I still remember stepping off the plane and getting that first breath of ocean air warm, salty, and just a little bit sweet, like sunscreen and sea breeze rolled into one. The sky was painted in cotton candy pinks and blues, the kind that makes you forget about time zones and to-do lists. Myrtle Beach didn’t shout at me like some destinations do. It kind of winked subtle breezy, and full of possibility.
Sure, at first glance, you see the neon souvenir shops and chain restaurants. But give it a day or even just a sunset and you’ll start to feel what makes this place stick. It’s in the way the live music drifts down the boardwalk at dusk. It’s in the local crab shacks where strangers become your trivia teammates. It’s in the slow, swaying rhythm of hammocks, boat rides, and beach days that melt into bonfire nights.
I came here thinking it would be just another beach town quick trip, tan lines, done. But Myrtle Beach has a way of pulling you in. And whether you’re here for the seafood, the surf, or just a break from real life, I promise: there’s more magic here than meets the eye.
Start Your Day Right: Beaches & Boardwalk
Myrtle Beach Main
There’s something magical about starting your day at Myrtle Beach before the crowds roll in. I loved waking up early, grabbing a caramel cold brew from Beach Hippie Coffee, and walking barefoot along the shoreline just as the sun cracked over the Atlantic. The light turns the ocean pink for a moment it’s fleeting, but beautiful.
If you’re a jogger, there’s a paved path just behind the dunes. If you’re a stroller (like me), you’ll find plenty of quiet corners for reflection. Locals set up their umbrellas early, and by 10 AM, the beach hums with laughter, surfboards, and families building castles.
Tip: Parking near the 14th Avenue Pier is usually easiest before 9 AM, and it gives you direct access to restrooms, a playground, and casual beach rentals.
Cherry Grove / North Myrtle Beach
If you prefer your mornings slow and soul-soothing, drive 25 minutes north to Cherry Grove Beach. This area has a laid-back, local vibe, no loud music, just the sounds of waves, seabirds, and fishing lines flicking into the surf.
I arrived just after sunrise and found a couple of older locals fishing off the Cherry Grove Pier. One of them had been coming there for 20 years. We chatted about tides and travel, and I walked away with a small shark tooth he gave me “for luck.” The beach here is wide, breezy, and perfect for a quieter walk, especially if you’re into photography or shell collecting.
Bonus: There’s easy street parking and less commercial sprawl, so you really feel like you’ve discovered a different side of Myrtle Beach.
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & SkyWheel
The boardwalk is where Myrtle Beach comes alive. Stretching over a mile, it winds between shops, snack shacks, arcades, and breezy ocean overlooks. I spent one afternoon here hopping between saltwater taffy stands, sipping frozen lemonade, and watching a busker play Dixieland jazz outside the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove.
The highlight? The SkyWheel. It’s 187 feet tall, fully enclosed, and climate-controlled (which matters more than you’d think when it’s 90° and humid). I rode it at golden hour and saw the entire coastline stretch into cotton candy sunset hues. Pro tip: go just before sunset to skip the line but still catch the views.
Outdoor & Beyond the Surf
Brookgreen Gardens (Murrells Inlet)
Brookgreen Gardens isn’t just pretty, it’s peaceful, powerful, and way bigger than I expected. Spread over 9,000 acres, it combines botanical gardens, Lowcountry history, and over 2,000 pieces of sculpture tucked into vine-covered pathways.
I wandered past reflecting pools, live oaks draped in moss, and stumbled into a butterfly house filled with monarchs and swallowtails. The mix of nature and art makes it feel like you’re in a living gallery. Come in the evening if you’re visiting in summer their Summer Light: Art by Night event lights the gardens with glowing lanterns, firefly-inspired installations, and dreamy ambient music.
Bonus: The on-site Lowcountry Zoo cares for rescued and rehabilitated animals, including foxes, otters, and alligators.
Huntington Beach State Park
Right next door is one of the best-kept nature secrets on the coast, Huntington Beach State Park. It’s quieter than most beaches, and the marsh boardwalk alone is worth the visit. I spotted roseate spoonbills (yes, those pink ones!) and a massive gator basking under a sun-drenched cypress.
The beach here is less developed, so bring your own snacks, water, and shade if you’re staying long. There are also hiking trails, picnic shelters, and a small historic home you can tour called Atalaya Castle.
Pro tip: Go around sunset the sky over the salt marsh glows lavender, and the birds put on quite the aerial show.
