Top 18 Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Ishaan Govardhan
Apr 20, 2024
This tourist town is home to 60 miles of the most beautiful coastline on South Carolina's Grand Strand. It has so much to offer, that Myrtle Beach takes the idea of a typical day at the beach and blows it out of the water!
The town owes its rapid development to the popularity of this pristine beach. Not far from the shoreline, you'll find a bevy of fun recreational activities to fill your day with.
The fine sands of Myrtle Beach are known for their natural allure. Start the day with a stroll on the beach or a quick refreshing dip in the Atlantic.
The siren call of the ocean isn't easy to resist, and soon you'll find yourself on open water. Take the opportunity to try stand-up paddleboarding, if you think you can keep your balance, that is!
Myrtle Beach is the perfect place to learn how to ride the waves. Join one of the local "surf schools" and let the pros guide you.
If it's a thrill you're after, don't miss the chance to go parasailing over the ocean - soaring as high as 500 ft over the waves.
There's a thrilling way to beat the summer heat: spend time at one of Myrtle Beach's water parks: Splashes Water Park, Wild Water and Wheels, or Myrtle Waves Water Park.
Don't feel like getting wet? Head over to Myrtle Beach's Family Kingdom Amusement Park. Extreme rides and fun arcade games will liven up your day at the beach.
You needn't go scuba diving for a look at marine wildlife. Just visit Broadway at the Beach, wherein you can swing by the incredible Ripley's Aquarium. Here you can even dive with sharks!
Animal-lovers head north to Barefoot Landing for a close encounter and some one-on-one time with tiger cubs and other furry friends at the T.I.G.E.R.S Preservation Station.
If giant reptiles are more your thing, Myrtle Beach has got you covered. Visit Alligator Adventure - one of the largest collections of reptilian life on Earth!
For a change of pace, peruse the artworks at Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum. Its retrospective on Southern art makes for a fascinating exhibit.
Back ashore, you won't be able to walk far without coming upon a fishing pier. Local anglers recommend Surfside Pier and Apache Pier.
Shopaholics are pretty much guaranteed to have a field day at Myrtle Beach. From the Hudson's Surfside Flea Market to upscale shopping complexes like The Market Common, there's a lot to explore.
For some fast-paced fun, cheer at a pulse-pounding NASCAR race on the Myrtle Beach Speedway.
Slow things down, with a fun game of golf. Myrtle Beach has its share of themed 18-hole miniature golf courses with themes ranging from Medieval to Mayan.
As evening falls, go for a relaxing walk along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. It's just over 1 mile in length, but it makes for a scenic seaside stroll cooled by the ocean breeze. You'll pass by various restaurants, bars, gift shops, and the 2nd Avenue Pier.
Casinos have been outlawed in South Carolina. But, determined locals will hop aboard Casino Cruise ships at Myrtle Beach, and sail out to international waters for exemption from this state law.
If you're in the mood for some live country music, swing by Myrtle Beach's Alabama Theater. For dinner and a good show, check out The Bowery..
Your trip would be incomplete without a late-evening ride on the iconic, stunningly well-lit Myrtle Beach SkyWheel: the second largest ferris wheel in USA! Prepare yourself for gorgeous panoramic views of the city, the sunset, and the ocean horizon.