Captivating sandy beaches, sunny year-round weather, and a wide array of family-friendly attractions make Myrtle Beach one of the most enticing coastal destinations in the United States.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s famous beaches provide visitors with opportunities to enjoy a range of water adventures like surfing lessons, banana boating, and scuba diving.
For an adrenaline time with the whole family, head to Myrtle Beach’s well-known theme parks, like Family Kingdom Amusement Park, or enjoy a pulse-pounding jet ski tour of up to 45 miles per hour.
Those who are into sports can’t pass up the chance to explore Myrtle Beach’s stellar golf courses, while nature lovers will have the best time exploring the Myrtle Beach State Park, beautifully set among the oceanfront maritime forest.
The array of bucket list experiences that Myrtle Beach offers is huge, so narrowing down what to do in this charming South Carolina city can be challenging.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve rounded up the ultimate 12 best things to do in Myrtle Beach.
The 12 Top Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, SC
Relax At The Beach
The Myrtle Beach main beach is the crown jewel of the city. With its beautiful white sand and crystal clear water, it’s no surprise that visitors from around the world flock to this stretch of coastline each year.
Extending for 60 miles, the beach offers a variety of activities for all ages and interests, from relaxing on a beach chair and soaking up the sun to playing a game of beach volleyball or taking a refreshing swim in the ocean.
For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of watersports to try, including parasailing, jet skiing, and banana boat rides.
The beach is also home to several restaurants and bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning ocean views.
Find Places To Stay In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Explore The Vibrant Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
Running 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade offers a scenic walk for anyone that makes the trek.
The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, live music, and attractions, so whether you’re looking for a bite to eat, a souvenir to take home, or some exciting activities to try, you’ll find it all here.
One of the things that make the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk so special is its stunning beauty. The walkway is beautifully landscaped, and the view of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean is simply breathtaking.
Address: 1st Ave N to 16th Ave N • Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Discover The Attractions At Broadway at the Beach
Aside from being one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations, Broadway at the Beach is a bustling entertainment complex home to some of the most visited attractions in Myrtle Beach.
Highlights include a real-life Kwik-E-Mart store inspired by The Simpsons, and WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, an amusement park that has a science museum, a laser tag arena, and a ropes course.
Don’t leave Broadway at the Beach without visiting the famous Ripley’s Aquarium Of Myrtle Beach. There, you’ll marvel at an Amazon River habitat, a stingray lagoon, a Dangerous Reef aquarium, and fascinating marine creatures like the clown triggerfish and adorable sea turtles.
Address: 1325 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Ride The SkyWheel Myrtle Beach
After treating yourself in the souvenir shops of Broadway at the Beach, head over to SkyWheel. At this mighty Ferris wheel located at North Ocean Boulevard Myrtle Beach, visitors can get the excitement of a thrill ride while enjoying sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Address: 1110 N Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Take A Hike At The Myrtle Beach State Park
Adventurous treasure seekers will love visiting Myrtle Beach State Park. Nestled among oceanfront maritime forests, the park is a stunning natural oasis that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature.
The Myrtle Beach State Park features several trails, forests, and miles of pristine coastline, making it a great place for birdwatching, fishing, swimming, hiking, and kayaking.
There are also plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds for families with children. And for those who want to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna, there are educational programs and ranger-led tours available.
Address: 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575
Spend A Day Outdoors In The Huntington Beach State Park
Huntington Beach State Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Myrtle Beach. Located just south of the city, this sprawling state park boasts over 2,500 acres of stunning coastal scenery. From the pristine sandy beaches to the picturesque salt marshes, there is something for everyone here.
Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, go for a swim in the Atlantic Ocean, or explore the park’s many hiking and biking trails.
For those interested in history, the park is home to the elegant Atalaya Castle, which was once the winter home of Archer and Anna Huntington. This stunning Spanish-style castle is a popular spot for photos and offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Address: 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Enjoy The Slides At The Myrtle Waves Water Park
South Carolina’s largest water park, Myrtle Waves, is the place to go if you’re looking for a fun-filled day with family and friends. This massive 20-acre water park is home to over 30 water slides where visitors can cool off on a hot summer day.
Thrilling water slides here include the Turbo Twisters, the Riptide Rockets, and the Arooba Tooba, which are sure to get your heart racing.
For those looking for something a little more laid back, the park’s Lazy River and Wave Pool are the perfect spots to relax and soak up the sun.
Address: 3000 Mr. Joe White Ave, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Recommended Read: Best Family-Friendly Vacations In the US
Ride A Thrilling Coaster At The Family Kingdom Amusement Park
Family Kingdom is one of the top family-friendly attractions in Myrtle Beach. Located right on the oceanfront, this classic amusement park is home to a variety of exciting thrill rides and attractions for all ages.
