Myrtle Beach

The 10 Most Popular Activities in Myrtle Beach, US

Make the most out of your Grand Strand vacation. Hit the top tourist attractions and engage in some special activities to ensure a memorable trip.

Compared to Charleston, which has a much more historical vibe, Myrtle Beach is where you go in South Carolina to have some fun.

You can get to do pretty much anything here – from retail therapy, helicopter rides, water sports, and everything in between. It’s really a resort town, which is why it gets so much tourist activity.

Unsure about where to head to first? Here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Spend a Day at the Beach

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One of the top free things to do in Myrtle Beach is to take advantage of the very mild waves. The light brown sand creates a gorgeous shoreline, but the calmness of the water remains the main draw in this part of the Carolina shoreline.

Try your luck at deep-sea fishing. Teach your kids how to swim or venture off on a jet ski to have some real fun.

Note that you’ll find parking in the area. But you’ll get access to more facilities if you’re staying at a Myrtle Beach hotel or rental property.

2. Visit the Top Entertainment Complex

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If you want to find the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach, then head over to Broadway at the Beach.

It’s the area’s most extensive entertainment complex, complete with shopping strips and many eateries. You can even dine on water or on dry land before or after exploring its many attractions.

Understandably, Broadway at the Beach is often very crowded. But it offers everything you might need, including firework displays all summer long and many family-friendly festivals to go along with the nightclubs and other venues.

3. Explore Myrtle Beach State Park

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If you love the outdoors, you’ll appreciate spending time in the state park.

It has 312 acres of mostly untamed wilderness, but it doesn’t mean you won’t find the necessary facilities and even a nature center.

You can interact with South Carolina wildlife, have a picnic, and go surf fishing. And if a day trip isn’t enough, you can even spend the night at a campsite. What’s more, you can relax at the equestrian facilities after hiking a couple of trails.

Roaming around the park is one of the top things to do in Myrtle Beach, especially when trying to escape the beach crowds.

4. Get Your Thrills at the Tracks

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The Broadway Grand Prix is among the most popular Myrtle Beach attractions. It’s a go-to spot for adrenaline seekers and families.

What was once the NASCAR Speedpark is now an elaborate complex with a series of go-kart tracks. You can also spend some quality family time on the car-themed mini-golf course.

Other fun features of the park include the arcade, rock climbing wall, and a roller coaster. The park is a fantastic place to kill a few hours, especially when you’re not hitting the Beach.

5. Visit the Ripley’s Aquarium

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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to walk among sharks and other dangerous marine life? Ripley’s aquarium can give you that experience.

Take a trip along a 340-foot tunnel surrounded by sharks, eels, tarpons, and other sea creatures. And upon exiting the Dangerous Reef display, head over to the Discovery Center exhibit. You’ll get to see pufferfish and horseshoe crabs. But the main attraction is the opportunity to swim with the stingrays.

To get an even better experience, try touring the aquarium on sunny days. Rainy days draw in massive crowds.

Have A Challenging Round of Mini-Golf

6. Have A Challenging Round of Mini-Golf

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You’ll find no shortage of miniature golf courses scattered around Myrtle Beach. But if there’s one that reigns supreme, it has to be the Mt. Atlanticus course.

Putting through all the 36 holes of both the Conch and Minotaur courses is considered to be one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach.

Mini-golf is a family-friendly activity with challenging obstacles, affordable fees, and chances to win amazing prizes – like free games for life if you hit a hole-in-one on the last stop.

7. Spend An Afternoon at the WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

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Don’t think of this as a traditional science museum. Instead, this is an experience your kids won’t forget.

Each interactive exhibit has its own theme. These areas are designated as WonderZones and can cover anything from natural disasters, art, space exploration, and even physical challenges.

You can also take everyone’s excitement levels one step higher.

Have some fun in the laser tag arena or on the glow-in-the-dark rope course. Then, experience the 6D Extreme theater where you get to see films complete with environmental and motion effects.

WonderWorks is undeniably one of the most popular Myrtle Beach attractions for all ages.

8. Take Some Amazing Photos

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If you’re looking for a terrific vantage point to snap some aerial photos of Myrtle Beach, look no further than the SkyWheel.

The ride has 42 gondolas, with each one sitting up to six people. It’s actually a comfy ride that also features a VIP experience. For an additional fee, you can book a 20-minute ride in a gondola with a glass floor that gives you an unobstructed view of the surrounding area.

Even a picture of the SkyWheel itself is worth taking, given that it comes alive at night, glowing with the light of a million LEDs.

9. Roam Around the Brookgreen Gardens

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If you’re interested in more relaxing things to do in Myrtle Beach, the grounds of Brookgreen Gardens have you covered.

It’s a massive 9,127-acre property that houses a botanical garden and a wildlife preserve. That means you have miles of paths to explore and go on fantastic nature walks.

Admire the natural art gallery, go on a boat ride, or take any of the many historical tours of the plantation and Civil War Fort. There’s plenty to do here for everyone.

10. Visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not

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Myrtle Beach is where you can find the legendary Odditorium of the popular TV show. It’s a super fun location to visit, especially if you want to see some bizarre artifacts and works of art.

The interactive exhibits are also cool. These include the 5D Moving Theater, a big arcade, mirror maze, and even a laser tag arena. Just don’t get spooked because, apparently, the laser tag arena is haunted.

Visiting Ripley’s is one of the unique things to do in Myrtle Beach, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.

There’s Never a Dull Moment

Whether it’s hot or rainy out, Myrtle Beach offers plenty of outdoor and indoor places to escape. You can interact with animals and see marine life, and so much more. And when it comes to family activities, the city doesn’t miss a beat.

Use these suggestions as a guide to creating your ideal Myrtle Beach itinerary. Just don’t forget that there’s more for you to discover.

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Myrtle Beach

Why You Must Visit Myrtle Beach Next

Are you planning a trip to South Carolina? Myrtle Beach is one destination you don’t want to miss. Whether traveling alone or with the family, here are the reasons you’ll want to make a stop.

Myrtle Beach is one of the most gorgeous locations in South Carolina. It has a bit of everything – ocean waters, white sands, lush green reserves.

It’s also a well-developed city that caters to every tourist’s needs. But certain things make a trip there even more appealing to vacationers.

Reason #1 – 60 Miles of Beaches

If you love white sands and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Myrtle Beach is the place for you. One of the top reasons to visit Myrtle Beach is its amazing beaches, of course.

You can engage in any beach activity you want, and there’s loads of fun stuff for kids to do. Also, you can go on boat tours or go parasailing. Some spots offer nice waves if you want to surf. And the milder waves are appropriate for beginners.

Reason #2 – For Unique Forms of Amusement

If you’re an avid golfer, you might appreciate the area even more. There are many different things to do in Myrtle Beach, yet playing golf is the most popular activity.

The area has over 80 golf courses. And going along the Grand Strand, you can find professional-level courses along with many family-friendly courses.

And while ferris wheels aren’t as attractive as they used to be, the SkyWheel may make you want to ride one. It’s the largest wheel on the East Coast and it gives you a fantastic view of the city’s skyline. It’s also a nice way to cool off on a hot day. Plus, the wheel is very close to a rooftop bar that serves great cocktails.

Reason #3 – It’s the Seafood Capital of South Carolina

There are so many Myrtle Beach resorts that offer amazing seafood menus. It’s even easy to find the catch of the day and fresh ingredients in almost any restaurant you enter.

That’s not to say that you can’t find a juicy steak or some international dishes on the menus. Yet, it’s the fantastic South Carolinian seafood dishes that leave tourists’ mouths watering.

Reason #4 – It Has Unique (and Weird) Museums

If you remember Ripley’s Believe it or Not, you’ll remember its weird collection of videos and artefacts. This museum in Myrtle Beach has over 500 items on display for you to check out.

The exhibits host one weird thing after another, and it’s one of the city’s top attractions. And this makes visiting some of Ripley’s collections as one of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids.

You can also check out the local wax museum, too. The Hollywood Wax Museum has unique scenes and exhibits and allows visitors to take photos.

Another cool place to visit is the Wheels of Yesteryear. This specialty museum focuses on old cars, which muscle car enthusiasts may find particularly appealing. While the collection isn’t the largest in the country, some very impressive vehicles are on display.

But one of the most unique places to visit is the Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. It’s one of the top attractions in the city for good reason – it has one of the largest collections of retro arcade games. If you’re looking to take a stroll down memory lane, relive the 80s and 90s, this is the place.

Reason #5 – Shopping for Everyone

The Grand Strand is not without a fair choice of luxury accommodations. However, one of the top reasons to visit Myrtle Beach is because it’s a haven for bargain hunters.

Along the Grand Strand is where you can find a variety of shopping malls, trinket stores, and markets. You can sample the local goods when it comes to food. You can also buy unique gifts for the people back home.

Check out the Coastal Grand Mall or Broadway at the Beach. These two locations often attract lots of tourists and locals. The Market Common is another place to keep in mind. Of course, there are also plenty of small shops too just waiting for you to discover them.

If shopping is a must for you but budget is also a concern, Myrtle Beach delivers. There are many places where you can stay on a budget, including resorts, condos, campgrounds, etc. It’s also a very family-friendly vacation destination.

It’s no secret that there are many free playgrounds, free shows, and other budget activities. And spending time on the beach enjoying the sun and white sands doesn’t cost anything.

Reason #8 – Pay Homage to American History

One of the many things to know about Myrtle Beach is that it has close ties with the US Air Force. And stationed here at the local Air Force Base was the 354^th Tactical Fighter Wing. While the city doesn’t have a war-themed museum, it has something better.

It has Warbird Park.

This park is a testament to the men and women that serve in the Air Force. It displays a few old fighter aircraft, such as the A-10 and F-100. It’s also a free attraction and the park provides a great place to go on a stroll, day or night.

Are You Packed Yet?

Finding ideal accommodations and plenty of things to do isn’t a problem. In Myrtle Beach, you can find anything you want – from serenity on secluded beaches to weird exhibits to sports.

