It might not attract a substantial amount of international tourist fame compared to the likes of Virginia Beach to its north and Charleston to its south, however, the Carolina locals have been flocking to the pristine waters of Myrtle Beach for decades — and only now is the rest of the world catching on to its unique charm.
With a long list of oceanfront attractions — from old-timey theme parks to modern piers, sprawling parks, and lively boardwalks — plenty of nearby wildlife, and a range of award-winning shows, bars, and restaurants, you’ll be overwhelmed with the wonderful array of things to do in Myrtle Beach.
It’s perfect for a family-friendly vacation, a weekend with friends, or a long, luxurious getaway with a little bit of adventure thrown in.And whether you want to stroll through elegant gardens or sip drinks on the shore, you’ll find plenty to love about this gorgeous town – and plenty to check out on future visits!
Need help planning your itinerary? Look no further.
1 – Take a ride on the wild Waccamaw River
Hop on a boat, sit back and relax.
Cruising the wonderful Waccamaw River, surrounded by green moss and cypress trees, is one of the most popular things to do in Myrtle Beach.
With an expert guide from Waccamaw River Tours leading the way, take the opportunity to spot gators in their natural habitat, see the ospreys building their nests, and lose yourself in the beauty of the river!
2 – Watch a fire luau with dinner
If the delicious buffet dinner isn’t enough to entice you, set your night alight with an hour-long festive fire and dance show, straight from the Polynesian shores to the shores of South Carolina!
Expect to be entertained by singers, acrobats, and fire-knife jugglers, and don’t forget to pick up a drink and a souvenir photo while you’re there.
- Luau dinner show
3 –Cheer on the Myrtle Beach Pelicans
Without the stature of an MLB side, the local fans are a close-knit community, which means that seeing the local baseball team at TicketReturn.com Field is often an unforgettable experience!
They love and rally around their talented side, as well as $2 Tacos & Tallboys on Tuesday night games!
Besides the chance to catch a live game, the stadium also boasts an obstacle course and moon bounce perfect for zapping the kids’ energy!
4 – Take the trolley to Charlie’s Place Historic Site
A convenient and affordable way to get around town, the city’s trolly tours offer the chance to check out a range of cultural and historic landmarks.
Dive into the area’s musical history at the African-American nightclub, Charlie’s Place, where for over 30 years the best acts have performed on the Chitlin’ Circuit; check out the reconstruction of the motel from The Green Book; walk around the Jack Thompson Photo Gallery, and so much more.
With themed experiences including movies, music, and history, there’s something for every interest.
- see offers
5 – Play until you drop at Fun Warehouse
Its name may sound a bit utilitarian, but the Fun Warehouse really does offer all the entertainment you could want – in one convenient place!
Explore new worlds in the virtual reality arena, or challenge your friends to the ultimate space battle with laser tag.
Race around the track on some go-karts, or put your quarters to use at the arcade.With so many fun, family-friendly activities, you just may forget to go back outside!
6 – Hit the surf!
Surf’s up! The famous Myrtle Beach surfing beaches are a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, so why not get down for a surf lesson?
Whether you’re a first-timer or a pro, the instructors can take you up a level and have you hanging ten in no time!
If you’re planning on renting your own board and going solo, Twenty-ninth Avenue comes recommended for dishing up some of the area’s best swells.
- surfing lessons in Myrtle Beach
7 – Go kayaking at Murrells Inlet
While there are so many things to do in Myrtle Beach, it’s also good to step away from the bustling boardwalk, beaches, and theme parks once in a while.
Known as a blissful spot to unwind and recharge, Murrells Inlet, which sits about13 miles south of Myrtle Beach, is perfect for a quiet kayak on the water or a snorkel.
The glittering sunset is a must-see — especially on the days which the turtles come out to say hello.
- kayaking in Myrtle Beach
8 – Go tubing with River Island Adventures
Sure, Myrtle Beach is full of relaxation opportunities (it is a near never-ending beach, after all), but for those seeking to combine relaxation with thrills, look no further than River Island Adventures.
On a tubing outing (or on kayaks or stand-up paddleboard – whichever you prefer), you’ll soak in the sun as you zip through the water, wind in your hair along the beautiful river!
