32 Best Things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach right is up there with the best places to visit in the US. My family visited Myrtle Beach every winter and it was one of the first road trips Dave and I ever took together. For snowbirds, Myrtle Beach is a great alternative to Florida when heading south for Spring Break. This resort city is great for families and adults alike with endless sandy beaches, golf courses, (both full and mini), and plenty of attractions to keep you busy.

This guide will cover the very best of Myrtle Beach attractions. These are the 32 best things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Top Things To Do in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is located on South Carolina’s 60-mile Grand Strand coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and is popular for all things entertainment. Whether you want to spend a day in a theme park or stroll along Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Myrtle Beach offers many activities and attractions to keep you on your toes. So, what are all the things to do in Myrtle Beach? Let’s get started.

Flying into Myrtle Beach? Book your airport transfer to arrive in comfort. Sit back and relax in your private sedan as your driver takes you to the greater Myrtle Beach area. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

1. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The famous Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is an oceanfront promenade that runs 1.2 miles along Myrtle Beach’s Atlantic Ocean waterfront. The boardwalk is incredibly traditional and has that old Victorian seaside appeal. You’ll pass attractions like the SkyWheel (more on that later), and little food stands – all while having the beach as a stunning backdrop.

As a bonus, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is short enough to be family-friendly. Walking along Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is easily one of the top attractions in Myrtle Beach. It is also commonly used to just get around the tourist areas, and you’ll probably walk along Myrtle Beach Boardwalk as you venture between attractions.

Looking for something different? Take a surfing lesson right on Myrtle Beach with a CPR-certified and trained instructor. I remember body surfing the waves at Myrtle Beach and this place is great for beginners. Get more details here

2. Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Family Kingdom Amusement Park is a fun place to head for a few hours of giggles and thrill rides. The park is filled with 37 different amusement park rides, including bumper cars and fairground rides like Sling Shot. The park is spread over 13 acres and is located right on the coastline – perfect for enjoying beach views mid-ride if you can keep your eyes open.

Amusement parks are the holy grail of most seaside destinations. Family Kingdom Amusement Park is easily one of Myrtle Beach’s most fun tourist attractions. Whether you are a couple, family, or solo traveler, the park is a great place to unwind and let loose.

3. Myrtle Waves Water Park

Fancy something slightly different from an amusement park? Visiting Myrtle Waves Water Park is one of the most fun things to do in Myrtle Beach. Again, this attraction is family-friendly yet also a great option to keep fun-loving adults entertained. You’ll find many rides – from a lazy river to a wave pool. There are over 20 slides to try out and over 1.2 million gallons of water split between pools and rides.

Myrtle Waves is the largest water park in South Carolina. If you love exciting rides and are looking for an activity to cool off on a hot day, Myrtle Waves Water Park is the answer to “what shall we do today”.

Looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach at night? Book your seat at this Polynesian Fire Luau to enjoy a buffet dinner followed by an hour-long fire and dance by performers from Polynesia.

4. Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach State Park spans more than 2,500 acres of beach and wetland reserve. Visitors can wander the miles of boardwalks and nature trails – spotting fascinating local wildlife like sea turtles and the occasional alligator.

Huntington Beach State Park is the perfect wildlife reserve for a sunny day and a chance to admire beautiful animals in their natural habitat. The Kerrigan Nature Trail is where you’ll find the best boardwalk in the park, and you cross a lagoon that you can peer into to spot wildlife.

The park isn’t just all nature either; it has a huge castle from the 1930s. Atalaya Castle is open for self-guided exploration and makes a great end to a day at the state park.

This Segway Tour of Huntington Beach State Park is a unique and fun way to observe wildlife such as alligators, turtles and birds. Glide through the park with ease covering ground quickly and end at the Morrish style Atalaya castle to explore on your own.

5. Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach State Park is one of the most peaceful and scenic spots in the tourist region of Myrtle Beach. The park is frequented by sea turtles, and its waters have lots of fish, which makes it a famous surf fishing location. The park is split between a stretch of beach, sandy grasslands, and an oceanfront forest. If you love adventuring, the terrain is diverse and exciting to explore.