Kayak & Marsh Tours
One of the most peaceful things I did was paddle through the marshes with Great Escapes Kayak Tours. It was just me, the guide, and a family from Georgia quietly navigating the channels around Waties Island.
We saw herons stalking fish, blue crabs scuttling across the sandbars, and the guide shared local legends of pirate treasure and Civil War hideouts. If you’ve never kayaked before, don’t worry it’s slow-paced and suitable for beginners. Just wear a hat and sunscreen, and bring your waterproof phone pouch for photos.
Watersports Thrills
For a jolt of energy, I signed up for parasailing and wow. Floating 400 feet above the coastline with the wind rushing past my ears was both peaceful and exhilarating. The crew at Atlantic Watersports made it fun and safe, and they even snapped a few photos for me.
There’s also paddleboarding, banana boats (wild!), and jet ski rentals for adrenaline seekers. If you’re with a group, check out Crazy Sister Marina in Murrells Inlet, they offer combo packages like deep sea fishing + parasailing that make for an unforgettable half day.
Where I Ate (and Would Go Back To)
Hook & Barrel (Downtown Myrtle Beach)
This was hands down my favorite dinner spot in Myrtle Beach. Hook & Barrel serves up sustainably sourced seafood with a coastal-chic vibe that feels perfect for a date night or special occasion. I ordered the cioppino a rich seafood stew with mussels, shrimp, and scallops in a tomato-garlic broth and paired it with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Everything tasted incredibly fresh, and you can watch the chefs in action through a glass-paneled kitchen. I also recommend the smoked old fashioned if you’re into craft cocktails with a little flair. Don’t skip the lobster deviled eggs, I still think about them.
Zee Tip: Make a reservation for around 6:30 PM and ask for a table near the window you’ll catch the golden hour glow through the palms.
Bimini’s Oyster Bar (Off 20th Ave N, near the beach)
This is one of those “locals know best” spots. The vibe is beachy and casual, like a seafood shack where the ceiling is covered in license plates and the beers are ice cold. I walked in still wearing flip-flops and felt right at home.
I ordered a half-dozen oysters on the half shell, blackened shrimp, and Cajun crab legs. Everything was spicy, buttery, and just messy enough to be satisfying. I even made friends with a couple next to me who were road-tripping the entire South Carolina coast.
Bonus: There’s usually live music or a jukebox spinning classic rock and beach tunes. It’s a fun, unfussy spot with serious flavor.
The Hangout (Broadway at the Beach)
If you want food and fun in one spot, The Hangout is a must. It’s part beach bar, part family playground, and 100% vacation vibes. I came here solo and ended up dancing in a foam pit with a bunch of strangers it’s just that kind of place.
The menu is casual but tasty. I had the Shark Attack cocktail (it comes with a toy shark and grenadine “blood”) and a big plate of Hangout Nachos loaded with cheese, pulled pork, and jalapeños. They also do live music, trivia nights, and have outdoor games like giant Jenga and ping-pong.
Zee Tip: Sit on the patio at sunset. You’ll get great people-watching and views of the water across Broadway.
Crooked Hammock Brewery (Barefoot Landing)
After a full afternoon of shopping, I stopped here to unwind and stayed for hours. Crooked Hammock is the kind of place where you grab a beer, kick off your sandals, and swing in a hammock while live acoustic music plays in the background.
I tried their flagship IPA, “Hammock Easy,” and loved it citrusy, light, and perfect for warm evenings. The pulled pork sandwich was smoky and tender, and their fries? Crispy perfection.
Good to know: It’s kid- and dog-friendly, with cornhole, board games, and lawn seating. Great for laid-back group dinners or solo travelers who want to feel like part of the crowd.
Adult (and Night Owl) Fun
Live Shows
Myrtle Beach has a surprisingly vibrant live entertainment scene and I’m not talking about just cover bands. I went to Legends in Concert, where tribute artists belted out classics from Elvis, Adele, and Bruno Mars. The performers are seriously talented, and the lights, costumes, and crowd energy make it feel like Vegas on the coast.
If you’re more into Southern charm and storytelling, check out The Carolina Opry. It’s a blend of music, comedy, and dance that feels a bit more polished and romantic, great for date night.
Zee Tip: Book tickets in advance during high season (summer or spring break). Many shows offer combo deals with dinner, which are worth it.
