50 Best Things To Do In Myrtle Beach - Lost In The Carolinas (2024)

Myrtle Beach is often called the Grand Strand – a sandy playground full of fun in the sun for everyone, and there are plenty of things to do in Myrtle Beach for everyone. It’s a popular vacation destination with no shortage of entertainment and activities – an Atlantic coast gem ripe with possibilities.

Heading here is one of the best things to do in South Carolina! See a show, relax on the sand, go for a sail, shop until you drop, stroll down the bustling boardwalks, score a hole-in-one, and take in the scenery. There are eclectic excursions to explore galore!

Things to do in Myrtle Beach

Brookgreen Gardens

The Brookgreen Gardens sculpture garden is a seamless blend of art and nature over 9,000 acres. It’s the oldest and largest of its kind in the country. Visitors can access miles of paths that meander through ornate botanical displays and intricate sculpture gardens. This is an awesome idea when the weather is ideal in the shoulder season months, fall and spring.

The gardens are also home to a historical preservation site, The Oaks Plantation. Access to the site is via a large pontoon boat, where an old rice mill, Civil War fort, family cemetery, and plantation house lie. Additionally, the expansive property has a wildlife sanctuary as the grounds are home to a swamp, an aviary, and a butterfly house.

It is the perfect tranquil oasis to wander away for a day. A great departure from some of the more hectic areas of Myrtle Beach and one of our favorite spots along the South Carolina coast.

SkyWheel

The Skywheel is an 187-foot-tall observation wheel providing awesome beach views. It’s tough to miss the imposing wheel in Pavilion Park, as it is the sixth tallest in the country. The unparalleled panoramas along the beach are the best in Myrtle Beach.

A serene slow ascent offers plenty of opportunity to relax and appreciate the scenery and stunning photo ops. Each gondola can hold up to six people and will complete three rotations in total. Most visitors love the sweeping views of the landscape.

Relax on the Beach

One of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach is to relax on the beach! This beach is the most popular in South Carolina and one of the most famous beaches in the United States. The expansive sandy beach has many accommodation options, from vacation rentals to resorts or budget hotels.

It can get very crowded, especially in the summer, but due to the size of the beach, there is always room for another towel or chair. Those seeking quiet beach time should head south to Pawley’s Island or Murrells Inlet. Or they can head further north to check out some great North Carolina beaches that are far quieter, like Ocean Isle, Holden Beach, and Oak Island.

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is a novel adventure park of interactive exhibits all organized by topic. They cover themes such as space exploration, extreme weather, and light and sound without resembling a traditional science museum.Each exhibit is hands-on, innovative, and educational.

The space is engaging for all ages – we promise no one is too old to enjoy the giant Lite-Brite or big bubbles. Try the 360 Extreme bike experience or the glow-in-the-dark ropes course.There’s a lot to the 41,000-square-foot attraction that is sure to be a hit with kids. Its Broadway At The Beach location provides plenty more entertainment, dining, and shopping options after a visit.

Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach is a popular hotspot, home to many activities. The outdoor complex boasts shopping, dining, and plenty of entertainment. Take Old Time Portraits, a wax museum tour, or a helicopter ride up in the sky.

Extensive eateries are around, whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a juicy burger. The paddle boats are a picturesque way to see the sights of Broadway. You can also wander among the bridges that stretch over the Intracoastal Waterway.No trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a stop at the extensive outdoor venue.

Warbird Park

Warbird Park is set in a former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, and it has since become an educational space for historical aircraft. History buffs and aviation aficionados are in for a treat. Each plane on display was once a part of active operations, and information is given about their specific significance.

The wall of service is an on-site memorial to all who served at the base. Some of the more impressive occupants include an F-100 jet fighter and an A-10 Warthog Thunderbolt.There isn’t a whole to the memorial park, and it probably takes less than an hour to visit, but it’s worth a stop for aircraft aficionados. The park is on the south side of Myrtle Beach, just off Business 17.

