From shopping to sightseeing, thrill rides or watersports, there are plenty of fun things to do in Myrtle Beach whether you’re bringing the kids on a family vacation or visiting as I did, with your BFFs in tow. Our girlfriend’s getaway to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was my first trip to the Atlantic Coast tourism hot spot, and I’m already planning when I can return.
Here are my top things to do in Myrtle Beach – other than the beach, which is pretty much a given, of course.
1. Broadway at the Beach
If there’s one destination in Myrtle Beach that really has it all, this is it. Shopping and dining options? Check. Fun things to see and do? Check.
With more than 20 restaurants, 80 specialty shops and a variety of 25 attractions, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. The 350-acre site is set up around a central lake, with parking on the outside.
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We explored Broadway at the Beach over our first afternoon in Myrtle Beach and wished we had more time to spend checking everything out. It would be easy to spend at least a full day or more – especially if you spend time seeing shows, dining or visiting Ripley’s Aquarium or the Hollywood Wax Museum, both of which are also located on-site.
We had lunch at Walhburgers, which was comfortable and delicious. Other restaurant options include Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Margaritaville, Dave & Busters and Hard Rock Cafe. But we wanted something fairly quick since we had limited time.
The variety of shops to browse was fantastic and the four of us were able to buy souvenirs and phone chargers, and could have easily blown our whole budgets there. We did all buy coordinating bucket hats, which helped block out the bright South Carolina sun as we wandered around.
2. WonderWorks
Located at Broadway at the Beach, WonderWorks is an “edutainment” experience. That means it’s part amusement park, part science laboratory.
As the website describes, “This once top-secret laboratory was located in the Bermuda Triangle. An experiment gone awry lifted the laboratory, carrying it to Broadway at the Beach in Myrtle Beach where it landed upside down. Luckily, all of the exhibits remained intact and available for guests to explore.”
The six Wonder Zones offer an indoor ropes course, laser tag arena and more. There’s also a zip line that soars over the lake.
3. Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing is located in North Myrtle Beach, and is similar to Broadway at the Beach, with dining, shopping and entertainment options. It is also arranged around a small lake with parking on the outside.
We had a few minutes after dinner to explore so only saw a small portion of the full area, but all of us were impressed by the variety of options. There’s a playground for kids, a stage for outdoor entertainment, a carousel and plenty of snack and dining options.
4. Crooked Hammock Brewery
Our group was invited to come and check out the food and drinks at Crooked Hammock Brewery, located at Barefoot Landing. This isn’t just a brewery, and isn’t just a restaurant. Yes, they have a brewery with a taproom where you can tour and also taste the craft beers. And yes, there is a full restaurant with absolutely delicious food and drinks.
But, this is also a place to come and hang out, to spend time together with friends or family, and have fun in the outdoor ‘backyard’. Here you can play table tennis or cornhole, relax in one of several not-so-crooked hammocks, or just share conversation and laughs over a meal together.
We were hosted for an early dinner. I had the pulled pork sandwich, which was amazing, and also came with the most delicious french fries served in their own cute little fry basket. My friends’ meals included the steak skewers and the chicken bacon ranch sandwich.
None of us are beer drinkers, but two of us had mixed drinks, which they definitely enjoyed.
We ate indoors and loved the eclectic decor and the friendly staff. There is also covered patio seating outdoors, complete with misting fans to help keep you refreshed and cool.
The fun part of the Crooked Hammock experience comes when you just spend time hanging out in their backyard. Theirs is way more fun than mine is! I wish we’d had more time to spend challenging each other to yard games or relaxing in the hammocks, but we had a great time eating and exploring. While one of my friends was in the restroom, a complete stranger came in saying, “This has to be one of the funnest places I have ever eaten!” My friends and I totally agree.
5. The Market Common
We didn’t have a chance to visit The Market Common, but it looks like another fun place to explore, shop, eat and play. Built on a former Air Force base, this redevelopment honors its history – all streets are named for local military heroes, and there are historical markers located throughout the development that tell their stories.