The park’s signature attraction is the iconic Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster, which has been thrilling daring visitors since 1966.
Other popular rides include the Twist ‘n Shout Steel Roller Coaster, the Sling Shot Drop Tower, and the Log Flume. Younger kids can enjoy gentler rides like the carousel and a mini roller coaster.
Address: 300 S Ocean Blvd, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Enjoy a Scenic Golfing Session
Myrtle Beach is often referred to as the “Golf Capital of the World,” and for a good reason. With over 100 golf courses in the area, it’s no wonder why enthusiasts of this sport flock to this coastal city every year. T
In the city, golf aficionados will find a wide range of courses, from championship-level courses designed by famous golfers like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus to more casual courses perfect for beginners.
While there is no shortage of golf courses in Myrtle Beach, one of the most sought-after is the famous Greg Norman Golf Course, which features seven holes along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Other top golf courses in the city are Barefoot Resort & Golf, Caledonia Golf & Fish Club, and TPC Myrtle Beach, all offering unique challenges and stunning scenery, making for an unforgettable golfing experience.
For families, we recommend a fun-filled day at a mini golf (putt-putt course) like Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf.
Indulge In Some Watersports Adventure
With miles of pristine beaches, warm waters, and plenty of sunshine, Myrtle Beach is one of the top destinations for watersports in the USA.
When the nice weather descends, make sure to head to the beach or nearby lakes to enjoy heart-racing activities like jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing.
Jet skiing is a great way to experience the thrill of speed on the water, while parasailing offers a bird’s-eye view of the coastline.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are great options for those looking for a more relaxed pace, and surfing is perfect for those looking to catch some waves. You can also explore a picturesque saltwater marsh cruise on a pontoon boat.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time adventurer, be sure to check out the many watersports activities available in this beautiful coastal city.
See Extic Plants At Brookgreen Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of Myrtle Beach, be sure to visit Brookgreen Gardens. Located just outside of Murrells Inlet, around a 30-minute drive from Myrtle Beach, this stunning 9,000-acre garden and wildlife preserve is home to thousands of beautiful plants, flowers, and trees.
Must-sees in Brookgreen Gardens include the Lowcountry Zoo, inhabited by native animals like alligators and otters, as well as the Butterfly House, where visitors can observe these delicate creatures up close.
The gardens themselves are a sight to behold, punctuated with a colorful variety of flora and fauna on display, including azaleas, magnolias, and camellias.
Visitors can also admire the many sculptures that are on display throughout the grounds and were created by some of the world’s most renowned artists.
Address: 1931 Brookgreen Garden Dr, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
Go For A Stroll On Barefoot Landing
Barefoot Landing is a vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment complex located in the heart of North Myrtle Beach. With a charming waterfront setting and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening with family and friends.
Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions, take a boat ride on the Intracoastal Waterway, or enjoy live music at one of the many outdoor venues.
Address: 4898 Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
FAQ
What is Myrtle Beach known for?
Myrtle Beach is known for its 60 miles of coastline, family-friendly attractions, and for being home to award-winning golf courses.
What is the best time to visit Myrtle Beach?
October is a great time for visiting Myrtle Beach, as the temperatures are still warm and ideal for strolling along the North Ocean Boulevard, enjoying amusement park rides, indulging in fun water activities, and soaking up the sun in North Myrtle Beach.
What are the top Myrtle Beach attractions?
The top tourist attractions in Myrtle Beach are:
- The local beach;
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade;
- Broadway at the Beach;
- SkyWheel Myrtle Beach;
- Myrtle Beach State Park;
- Huntington Beach State Park;
- Myrtle Waves Water Park;
- Family Kingdom Amusement Park;
- Brookgreen Gardens.
What is there to do in Myrtle Beach for fun?
There are several fun activities to enjoy in the Myrtle Beach area. Some of the most fun things to do in the city include enjoying water sports, visiting thrilling amusement parks, exploring the boardwalk, and riding the SkyWheel.
CuddlyNest provides all accommodations to all travelers at the best price. Find unlimited travel inspiration on our blog and social media channels.
You Might Also Like:
The 14 Best Beaches In The World
10 Best Kid-Friendly Family Vacations In The United States
The 11 Best Long Weekend Getaways In The US
The Ultimate North America Travel Guide
10 Best Day Trips From Naples, Florida
A Guide To The 6 Best Nudist Beaches In The United States
The Ultimate Guide To a Pet-Friendly Holiday in Florida