When you need a break, 48-acre River Island is set up with a picnic area, hammocks, grills, and giant yard games — the perfect combination to unwind.
9 – Blast the cannons on a pirate cruise
Board the biggest pirate ship in the Carolinas and hoist the Jolly Roger for a family-friendly adventure!A perfect activity for youngsters, take to the seas to find Blackbeard’s buried treasure, sing sea shanties, fire cannons, and fight scoundrels along the way!
You can also venture over to Blackbeard’s Pirate Cruise, where you and the family will set sail aboard the largest pirate ship in the Carolinas! Live out your buccaneer dreams as you sail around the water, practice sword-fighting, search for treasure, and even get tattoos! (Fake, of course).
The journey lasts for around 90 minutes, but the memories will last a lifetime!
10 – Go for a round of golf
Among its many amenities, Myrtle Beach is renowned for its golf; and no trip would be complete without testing some of the greens for yourself.
Stay and play at Legends Golf & Resort, or head to Myrtlewood Golf Club, which offers great discounts on tee times.
Try the championship-level course at World Tour Golf Links, or enjoy the gorgeous scenery and expertly curated greens of Whispering Pines.
You’ll feel like Tiger Woods every step of the way!
11 – Race against the clock in a scavenger game
For when slow-paced walking tours become a little too routine, why not add a little extra excitement to your sightseeing with some friendly competition?
On interactive scavenger games, you’ll be able to work as a team (or compete against each other) as you solve riddles, answer trivia questions, and race around Myrtle Beach’s major landmarks and hidden gems!
Despite being on the clock, there’s still plenty of time to pick up a drink or some toasted ravioli as you go through the town.
- scavenger games in Myrtle Beach
12 –See the Fountain of the Muses at Brookgreen Gardens
Ask any local and they’ll shout it from the rooftops: Brookgreen Gardens is a gem.
It has a stunning botanical garden where you can get lost for days, the biggest collection of American figurative sculptures in the United States, and a wildlife preserve with old rice plantations.
As if that weren’t enough, it’s also home to the Lowcountry Zoo, housing animals such as butterflies, bald eagles, and river otters!
13 – Take the edge off at a spa
Exploring the myriad of things to do in Myrtle Beach can certainly tire out the legs.Thankfully, heavenly Himalayan Salt Therapy is sure to rejuvenate any weary traveler.
As a unique alternative to most spas, here, the salts reduce inflammation and open the airways, so all you have to do is take a deep breath, put your feet up, and relax as the natural elements do their thing.
After your treatment, check out some of the other great spots nearby.Enjoy a soothing massage or a sugar scrub at Essence Day Spa, or try some therapeutic sessions at local favorite Aloha Day Spa and Massage.
Customize your wellness session at Massage Envy, or try out the anti-aging treatments and mineral baths at The Awakening Spa.
- spas in Myrtle Beach
14 – Ride the iconic SkyWheel
Ask any former visitor — no trip to Myrtle Beach is complete without a ride on the iconic SkyWheel.
The views from the top, at 200 feet over the boardwalk and sapphire waters, are simply beautiful.
Plus, since the gondolas are fully enclosed and equipped with heating or air-conditioning, great views and comfort are guaranteed regardless of the time of year that you’re visiting!
15 –Spend a couple of hours birdwatching
The white sands of Myrtle Beach are already reason enough to visit this beloved South Carolina destination. But if you’re a fan of birds and wildlife, then it’s the saltwater marshland (of which there is plenty) that will be a real draw.
In and around Murrells Inlet, hundreds of species of shorebirds, waterfowls, and songbirds co-exist (pelicans, herons, loons, egrets and so many more), which makes this slice of East Coast a must-visit spot for amateur and professional birdwatchers alike.
In fact, the area is so popular that dedicated birding tours are available to help you make the most of your visit.
Usually lasting a couple of hours, these tours not only escort you to the best spots, but also include a shelling expedition, a live crab dredging demonstration, and transport to and from the Dead Dog Saloon Restaurant (where you can and should stop for lunch before or after the tour.
