Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, nestled along South Carolina’s stunning Grand Strand, offers a perfect mix of sun-soaked shores, thrilling rides, and cultural gems for travelers of all ages. This coastal destination draws millions annually with its 60 miles of sandy beaches and diverse entertainment options.

Iconic Beachfront Experiences

The heart of Myrtle Beach beats along its legendary beaches and boardwalk. Stretching over a mile, the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk buzzes with energy day and night, featuring street performers, arcade games, and seasonal fireworks that light up the sky. Visitors can rent bikes, stroll hand-in-hand, or simply lounge under umbrellas while watching waves crash ashore.

• Relax on wide, powdery sands ideal for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or beach volleyball.
• Explore the promenade for oceanfront shops selling souvenirs, saltwater taffy, and beachwear.
• Catch free summer concerts or holiday light displays that transform the area into a festive wonderland.

For elevated views, ride the SkyWheel, a 187-foot Ferris wheel with climate-controlled gondolas offering panoramic sights of the Atlantic and city skyline. Sunset and nighttime rides, when the wheel glows in vibrant colors, create magical moments for couples or families.

Thrilling Amusement Parks and Rides

Adrenaline seekers and families flock to Myrtle Beach’s amusement hubs. Family Kingdom Amusement Park delivers classic thrills with over 30 rides, including the wooden Swamp Fox roller coaster—a local landmark since 1966. Pair it with the adjacent water park for slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.

Broadway at the Beach, a sprawling entertainment complex, combines shopping, dining, and play. Challenge pirates on themed mini-golf courses or spin on the giant carousel while enjoying lake views.

Marine Wonders and Animal Encounters

Dive into ocean mysteries at Ripley’s Aquarium, home to a 340-foot underwater tunnel where sharks and rays glide overhead. Touch stingrays, feed turtles, and explore interactive exhibits that educate on marine conservation.

Nearby, Brookgreen Gardens spans 9,100 acres of sculptures, rare plants, and wildlife exhibits, including lowland gorillas and alligators. Seasonal butterfly houses and boat tours through cypress swamps add immersive nature experiences. Alligator Adventure offers close-up views of over 1,000 reptiles, plus lemurs and exotic birds.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Escapes

Beyond the crowds, Myrtle Beach State Park provides shaded trails, fishing piers, and unspoiled beach access. Hike through maritime forest, picnic by the lake, or cast lines for flounder and trout.

• Golf on world-class courses like TPC Myrtle Beach, with ocean views and challenging layouts for all skill levels.
• Jet ski, parasail, or dolphin-watch via tours from Murrells Inlet, spotting bottlenose pods in their natural habitat.
• Fish from Apache Pier, the East Coast’s longest at 1,206 feet, or paddleboard on calm Waccamaw River tours.

Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach blends shopping, dining, and wildlife, with the Alligator Riverboat cruise highlighting gators and birds.

Live Shows and Evening Entertainment

Myrtle Beach shines after dark with dinner theaters and concerts. Pirates Voyage delivers a swashbuckling feast with acrobatic stunts, pyrotechnics, and pirate battles. Medieval Times offers jousting knights and four-course meals eaten by hand.

The Carolina Opry hosts variety shows with music, comedy, and illusions, voted top entertainment for decades. Legends in Concert features tribute performances of icons like Elvis and Beyoncé. For holiday cheer, catch Christmas specials with lights, carols, and Time Warp effects.

Family-Friendly Indoor Attractions

Rainy days? WonderWorks flips the script with 100+ science exhibits: survive hurricane winds, pilot spaceships, or lie on a bed of nails. Hollywood Wax Museum lets kids pose with lifelike celebrities.

Sports fans cheer the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, a minor league baseball team playing at Pelicans Ballpark. Trampoline parks like Rockin’ Jump and Sky Zone offer dodgeball, foam pits, and ninja courses.

Golfing Paradise

Dubbed the “Seaside Golf Capital,” Myrtle Beach boasts 90+ courses. Public gems like Barefoot Resort challenge pros, while Dunes Golf & Beach Club offers historic play amid pines and marshes. Beginners enjoy illuminated mini-golf at over 50 themed spots, from dinosaurs to space adventures.

Dining Delights and Local Flavors

Savor fresh seafood at oceanfront spots like Rip Tydz or upscale Ruth’s Chris. Murrells Inlet’s “Seafood Capital” marshfront eateries serve she-crab soup and Lowcountry boils. Broadway at the Beach tempts with chains and locals, from BBQ to ice cream.

Don’t miss Gay Dolphin Gift Cove, a quirky multilevel shop with souvenirs, shells, and kitsch.

Planning Your Trip: Tips and Seasons

Peak summer brings crowds; spring and fall offer milder weather and festivals like the Myrtle Beach Bike Week or Jazz Festival. Book attractions online to skip lines, and stay central for easy access. Families prioritize parks and aquariums; couples favor sunsets and shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Myrtle Beach?

Top picks include SkyWheel, Ripley’s Aquarium, Broadway at the Beach, Family Kingdom, and the Boardwalk.

Is Myrtle Beach good for families?

Yes, with kid-focused spots like amusement parks, mini-golf, animal encounters, and beaches.

Best time to visit Myrtle Beach?

May-October for beach weather; avoid hurricane season peaks in late summer.

Are there free things to do?

Beach access, boardwalk walks, state park trails, and some festivals are free.

How to get around Myrtle Beach?

Drive, bike, or use trolleys; most attractions cluster along Kings Highway.