It's got amusement parks, miniature golf, water parks, live music, variety shows and endless dining — not to mention 60 miles of beachfront to enjoy. And yet, when you visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, you'll have to whittle down your activities list somehow. To help you pick out the best activities, we've come up with a video that shows the 10 things you must do in Myrtle Beach, in no particular order:
Watch the sunrise
You'll have to set an alarm and get up early, but the sound of the waves and the brilliant colors will be well worth it. Since many resorts in Myrtle Beach offer direct beach access, it shouldn't be much trouble getting to the shore to take in the sights.
Bask on the beach
Photo: Theresa BoehlThey call it the Grand Strand because that's exactly what it is — a grand stretch of beachfront all along the South Carolina coast. Whether you enjoy the beach right outside of your resort or head down to quieter Myrtle Beach State Park or Huntington Beach State Park, you can't go wrong spending some time on the pillowy sand or in the warm waves.
Ride the SkyWheel
The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel opened in 2011. Photo: Theresa BoehlThose afraid of heights need not fear a few rotations on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, opened in 2011. This ride is smooth and comfortable, as you're whisked in air conditioned gondolas high above the oceanfront and Ocean Boulevard.
Stroll the Boardwalk
It took nearly $6.5 million to build this wide, 1.2-mile-long promenade, which winds through one of Myrtle Beach's most popular areas, between the 2nd Avenue and 14th Avenue piers. It practically begs for a bike ride or an evening stroll, and with so many shops and restaurants along the way, you can make your journey take as long as you want.
Cocktails at the Chemist
The craft cocktails craze has made it to Myrtle Beach — that's a reason to rejoice for the 21-and-up crowd. At The Chemist, you get a modern, futuristic vibe along with your unconventional (but delicious) cuisine. We recommend the Periodically Peach Martini, complete with CO2 for that mystical "smoking" effect.
Visit Ripley's Aquarium
Ripley's Aquarium at Broadway at the Beach. Photo: Theresa BoehlIf you make it to Broadway at the Beach, a shopping center and entertainment complex (and top area attraction), don't miss Ripley's Aquarium. In addition to a number of educational and hands-on exhibits, the aquarium is home to a moving walkway guiding visitors through an aquatic tunnel with a variety of species, including stingrays, sawfish, a sea turtle, and everyone's favorite — sharks.
Cruise on the Barefoot Princess Riverboat
The Barefoot Princess Riverboat cruises on the Intracoastal Waterway. Photo: Theresa BoehlYou can get a bit of history (and dinner) on the Barefoot Princess Riverboat, which offers day and evening cruises on the Intracoastal Waterway. It's a relaxing way to enjoy the area's nature, viewable from outdoor decks or inside the air-conditioned boat. There's live music onboard, a snack and drinks bar, and all the food you can eat.
Get soaked at Splashes Waterpark
Grab the little ones (or anyone who likes to get thoroughly soaked) and head to Splashes Waterpark, an oceanfront attraction with slides, kiddie pools and a meandering lazy river. Temperatures can reach into the 90s in the summertime, so a visit to a water park certainly belongs on any list of things you must do in Myrtle Beach.
Listen to live music at The Bowery
It's been a Myrtle Beach tradition since 1944 to hear the country and rock tunes played live at The Bowery — in fact, country music group Alabama got their start in this divey, Southern-themed bar. There's live music every night, but not much selection for drinks (it's Bud Light and white wine only at this joint). Be sure to bring some crisp bills for tips if you have a song request.
Visit Family Kingdom Amusement Park
Family Kingdom Amusement Park. Photo: Theresa BoehlAn amusement park steps from the beachfront — what could be better? Family Kingdom has 37 rides for adults and children, including the Swamp Fox historic wooden roller coaster, which has been providing thrills (and ocean views) since 1966. Entering the park is free, but you must buy tickets to ride the rides. Here's a little money-saving hint: if you plan to also visit Splashes Waterpark, buy combo tickets for both attractions.
Stay tuned for more coverage coming soon — we'll fill you in on even more things you must do in Myrtle Beach. In the meantime, browse our hotel deals or sign up for our daily email.