16 – Meet sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Besides the obvious plethora of sea life, this aquarium has plenty more unique selling points:
The glass-bottom boat gives visitors a spectacular view of the coral reef and the sharks swimming under your feet; visitors can get up close and personal with the adorable penguins at the Penguin Encounter, and kids can have pancakes with a real mermaid!
On those occasional rainy days, there’s no better place to be.
17 – Meet celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum
Myrtle Beach’s Wax Museum is a selfie paradise, with all of your favorite celebrity A-listers — from Brad Pitt to Tom Brady, Beyonce, and everyone in between — ready to light up your social media feed (do you think your friends could tell the difference?).
Besides the lifelike figures, the popular museum also boasts a couple of other intriguing attractions, the confusingly Maze of Mirrors, and the zombie-themed Chemacorp Lab, just to name a couple.
- Hollywood Wax Museum tickets
18 – Get to the piers
Acting as somewhat of a beacon for the range of things to do in Myrtle Beach, the piers are always teeming with activity, entertainment and curious crowds.
Discover Apache Pier’s arcade games and campground; the delectable food of Pier 14 restaurant, and live music at 2nd Avenue Pier.
Garden City Pier’s fishing is a real catch, meanwhile, Surfside Pier will reel you in with its regular street entertainment!
19 – Survive the zombie outbreak in an escape room
Myrtle Beach’s own The Walking Dead-themed escape room is a guaranteed hit with fans of the show — or any would-be detective, for that matter!
You and your friends get 60 minutes to avoid the zombie outbreak and get to safety by solving all the clues and puzzles. So, do you think you’ve got what it takes? There’s only one way to find out…
For something different, tackle what is officially the smallest escape room in the USA at Riddles by the Intracoastal waterway — that is, of course, unless you’re a little claustrophobic.
- escape rooms in Myrtle Beach
20 – Chase thrills at Family Kingdom Amusem*nt Park
Thrill-seekers, listen up!
At Family Kingdom Amusem*nt Park in the heart of Ocean Boulevard, guests brave enough can free-fall 110-feet in the Slingshot Drop Zone, ride the sharp turns and exhilarating drops on the Twist’n Shout Coaster, and tackle the Swamp Fox, featuring incredible water views and quick shifts in direction!
For something more family-friendly, the bumper cars and go-kart tracks are always a delight.
21 – See a six-legged cow at Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
As the name suggests, you won’t believe what lies within one of the most unique things to see in Myrtle Beach.
The unmissable three-story building contains the Odditorium, which gets stranger the deeper you go, showcasing shrunken heads, six-legged cows, floating boulders, and everything in between.
Ripley’s also boasts its own horror maze, 5D theater, ‘Smash Dash’ challenge (an interactive race), and an arcade, making it an obvious choice for a rainy day.
22 –Rent a pontoon and sail around the marshes and rivers
Traveling with a group? Wanting to plan a birthday party, a rowdy bachlor(ette) party, or just spend some quality family time out on the water (away from the screens)? Then a pontoon rental could be exactly what you need.
In Myrtle Beach, you can rent a pontoon boat for up to 12 people. Simply bring along your own food and drinks (the boats come with onboard coolers so you can pack a picnic), put a playlist together, pack a towel and your swimsuit, and get ready to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, Murrells Inlet, the Cherry Grove Pier, or even the Waccamaw River.
Hot tip: Ultimately, where you go on your pontoon is entirely up to you. However, definitely ask for recommendations from the rental company when you book – they know the area better than anyone and can always point you in the right direction.
- pontoon rentals in Myrtle Beach
23 – Wet your whistle at New South Brewing
Fancy a cold beer on a hot day? How about one sure to warm you up on a cold day? Well, look no further.
New South Brewing offers fascinating tours that take you behind the scenes of its famous brewery — and yes, samples and included.
Try a sweet Grandma Candy, a coffee-infused Java the Nut, a robust Dark Star Porter, or a signature Dirty Myrtle DIPA — as you’ll discover, there’s something for every palette!
24 – Catch a show at the Carolina Opry Theater
A tourist crowd favorite, Myrtle Beach’s first theater has plenty brewing behind its curtain!