Visitors can stop by the Nature Center, walk through the forest on nature trails, head to the beach, or go to the ‘fishing pier’ to try their luck. Myrtle Beach State Park is a great attraction if you want a few hours to reconnect with nature and escape the busy promenade.

Barefoot Landing couldn’t be any more different to Myrtle Beach State Park. Barefoot Landing is an urbanized metropolis, and the retail and entertainment village is a prime destination for shoppers and those looking for flashy, fast-paced entertainment. You’ll find a theater, restaurants, and more shops than you can count. Treat yourself to a meal or a new outfit. Alternatively, just enjoy the window-shopping experience.

Visiting Barefoot Landing is a fantastic activity on a rainy day. And shopping lovers will love the range of stores that are conveniently crammed together in a single spot.

7. Broadway Grand Prix

Looking for an exciting way to spend an hour or two? Broadway Grand Prix is where to go. While mainly known for its go-cart racing, Broadway Grand Prix is a massive recreation complex. You could play mini golf, go rock climbing, or head to one of the seven different go-cart racing tracks. Exciting? Absolutely.

Broadway Grand Prix is popular amongst holiday parties wanting a few hours of fun. Groups of friends will especially love being able to race each other around the tracks, and it is a great attraction if you love a bit of competition.

8. The Carolina Opry

Carolina Opry is Myrtle Beach’s most famous and popular live music theater. It was also the city’s first theater and remained the only theater for a long seven-year period. Even now, the Carolina Opry is the home of live music and theater in Myrtle Beach.

If you love live entertainment, catching a show is one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach. You can find a line-up of amazing live music acts that sing a mixture of country songs and pop cult classics. Shows are pretty regular, but it is worth booking in advance to avoid disappointment – especially if you are visiting for a short time or during peak season. The venue is stunning and worth visiting just to experience the design and atmosphere alone.

Looking for other things to do in Myrtle Beach at night? You can book a night at Legends in Concert to watch celebrity look-a-likes perform the songs and dances of legendary stars such as Elvis Presley, to Dolly Parton. Each season features a new lineup of tributes to musical legends.

9. Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is a big name on Myrtle Beach’s tourist attraction scene. Chances are that you’ve heard of it already, and if you haven’t, you definitely will do it as soon as you arrive in Myrtle Beach. The outdoor entertainment center is where tourists and visitors alike flock for dining, shopping, attractions, and live shows.

Pick a trendy t-shirt, get a spray-on tattoo, or even go zip-lining. Broadway at the Beach is the center of everything fun in Myrtle Beach, and you should put a visit at the top of your itinerary. The complex is bursting with action from 10 am until nightfall every day of the week. Just drop by for a taste of the fun-loving atmosphere.

10. Hollywood Wax Museum

If you haven’t been to a wax museum before, you are in for a treat. Hollywood Wax Museum is South Carolina’s take on Madame Tussauds, and the museum is full of life-like wax replicas of celebs. You could be posing next to Eminem or Al Pacino. We love the range of celebrities and the amazingly detailed backdrops around the figures.

Hollywood Wax Museum is one of the best Myrtle Beach activities on a wet day. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering through the halls and amongst the statues.

11. Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens is a 9,100-acre sculpture garden and wildlife preserve located just outside of Murrells Inlet, around a 30 minutes drive from Myrtle Beach. The gardens are a stunning bit of green space to visit. In fact, TripAdvisor recognizes Brookgreen Gardens as one of the top ten gardens in the US.

On a sunny day, strolling through the themed garden is utter bliss. The gardens have over 2,000 artwork pieces, and you can easily spend two hours exploring the grounds. Keep your eyes peeled for any alligators as well, since you can occasionally see them basking in quiet areas of ponds around the gardens.

12. Take a boat tour

Out of all the Myrtle Beach tours you could take, a boat tour should be in your top three. A harbor cruise is always a fantastic thing to do – no matter which city you visit. And Myrtle Beach is particularly well-suited to some exciting boat tours.

