Fun Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, SC (Besides the Beach)

Portions of the writer’s trip to Myrtle Beach were hosted.

The beach is the main reason to visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. But along with basking in the sunshine and splashing in the waves, the area offers shopping, (lots of) mini golf and ways to get out onto (as well as into) the ocean.

Whether you’re traveling with family or on a girlfriend getaway (as I did), there’s plenty to see and do. This was my first Atlantic Ocean getaway and I can’t wait to head back again and experience it all over again. Here are my top choices for other-than-the-beach ways to experience Myrtle Beach.

1. Broadway at the Beach

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include Broadway at the Beach, which has shops, dining and attractions arranged around a central lake. — The shops, restaurants and attractions at Broadway at the Beach are all arranged around the central lake, where you can also feed fish and turtles. Several bridges span the lake to make it easy to get around. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: 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.
What it offers: More than 20 restaurants, 80 specialty shops and 25 attractions, including the always-entertaining Ripley’s Aquarium and the Hollywood Wax Museum.
How to experience it: The 350-acre site is set up around a central lake, with parking on the outside. Simply wander at will and check out everything that looks interesting. There’s plenty to fill up an entire day – or more if you see shows or visit the aquarium or museum during your visit.

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include the Hollywood Wax Museum, located at Broadway at the Beach. — Oh no, it’s King Kong! The Hollywood Wax Museum is located at Broadway at the Beach. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

How accessible is it: The outdoor walkways are either paved or boardwalk. There are wheelchair and scooter rentals available at Guest Services.
What was my experience: 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

View of the Wonderworks building - designed to appear as if the building is upside down. — Yes, the WonderWorks building is upside-down! See the story here. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

What is it: WonderWorks is an “edutainment” experience. That means it’s part amusement park, part science laboratory.
What it offers: The six Wonder Zones include an indoor ropes course, laser tag arena and a zip line that soars over the lake.
How do you experience it: 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.” After you enter, you go through their ‘inversion tunnel’ to be turned right-side-up so you can enjoy all of the exhibits and adventures.
How accessible is it: it is wheelchair accessible and all floors are served by an elevator. There are no wheelchairs available on-site, but the attraction does offer noise-canceling headphones for visitors with sensory issues on a first-come, first-served basis (with ID).

3. Barefoot Landing

Overhead view of Barefoot Landing in Myrtle Beach filled with people. A large gazebo juts out over the pond and behind you can see walkways, shops and restaurants. — Barefoot Landing is a popular spot for dining and shopping. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

What is it: Barefoot Landing is located in North Myrtle Beach, and is similar to Broadway at the Beach, with dining, shopping and entertainment options.
What it offers: Along with shops and restaurants, there is a playground for kids, a stage for outdoor entertainment and a carousel.
How do you experience it: Similar to Broadway at the Beach, Barefoot Landing is also arranged around a small lake with parking on the outside.
How accessible is it: Pathways are either paved or boardwalk. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center.
What was my favorite part: 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. The ambiance is casual and the area is pretty to look at and just hang out by the lake. We really enjoyed the shops we visited.

4. Crooked Hammock Brewery

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include the Crooked Hammock Restaurant and Brewery. — Crooked Hammock’s restaurant and brewery are in separate buildings next to each other at Barefoot Landing. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: This isn’t just a brewery, and isn’t just a restaurant. Yes, you can tour the brewery taste the craft beers. And yes, the restaurant serves 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.
What it offers: Normal restaurant hours along with special events and private parties. Menu items include salads, sandwiches and burgers, wings, grilled items like meatloaf, salmon or pork chops, desserts along with beers on tap, hard seltzers and iced teas, wines and mixed drinks. The open backyard includes table tennis, cornhole and more, plus they also offer pub trivia, live music and leagues for lawn games.

Things to do in Myrtle Beach - pulled pork sandwich, coleslaw and fries served at The Crooked Hammock. — My pulled pork sandwich was so tasty, and I loved the fries in their little basket. They tasted great too! Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

How do you experience it: Order online for delivery or pickup, or dine in to get the full experience. Don’t forget to plan extra time to hang out in the backyard together to just relax or play some games as a group.
How accessible is it: The restaurant is accessible and the backyard area is either paved or turf for wheelchair accessibility.

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include playing yard games outdoors in The Crooked Hammock's backyard. — Part of the backyard at the Crooked Hammock – so many outdoor games and with misting fans to keep you cool too! Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What was my experience: 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 my friends 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 the 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. Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include walking the boardwalk at night with all of the businesses lit up. — View of sand volleyball courts, shops and the iconic SkyWheel from the boardwalk. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: Over a mile long, this oceanfront boardwalk and promenade is located in the heart of downtown Myrtle Beach.
What it offers: 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.
How do you experience it: Wander as much or as little as you like. 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.
How accessible is it: The boardwalk has recently been renovated to replace the wooden decking with more durable materials. There are benches along the way and both stairs and ramps leading to the beach.
What was my experience: The boardwalk is the quintessential Atlantic Ocean beach vacation. We loved wandering at night and enjoying the lights, music and ambiance, but I think my favorite was wandering during the day, watching the families on the beach along the way.

6. Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include the SkyWheel, located right along the boardwalk. — The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel stands 20 stories above the ground and has 42 enclosed gondolas. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: 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.
What it offers: With 42 gondolas, every SkyWheel flight lasts for four revolutions (about 10-15 minutes). The SkyWheel offers special flights for sunrise, gender reveals, proposals and more. The 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.
How do you experience it: We waited awhile in the steamy weather, but the air-conditioned gondola felt so nice and cool once we boarded. My three friends and I had a car 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.

