10 Fun Things To Do Near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (That Locals Actually Love)
If you’re dreaming of a classic beach vacation on the South Carolina coast,
Myrtle Beach in Horry County is probably already on your radar. Wide sandy beaches, mini-golf, neon lights, fresh seafood… it has all the beach-town energy you’d expect and then some.
But what are the
best things to do near Myrtle Beach once you’re there?
Below are 10 ideas that mix popular attractions with a few spots that feel a little more local. Whether you’re visiting with kids, friends, or just sneaking away for a long weekend, you’ll find something here to add to your plan.
1. Stroll the Iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
If it’s your first time in town, start with the
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. This 1.2-mile oceanfront walkway runs along the heart of downtown and gives you that classic East Coast beach vibe.
You’ll find:
- Beachfront bars and restaurants
- Arcades packed with games
- Souvenir and T-shirt shops
- Live music in peak season
It’s especially nice around sunset. The sky glows, the sea breeze kicks up, and the neon lights of the nearby rides start to flicker on.
If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy place to walk, grab ice cream, and let them burn off energy in the sand while you relax on a bench.
Tip: Parking can fill up on summer evenings, so arrive a little earlier and enjoy a slow walk before it gets crowded.
2. Ride the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel for Epic Ocean Views
Right along the Boardwalk you can’t miss the
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel—a huge Ferris wheel that lights up the night sky.
You ride in enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas (perfect on hot days or windy evenings), and the views are stunning. On clear days you can see miles of coastline and most of Myrtle Beach laid out below you.
This is a fun pick if:
- You want a romantic date-night activity
- You’re traveling with kids who love rides but not roller coasters
- You want that classic vacation photo high above the ocean
I like to go a little before dark, so you get daylight views on the way up and a lit-up strip on the way down.
3. Explore Broadway at the Beach: Shopping, Dining & Entertainment in One Spot
About a mile or so inland you’ll find
Broadway at the Beach, one of the most popular places to visit near Myrtle Beach. Think of it as an outdoor entertainment village wrapped around a lake.
Here you can:
- Shop at national brands and local boutiques
- Try everything from burgers to seafood to fudge
- Let the kids run wild at attractions like WonderWorks or Ripley’s Aquarium
- Catch evening fireworks in peak season
Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also easy, especially if you don’t want to drive all over town. You can park once and spend several hours eating, shopping, and playing.
Tip: Go earlier in the day with younger kids. Save the evenings for date night or adult time when the bars and clubs pick up energy.
4. Get Close to Marine Life at Ripley’s Aquarium
Located right inside Broadway at the Beach,
Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is one of the top family attractions in Horry County.
Highlights include:
- Underwater tunnel where sharks and rays glide overhead
- Interactive touch tanks so kids can gently touch certain sea creatures
- Jellyfish and reef exhibits with colorful displays
If you hit Myrtle Beach on a rainy or extremely hot day, this is a great way to stay indoors while still feeling like you’re doing something special and “vacation-worthy.”
Pro tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds, especially on weekends and during school breaks.
5. Step into Nature at Myrtle Beach State Park
Just a few minutes south of the busy downtown area, you’ll find a totally different side of Myrtle Beach:
Myrtle Beach State Park.
It has:
- A quieter stretch of beach
- A long fishing pier
- Nature trails through maritime forest
- Picnic tables and shelters
If the main public beach feels a bit too packed, this is your escape. You can bring a picnic, walk the short trails, or just sit in the shade and listen to the waves.
Personally, I like to come here early in the morning with coffee. The beach is calm, the air’s cooler, and you can actually hear the birds over the traffic.
Note: There is a small entrance fee per car, but it’s usually worth it for the more relaxed atmosphere.
6. Discover Brookgreen Gardens: Art, History & Live Oaks
About 20–30 minutes south of Myrtle Beach in
Murrells Inlet, still within the Horry/Georgetown coastal stretch, lies
Brookgreen Gardens—one of the most beautiful places you can visit near Myrtle Beach.
It’s a huge sculpture garden and nature preserve set among:
- Massive live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss
- Seasonal flower gardens
- Sculptures and fountains around almost every corner
- A small zoo area with native animals
If you like taking photos, this is a dream spot. It also feels peaceful, which can be a welcome break from the crowds and noise.