Now, you’ll find everything from residences to boutique shops, restaurants and entertainment options at The Market Common. There’s a luxury movie theater, the EdVenture Children’s Museum, a salon, a dentist and more. The area also hosts events such as holiday celebrations, marathons and the Myrtle Beach International Film Festival.
6. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
Over a mile long, this oceanfront boardwalk and promenade is located in the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach. Along with beach access and beautiful views, you’ll find shopping, dining, live entertainment and attractions such as the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel and The Gay Dolphin (the largest gift shop in Myrtle Beach). Just a block off the boardwalk, you’ll also find Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, Ripley’s Crazy Golf and Ripley’s Mirror Maze.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Try to explore the boardwalk both during the day and also after dark. It’s a totally different vibe at night, with all of the lights, music and nightlife. During the daytime, there’s a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a long, quiet wander along the beach.
7. Myrtle Beach SkyWheel
The SkyWheel is a large Ferris wheel located on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and is part of the iconic beach shoreline. At almost 200 feet (20 stories) high, it’s visible from blocks away – and from the top, you’ll see for miles, either out into the ocean or overlooking downtown Myrtle Beach.
Two of us had the opportunity to be hosted to ride the SkyWheel and it definitely didn’t disappoint. There was a bit of a wait outside in the steamy weather to get on, but the air-conditioned gondola felt so nice and cool once we boarded. We had it to ourselves (they will never load more than one group together in a gondola) and we could see in all directions as we moved higher and higher. With 42 gondolas, every SkyWheel flight lasts for four revolutions (about 10-15 minutes).
The views were amazing, especially from the very top. We could see way down the coastline in both directions, as well as over the buildings in Myrtle Beach proper. The visibility was ok that day, but I can only imagine how incredible it looks on a really clear day. However, if you are afraid of heights, this is probably one attraction to skip.
The SkyWheel offers special flights for sunrise, gender reveals, proposals and more. Their VIP Gondola is also a special option that includes a glass-bottomed floor, leather bucket seats and a flight that lasts twice as long as usual.
8. Family Kingdom Amusement Park
Located a few blocks south of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Family Kingdom is a theme park with thrills for everyone. They have over 35 rides, including the Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, Log Flume Water Ride and many carnival staples like the Tilt-A-Whirl, Thunderbolt, Bumper Cars, a Ferris Wheel, and carousel, just to name a few.
There are also rides for smaller kids, such as a Kiddie Coaster, Kiddie Speedway and Kiddie Swing. For parents (or any others) who don’t wish to ride, admission is free. If you do want to ride, you can either purchase a wristband or buy individual credits to use. Purchased credits never expire.
9. Myrtle Waves Water Park
Myrtle Waves has 22 slides and attractions and is South Carolina’s largest water park. They are open seasonally and offer many different ticket options, both in-person and online. With a wave pool, lazy river, water slides, tube rides and kid’s play areas, there’s something for everyone. They even have a FlowRider where you can surf in a controlled environment.
10. Broadway Grand Prix
This is the sister park to Myrtle Waves and offers seven different go-kart tracks, two 18-hole mini golf courses and an arcade and snack bar. There are even bumper cars!
11. Miniature Golf
I never knew that Myrtle Beach is called the Mini Golf Capital of the World, but I certainly believe it. We saw so many mini golf courses everywhere we went! There are 50 available to choose from, whether you prefer to golf with pirates, spies, castles, volcanoes and more. Even though our resort offered free mini golf at one location, we just ran out of time before we could take advantage. On the list for next time, for sure!
SheBuysTravel Tip: There are many coupon books and brochures available all over Myrtle Beach and most include coupons for some of the various mini golf courses. Don’t pay full price! And make sure to check with your hotel or resort for any discounts they may offer.
12. Wheels of Yesteryear
Wheels of Yesteryear is a family-run vintage auto museum with over 150 cars, belonging to car enthusiasts, Paul and Carol Cummings. Along with welcoming guests, the museum puts on several events and cruise-ins. Whether you’re an auto aficionado or looking to find a fun activity on a rainy day, this museum is a must-see.