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include checking out the views from the top of the SkyWheel. — View from the top of the SkyWheel over the buildings and beach to the north. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

How accessible is it: There is a ramp to the SkyWheel loading area. All of the gondolas except for the two VIP ones are wheelchair and scooter accessible.
What was my experience: 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.

7. Family Kingdom Amusement Park

A man and a woman hold their hands up riding in a log flume at the bottom of a hill on the log flume ride at Family Kingdom. In the background is a ferris wheel. — There’s plenty of fun to be had for all ages at Family Kingdom. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

What is it: Located a few blocks south of the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, Family Kingdom is a theme park with thrills for everyone.
What it offers: More than 35 rides, including the Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, Log Flume Water Ride and carnival staples like the Tilt-A-Whirl, Thunderbolt, Bumper Cars, a Ferris wheel, and carousel. There are also rides for smaller kids, such as a Kiddie Coaster, Kiddie Speedway and Kiddie Swing. In addition, there are carnival games and classic fair food for purchase.
How do you experience it: 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.
How accessible is it: Wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent. There are height requirements for many of the rides.

8. Myrtle Waves Water Park

Overhead view of several slides and pools at Myrtle Waves water park. — Cool off in the many slides and pools at Myrtle Waves. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

What is it: Myrtle Waves is South Carolina’s largest water park.
What it offers: With a wave pool, lazy river, water slides, tube rides and kid’s play areas, there’s something for everyone. There’s even a FlowRider where you can surf in a controlled environment.
How do you experience it: The attraction is open seasonally and offers many different ticket options, both in-person and online, including season passes.
How accessible is it: Some of the slides have weight restrictions or height requirements.

9. Miniature Golf

View of people playing mini golf at Mt. Atlanticus. — Mt. Atlanticus is one of over 50 mini golf, adventure golf and putt-putt courses in the Myrtle Beach area. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

I never knew that Myrtle Beach is called the Mini Golf Capital of the World, but I certainly believe it. We saw mini golf courses everywhere we went! There are 50 available to choose from, whether you prefer to golf with pirates, spies, castles, volcanoes or something else, there’s a mini golf course for you! 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 mini golf courses. Don’t pay full price! And make sure to check with your hotel or resort for any discounts they may offer.

10. Brookgreen Gardens

Flowers and trees surround a fountain with a small sculpture atop a pole. The sculpture is of an archer drawing a bow. — Brookgreen Gardens has over 2,000 sculptures by American artists – the largest collection in the country. Photo credit: Visit Myrtle Beach

What is it: Brookgreen Gardens is a botanical and sculpture garden and zoo
What it offers: This 9,000-acre 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.
How do you experience it: Tickets include all of the exhibits, galleries, gardens and the Lowcountry Zoo and are good for seven consecutive days. There are tours, programs and exhibits for all ages. Guided tours are available or you can walk through and explore on your own. New exhibits are available every year.
How accessible is it: The website states that the site is handicapped accessible but does not give details. No wheelchairs or scooters are available for rent but several companies do rent them.
What was my experience: Throughout our trip, we met and chatted with folks from all over. Several locals recommended visiting Brookgreen Gardens. With limited time, we weren’t able to do so, but it’s at the top of my list for a return trip.

11. Dolphin Cruises, Fishing and Water Sports

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include taking a sunset dolphin cruise. — Even if we didn’t see dolphins, it was the beginning of a beautiful sunset out on the water as we headed back to the dock. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: There are plenty of ways to get out onto the water in Myrtle Beach, from cruises to fishing, parasailing, kayaking or jet ski rentals.
What do they offer: Several companies offer dolphin or fishing cruises of differing lengths at various times of day. Early morning and sunset cruises are popular. Many companies offer jet ski or pontoon boat rentals. You can also kayak or canoe the Intracoastal Waterway. Every day, we could see boats towing parasailers up and down out on the water from the local beaches.
How do you experience it: There are several dolphin cruise options in the area, but keep in mind that even though some of them ‘guarantee’ that you’ll see dolphins, it really is hit or miss. Most offer free tickets for an upcoming cruise if you do not spot dolphins on yours.
How accessible is it: Depends on the company and activity. Check when booking to find out details.
What was my experience: One of our top priorities was to go on a dolphin cruise. We chose a sunset cruise, which happened to end up 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, and they’re more likely to be spotted in the morning than in the evening. The heavy wind and waves mean that dolphin sightings were less likely and the relatively high ocean temperatures in the area cause dolphins to stay farther 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.

12. Myrtle Beach State Park

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include the beach and fishing pier at Myrtle Beach State Park. — Beautiful Myrtle Beach State Park beach and fishing pier. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

What is it: Myrtle Beach State Park sits along the Grand Strand coastline and incorporates beach and forest areas.
What it offers: Along with 278 camping sites (138 have water/sewer/electric hookups), trails, picnic shelters and fishing, the state park has a mile of undeveloped beach, right next to a fishing pier and one of the two gift shops.
How do you experience it: There is a fee to enter (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. 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.

Things to do in Myrtle Beach include the beach at Myrtle Beach State Park at low tide, with many colorful umbrellas. — Bright umbrellas dot the beach at Myrtle Beach State Park during low tide. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

How accessible is it: According to Visit Myrtle Beach, the state park is handicap accessible.
What was my experience: I’m a big fan of state parks, so after we checked out of our beachfront condo, two of us had some time to kill before catching our flight home. We wanted to get back in the water, so we looked at public beaches. Immediately, Myrtle Beach State Park was our top choice. 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.

13. Myrtle Beach Dinner Shows

myrtle beach dinner shows - picture during the finale of the Pirate's Voyage show. — Whether you love pirates or not, this show is entertaining with amazing stunts and lots of humor. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

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 the Pirate’s Voyage is owned by Dolly Parton and she wrote the music for the show!

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