Dreaming of sun-kissed skin, the sound of crashing waves, and endless entertainment? Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, beckons with its 60 miles of beautiful coastline known as the Grand Strand. However, with so much to see and do, planning a trip can quickly become overwhelming. From thrilling amusement parks to serene state parks, live entertainment venues to championship golf courses, the sheer variety of options can leave you wondering where to even begin.
Choosing the right activities and attractions is crucial for crafting a memorable vacation that caters to your interests and budget. Whether you're a family seeking kid-friendly adventures, a couple looking for romantic escapes, or a group of friends ready to hit the town, knowing your options and planning accordingly is essential. Maximizing your time and money ensures you leave with unforgettable memories rather than feeling like you missed out on the best Myrtle Beach has to offer.
What are the must-see attractions and hidden gems of Myrtle Beach?
What are the best family-friendly activities in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide array of attractions and activities suitable for all ages. From building sandcastles on the vast, beautiful beaches to thrilling amusement parks and captivating live entertainment, there's something to keep everyone entertained.
Myrtle Beach's main draw is, of course, its stunning shoreline. Spend your days swimming in the Atlantic, collecting seashells, or simply relaxing under an umbrella. Many resorts offer beachside services, making it even easier to enjoy the sand and surf. Beyond the beach, consider exploring the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade, a lively hub with arcades, shops, restaurants, and the iconic SkyWheel, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. For animal lovers, Ripley's Aquarium and the Myrtle Beach Safari are excellent choices. For those seeking adventure, amusement parks like Broadway at the Beach and Family Kingdom Amusement Park provide thrilling rides and games. Broadway at the Beach also boasts a variety of live shows, restaurants, and unique attractions like WonderWorks, an interactive science museum. For a more relaxed pace, mini-golf is a Myrtle Beach staple with themed courses scattered throughout the area, perfect for a friendly family competition. Consider a visit to Huntington Beach State Park for a dose of nature, offering hiking trails, bird watching, and a glimpse into local history at Atalaya Castle.What are some free or cheap things to do in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach offers a plethora of budget-friendly activities, ranging from enjoying the beautiful coastline and public parks to exploring free events and attractions. A day spent on the beach swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles is always free, and many parks offer walking trails and picnic areas for a relaxing day outdoors. Checking local event listings for free concerts, festivals, and movie nights is another great way to experience the area without breaking the bank.
Myrtle Beach's biggest draw, of course, is its stunning coastline. Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks and spend the day soaking up the sun and surf. Public beach access points are plentiful and free, offering a perfect way to enjoy the Atlantic Ocean. Beyond the beach, explore the Myrtle Beach State Park or Huntington Beach State Park (small entrance fee applies), where you can hike nature trails, go birdwatching, and enjoy stunning views. The parks often host educational programs and events that are free with park admission. For entertainment, keep an eye on local event calendars. Many businesses and organizations host free concerts, festivals, and movie nights, particularly during the summer months. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk often has free entertainment, and some restaurants offer live music with no cover charge. Also, check out Broadway at the Beach; while many attractions there have fees, simply walking around and enjoying the atmosphere is free and entertaining. Don't forget to visit the free Ripley's Believe It or Not! oddities museum display outside.Where are the best places to eat seafood in Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach boasts a plethora of seafood restaurants, ranging from casual, beachfront shacks to upscale dining experiences. Some of the best places include Sea Captain's House for its oceanfront views and classic Southern seafood dishes, Flying Fish Public Market & Grill for a lively atmosphere and fresh catches, and Drunken Jack's in Murrells Inlet (just south of Myrtle Beach) for waterfront dining and sunset views. For a more budget-friendly option, try Mr. Fish, known for its consistently good quality and variety.
Finding the "best" seafood restaurant in Myrtle Beach often depends on personal preference regarding ambiance, price point, and specific seafood cravings. Sea Captain's House is a long-standing favorite known for its she crab soup and shrimp and grits, while Flying Fish offers a more modern take on seafood with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Don't be afraid to explore Murrells Inlet, the "Seafood Capital of South Carolina," for a wider selection of restaurants with stunning waterfront views. Beyond these recommendations, reading online reviews and asking locals for their favorites can also lead you to hidden gems. Consider the time of year as well; some restaurants offer seasonal specials featuring the freshest catches. From crab legs to oysters to fresh fish, Myrtle Beach has something for every seafood lover.Are there any good hiking trails or nature preserves near Myrtle Beach?
Yes, while Myrtle Beach is primarily known for its beaches and entertainment, there are several excellent options for hiking and nature exploration within a short drive. These include state parks, gardens, and conservation areas offering trails through diverse coastal ecosystems.