With two hours of music, comedy, and dance, the Carolina Opry variety show was voted ‘Top Attraction in Myrtle Beach’ by CNBC.
Time Warp, on the other hand, is a musical journey starting from the 1960s up until the modern era.
However, arguably the most intoxicating show of them all is Thunder and Light’s masterpiece of choreographed dance, lasers, and contemporary music!
25 – Check out the warplanes at Warbird Park
With a great collection of warplanes, any little kid who wants to be a pilot will have a ball at Warbird Park!
Besides its unique decorations, the park is also historical and cultural significance, acting as an homage to the men and women of the United States Air Force
To make the most out of your visit, check the calendar for events like ‘Art in the Park’, where you can peruse the stalls or buy some art, jewelry, pottery, or other original crafts from artists across the country.
26 – Ride the waterslides at Myrtle Waves Water Park
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker hunting for a vertical-drop slide or a chiller craving a wave pool, Myrtle Waves Water Park has got you covered.
Relax in your tube and float downstream on Lazy River, or try keeping your feet on the surfboard at FlowRider!
Then, of course, there are the twisting and turning tube slides and water slides — definitely try Night Flight or Turbo Twisters, so long as you’re not afraid of the dark!
- Myrtle Waves Water Park tickets
27 –Sing along to Rocketman at an Elton John Tribute Show
You know the name, you know the music – and now, you feel the excitement of one the greatest showmen of the modern generation, all for a fraction of what you’d pay to see the great man himself.
Having performed as Elton John over 3,000 times, Bill Conners has been wowing audiences with his high-energy, spot-on performances for years, imitating Captain Fantastic everywhere from England to San Francisco and now, yep, even South Carolina.
Taking place at the GTS Theatre, this 2-hour show is jam-packed with Elton John’s greatest hits, from ‘Rocket Man’ to ‘Crocodile Rock’ to ‘Still Standing’, and Bill Conners is sure to have you singing along and dancing out of your seat.
Want something extra special? For a few extra bucks you can lock in a VIP Platinum ticket, which comes with soft barrel chairs and a co*cktail experience.
- Elton John Tribute Show tickets
28 – Burn rubber on the Myrtle Beach Speedway
Ready, set, go! Rev-heads will love gripping the passenger’s seat for three heart-in-mouth laps of the old NASCAR racetrack in a genuine NASCAR racecar!
To take the experience up a gear, switch the passenger’s seat for the driver’s seat and put the pedal to the floor as you channel your inner Richard Petty!
Be sure to check Myrtle Beach Speedway‘s calendar to see what’s on when you’re in town; the venue hosts everything from Mini Stocks to Super Trucks and Vintage Racing cars at various times throughout the year.
29 – Enjoy a swashbuckling dinner and show at Pirates Voyage
Arrrr, enjoy a scrumptious four-course meal and come on deck with Blackbeard and Calico Jack as you battle for lost booty through air, land, and water in a 15-foot deep indoor lagoon!
Complete with full-sized pirate ship props, mermaids, and sea lions, the performers’ aerial and acrobatic prowess make for a great show any night of the week.
30 – Shop and play at Barefoot Landing
Sometimes, you just want to indulge your inner tourist, and Barefoot Landing is the perfect place to do so!
Conveniently located along the Intracoastal Waterway, this is the perfect spot for those seeking a little bit of everything. Shop for souvenirs, eat at some renowned restaurants, or listen to some amazing tunes at the House of Blues.
Or visit some of the other wonderfully strange attractions, from the reptiles of Aliigator Adventure to the zany machines of Lulu’s Beach Arcade.
31 – Take to the skies in a helicopter tour
Did you know that for only $20, you can take to the skies?
It’s not a hoax; with Oceanfront Helicopters, you can soar over the city in style, without breaking your budget!Or check out Helicopter Adventures, which offers similar prices and equally phenomenal views.
Admire the beach, the hotels, and the beautiful skyline, as you see the area from a new perspective.
32 – Pick a card (any card) at Michael Bairefoot’s magic show
For a night of entertainment unmatched by anything else, the world-famous and award-winning entertainer and magician, Michael Bairefoot takes the classic tricks and brings them into the new age for a spectacular show fit for the whole family!