The city offers a bit of everything for everyone, and that’s on top of fantastic weather and plenty of surf breaks.

Myrtle Beach

Dining in Myrtle Beach? Don’t Miss These Restaurants

The street food in Myrtle Beach is always great. But if you want to take things a step further, check out the best restaurants in the area. Satisfy your palate with classic and modern dishes all around town.

If you want to eat at some amazing restaurants, Myrtle Beach has no shortage of them. From cheap places to fine-dining spots, the famous beach is all about the food.

The variety in cuisine is quite impressive, as most tourists expect a seafood-heavy experience. Myrtle Beach caters to everyone and amazes with both Southern and international menus.

Not sure where to stop for a bite to eat? Here are some of the best places for you to try.

Casual Dining with Unique Ambiance

Blueberry’s Grill is one of the top restaurants in Myrtle Beach, by far. One of the things it’s most famous for is a fantastic selection of egg white omelets, which is always a great way to start your day. It also features a selection of famous sandwiches and desserts that’s sure to delight.

Locals call its menu as progressive, and perhaps that’s why it’s such a busy place. And the lively atmosphere and great setting complement the menu well. If you want to grab a delicious bite before you head to the beach, the Blueberry’s Grill is a winning choice.

But if you’re craving for some Asian food, one of the best restaurants in Myrtle Beach is the Yamato. Known by many as the original Japanese Steakhouse in South Carolina, it offers a truly mouth-watering experience.

It has a small communal dining room that offers a cozy ambiance. Yet, the sizzling sounds from the griddle make for a fantastic and quite thrilling atmosphere. If you enjoy Teppanyaki theatrics, you’ll enjoy the show that the skilled chefs put on daily.

The steak and shrimp combo is the restaurant’s signature dish. You can’t go wrong with that or the in-house shrimp sauce.

For some Prosecco on tap, locally-sourced seafood, and jellyfish lamps, head to Hook & Barrel, one of the top restaurants in Myrtle Beach. Chef Heidi Kukov runs the establishment, and she’s one of the most famous chefs in the area.

The menu is all about local seafood – the dishes walk a fine line between fine dining and soul food. If you want to experience the taste of Myrtle Beach, this is the place. The sea-themed décor and very open interior also help with the overall atmosphere.

Dine in Luxury

What could be more different than a Bavarian Alps dining experience near the Atlantic Ocean? Check out the Café Old Vienna that sits right next to a surf shop.

You wouldn’t expect to find an authentic German restaurant in such a location. But the menu is a hit with locals and tourists alike.

The cozy ambiance, the large beer mugs, and hearty dishes are all amazing. It’s one of the most unique dining experiences you can have in Myrtle Beach. If you want to take a break from seafood and challenge your taste buds with something else, Viennese goulash or a jagerschnitzel may fit the bill.

But if you want to experience some fine dining on a budget, one of the best places to eat in Myrtle Beach is at The Library. This high-end European cuisine restaurant is surprisingly affordable. It offers an intimate and refined atmosphere, as well as famous classic dishes.

Since 1974, The Library has served outstanding traditional meals. It’s also one of the few places in the region that greets guests with tuxedoed waiters and a heavily Parisian-influenced menu. What’s also great is that the place features private rooms, as well as a “proposal room”. The extensive wine list also adds to the appeal of the restaurant.

In the Mood For Comfort Food

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The Carolina Roadhouse is another place you might want to visit to grab a bite. It’s a very lively restaurant with a focus on comfort food and creative drinks, but its Killer Dog is the main signature meal.

Interested in a foot-long grilled hotdog? Homemade chili with cheese? How about an open kitchen that allows you to see everything that goes on?

The Roadhouse also offers its guests a peek behind the scenes. And its wraparound bar is a hit with locals and tourists all year-round. While the menu is mostly classic American, the restaurant also offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices, too.

Meanwhile, the Aspen Grille is a Southern restaurant that likes putting some new twists on old classics. Its French onion soup is probably the best you can find in Myrtle Beach. But make no mistake, the list of fresh seafood options is extensive, too.

This is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat. It’s a whole experience that’s ideal for a night out. You can linger way past your diner and enjoy live music, have a few drinks, and check out the original artwork. Or, you can just sit back and enjoy a very friendly atmosphere.

But if you want to go for more variety, you can find it at Rioz – a steakhouse that is out of this world. It’s one of two Brazilian places in the city. Yet the menu is so vast and caters to a broad range of customers.

Here you can find vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. You can also order long skewers with assorted meats. There are even quail eggs at the salad bar and hot ziti casseroles.

It’s international cuisine at its finest with dishes that can satisfy anyone’s taste buds.

Why Settle When You Can Have Amazing Food?

There’s never a good reason to compromise on the quality of your food. Fortunately, Myrtle Beach isn’t a costly vacation destination. Although it has its fair share of posh locations and diner spots, it also offers fantastic cheap eats.

Many restaurants offer something unique on the menu, so there’s always something new you can try. Whether you want to sample classic Southern dishes, French, or American cuisine, you can do it here.