You could take a two-hour tour down the Intracoastal Waterway to spot dolphins. You could also sail around the Murrells Inlet to spot marshland wildlife or even sail upstream on a pontoon boat before tubing. Once you’ve explored Myrtle Beach on land, definitely book an experience to explore its surrounding ocean and rivers. There are plenty of options.

13. Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk

Speaking of Murrells Inlet, its Marsh Walk is easily one of the most scenic things to do in the Myrtle Beach area. The wooden boardwalk stretches just half a mile yet overlooks a natural saltwater estuary. Visitors are sandwiched between fishing boats and dozens of restaurants selling fantastic seafood.

There’s plenty of nature, though, and it is not just a commercialized boardwalk. You should spot sting rays, crabs, and lots of pelicans. There is even a group of goats living in a nearby paddock. Walking along the Marsh Walk is a great way to spend a breezy morning, especially if you want to find a nice restaurant for lunch afterward.

14. Pavilion Park

Pavilion Park is actually located inside Broadway at the Beach. However, it is such an attraction in its own right that we’ve given it a slot of its own. Pavilion Park is a traditional amusement park with attractions like a carousel and Ferris wheel. It is split between a fun park and an action park and has rides to get you screaming and rides sedate enough for younger guests.

The family-friendly park operates on a ticket basis, with tickets bought in bulk and then exchanged at each ride. For a traditional seaside experience, it is one of the best things to do in the city.

15. Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is a small beach town south of Myrtle Beach’s city center. Its beach, also named Surfside Beach, is one of the best sandy beaches that the area offers. It has the nickname ‘the family beach’ and is known for its quieter and friendlier atmosphere than Myrtle Beach.

If you are looking for family-friendly beach days, this beach is a great choice. And, if you want to escape the crowds, Surfside is said to be slightly less touristy and cleaner. Surfside has a wonderful community feel and seemingly endless sands for beach sports and sunbathing – what’s not to love?

16. Go jet skiing

Myrtle Beach offers a lot of watersports; it is no secret. However, jet skiing is easily one of the best of all the Myrtle Beach watersports you could pick. Zooming along the coastline at up to 45 miles per hour is adrenaline-inducing and an exciting way to sightsee. Reserve your jetski in advance at Myrtle Beach Jet Ski Rentals via Viator

You can rent a jet ski at numerous places in Myrtle Beach and its surrounding areas. You can also choose to take a jet ski tour. On a tour, a licensed instructor guides you up the coastline. This is the best option if you want a guided sightseeing experience and someone on hand to help if you get confused with operating the jet ski.

17. Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament

Fancy an experience that is slightly different? The Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament offers a two-hour live tournament, full of exciting events like jousting, horsemanship, and falconry. Afterwards, you’ll have a four-course feast to enjoy.

The experience is pretty much the best of both worlds. You’ll have immersive, historical entertainment and delicious food as well – dining in an expertly designed castle hall. Ready to book your ticket? Check the schedule as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. The experience runs most nights at 5 pm, but this is liable to change. Fun Fact, Deb worked at Medieval Times in Toronto for exactly one night when she was younger. It wasn’t the job for her.

18. Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum

If you are an arcade game lover, don’t hesitate to head to the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. The museum is an arcade lover’s dream. Full of retro machines, the museum allows visitors all-you-can-play access to some of the most exciting and famous games.

The Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum has over 25 games, and the entrance fee is relatively modest. You don’t need tokens or coins to play at each machine, so you’ll only pay at the door. A visit is a fun way to liven up your day, especially on a wet day or quiet morning.

19. Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf

Myrtle Beach is not short of beautiful golf courses. You don’t have to be pro to enjoy a quick golfing session, though – especially when you have Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Goff. Why don’t you swap a real golf course for one of South Carolina’s top mini golf courses?

Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Goff is one of the city’s best miniature golf courses and one of the most fun things to do in Myrtle Beach. The mini golf course is tiki-themed, with lush greenery and many water features. You can challenge yourself and your friends to complete the course in the fewest shots.