Hot tip: Snag your tickets online ahead of time because this show is popular and often sells out in peak season.
- magic shows in Myrtle Beach
33 – Try being an astronaut at WonderWorks
With 50,000 square feet of interactive exhibits to delight your inner child, arouse your curiosity, and open your imagination, WonderWorks is a must for the bucket list.
Anyone who dreamed of being an astronaut will be over the moon at the Space Discovery Zone, complete with spacesuits and astronaut training.
Visitors also love the Extreme Weather Zone, while lying on a bed of nails in the Physical Challenge Zone makes for some incredible photo ops!
34 – Race your friends on Broadway Grand Prix
Put that pedal to the metal!
With seven unique go-kart tracks to test your speed, handling, and overall driving ability, buckle up and zip past the other racers, showcasing your Mario Kart prowess in real life.
After tackling the Grand Prix Pro Track for a real challenge, make a beeline for the mini-golf and arcade games.
35 – Taste some wonderful wines
Want a classier drinking experience?Then head out on some wine tours!
La Belle Amie Vineyard is a perfect place to start; this charming space offers tastings featuring many varieties, as well as frequent music festivals.
And at Duplin Winery, you can sample a wide range of the space’s classic Muscadine strains, then head out to nearby attractions at Barefoot Landing.
Classy surroundings and delicious drinks? It’s a dream come true!
36 – Go dolphin-spotting with Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruises
A wonderful day out on the water for the whole family, dolphin-watching adventures start by cruising out of Myrtle Beach harbor, picking up speed as you head out into the open ocean.
From there you can see the glamorous dolphins — and if you don’t, the cruise company will give you a free pass to ride again!
After meeting Mother Nature’s friendliest ocean mammals, a great view of Myrtle Beach’s coastline awaits as you head back to the harbor.
- dolphin watching in Myrtle Beach
37 –See The King himself at an Elvis Live Tribute Show
Who says you need to go to Vegas to find spot-on Elvis impersonators?
This two-hour show, which is held at the cabaret-style GTS Theater (where you can also see Bill Conners as Elton John, takes all the hits from The King — ‘Hound Dog’, ‘Suspicious Minds’, ‘Unchained Melody’, ‘Jailhouse Rock’, the fan-favorite ‘Blue Suede Shoes’, and more — and brings them to life.
The show’s host, Alex Mitchell, is a World Champion Elvis tribute artist, with numerous awards under his belt from some of the biggest competitions in the world – so you can be sure you’re getting an authentic experience!
But that’s not the only King tribute in town. Jeff Gordon, who’s been in the game for over 20 years, also puts on a show as Elvis every other day, and his shows are just as exciting!
So if you’re looking for a night of nostalgia and good ol’ fashioned rock ‘n roll, simply bring Graceland to South Carolina.
38 – Hit a hole-in-one at mini-golf!
If you’re traveling with kids, or just want something simple and cheerful to kill a few hours, mini-golf is just the thing!
A number of courses dot the area, some of which offer themes like Shipwreck Island, a pirate-style course; Jurassic Golf, where your ball escapes the jaws of prehistoric monsters; and Jungle Safari, where replicas of elephants, giraffes, tigers and lions line the putting greens.
At Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf, you can putt your way through Neverland and try to save Tinkerbell – just watch out for the pirates!And at Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf, you can explore the lost continent of Atlantis in all of its glory, including tiki huts, cool designs, and some of the most fun courses in town!
- golf in Myrtle Beach
39 – Have some fine dining at the best restaurants
There’s no shortage of great places to grab a bite in town, but some spots really stand out!
Fish fans will love The Original Benjamin‘s Calabash Seafood, famed for its buffet.
And if that leaves you wanting more, you can also sample the flounder and shrimp at Pier 14, or shuck some shells at Bimini’s Oyster Bar.
You can also chow down on some classic BBQ at Simply Southern Smokehouse, or enjoy the diverse foods and excellent drink menu at Hook & Barrel.
40 – Get on a jet ski at Myrtle Beach Watersports
Myrtle Beach loves its water, and no water sport gets the adrenaline pumping like jet skiing!