13. Brookgreen Gardens
Over our trip, we met and chatted with folks from all over. One recommendation we got from more than one person was to make a visit to Brookgreen Gardens a priority on our trip. With limited time, we weren’t able to do so, but it’s at the top of my list for a return trip.
Comprising over 9,000 acres, this Lowcountry History and Wildlife Preserve offers a look at native flora and fauna of the area through a botanical garden and sculpture collection, along with the Lowcountry Zoo.
14. Murrells Inlet
Known as the “seafood capital of South Carolina”, there’s plenty to enjoy in this community located south of Myrtle Beach. Here you can find much to do out on the ocean or the Intracoastal Waterway, such as kayaking, fishing, or enjoying a boat cruise or jet ski.
Their MarshWalk encompasses eight restaurants that offer live music and amazing views to accompany your seafood dinner.
15. Dolphin Cruises
There were two must-dos on our list when planning our Myrtle Beach getaway. The top priority was to go on a dolphin cruise. There are several in the area to choose from, but keep in mind that even though some of them ‘guarantee’ that you’ll see dolphins, it’s hit or miss whether you’ll actually spot any.
Our dolphin cruise was a sunset cruise on a day with high winds and big waves. The waves were fun to play in when we were at the beach earlier in the day but made leaving the protected waters of the Intracoastal Waterway for the Atlantic Ocean pretty much impossible. The captain tried, but as soon as we hit the ocean, the waves began to rock the boat, those of us outside the cabin got doused, and pretty much every child on board started to cry. So we headed back a bit early.
The captain explained to us that it was unlikely we’d see dolphins on this cruise because:
- The time of year (August) is not great for dolphin sightings, plus they’re more likely to be spotted in the morning than in the evening.
- The heavy wind and waves meant that dolphins would be less likely to be spotted.
- The relatively high ocean temperatures in the area lately cause dolphins to stay further out to sea where the waters are cooler.
Even without a dolphin sighting, the cruise was a nice way to enjoy a beautiful (if windy) evening, and we did catch the beginning of the sunset before docking.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t let yourself and your group get so focused on seeing dolphins that you miss out on a wonderful boating experience. There’s plenty more to see along the beautiful Carolina coastline.
16. Watersports
There are more ways than just dolphin cruises to get out onto the water in Myrtle Beach. Many companies offer jet ski or pontoon boat rentals. You can also kayak or canoe the Intracoastal Waterway. And every day that we were there, we could see boats towing parasailers up and down out on the water from the local beaches.
17. Myrtle Beach State Park
I’m a big fan of state parks, so after we had checked out of our beachfront condo, two of us had some time to kill before catching our flight home. We definitely wanted to get back in the water, so we looked at public beaches. Immediately, Myrtle Beach State Park was our top choice.
Note: There is a fee to enter, and we were surprised that it was charged per person rather than per car as we’re used to in Michigan. Once we paid, it was a scenic drive out to the beach.
Along with camping, trails, picnic shelters, fishing and more, the state park has a wonderful beach, right next to their fishing pier and one of the two gift shops. We splashed in the waves, sat in the sun, and made it just far enough out on the pier to find the giant chair to hang out in. I can’t imagine a better beach day.
During the summer months, the park offers an opportunity to participate in the early morning sea turtle patrols with a park ranger. Volunteers walk the beaches every morning to find, mark and rope off turtle nesting sites to protect them.
Along with Myrtle Beach State Park, is Huntington Beach State Park, located in Murrells Inlet. We didn’t get to visit, but their sandy beaches, saltmarsh and birding opportunities make it a great choice.
18. Myrtle Beach Dinner Shows
Myrtle Beach offers several dinner show options, including the Pirates Voyage, The Carolina Opry, Medieval Times and the Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner show. We loved the pirate ship, acrobatics and meal at Pirates Voyage. It was a blast to root for the Crimson pirates on our side of the theater against the Sapphire pirates, as they competed in various challenges.
Note that both the Pirate’s Voyage is owned by Dolly Parton and she wrote the music for the show!
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