20. North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach is just a 30-minute drive from Myrtle Beach city center. Visiting the neighboring city is one of the best day trips from Myrtle Beach, and it has a nine-mile-long beach with plenty of water activities. Whether you’ll be bringing the whole family or venturing as a solo traveler, everyone can enjoy a glorious beach day here. Grand Strand has some of the best beaches in the US, and North Myrtle does not let it down.

Swim, sunbathe, or splurge on water activities – it is up to you. Paragliding, kayaking, and sailing are popular options if you want to get adventurous. North Myrtle Beach offers a lot of exciting ways to spend a day.

21. Pirates Voyage

How does combining delicious Myrtle Beach food and live entertainment sound? Out of all our favorite tourist attractions, Pirates Voyage ticks a unique box. The experience includes a live pirate show and a four-course meal. Visitors are seated in a full-sized pirate ship inside an indoor lagoon.

If this sounds like a whirlwind experience, it really is. There is everything – from cutlass fights to mermaids. If you needed more persuading, the company is owned by Dolly Parton. Yes, Dolly Parton, the queen of country music! The performance isn’t just limited to singing, though, and includes acrobatics, dancing, and a story unraveling around you.

22. WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

For our final amusement park in this guide, we thought we’d better go out with a bang. WonderWorks Myrtle Beach is an attraction that stands out. The park has a mixture of over a hundred science exhibits, including an Extreme Weather Zone, Physical Challenge Zone, and a 6D motion ride. You could be experiencing the winds of a hurricane or laying on a bed of nails – be prepared to be pushed to your limit. WonderWorks tackles science in an educational, fast-paced way – making it the perfect place to spend half a day.

You’ll soon spot WonderWorks. The building is an upside-down house, and you’ll understand how quirky the attraction is from the get-go.

23. Duplin Winery

This attraction is for adults. Duplin Winery is the ‘oldest and largest winery in the south’ and a great place to experience wine tasting in South Carolina. The winery is just a 20-minute drive from Myrtle Beach city center (although we recommend booking a taxi). If you love fine wine and dining, visiting is one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Book a tasting session and spend a glorious afternoon sipping on sweet wines. The cheeseboards and tasting snacks are carefully matched and worth treating yourself to as well. Wine tasting at Duplin Winery is one of the most fun, indulgent things to do in Myrtle Beach.

24. Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

Myrtle Beach SkyWheel is a much-loved part of the city’s skyline. The wheel is 200 feet above sea level, providing stunning views over Myrtle Beach and its surrounding areas. Visitors sit in air-conditioned pods for the duration of the ride, admiring the scenery and novelty of the experience.

Even better? The SkyWheel is just a short walk from many other attractions since it is located on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. The wheel stays running until late at night, so it is a romantic after-dark activity, well-timed after a sunset walk along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. At night, the SkyWheel also lights up – a beautiful sight.

25. fishing tours

So, we’ve covered boat tours, surf fishing, and even pier fishing. But we’ve missed one of the most special Myrtle Beach tours. If you love your fishing (or just want to give it a go), we highly recommend taking a deep-sea fishing tour.

I’ll never forget going with my parents on a fishing tour in Myrtle Beach. I hated catching the fish and when one landed on my hook I tried to ignore it. My dad was not happy with me. He ended up reeling it in, and we ate it for dinner.

These tours take you out into the Atlantic Ocean, providing equipment and expertise to help you get your catches. The experience is once in a lifetime for many. Even amongst the seasoned fishermen, it is sure to be a memorable day. Who knows, maybe you’ll catch something massive.

26. Ripley’s Aquarium

While we are always on the fence about Aquariums, Ripley’s Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Myrtle Beach for families. They say their mission is to “provide a top quality, world class aquatic life facility that will foster environmental education, conservation, and research, while simultaneously providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.”

The aquarium houses over 10,000 sea creatures across multiple floors. You can walk through a glass tunnel, themed rooms like Rio Amazon Rainforest.