Drinks with a View
There’s something about sipping a cocktail while watching the sun melt into the Atlantic that just feels right. Two of my go-to spots:
- RipTydz Rooftop: Right on the boardwalk with sweeping ocean views. I had a passionfruit mojito and a plate of seafood sliders while watching the SkyWheel light up.
- Tin Roof: A bit louder, a bit livelier. Think live DJs, neon signs, and creative cocktails (try the “South of Somewhere,” spicy and sweet with jalapeño and pineapple).
If you prefer something low-key, check out Grand Strand Brewing Co., perfect for post-beach pints. Their rotating small-batch beers and picnic-table seating create an easygoing, social atmosphere.
For Beer Lovers: Don’t miss Tidal Creek Brewhouse, just 10 minutes inland. They have flights, coffee-infused stouts, and food trucks on weekends.
Spa & Wine
One morning, I decided to skip the beach and booked a deep tissue massage at Awakening Spa, tucked inside the Anderson Ocean Club. The space was serene, with ocean-inspired scents and soft music. Afterward, I lounged in a robe, sipping cucumber water and feeling like I’d floated into another timezone.
Later that afternoon, I drove 20 minutes inland to La Belle Amie Vineyard. It’s a charming, family-owned winery where you can sample local muscadine blends and enjoy live blues on the patio. Their wine slushies were a hi,t especially the peach.
Zee Tip: Visit on a Saturday when they host live music festivals (check their calendar). Bring a hat, sunglasses, and stay for the sunset over the vineyard.
5. Family & Kids
Family Kingdom Amusement Park
There’s something timeless about beachside amusement parks, and Family Kingdom nails the nostalgia. Right on Ocean Boulevard, this open-air park blends classic charm with just enough thrills to keep kids and grown-ups smiling. I spent the better part of an afternoon here dodging bumper cars, grabbing funnel cakes, and screaming (just a little) on the wooden Swamp Fox roller coaster.
It’s walkable from the boardwalk, and you don’t have to pay an entry fee to explore just buy tickets for the rides you want. That makes it perfect for short attention spans or if you’re trying to keep costs flexible. There are gentle rides for little kids, midway games, and even water rides to cool off on steamy afternoons.
Zee Tip: Visit after 4 PM for smaller crowds, cooler temps, and great lighting for photos.
Bonus: There’s also a water park right across the street if you want to turn it into a full-day adventure.
Ripley’s Aquarium & WonderWorks (Broadway at the Beach)
These two indoor spots were total lifesavers on one rainy day of my trip. Ripley’s Aquarium has a glass tunnel that takes you under a shark tank, stingrays glide overhead, and there’s even a moving walkway so you can float along while taking it all in. I watched kids squeal at the jellyfish tank and pet baby rays in the shallow-touch pool. (Honestly, I did too.)
Right next door is WonderWorks, a huge upside-down building packed with hands-on exhibits, laser tag, a ropes course, and a hurricane simulator. If you’re traveling with tweens or teens, this one’s gold.
Combo Tip: You can get discounted tickets by bundling both attractions definitely worth it for a full afternoon indoors.
Mini Golf Capital of the World
I had no idea that Myrtle Beach has over 35 mini golf courses each more colorful and outrageous than the last. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, this is the ultimate low-pressure, all-ages activity.
I tried Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf, which winds through caves and pirate ships, and Mt. Atlanticus, which has a tiki-themed course perched on the roof with ocean views. Some even glow in the dark at night, which is perfect if you’re looking for a fun way to wind down after dinner.
Local Tip: Many mini golf spots pair with family-friendly restaurants or ice cream shops, so it’s easy to build it into your evening routine.
6. Where to Shop & Stroll
Broadway at the Beach
If you only have time for one shopping and entertainment spot, make it Broadway at the Beach. This massive 350-acre complex is situated around a scenic lake, featuring bridges, fountains, and boardwalks that connect the various zones. I wandered for hours here, ducking into candy shops, boutique clothing stores, and beachy souvenir stalls.
There are plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the Ripley’s Aquarium, Build-A-Bear Workshop, and Backstage Mirror Maze, while adults can enjoy Crooked Hammock Brewery, rooftop bars, or an IMAX movie. There’s also a splash pad in the center for kids to cool off and a carousel near the main entrance.
Favorite Finds: A Myrtle Beach–themed Christmas ornament (yes, in July) and some handmade candles that still remind me of the trip.
Evening Bonus: Come after dinner for live music, outdoor performers, and fireworks shows (usually on Tuesdays and Fridays during summer).