Mini Golf

Myrtle Beach is a haven for the pastime of putt-putt. There are a truly impressive amount of miniature golf courses, each with its theme. There are plenty of fun nautical options with some pretty cool features. Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf is a popular choice known for its seriously impressive build around an artificial mountain.

The tiki-themed course rises 75 feet in the air and increases with difficulty as you progress through the course. See if you can manage a hole-in-one! More options include Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf for a treasure trove of swashbuckling surprises or Jurassic Mini Golf for a roaring round.

Myrtle Beach Golf

Myrtle Beach is far more well-known for its exceptional golf courses than for miniature golf. The area has long been known for exceptional courses and the dizzying amount to choose from for play. However, it was only until 2024 that it finally gained a stop on the PGA World Tour with the Myrtle Beach Classic.

With the excellent amenities, relaxed landscape, and mild winters, it’s not much of a surprise that golf is so popular in Myrtle Beach. There is a wide range of courses to suit every skill level. The most notable course that’s on many golfers’ bucket lists is The Dunes Golf & Beach Club — which will also host the Myrtle Beach Classic.

Hit the links and enjoy the surrounding scenery that has attracted golfers from around the globe. The Myrtle Beach area has nearly 100 golf courses, so golfers are spoilt for choice.

The Carolina Opry

Home to the biggest shows in the Grand Strand, this is one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach. Every production features talented singers, dancers, and musicians with exciting displays accompanying them.

There is a show for every genre, from gospel to country to rock n’ roll. Check the schedule, as the shows are constantly changing and evolving. The Carolina Opry Theatre is the quintessential venue if you’re looking for live music in the area.A highlight every year is The Carolina Opry Christmas Special from November to December.

Myrtle Beach State Park

An idyllic maritime forest lies just south of the bustling Myrtle Beach shores. With trails weaving their way through the preserved scenery, it’s a stunning setting to experience the ecosystems and landscapes of the area. You can even rent a campsite overnight to commune with nature.

Discover the sandy beach here, which is normally much less crowded than in the city’s heart. Learn about the local wildlife at the nature center on-site.

Huntington Beach State Park

A peaceful respite from the clamoring crowds of vacationers, Huntington Beach State Park provides a private three-mile stretch of sandy shore, ideal for relaxing. There are trails to traverse for biking and hiking, picnic grounds, campsites, and a nature center.

The jetty is ideal for fishing and birdwatching, so bring your gear. Keep your eyes out for endangered flora and fauna. There is also the Moorish-style Atalaya Castle here. Take a historical peek into the lavish lives of the 20th-century railroad tycoon family who once occupied it.

Family Kingdom Amusem*nt Park

The Family Kingdom Amusem*nt Park is a 13-acre park with 38 rides and the perfect oceanfront location. Take in the views from the Ferris wheel, a nostalgic icon of Myrtle Beach. There are roller coasters, go-karts, carousels, and water slides. It’s great for those seeking a thrill with kids. It’s not a large amusem*nt park, but it’s still an enjoyable time certain to put a smile on most visitors’ faces.

There are many carnival games to try out, adding to the kitschy charm of the place. It feels a lot like an old-school beachside fair. There is a lot of nostalgia here for many who have been visiting the park for decades. As visitors wander through the seaside grounds there are magicians, clowns, balloon sculptors, face painters, and tilt walkers. It’s sure to both amuse and delight.

Medieval Times

One of the main attractions in Myrtle Beach is the famous Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. This unique experience takes you back to the Middle Ages, where you can watch knights battle in the arena with a four-course meal.

Their famous dinner includes garlic bread, tomato bisque soup, roasted chicken, spare ribs, herb-roasted potatoes, and dessert. During the show, you can cheer for your favorite warrior and root for him to win the hand of the beautiful princess. It’s truly an immersive outing unlike any other.