Plan to spend at least a few hours here. Wear comfortable shoes, and bring a hat and water—South Carolina heat and humidity are no joke in summer.
7. Hit the Water: Dolphin Cruises, Parasailing & Jet Skis
You’re at the beach, so you might as well get
on the water, right?
In and around Myrtle Beach and across Horry County, you’ll find plenty of outfitters offering:
- Dolphin-watching cruises along the coast
- Parasailing trips for incredible bird’s-eye views
- Jet ski rentals for high-energy fun
- Kayak and paddleboard tours on calmer waters
If you’re nervous about trying water sports, a dolphin cruise is an easy first step. The boats are usually large and stable, and you can just relax and watch for wildlife.
On my last trip, I saw dolphins jumping near the wake of our boat—it felt like something straight out of a travel commercial.
Safety note: Always check reviews and follow the instructions from your captain or guide, especially if you’re new to boating or jet skiing.
8. Wander Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach
Head a bit north and you’ll reach
North Myrtle Beach, also in Horry County, home to another popular entertainment hub:
Barefoot Landing.
Set around a scenic lake and the Intracoastal Waterway, Barefoot Landing offers:
- Shops and boutiques
- Waterfront restaurants
- Family-friendly attractions and live entertainment
- Events and festivals in peak seasons
This area has a slightly more laid-back feel than some parts of Myrtle Beach. It’s a nice place to stroll in the evening, grab dinner, and maybe catch some live music.
If you’re staying in North Myrtle Beach, it can easily become your “go-to” spot at night.
9. Catch a Live Show: Carolina Opry or Alabama Theatre
Myrtle Beach isn’t just about the ocean. It’s also famous for its
live shows and theaters.
Two big names are:
- The Carolina Opry – music, comedy, and dance shows
- Alabama Theatre at Barefoot Landing – variety shows with music and family-friendly performances
Even if you don’t usually go to shows at home, doing one on vacation can feel special. Many families make it a tradition—day on the beach, dinner, then a show.
If you’re visiting in November or December, keep an eye out for holiday-themed performances. They can be a fun way to kick off the season, even if you’re still wearing flip-flops.
10. Eat Your Way Through Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
About 20–25 minutes south of central Myrtle Beach, you’ll find
Murrells Inlet, known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.”
The star here is the
Murrells Inlet MarshWalk—a wooden boardwalk along the marsh lined with restaurants and bars.
Here’s why it’s worth the short drive:
- Fresh seafood—shrimp, oysters, crab, and more
- Outdoor decks with marsh and sunset views
- Live music in the evenings (especially in summer)
- Casual, flip-flops-welcome atmosphere
If you’re tired of chain restaurants and want something that feels more local, this is your spot. Grab a plate of fried shrimp or grilled fish, order a cold drink, and watch the boats go by.
I’d plan at least one evening here during your trip. Time it around sunset if you can—the colors over the marsh are beautiful.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Perfect Myrtle Beach Getaway
From the bright lights of the Boardwalk to the calm trails at Myrtle Beach State Park and the quiet marsh views in Murrells Inlet,
Horry County offers a lot more than just sand and surf.
To recap, some of the best things to do in and around Myrtle Beach include:
- Walking the Boardwalk and riding the SkyWheel
- Shopping and playing at Broadway at the Beach
- Visiting Ripley’s Aquarium
- Relaxing at Myrtle Beach State Park
- Exploring Brookgreen Gardens
- Getting out on the water with cruises or water sports
- Strolling Barefoot Landing
- Enjoying a live show at the Carolina Opry or Alabama Theatre
- Eating fresh seafood at Murrells Inlet MarshWalk
Ready to start planning your trip? Pick a couple of must-do activities from this list and build your days around them. Leave some space for wandering—that’s often when you find your own favorite spots.
Share Your Myrtle Beach Story
Have you been to Myrtle Beach or anywhere else in Horry County?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you discover a hidden gem not many tourists know about?
Drop a comment below and share your tips, stories, or questions. And if you know someone planning a beach vacation,
share this post to help them find the best things to do near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
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