gardens, and day trips to Charleston.
6. What’s the best way to get around Myrtle Beach?
- Car Rental – The most convenient way to explore the area.
- Shuttle Services – Some hotels offer free shuttle services to major attractions.
- Walking & Biking – The Boardwalk and certain areas are pedestrian-friendly.
- Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft) – Available but can be expensive during peak season.
7. What are the best places for shopping?
- Tanger Outlets – Great deals on name-brand stores.
- Broadway at the Beach – Unique boutiques and souvenir shops.
- Coastal Grand Mall – A traditional shopping mall with a variety of stores.
- Barefoot Landing – A scenic shopping area with specialty shops.
8. What food is Myrtle Beach known for?
Myrtle Beach is famous for its fresh seafood and Southern cuisine. Must-try dishes include:
- Calabash Seafood – Lightly battered and fried seafood, best at Sea Captain’s House or Drunken Jack’s.
- She-Crab Soup – A creamy, rich soup made with blue crab.
- Lowcountry Boil – A mix of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
- Gator Bites – Yes, you can try fried alligator here!
- Peach Cobbler – A classic Southern dessert.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach is packed with exciting attractions, natural beauty, and fun experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re here for the beaches, amusement parks, golf, or nightlife, there’s never a dull moment!
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