Inlet Point Plantation

Inlet Point is a beautiful plantation located right along the waterfront, providing stunning views and plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, dip in the pool, or explore the many local shops and restaurants, Inlet Point Plantation has something for everyone.

If you’re searching for a more active endeavor, there’s no shortage of sweat-inducing pursuits, including golf, tennis, and biking.

Shark Wake Park 843

Shark Wake Park 843 in Myrtle Beach is a must-visit for any thrill seeker. The park features a variety of cable systems that allow you to wakeboard, waterski, and kneeboard, no experience necessary! There’s a beginner-friendly area where you can learn the basics.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at the park’s famous shark baptism. Shark Wake Park 843 is the perfect place to spend a day searching for adrenaline-pumping fun.

Fossils Forever: Shark Tooth Hunting Myrtle Beach

Fossils Forever is a great place to learn about the history of our planet. The museum exhibits impressive collections of dinosaur bones, rocks, and minerals.

The staff is very knowledgeable and always available to answer any questions. Not only that, but they can take you on your very own exploration to find shark teeth along the scenic South Carolina coastline. They also offer a variety of special tours and programs for adults and children.

Alligator Adventure

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity with the family, visiting Alligator Adventure in Myrtle Beach is a great option. This popular park is home to hundreds of gators and other cool reptiles such as turtles, snakes, and lizards.

You can get up close and personal with these amazing creatures through daily feedings and educational shows. There’s also a boardwalk to view the alligators in their natural habitat.

Waccamaw River

The Waccamaw River is one of the most scenic and popular attractions in Myrtle Beach. Stretching for over 60 miles, the river is perfect for a leisurely boat ride or fishing trip. On any adventure here, you’ll likely see abundant beautiful wildlife and ecosystems, including cypress trees and alligators.

You can also stop at one of the many riverside restaurants for a tasty bite. The Waccamaw River is one of our favorite ways to spend a day in Myrtle Beach!

L.W. Paul Living History Farm

L.W. Paul Living History Farm is a wonderful spot to learn about life on a Lowcountry plantation. The farm offers a harrowing glimpse into the lives of the enslaved people who worked the land and the white families who owned them.

Visitors can see how crops were grown and harvested, how houses were built, and how everyday life was lived in this bygone era. The farm also has a museum with exhibits on the history of slavery in South Carolina, the Civil War, and Reconstruction.

Myrtle Beach Pelicans

Seeing a Myrtle Beach Pelicans game should be on your list of things to do when you’re in the area! They’re a local Minor League Baseball team, and it has become a beloved, time-honored tradition among locals and tourists alike.

The games are affordable and family-friendly, plus there’s always a great atmosphere, even if the team isn’t doing so well. The concessions are full of classic comfort foods, and there’s typically a bunch of silly and quirky antics for the crowd to participate in each inning.

EdVenture Myrtle Beach

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend a day, check out EdVenture Myrtle Beach. This hands-on museum is great for adults and kids of all ages, with interactive exhibits on science, nature, and history.

EdVenture Myrtle Beach has something for everyone, conveniently located right by the boardwalk. The little ones can dig for dino fossils, play in the water at the Splash Pad, or explore the forest exhibit. There’s a climbing wall, a ropes course, and a zip line for any older visitors!

La Belle Amie Vineyard

La Belle Amie Vineyard is a lovely stop while in Myrtle Beach. Situated on a historic plantation, the vineyard offers a variety of wines and a beautiful setting for picnics and outdoor events.

Visitors can tour the vineyard or relax with a glass of red or white while enjoying the views. As far as an escape from the hectic and crowded beaches here, it doesn’t get much more relaxing than this.

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the Myrtle Beach area. The gardens are home to various plants, flowers, and many historical artifacts.

You can take a self-guided tour of the gardens or participate in one of the staff’s many educational programs. Whether you’re interested in learning about the area’s natural history or its role in the Civil War, Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens is a great place to visit. And best of all, admission is free!