Barefoot Landing (North Myrtle Beach)
I discovered Barefoot Landing by accident while exploring North Myrtle Beach and ended up spending a slow, wonderful afternoon there. It’s built around a lake and connected by wooden walkways, so it feels breezy and relaxed even on a hot day.
There are 100+ shops here ranging from beachwear and handmade soap to wine boutiques and toy stores. I sipped a glass of local wine while watching turtles sunbathe in the water below and caught part of a live set at House of Blues.
If you’re traveling with kids, Alligator Adventure is located right on site you’ll see gators, snakes, lemurs, and even albino alligators. It’s educational and surprisingly fun for adults too.
Treat Tip: Don’t miss a scoop of Key Lime Pie ice cream from Sweet Molly’s Creamery.
Vibe: This is where I’d go to stroll without an agenda. It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and makes for a peaceful change from the busy boardwalk.
7. More Fun Things to Do in Myrtle Beach
Rainy-Day Fun at the Boardwalk Entertainment District
One of the days I was there, the skies opened up into a full-on summer thunderstorm. But instead of staying in, I wandered into the Boardwalk Entertainment District and I’m so glad I did.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not was delightfully weird. Think shrunken heads, optical illusions, and a room that made me feel like I was walking on the walls. Next door, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure was surprisingly spooky (I may or may not have screamed). And the 5D Moving Theater it’s like a rollercoaster meets a movie. Honestly, this whole strip is perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to duck out of the heat or rain without slowing the fun.
The Quirkiest Souvenir Shop: Gay Dolphin Gift Cove
You can’t miss the Gay Dolphin Gift Cove literally or figuratively. This legendary gift shop has been a Myrtle Beach icon since the 1940s. With seven levels, winding staircases, and more than 70,000 items, it’s the kind of place where you could find a shark’s tooth necklace, a mounted swordfish, a life-size Elvis statue, and a glittery flamingo mug all in the same aisle.
I wandered for almost an hour, and somehow still only saw half the place. Even if you’re not a shopper, it’s worth stepping inside just for the sheer “only in Myrtle” experience.
Say Cheese at the Hollywood Wax Museum
If you’re looking for something playful and super Instagrammable, Hollywood Wax Museum is your spot. I went on a whim and ended up spending a solid hour posing with wax figures of Elvis, Taylor Swift, and even King Kong.
It’s not just wax statues, there’s also a mirror maze and a zombie escape area. Slightly cheesy? Sure. But honestly, it was so fun I didn’t even care.
Breezy Afternoons at The Market Common
I stumbled into The Market Common one lazy afternoon and ended up spending the rest of the day there. It’s a stylish little district built on an old Air Force base, now transformed into boutique shops, cute cafés, and walking paths lined with palm trees and string lights.
I browsed indie bookstores, grabbed a craft beer flight at Gordon Biersch, and watched a movie in their luxury theater. If you’re craving a more upscale, less touristy vibe this is your zone. It’s perfect for a chill date night, quiet solo afternoon, or anyone who needs a break from beach crowds.
Seasonal & Practical Tips
| Season | Why Visit | Must-Knows |
| Summer (June–Aug) | Bright sunshine, boardwalk energy, live music | Peak crowds – book rides & hotels early. |
| Shoulder (May, Sept) | Milder temps, fewer tourists | Water’s cooler – bring a light jacket. |
| Fall/Winter | Events like Festivals, Lights at Brookgreen | Some attractions close; check ahead. |
- Getting Around: Best by rental car, rideshare, or fun golf-cart rentals. The Coast RTA shuttle is budget-friendly, especially in summer.
- Parking: Free at most beach accesses early, but meter up downtown post-10 AM.
- What to Pack: Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a light hoodie (evenings cool), and bug spray for marsh outings.
Final Thoughts
Looking back, Myrtle Beach wasn’t just a spot on the map it was a state of mind. The kind where you lose track of time watching the tide roll in, where every evening ends with sand still on your ankles and a happy kind of tired in your bones.
It’s not flashy in the way some coastal towns try to be. Myrtle Beach is a little scrappy, a little sparkly, and full of surprises if you know where to look. From kayaking through still marshes to dancing barefoot at a beach bar, from quiet coffee-fueled mornings to foam-pit sunsets it gave me a little bit of everything.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or stretching it into a long, lazy week, I hope this guide helps you experience the best of it. Pack light, bring your appetite, and leave space for spontaneity. Myrtle Beach has a way of turning even the simplest moments into something you’ll want to come back for.