I do believe that our oceans are dying and that conservation needs to take place in wildlife preserves, but I am not a fan of places that offer petting areas like Ray Bay at Ripley’s. Some people argue that aquariums have hands-on demonstrations to educate children and let them appreciate the wildlife, but we have no idea what kind of stress that puts on the animal. However, Ripleys Aquariums are fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. In today’s world as habitat is dwindling, you can choose either way if you think aquariums are for you or not.

27. Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is a beautiful space. Its name might be a mouthful, but its display of predominately southern art is incredibly thought-provoking. You can admire many pieces, from decorative surfboards to suspended dolphin sculptures. The museum hosts a mixture of permanent exhibitions and temporary exhibits.

There is even a library and classroom space for you to explore. While if you are feeling creative, you can drop by the pottery studio. Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum is forward-moving and constantly adapting. If you want an interesting art-related attraction in Myrtle Beach, it is the gallery for you.

28. New South Brewing

Not a fan of wine? Another of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach is coming your way – New South Brewing microbrewery. The microbrewery has been creating delicious ales and lagers since 1998. It is one of the best breweries to visit in South Carolina.

You can visit the brewery to sample the different beverages in the taproom. Of course, you may wish to order some to enjoy for the rest of your stay in Myrtle Beach. New South Brewing has a lot on offer. You could sample a White Ale, On the Beach, or even a Dirty Myrtle. New South Brewing is a fun activity in Myrtle Beach, regardless of what you pick.

29. Visit River Island

Picturing a private island? You are in luck. River Island Adventures is a remote outpost on the Waccamaw River. It grants visitors access to a 48-acre private island in the middle of the river. You can camp, explore, kayak, and tube around the island – it is honestly an adventurer’s heaven. And when you want some downtime, there are tree swings, fire pits, and hammocks where you can rest and rejuvenate.

River Island Adventures is just a 30-minute drive from the center of Myrtle Beach. It is worth allocating two days to camp there overnight, as the overnight element adds so much more to your experience.

A great way to get on the water is SUP. You can book this guided Stand Up Paddle Board Tour to spot wildlife in either Murrells inlet or the Waccamaw River. There are sunrise and sunset tour and multiple departures throughout the day.

30. Warbird Park

Warbird Park is a stunning green space dedicated to the US Airforce. It is situated in the Market Common, a popular area in Myrtle Beach. You can walk between memorials to serving members of the air force and pass retired fight jets – which are now grounded for all to see at various spots in the park.

If you have close connections or are interested in the air force and planes, it is well worth visiting Warbird Park. The park is free to enter, so the experience suits travelers on all budgets. Keep an eye out for the 9/11 memorial as city officials relocated the monument to Warbird Park.

31. Backstage Mirror Maze

Visiting Backstage Mirror Maze is one of the funniest, most lighthearted things to do in Myrtle Beach. Mirror Maze is exactly what it sounds like; a massive maze of mirrors. You’ll have to concentrate on spotting the actual path forwards, as the mirrors’ reflections create false paths and confusion.

The Mirror Maze is located in an old theater-style building, and the maze is brightly lit in bright, funky colors. If you want a laugh, completing the Mirror Maze is an ideal addition to your itinerary. It is family-friendly, yet also not exclusive to parents and children. Visitors of any age will love the challenge.

32. Wheels of Yesteryear

Car enthusiasts, you will love this one. Wheels of Yesteryear is a huge automotive museum full of vintage cars and memorabilia. Visitors can wander through the museum admiring the exhibitions and snapping photos next to dreamy vehicles of the past.

Allow at least an hour to explore the museum, if not longer. There is a small gift shop to drop by after you’ve finished looking around. You may be tempted to pick up a smaller collectible as a memory of your visit.

Myrtle Beach FAQs

Now that we’ve covered all the best things to do in Myrtle Beach, there’s some critical information that you should know. From how to get to Myrtle Beach to where to stay, these are the most common Myrtle Beach FAQS.