Radical Ropes Adventure Park

Radical Ropes Adventure Park in Myrtle Beach is one of the favorite places around for any daredevil adventurer. The park features several different courses of varying difficulty, so there’s something for everyone to try.

The staff is also very friendly and helpful, so safety-wise you can be sure you’re in good hands. Radical Ropes is the place to go if you’re looking for a unique and fun-filled way to spend an afternoon away from the sandy shores.

See Legends in Concert

Legends in Concert is a super popular attraction in Myrtle Beach. You can see some of the biggest names in music of all time in one show, including Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, and Whitney Houston.

Well, it’s the music of these iconic artists performed by some very talented and convincing look-alikes. The show is known for being packed with high-energy entertainment and outstanding production values. It’s an unforgettable experience that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to witness all your musical heroes firsthand in their glory days.

Get Back To Basics With Camping

Myrtle Beach is a great place to go camping for so many reasons! Aside from an affordable way to stay, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the spectacular natural surroundings a bit off the beaten path.

Most of the sites are decked out with all the desired amenities, so it’s easy to see why it has been deemed one of the best cities in the country to sleep out under the stars. Myrtle Beach also has great weather full of warm sunshine all year-round.

Additionally, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy while camping in Myrtle Beach, from grilling to swimming to fishing. You can check out Ocean Lakes, Pirateland, Cypress, or Briarcliff, to name a few.

Get Pampered In A Spa

There are many reasons why people love to go to the spa, especially while on vacation. For one, it’s a great way to relax and unwind. Also, we all know that regular spa visits can offer several essential health benefits. Myrtle Beach has several top-rated spas, each offering a unique experience.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious day of pampering or a more budget-friendly option, you will surely find the perfect spot to suit your needs. Try the Awakening Spa, the Cinzia Spa, or the Celestial Spa on Cloud 9. For more alternative treatments, use the new highly regarded Himalayan Salt Therapy here.

Try Your Luck At The Big M Casino

The Big M is located just outside of Myrtle Beach and is the only casino in South Carolina. It’s set on a couple of luxury yachts, making the setting just as enticing as the slots themselves! Talk about feeling fancy.

They offer various gaming options, including blackjack, roulette, and poker. It’s a fun setting, even if gambling and games aren’t your thing. They also offer several other amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and live entertainment. The Big M Casino is great for a lively night out with friends or family.

Hobcaw Barony

The Hobcaw Barony is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about the natural environment and human history of Myrtle Beach. It offers a variety of educational programs and tours to check out on over 16,000 acres of property.

You can learn about every local ecosystem firsthand, the area’s rich heritage, and all the different people who have lived on the grounds through over 70 cultural sites. There are also opportunities to go hiking, canoeing, and camping.

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to spend your time, we highly recommend visiting the Hobcaw Barony.

Hop On A Cruise

Going on a cruise is a great way to see Myrtle Beach from a different perspective. Many types of cruises are available through local operators, so there’s sure to be one that suits your needs. If you want a romantic getaway, you can book a private cabin on a luxury cruise ship.

If you are traveling with kids, family-friendly cruises offer activities and entertainment for all ages. If you want to relax and enjoy the scenery, there are sightseeing cruises offering beautiful coastline views and stopping for spotting marine life.

No matter what kind of on-the-water adventure you’re looking for, there’s sure to be an option that will suit your needs.

Dino Park

If you are searching for a fun and unusual activity in Myrtle Beach, check out Dino Park! This outdoor museum is filled with life-size replicas of dinosaurs, making it a perfect place to learn about these fascinating prehistoric creatures.

You’ll surely learn some mind-blowing facts and be generally dazzled on a self-guided safari here. Thanks to the park’s location on the beach, you can enjoy some time in the sun as you wander between a few massive and majestic animatronic figures. The Dinopark is open daily and offers affordable admission as well.

