10 Fun Things To Do Near Carolina Forest, South Carolina (Horry County)
If you live in Carolina Forest, SC or you’re thinking about visiting, you might be wondering:
“What is there to do around here?”
The good news? You’re in one of the best spots in Horry County. Carolina Forest sits just a short drive from Myrtle Beach, Conway, and the Intracoastal Waterway, so you can enjoy quiet neighborhoods
and big-time attractions.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Carolina Forest that work for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
1. Relax On Myrtle Beach’s Famous Oceanfront
You can’t talk about things to do near Carolina Forest without starting with
Myrtle Beach. The oceanfront is only about a 15–20 minute drive, depending on traffic and where you’re headed.
Spread out a towel, rent some beach chairs, or simply walk the shoreline with a cup of coffee in hand. In the summer, the water is warm enough for swimming, boogie boarding, and splashing around with the kids.
- Parking tip: Look for city pay-to-park lots and kiosks along Ocean Boulevard. Bring a card or use the mobile app.
- Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
If you’re staying in Carolina Forest, it’s easy to turn a regular weekday evening into a quick “mini beach vacation.”
2. Stroll The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & SkyWheel
Once you’ve had enough sand between your toes, head to the
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, stretching about 1.2 miles along the oceanfront.
This area is packed with:
- Oceanfront restaurants and bars
- Gift shops and arcades
- Street performers in peak season
The big star here is the
Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, a giant Ferris wheel that takes you nearly 200 feet in the air. It’s a great way to see the coastline, especially at sunset.
If you’re nervous about heights, don’t worry. The gondolas are enclosed and air-conditioned, so the ride feels smooth and secure.
3. Shop, Dine, and Play at Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach is about 15 minutes from Carolina Forest and is one of the most popular attractions in Horry County. It’s basically a huge entertainment complex wrapped around a lake.
Here, you’ll find:
- Restaurants: From casual burger spots to seafood joints.
- Shops: Souvenirs, clothing, sweets, and unique local gifts.
- Attractions: Ripley’s Aquarium, mini golf, escape rooms, and more.
If you have kids, they’ll love feeding the fish and ducks from the bridges. Adults might prefer grabbing a drink at one of the waterfront bars and people-watching.
Broadway is especially lively at night, with neon lights, music, and often fireworks in peak season.
4. Visit Historic Downtown Conway on the Riverfront
If you want a small-town feel instead of beach crowds, drive about 20 minutes the other way from Carolina Forest to
Conway, one of the oldest towns in South Carolina.
Downtown Conway sits along the
Waccamaw River and has:
- A charming Riverwalk with benches and shady trees
- Local shops and boutiques
- Cozy cafes and Southern-style restaurants
Take a slow walk on the Riverwalk boardwalk, then duck into a coffee shop or bakery. On a quiet weekday, it almost feels like stepping back in time.
If you’re into history, you’ll notice old live oaks draped in Spanish moss and historic buildings marked with plaques. It’s a nice break from the faster pace of Myrtle Beach.
5. Explore the Intracoastal Waterway by Boat or Kayak
Carolina Forest sits right near the
Intracoastal Waterway, a long man-made and natural water route that runs along the East Coast.
You can enjoy it several ways:
- Boat rentals: Rent a pontoon or small boat from nearby marinas.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: Great for calm mornings or evenings.
- Scenic cruises: Let someone else drive while you take photos.
As you glide along the waterway, you’ll see everything from sleek boats and waterfront homes to quiet coves and marshes. It feels like a different world compared to the busy oceanfront.
If you’re new to boating, consider a guided tour first. Locals and tour captains know the best spots for wildlife and sunset views.
6. Play a Round (or Two) of Golf
Carolina Forest is a golfer’s dream. Horry County is loaded with courses, and several are just minutes away.
You’ll find:
- Championship courses with challenging layouts
- Beginner-friendly courses perfect for casual players
- Driving ranges if you just want to hit a bucket of balls
Even if you’re not a serious golfer, a late-afternoon round can be a fun way to spend a few hours outdoors. The fairways are usually lined with pines and lakes, and you might spot birds, turtles, or even an alligator sunning on the bank (keep your distance, of course).
If you’re planning a golf trip, basing yourself in Carolina Forest gives you easy access to courses in both Myrtle Beach and Conway.
7. Try Family-Friendly Fun: Mini Golf, Go-Karts, and More
If you have kids—or you’re just a kid at heart—you’ll find plenty of
family attractions within a short drive of Carolina Forest.
Look for:
- Mini golf courses with pirate ships, waterfalls, and caves
- Go-kart tracks where you can race your friends
- Arcades packed with classic games and prize counters
These spots are perfect for evenings after the beach or on cloudy days when you still want to be out and about.
One simple tip: go earlier in the day during peak season to avoid long lines, especially at the go-karts.
8. Discover Local Nature Trails and Parks
When you need a break from crowds and traffic, head to one of the
nearby parks or nature areas.
Around Carolina Forest and greater Horry County, you’ll find:
- Paved walking paths for easy strolls
- Wooded trails for light hiking
- Playgrounds and open fields for kids to run around
Morning is usually the best time, especially in the summer, when temperatures are cooler. Bring water, bug spray, and maybe a picnic lunch.
Even a simple 30-minute walk can reset your mind and make you feel like you’re miles away from the busy tourist areas.
9. Enjoy Local Festivals, Markets, and Events
One of the fun parts of staying near Carolina Forest is how many
local events pop up throughout the year in Horry County.
You might find:
- Seasonal festivals with live music and food trucks
- Farmers markets with fresh produce and local crafts
- Holiday parades and fireworks shows
These events are great for mixing with locals and getting a feel for real coastal South Carolina life beyond the tourist brochures.
If you’re planning a visit, check local event calendars for Myrtle Beach, Conway, and Horry County to see what’s happening during your stay.
10. Dine Like a Local: Seafood, BBQ, and Southern Comfort Food
After a day of exploring, nothing beats a good meal. The Carolina Forest area gives you easy access to both casual spots and sit-down restaurants across Horry County.
Look out for:
- Seafood restaurants serving shrimp, flounder, oysters, and crab.
- BBQ joints with pulled pork, ribs, and classic sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
- Southern comfort food: Think fried chicken, biscuits, hushpuppies, and collard greens.
If you’re unsure where to go, a simple trick is to ask a local cashier, barista, or server, “Where do
you like to eat?” You’ll often get better suggestions than any brochure can offer.
Final Thoughts: Carolina Forest Is Your Easy Home Base
Carolina Forest may not have the bright neon lights or oceanfront hotels, but that’s part of its charm. You’re tucked in a quiet community while still being close to:
- Myrtle Beach’s famous shoreline and boardwalk
- Broadway at the Beach and family attractions
- Historic downtown Conway and the Waccamaw River
- Intracoastal Waterway adventures and golf courses
Whether you’re planning a vacation, scouting a place to move, or just looking for weekend ideas, this corner of Horry County has plenty to keep you busy.
What Would You Add To This List?
Do you live in or near Carolina Forest? Or have you visited recently?
- What are your favorite things to do near Carolina Forest?
- Did we miss a hidden gem, local park, or restaurant you love?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers and locals can discover new places too. And if you found this guide helpful, please consider
sharing it with friends and family who are planning a trip to Horry County or thinking about staying near Carolina Forest.
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