How to get to Myrtle Beach

The easiest way to reach Myrtle Beach is to fly. Myrtle Beach International Airport is located3 miles outside the city – making it an easy Uber or taxi ride from the airport to your accommodation. Flying is best for international visitors and those with less time on their hands, just wanting to get to Myrtle Beach quickly with minimal hassle.

Of course, you may wish to look at alternative options if you have longer to get to Myrtle Beach and are traveling domestically. South Carolina is ideally located for a north-to-south road trip, so you could always use Myrtle Beach as a stopover destination in a bigger adventure. You may also wish to just take a road trip to Myrtle Beach as a final destination. Driving offers lots of freedom and is the best way to get to Myrtle Beach if you want an exciting way to reach the city.

It is worth checking out inter-state bus schedules if you are on a budget. Many private bus companies offer relatively low-cost trips to Myrtle Beach. For example, one-way trips from New York to Myrtle Beach for around $130.

Getting around Myrtle Beach

Getting around the Myrtle Beach area isn’t exactly easy in the sense that everything is within walking distance. The city sprawls lengthways and runs into neighboring cities like North Myrtle Beach. However, the city is well-connected by a network of highways, The Coast RTA bus system, and many taxis and Ubers. If you rent or bring a car, you’ll have no issues getting around the Myrtle Beach area. And if not, you can use a mixture of walking and public transport to get around.

While the city itself is not walkable, the promenade region is – which is worth knowing if you plan to spend a holiday mainly on the beach. If you only want to experience the most popular parts of Myrtle Beach’s entertainment scene, choose accommodation near the promenade, and you’ll be able to walk to most places.

The best time to visit Myrtle Beach

The best time to visit Myrtle Beach is in May and June – the start of the summer season. As a general rule of thumb, clued-up tourists avoid peak seasons. And hopefully, by visiting Myrtle Beach at the beginning of the summer season, you should find the city a little quieter than in August. If you want a beach holiday experience where you can sunbathe and swim in the sea, you’ll want to visit Myrtle Beach just before or at the start of summer.

Not interested in swimming and sunbathing? Don’t rule out Myrtle Beach in winter; it is one of the best winter vacations in the US if you want to break up the darker months with an exciting getaway. Crowds are non-existent, too, so you’ll have a much quieter experience than visiting during summer.

Where to stay

South Carolina is full of incredible accommodation choices, and Myrtle Beach is no different. The city has a range of options, from budget to ultra-luxury. These are our three top picks.

Budget: Admiral Motor Inn

Admiral Motor Inn is an excellent budget accommodation choice. The motel block is situated along the beachfront and offers ocean views. Some rooms include balconies, kitchens, and pull-out sofas, while all rooms receive access to the large outdoor pool. Booking.com / TripAdvisor

The inn is comfortable and straightforward, but its best quality by far is its location. Guests can walk straight out the motel door and onto Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, and you’ll be within walking distance of many fantastic attractions.

Mid-range: Anderson Ocean Club and Spa

Anderson Ocean Club & Spa is a stunning collection of condos. Not only do guests get options of beautiful, spacious condos to choose between, but you also get exceptional facilities. Forget the water park; this property has its own lazy river and two swimming pools to enjoy. There’s even a mini golf course. Booking.com / TripAdvisor

Luxury: Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes

Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes oozes sophistication and has the facilities to match. Guests receive access to two beautiful pools and a 24/7 gym. Not to mention Hibiscus Spa and a private section of beach for sunbathing in ultimate tranquility. And when you aren’t busy exploring Myrtle Beach, the resort has tennis courts, a golf course, and three restaurants that you can visit. Booking.com / TripAdvisor

To Conclude

There are so many amazing things to do in Myrtle Beach. Will you spend your day on golf courses, in theme parks, or picking Myrtle beach tours for guided excursions around the city? Visiting Myrtle Beach is exciting, and Myrtle Beach attractions are even more so.

We hope you have a fantastic stay in South Carolina’s best coastal tourist destination. In Myrtle Beach, things to do come easily.