At places like Myrtle Beach Watersports, they don’t just have jet skis to rent — they offer lessons and plenty of space for you to go full-speed and learn the ropes!
On those sizzling summer days, it’s a perfect way to cool off.
- jet ski rentals in Myrtle Beach
41 – Take a hike at Myrtle Beach State Park
The Grand Strand, as well as the Sculptured Oak Nature Trail, are some of the last maritime forests in the area, both considered unmissable treks for avid hikers!
Besides the popular routes (of which there are easy and moderate hikes to suit every level) there are also options to go camping, cycling, horse-riding, bird-watching, fishing, and more.
Whatever you do, make sure to catch a sunrise!
42 – Kick back and jam out at The Bowery
When you pull up a seat at The Bowery, you won’t just be enjoying some great beverages; you’ll also be immersed in some of the best live music in the Carolinas!
With perfect ocean views and a constantly rotating lineup, this lively space offers high-quality entertainment and a relaxed atmosphere, just as it has since it opened in 1914.
Grab a seat, open your ears, and enjoy!
43 – Glide through Myrtle Beach on a Segway
It might take a couple of attempts to get your balance, but then you’ll master the Segway and it’ll be like riding a bike!
As a faster way to get around town and see the signs compared to a traditional walking tour, Segway riders love the North Myrtle Beach Segway Experience and Huntington Beach State Park Tour.
Both of these popular options, as well as plenty more, head offroad into nature for a slightly more challenging, but gorgeous, ride.
- segway tours in Myrtle Beach
44 – Take bowling to the next level
Bowling might not top your list of things to do in Myrtle Beach, but if you’ve got the time to visit an alley during your trip you definitely won’t regret it!
The black-light bowling lanes and glow-in-the-dark mini-golf at 810 Billiards & Bowling are delightful and come equipped with a bar and restaurant.
Meanwhile, besides its lanes, 710 North Myrtle Beach also offers billiards, bocce, table tennis, and board games to enjoy with a craft beer in hand!
45 – Laugh till you cry at a comedy club
As anyone who’s visited will attest, Myrtle Beach’s Southern-inspired comedy scene will make your sides split with laughter!
The highlights of the stand-up shows are Carolina Comedy Club and Comedy Cabana, each showcasing famous comedians and rising stars, as well as open-mic nights if you want to test out your latest one-liners!
For something a little different, Carolina Improv offers a fun night for both seasoned drama students and total newbies!
- comedy shows in Myrtle Beach
46 – Saddle up for a horseback riding experience!
The way the Carolinians of old went around the country is still a popular, relaxing, and unique way of seeing rural South Carolina.
With Grand Strand Horseback Riding, you can explore over 100 acres of gorgeous wooded trails, or head out to the beach to ride beside the sea.
Or head out to the countryside and pay a visit to Horseback Riding of Myrtle Beach, where your trusty steed will take you through the wilderness as you watch for local creatures.
There are rides for all ages and skill levels to enjoy — including riding up the Grand Strand’s oceanfront, riding through a historical plantation, and riding on a private island!
47 – Watch the feeding shows at Alligator Adventure
Crikey! Crocodiles and alligators up to 20-feet long lurk in hiding around the lake. That is, of course, until it’s feeding time!
Seeing their powerful jaws snap to devour their dinner is a remarkable sight and visitors usually come home loving their crocs and gators as a result!
Don’t forget to check out the other exhibits, the main attractions of which include venomous snakes, flamingos, and squirrel monkeys.
48 – See the knights do battle at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Hear ye, hear ye!
Myrtle Beach Castle is hosting the night of a lifetime, as six brave knights on horseback compete in jousting, swordplay, and horsemanship live in front of your very eyes
With a four-course meal fit for a king or queen, both kids and adults alike walk away grinning ear to ear at this nod to 11th-century traditions.
- Medieval Times tickets
49 – Hit max speeds on a zipline!
Myrtle Beach Zip Line Adventures is a great place to start, with lively courses for adrenaline junkies of all ages.
Youngsters can get started on the Kids Ninja Course, while older visitors can try the various obstacles of the Adventure Matrix.
And don’t miss the 600-foot zipline past the Atlantic – it’s the longest line in town!