Fat Harold’s Beach Club

Fat Harold’s Beach Club is a Myrtle Beach institution. Locals and tourists flock to this beachside bar to enjoy live music, dance the night away, and generally soak up the authentic atmosphere.

It’s also a beacon of retro charm, famous for being the best place to learn the South Carolina Shag, an official beach dance developed in the 1940s. It’s open seven days a week, and something is always happening here.

Whether you’re looking to relax with a cold beer or get your groove on to beach music, Fat Harold’s is the place to be. The club opened its doors in 1950 and has been a staple of the Myrtle Beach community ever since.

In addition to promising a good time with a full bar, they also have pool tables and a shuffleboard.

Ripley’s Belive It Or Not

A classic staple of Myrtle Beach is Ripley’s. Ripley’s Believe it or Not is an Odditorium full of all that is weird and wonderful. Check out the displays that are chock full of quirks, such as shrunken heads, surprising sculptures, exotic animal skeletons, and a mirror maze.

You will also find Ripley’s 5D Moving Theater, a fun twist on the typical cinematic experience. It’s all pretty kitschy, so it may not be everyone’s thing. However, what does stand out is Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Aquarium. It’s at a separate location at Broadway At The Beach.

Ripley’s Aquarium is just as beautiful as it is educational. Get a unique peak at exotic aquatic environments from the inside. Thousands of marine species swim through the expansive environments, ranging from sting rays to sharks to sea turtles.It’s the perfect rainy day thing to do in Myrtle Beach. We aren’t alone in the opinion as the Aquarium is far more popular than the Odditorium.

Myrtle Waves Water Park

This is South Carolina’s largest water park. It’s 20 acres of slides, rides, chutes, and rafts for some wet and wild fun in the sun. Try the Turbo Twisters, Night Flight, or Super Chute if you’re feeling adventurous.

Ditch the sticky sand and cool off while having a blast. There’s a lazy river and the Racin River for those who need speed. Catch some surf in the wave pool or take a turn at tubing.

Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum

Considered a fan favorite of the things to do in Myrtle Beach, the Pinball Museum is a vintage wonderland and a top-notch arcade. There are two dozen games inside, ranging from the 1970s classics born of the arcade heyday to newer modern machines on the scene.

Each machine sports a retro theme, so pick your preference and play to your heart’s content. It’s set in a prime spot for other tempting attractions making it a perfect pitstop for a quick trip back in time.

Myrtle Beach Piers

Who would have thought this South Carolina city had one of the most amazing piers in the state? The piers of this paradise are a sight to behold. The Apache Pier is the longest wooden pier on the entire East Coast. Springmaid Beach Pier, Cherry Grove Pier, and Garden City Beach Pier are other well-loved wooden landmarks.

Enjoy several casual dining destinations here. Savor a cold beer or fresh dish with a side of sea breeze. Try fishing off the pier or observe as others make the catch of the day. Play in the sand, relax in the sun, or cool off with a refreshing dip. You can even rent a board to try out the swell firsthand. There’s often live entertainment at night – Apache even boasts a covered bandshell halfway down.

Watersports

There are various ways to explore and enjoy the vast sparkling sea of Myrtle Beach. Many companies dot the shores to provide you with everything you need to partake in your favorite water-based pastime, such as Express Watersports. Fly high above the oceanfront by parasailing away for jaw-dropping views.

Jet Skiing is a hands-on way to move through the sea with the greatest of ease. Kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean or the inland waterways of the Lowcountry is an enjoyable way to get up close to the wild scenery.

Myrtle Beach Promenade

One of the most iconic things to do in Myrtle Beach is to peruse the promenade. It’s often referenced as one of the best boardwalks in America. Over a mile long, it stretches across the coastline, providing many beachy treats to try. With gift shops galore and many delicious spots to dine in, it’s a hub of activity for the area.