Beyond the bustling boardwalk, Myrtle Beach offers access to quieter, more natural landscapes. Just a short drive south, Huntington Beach State Park features miles of pristine beach, salt marsh, and maritime forest, all accessible via well-maintained trails. Here, you can hike along the beach, observe shorebirds and other wildlife, and explore the historic Atalaya Castle. To the north, you'll find the Heritage Shores Nature Preserve. This is a great spot for boardwalk trails with views of the Intracoastal Waterway and opportunities for birdwatching. For a more curated natural experience, Brookgreen Gardens, a renowned sculpture garden, also features several nature trails winding through its Lowcountry landscape. These trails provide opportunities to see native flora and fauna in a beautifully landscaped setting. While not strictly hiking trails in the wilderness sense, they offer a pleasant and educational nature walk. Always remember to check park websites for trail maps, hours of operation, and any applicable entrance fees.What are the top attractions for adults in Myrtle Beach besides the beach?
Beyond its beautiful shoreline, Myrtle Beach offers a diverse array of attractions geared toward adults. These include world-class golf courses, Vegas-style shows and live music venues, a thriving culinary scene with fresh seafood and diverse cuisines, numerous breweries and distilleries, and unique shopping experiences ranging from upscale boutiques to quirky souvenir shops. For those seeking adventure, there are water sports activities beyond swimming and sunbathing, plus opportunities for deep-sea fishing and exploring nearby state parks.
Myrtle Beach boasts over 80 championship golf courses, making it a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. Many of these courses were designed by legendary golfers like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Greg Norman, providing challenging and scenic experiences for players of all skill levels. Several theaters along the Grand Strand host spectacular live performances. The Alabama Theatre's "ONE The Show" and The Carolina Opry are long-running favorites, showcasing a variety of musical genres and dazzling choreography. Smaller venues offer everything from tribute bands to comedy acts. The area's burgeoning culinary scene provides endless options for dining and nightlife. From upscale restaurants with ocean views to casual seafood shacks, there's something to satisfy every palate. Craft breweries and distilleries are also becoming increasingly popular, offering tours and tastings of locally produced beers and spirits. Shopping is another popular pastime. Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing offer a wide array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, while The Market Common provides a more upscale shopping and dining experience.What's the best way to get around Myrtle Beach without a car?
The best way to navigate Myrtle Beach without a car depends on your budget and where you need to go, but the Coast RTA bus system offers the most comprehensive coverage. Consider supplementing bus rides with ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for quicker trips or areas with less frequent bus service. Walking and biking are also viable options for exploring the immediate vicinity of your hotel or specific attractions, especially along the beachfront.
While the Coast RTA covers a large portion of the Grand Strand, including popular destinations like Broadway at the Beach, the Myrtle Beach International Airport, and various hotels along Ocean Boulevard, it's crucial to plan your trips carefully. Check the bus schedules and routes in advance, as service frequency can vary depending on the route and time of day. Be aware that travel times may be longer compared to driving. For example, the Route 15 makes frequent stops along the main strip. For more direct and convenient transportation, ride-sharing services provide a valuable alternative. Although they are generally more expensive than the bus, they offer door-to-door service and can be particularly useful for late-night travel or reaching destinations not directly on a bus route. Biking can be a wonderful option for getting around in the summer, just be sure to take necessary safety precautions. Many hotels and rental companies offer bicycle rentals, and the city has been expanding its network of bike paths and lanes to enhance cyclist safety. Keep in mind that distances along the Grand Strand can be significant, so biking is best suited for shorter trips.What are some fun rainy day activities in Myrtle Beach?
Rainy days in Myrtle Beach don't have to mean a vacation ruined! There are plenty of indoor attractions and activities to keep everyone entertained, from captivating theatrical performances and interactive museums to exciting indoor amusement parks and relaxing spa treatments. Embrace the opportunity to explore the Grand Strand's indoor offerings and create memorable experiences regardless of the weather.
Beyond the beach, Myrtle Beach boasts a wealth of indoor entertainment options. Catch a matinee performance at the Alabama Theatre, known for its high-energy musical productions, or be amazed by the illusions at the GTS Theatre. For a more interactive experience, visit WonderWorks, an amusement park for the mind, offering over 100 hands-on exhibits that challenge and entertain all ages. Ripley's Aquarium is another great choice, providing a mesmerizing underwater world to explore without getting wet. Art enthusiasts can spend a fulfilling afternoon at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum, browsing diverse collections and temporary exhibits. For those seeking retail therapy, Broadway at the Beach and Coastal Grand Mall offer a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and indoor attractions. Kids can burn off energy at an indoor trampoline park or arcade. Alternatively, indulge in some self-care with a relaxing spa day. Many resorts and spas in Myrtle Beach offer a range of treatments, from massages and facials to manicures and pedicures, providing a perfect escape from the gloomy weather. With so many options, a rainy day in Myrtle Beach can be just as enjoyable as a sunny one.So there you have it, just a taste of what Myrtle Beach has to offer! Whether you're looking for thrilling rides, relaxing beach days, or delicious seafood, you're sure to find something to love. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you back on the Grand Strand soon!