50 – Pick berries at Indigo Farms
Fresh fruit, good weather, and the great outdoors — is there any better combination?
As what promises to be one of the more rewarding things to do in Myrtle Beach, nothing tastes better than the fruit you get to pick yourself, at Indigo Farms you know you’re getting the best and the freshest!
If you’re not into fruit-picking, it’s still worth swinging by their market instead to sample the latest products.
51 – See Green’s Beach Ball at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum
Myrtle Beach’s artistic side is on display in this 1920s villa, with plenty of pieces inspired by the sunny shores nearby.
The permanent Southern Art collection is an interesting lens into the Southern United States lifestyle, but with temporary exhibitions cycling through the gallery, visitors are sure to be surprised at the artistic variety on show!
52 – Enjoy a beachside beverage of your choice
The lively beachfront (and its even livelier bars) is the place to be when the sun goes down!
Ocean Annie’s and Oceanfront Bar & Grill have great live music; Pier View Bar has some of the best views through its giant windows; Bummz Beach Cafe showcases inimitable island vibes; and Tin Roof is a more hipster choice, with no shortage of hand-crafted co*cktails.
As you can see, there’s something for everyone when it comes to getting your drink on.
53 – Go to all your favorite gigs in one night at Legends in Concert
Ready to time-warp through music history?
Tribute performers from Elvis Presley to Dolly Parton, and Michael Jackson to Madonna take to the stage, with unparalleled lighting and special effects making the night all the more magical!
To get the most out of your evening, check out the nearby shopping and restaurants, or grab a photo with your favorite performer!
- Legends in Concert tickets
54 – Play your cards right on The Big “M” Casino ships
Believe it or not, the colossal ocean liners ‘Ship I’ and ‘Ship II’ are the only casinos in South Carolina!
These over-21 cruises set sail from nearby Little River and include meal options, but the real drawcard is the table games and slot machines onboard!
The glamour of casinos and the easy-going beach vibes come together for a fun afternoon or evening.
55 – Have a morning mimosa with Cruisin Tikis
You’re on vacation, after all, and nothing says ‘stress-free holiday’ like a morning beverage!
Cruisin Tikis’ BYO food and drink cruises can be enjoyed as a group of up to 6 on a private charter, or you can take a seat and make new friends!
Cruises run at all times of the day (so there’s no excuse to avoid fitting it into the itinerary), but travelers particularly love the picturesque Sunset Cruise and the waterfront Bar Hop.
56 – Experience weightlessness at Funplex Myrtle Beach
Funplex is the new kid on the block at Myrtle Beach as far as tourist attractions go, but families and adrenaline-junkies love it already!
With a diverse selection of activities, there are rides for every age group, none more popular than Sky Velocity, a heart-racing ride that makes you feel weightless as it turns inside-out over the stunning beachfront.
For something a little more on the relaxation side of things, the nostalgic Sunny Day Swing is reminiscent of a classic summer’s day at the playground.
57 – Reel in a catch on a fishing tour
With no shortage of open ocean, it’s no surprise that fishing is one of the locals’ favorite things to do in Myrtle Beach.
There are two ways to go about it:Either rent your own gear, cast a line off a pier and catch anything from a king mackerel to a blue crab; or learn the ropes or try your hand at deep-sea fishing through a private or small-group fishing charter.
58 – Stroll along the Boardwalk
With non-stop energy and entertainment year-round, the 1.2 mile-long Boardwalk and Promenade is the undisputed soul of Myrtle Beach.
A diverse selection of shops, attractions, restaurants, bars, and amusem*nt park rides will make the hours fly by, and, of course, a grand view of the ocean.
Hot top: If you’re visiting during summer, be sure to checkout Boardwalk festivals like Hot Summer Nights, complete with live music and fireworks!
59 – Reminisce at Wheels of Yesteryear
One for the motor enthusiasts, the Wheels of Yesteryear museum showcases a phenomenal collection of muscle and classic cars — best of all, even if you’ve already been there, the collection changes every year!
With cars ranging from the 1930 Ford Model A to the 1969 Mercury Cyclone CJ, the 1969 Buick Wildcat convertible, and so many more, the air of nostalgia is unmatched.
Even if you’re not a rev-head, it’s still one of the more lovely things to see in Myrtle Beach.
60 – Enjoy the shows (and everything else) at Broadway at the Beach
You might not think of live theater and beach time as going hand in hand, but that’s just how things run around here!
Broadway at the Beach joyfully lives up to its name, with a regular lineup of top-notch performances for visitors.
From stunning musical tributes to 4D adventures and magic shows, there’s no end to the wonders on display here.
And the complex has plenty to offer off-stage as well, with shopping venues, delicious restaurants, wax museums, and even robotic dinosaurs!
61 – Sing along to the Motown Tribute Show
At this renowned extravaganza, you’ll be Dancing in the Streets in no time!
A toe-tapping show that takes you back to the heyday of Motown, the night features uncanny tributes to Diana Ross, the Jackson Five, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie, and plenty more pioneers of the genre that got America moving and grooving during the 60s and 70s.
- Motown Tribute Show tickets
62 – Be amazed at Le Grand Cirque
25 million people have sat on the edge of their seats during the thrilling spectacle at Le Grand Cirque. Need we say more?
Grab a ticket, grab a seat, and watch as the death-defying acrobatics, aerobics, and circus skills — with a healthy dose of comedy on the side!
Trust us, add the 2-hour, friendly-friendly show to your South Carolina bucket list.
63 – Roll down the river on the Barefoot Queen
Decked out with a fully stocked bar, with onboard entertainment and outdoor decking, stepping onboard this authentic wooden riverboat is like taking a trip back in time.
Whether you’re after dinner and a show, a romantic sunset cruise, or a guided tour, the atmospheric Barefoot Queen can take you there in true Myrtle Beach style!
64 – Watch an unforgettable seaside sunset at the Pie-Eyed Parrot
Admiring the vibrant colors of the sun bouncing off the azure water from the Pie-eyed Parrot (with a fruity drink in hand, of course) is a truly mesmerizing way to cap off any day on your trip. Photos just don’t do it justice.
Once the sun’s gone down, that’s when the music gets going and dinner is served. Then finish off the night with a dance under the stars.
How to get to Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach International Airport hosts flights from all over the country (and some international destinations as well), and you can book an airport transfer to easily make your way to town after your flight.
Where to stay in Myrtle Beach?
Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grand Dunes provides just the right mix of decadence and fun, with its fitness center, golf course, and excellent spa.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Myrtle Beach Oceanfront, you can admire the stunning coastal views from the sundeck, then head out to nearby delights like Broadway at the Beach.
Club Wyndham Towers on the Grove is great for swimming fanatics, with beach access, a pool, and even its own lazy river!
Best Western Ocean Sands Beach Resort also boasts some great swim spots and beach access, as well as a fitness center and a tiki bar to unwind in style.
And at La Quinta Inn & Suites Myrtle Beach – N. Kings Highway, you’ll get easy access to shops, the aquarium, and more, while also enjoying on-site amenities such as a gym and a laundromat.
Where to go next?
Myrtle Beach is filled with fun, but there are plenty of other cool spots to visit in South Carolina!
Charleston, the state’s cultural hub, offers everything from historic houses and bustling markets to surfable beaches and an active nightlife scene.You can linger in the area for a few days, or get a taste for it with some day trips from Myrtle Beach.
Or indulge in the quainter coastal charms of Hilton Head Island, which offers golf, unique subcultures, beachside ecosystems, and tons of outdoor adventures.
You can also head up to neighboring North Carolina, full of its own dynamic destinations.Enjoy the craft beer, car races, and lively arts and culture of Charlotte, home to everything from historic cabins to glass-blowing.
Or explore the woodsy and urbane delights of Raleigh, where you can dive into contemporary art, soak up the scenery at nature preserves, or dive into the bustling food and music scenes.
Final thoughts
From the minute that you sink your toes into the sand, you’ll fall in love with this coastal gem of a city.
With a wonderful mix of all-ages diversions and upscale entertainment for adults, this is the perfect place to stay and play, adventure and relax.
So start exploring all of the amazing things to do in Myrtle Beach… trust us, you’ll need a lot of time!
Happy travels!