There are festivals seasonally, such as Sun Festival or Boardwalk Fright Nights. The north section is a rustic ramp raised over lush vegetation, the middle is busy with beachfront bustle, and the south side is home to a scenic seaside park.

Myrtle Beach Art Museum

Technically called the Franklin G. Burroughs – Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum, the Myrtle Beach Art Museum is home to ten galleries, an art studio, and a resource library. Focused on Fine Art, it’s housed in a 1920s-style villa with an ocean view.

The exhibits feature work from Ansel Adams and Norman Rockwell, along with many other rotating masterpieces selections in almost every medium, from traditional Southern styles to contemporary Arts and Crafts.

Breweries

New South Brewing has been a beloved local fixture for decades. The Dirty Myrtle IPA has become a coveted craft beverage in the area. There is something for every pallet here, from a nut coffee brown ale to a blood orange session ale.

You can tour the facilities to learn more about their process for making these legendary libations. Independent Republic Brewing Company boasts a beautiful beer garden to enjoy a pint along the Intracoastal Waterway. The Water Malone American Wheat Ale is as flavorful as it is refreshing.

Wheels of Yesteryear

A museum for classic cars, there are hundreds of vintage automobiles to check out here. An oasis for car connoisseurs, the inventory changes yearly to showcase new and exciting retro mobiles.

With a focus on American-made craftsmanship, you will get to inspect such models as the 1963 Corvette Split Window Stingray Coupe. It’s one of the biggest collections of the Southeast, and it’s worth a sweet nostalgic visit.

Broadway Grand Prix

If you need speed, the Broadway Grand Prix is a network of go-kart tracks that will fulfill all your driving dreams. There are seven raceways, some with speed limits of up to 20 mph. It was formerly known as the Nascar Speedpark and now features other entertainment, such as a rock-climbing wall, race-themed mini golf, sky coaster, and a snack bar.

A refreshing break from the heat of sunny beach days, cool off with the wind in your hair as you race your worries away.

Fishing Charter

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking to try your luck, plenty of top-notch fishing can be done on Myrtle Beach’s shores. There are dozens of game fish species and even more ways to charter a vessel to catch them.

Go offshore for Tuna or inshore for Flounder. Try out Voyager Deep Sea Fishing, Myrtle Beach Sport Fishing, Little River Fishing Fleet, or any friendly faces around the marina.

Book a Fishing Charter!

The Market Common

This lifestyle center provides everything you may need for a day around town. It’s a bustling space of over one hundred acres, with eateries, shopping, and entertainment.

See a movie, shoot a game of pool, go bowling, cure any craving, or bike around the commons to explore. There are many fashion retailers and Myrtle Beach restaurants, all with the big names you know and love. Get a taste of local life by exploring this scene.

Flea Markets

There are plenty of treasures to be discovered within the Grand Strand. The Hudson Surfside Flea Market is a staple of collectors, thrifters, and bargain hunters. The open-air market houses over 400 vendors selling goodies of all varieties.

Antiques, clothes, and crafts abound to browse endlessly. Everything Under the Sun Flea Market is aptly named. It’s an indoor space accumulating jewelry, toys, and anything you could imagine collecting all under one roof.

Soar + Explore

Soar + Explore offers the opportunity to do just that. With a network of zip lines and rope courses, this adventure amusem*nt mecca will surely thrill and excite you. The perfect outdoor active excursion, these towering obstacles are a playground for the unafraid.

You can glide for 1,000 feet while 50 feet in the air. You will feel like you’re flying. The higher you climb on the rope courses, the harder they get, a challenge ripe for triumph.

Pirate’s Voyage

A one-of-a-kind experience, Pirate’s Voyage is a barrel of laughs. The epitome of dinner and a show includes many live performances and a four-course meal you won’t find anywhere else.

Each show changes depending on the season for a truly festive feel. They include plays, acrobatics, and reenactments. The food is phenomenal – it’s sure to have you hooked after the first dish.

Map Of The Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach