30 Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: Attractions, Food, Shopping, & Entertainment

Blue skies over SkyWheel at Myrtle Beach South Carolina

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Looking for things to do at Myrtle Beach? Whether you’re a water lover, sun worshipper, history buff, or just looking for fun and entertainment, Myrtle Beach really does have something for everyone.

Of course, the most popular Myrtle Beach activity is going to the beach.

The Grand Strand stretches for 60 miles along this Atlantic shoreline, offering endless beach space for everyone.

Pack your beach bag, set up the umbrella, and dig your toes into the sand on one of the East Coast’s best beaches.

When you’ve had your fill of sunshine and salt air (like that could ever really happen!), check out these other adventures in Myrtle Beach, from unique local fun to entertainment, events, and more.

If you have bad luck with the weather, check out these awesome indoor activities at Myrtle Beach to shelter from the storm while still having fun.

You might also like our guides to free things to do in Charleston, fun things to do in Columbia, or the best beaches in Hilton Head if you’re exploring more in South Carolina.

Fun Things to Do in Myrtle Beach, SC

Our guide to all the places to visit in Myrtle Beach starts in the center of it all on the beach itself before heading toward the heart of the entertainment in Myrtle Beach.

Then we’ll go south towards Murrells Inlet before heading toward North Myrtle Beach to wrap up at our favorite beach spot that you won’t want to miss.

If you’re planning to start your summer off here, check out our guide to a Myrtle Beach Memorial Day getaway.

Stroll the Grand Strand

The Grand Strand stretches for more than 60 miles along the South Carolina coastline, including the entirety of Myrtle Beach.

Stroll the beach, stop for ice cream, stop into the many shops along the way, and enjoy the Myrtle Beach vibes.

If you’re looking for a classic beach vacation spot, Myrtle Beach and its Grand Strand hits the mark.

Myrtle Beach also features in our list of SC state parks.

View down Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Take Surf Lessons

While you’re here, one of the most fun Myrtle Beach activities is to learn to surf!

Take a lesson to — literally — get your feet under you and feel more confident.

Book your 1- or 2-hour lesson to learn the basics and get out into the water with a professional instructor by your side.

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

There are so many fun things to do on the Boardwalk in Myrtle Beach — it’s an iconic coastal strip!

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (1110 N. Ocean Blvd) includes several thrill rides, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure and Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Ripley’s Mirror Maze, and Ripley’s Moving Theater – only to name a few.

Eat, play, and enjoy the summertime vibes on this mile-long stretch following the shore.

This is one of the things you simply must do in Myrtle Beach.

Boardwalk in Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Ride the SkyWheel

You can’t miss it: the SkyWheel (1110 N Ocean Blvd) is a landmark in Myrtle Beach and you won’t want to skip out on those views!

The gondolas take you a whopping 20 stories up — to a height of 187 feet — so you can see for miles on a clear day.

It’s also a fun experience at night when it’s all lit up and reflecting across the water; check out our favorite things to to in Myrtle Beach at night for more suggestions.

Riding a Ferris wheel by the beach is a classic East Coast summertime experience, so don’t miss out.

The Skywheel at Myrtle Beach at night aerial photo

Family Kingdom Amusement Park

Family Kingdom Amusement Park (300 S. Ocean Blvd.) is one of the last free-admission parks in the United States.

This amazing venue is open to the public, ride tickets are purchased independently, or you can buy a wristband that will allow you to ride anything you want all day!

This 13-acre amusement park includes 37 rides and is a seaside park with an amazing view of the Grand Strand. 

For an unforgettable view, ride the Giant Wheel!

Don’t forget to ride the legendary Swamp Fox. 

The Swamp Fox is one of 115 wooden coasters left in the U.S. and is the only one left operating in South Carolina.

This is one of the best things to do for families in Myrtle Beach — plan for some fun with the kids!

South Ocean Blvd sign Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Broadway at the Beach

Broadway at the Beach (1325 Celebrity Cir) is the most popular tourist area and offers a little bit of everything. 

For Myrtle Beach attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment — start at Broadway at the Beach!

Many of our recommendations are technically part of Broadway at the Beach; these are the ones you should definitely seek out while you’re here.

Broadway Theater

Check out the jaw-dropping performances at Broadway Theater (1195 Celebrity Cir) for a fun night out.

Get your tickets to see a show and enjoy an evening of entertainment in Myrtle Beach that you won’t soon forget!

Myrtle Beach South Carolina at night

Pavilion Park Fun Park

Pavilion Park Fun Park (1171 Celebrity Cir) is also nestled in Broadway at the Beach.

As Myrtle Beach’s largest theme park, you’ll want to spend some time partaking in all the fun rides and activities available at Pavilion Park Fun Park.

This is a family-friendly place to visit in Myrtle Beach, in case you’re bringing along the kiddos.

The Pavillion Parks also include the Action Park for those of you seeking a little more adrenaline-fueled fun!

WonderWorks

WonderWorks (1313 Celebrity Cir) is definitely one of the must-see places in Myrtle Beach!

This upside-down house and amusement park for the mind combines education and entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to stand in hurricane-force winds of up to 74 miles per hour?

Perhaps you’ve always wanted to play with a Tesla coil?

Do you want to maneuver the controls of a NASA spacecraft? 

Maybe you want to lay on a bed of nails? 

With over 100 hands-on exhibits and rides, WonderWorks is always worth the visit!

Backstage MirrorMaze

Mirror mazes are a mind-bending experience that will challenge the entire family! 

Backstage MirrorMaze (1314 Celebrity Cir #165) is an over 2,000-foot mirror maze with dead ends, surprising corners, rainbow lights, and continuous circles. 

This is a fun-filled activity you won’t forget!

Legends in Concert

Have you ever wanted to watch Elvis in concert? 

Michael Jackson, Dolly Parton, or perhaps Johnny Cash? 

Legends in Concert (2925 Hollywood Dr.) has some of the best celebrity look-a-likes that use their own voices and moves to make the show electrifying. 

It really sends you back in time to relive the legendary musicians we all recognize and love!

Get your tickets on GetYourGuide or Viator and enjoy a 5-act show for pure entertainment.

Elton John Tribute Show

More of an Elton John fan?

Then you can’t miss the Elton John Tribute Show!

Grab your tickets and enjoy nearly two hours of an impersonation tribute to the legend himself, Sir Elton John.

Hollywood Wax Museum

Stop by the Hollywood Wax Museum (1808 21st Ave N. Unit A) to take some awesome selfies with iconic celebrities.

Of course, they’re all wax models, but some look so realistic! 

Meet several of your favorite stars, from Robin Williams to Audrey Hepburn, Lucille Ball, Owen Wilson, and so many more.

Get your tickets and smile for the camera!

Myrtle Waves Water Park

Myrtle Beach has the second-largest water park in all of South Carolina: Myrtle Waves Water Park (150 Citizens Cir). 

This park has over 30 water slides and a wave pool, and was voted one of the best waterparks in the country!

Broadway Grand Prix

Head to Broadway Grand Prix (1820 21st Ave N) to try 7 different go-cart tracks or the 20,000-game arcade with over 90 arcade games including Nerf, Lane Master, and Hot Wheels.

This location also includes two 18-hole mini golf courses, rock climbing walls, a sky coaster, and bumper boats with a new Flight Simulator that feels like you are riding a real roller coaster!

You certainly cannot go wrong at this attraction as there is something for everyone!

TopGolf

TopGolf (2850 Robert M. Grissom Pkwy) is a sports entertainment complex with a full drink and food menu. 

Think of this sort of like a bowling alley…but for golf.

Don’t worry if golf isn’t your thing, there is a list of golf games to choose from that vary from beginner to expert levels. 

There is also a nice lounge area, TVs, music, and an overall fun vibe.

Vicini’s Restaurant and Pizza

If you want authentic Italian food, Vicini’s (5001 N Kings Hwy #105) is your place! 

The chefs at this family-run restaurant put their heart and soul into every dish. 

With menu options like chicken parmigiana, penne bolognese, manicotti, cavatelli meat sauce, chicken Marsala, and a variety of delicious brick oven-cooked pizzas, you will taste love and flavor in every bite.

The Dunes Golf & Beach Club

Myrtle Beach is known as a golfer’s destination, with over 100 courses in the area.

If you’re an avid golfer, try to get yourself a tee time at the prestigious Dunes Golf & Beach Club (9000 North Ocean Blvd).

This is a semi-private golf course, so if you know a member you can play as a guest.

Alternatively, if you’re a member at another PGA private club, you could play on a reciprocal offer.

There are also a few select hotels in the area that can help you get a tee time; call the club for more details.

Golf ball on a tee in front of a golf club

Chile Frito

Don’t let its small size fool you, the food at Chile Frito (4022 River Oaks Dr.) comes with big flavor! 

When you first come in, they give you chips and salsa to enjoy as you make your choices. 

From quesadillas to sopa de mariscos, tacos to chimichangas, you will certainly leave this restaurant full and very happy.

Coastal Grand Mall

Whether it’s raining outside or you just want the comfort of A/C while you shop Coastal Grand Mall (2000 Coastal Grand Cir) is a grand (pun intended) place to visit. 

Coastal Grand has roughly 170 specialty stores such as Belk, JCPenney, Earthbound Trading Company, Hot Topic, and various others.

It also houses a movie theater and a very tasty food court. 

If the food court doesn’t tickle your fancy, restaurants such as Abuelo’s, Texas Roadhouse, and Tokyo Japan are easily found in the area surrounding the mall.

History and Ghosts Trolley Tour

Ready for some Myrtle Beach sightseeing opportunities?

Take this 2-hour trolley tour to learn about the prominent families of Myrtle Beach…plus some ghost stories!

Head to Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island with a fully narrated tour to learn more about the area over the centuries.

You’ll make a few stops along the way and cover lots of ground away from the main strip of Myrtle Beach.

TPC Myrtle Beach

The Tournament Players Club of Myrtle Beach — or simply TPC Myrtle Beach (1199 Tpc Blvd) — is a public 18-hole golf course that is both challenging and enjoyable.

Located in Murrells Inlet, the course is conveniently located away from the main strip of Myrtle Beach without requiring a long drive at all.

Previously a host for the Senior PGA Tour Championship, TPC Myrtle Beach is an idyllic option for golfers looking for a tee time while on vacation in Myrtle Beach.

TPC Golf Course View in Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Brookgreen Gardens

At the far southern end of Myrtle Beach in Murrells Inlet, visit Brookgreen Gardens and learn about the Gullah Geechee.

During the 18th and 19th Centuries, South Carolina was a prominent location for rice plantations where enslaved people were forced to work.

Gullah is a Creole language that emanated from the blend of African dialects of those peoples; the Gullah Geechee Heritage Corridor is now a federally-recognized National Heritage Area that spans much of the US southeast from Wilmington, NC, down to St. Augustine, FL.

If you’re looking for things to do in Myrtle Beach away from the main strip, Brookgreen Gardens’ Gullah Geechee Programs are always a great idea.

Go to the Gullah Geechee Gaardin, walk the Lowcountry Trail, and listen to the “Seen, Heard, Esteemed” audio tour.

Download the Brookgreen Gardens app to learn more during your visit.

Giant Oaks at Brookgreen Gardens in Myrtle Beach South Carolina

The Giant Crab

If seafood is what you’re craving, you might want to flounder over to the Giant Crab (9597 N. Kings Hwy). 

This award-winning restaurant is one of the highest quality all-you-can-eat seafood restaurants in the Myrtle Beach area. 

It’s not just food, it’s an experience!

Miyabi Japanese Steak & Seafood

Miyabi Japanese Steak & Seafood (9732 N Kings Hwy) will make your mouth water. 

Gather around the hibachi grill and watch the chef prepare your food and put it on your plate in real time. 

This restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere, and you definitely will go home full!

Tanger Outlets 

If your passion is to shop til you drop, Tanger Outlets has not one, but two locations to conquer (10835 Kings Rd and 4635 Factory Stores Blvd).

The Highway 17 location at 10835 Kings Road includes 97 different outlet retailers.

Some of these stores include Vera Bradley, Adidas, Polo Ralph Lauren, and other top brands.

The Tanger Outlets Highway 501 location includes 82 different stores ranging from Under Armour, to Rawlings, Nautica, Lane Bryant, and many other household favorites. 

These two locations share only a handful of stores, so it’s worth shopping at each of them. 

If you’re a fan of deals, make sure to visit Tanger Shopper Services before going on your shopping venture. 

Tanger has their own savings book that can be used at these retailers for even better prices than they already offer!

House of Blues

Head to the House of Blues (4640 Hwy 17 S.) for an unforgettable show!

Get tickets for the murder mystery dinner theatre or for one of your favorite singers or bands such as Lil Wayne, Fall Out Boy, or Bad Omens.

The House of Blues boasts some big acts and fun entertainment for all.

Mini Golf-Hawaiian Rumble

Not many know that Myrtle Beach is actually considered the mini golf capital of the world.

Hawaiian Rumble (3210 Hwy 17 S) hosts the Masters Mini Golf competition every year and is considered the world’s best mini golf course!

Hawaiian Rumble is just one of over 30 courses available in Myrtle Beach, but it’s one you should definitely seek out during your visit.

Shark Wake Park 843

Myrtle Beach is one of the most adventurous places you could visit, and Shark Wake Park only adds to that adventure. 

This water park has a huge over-the-water inflatable obstacle course to tackle. 

The course includes slides, climbing towers, cable boarding, and knee boarding all waiting for you to come and conquer.

Cherry Grove Beach

This is one of the biggest reasons everyone travels to Myrtle Beach: the beautiful beaches!

Cherry Grove Beach (6305 N Ocean Blvd) is one of the most popular beaches in Myrtle Beach.

Out of all of Cherry Grove Beach areas, one of the best-kept secrets is Cherry Grove Point. 

Cherry Grove Point is a small section of beach that’s completely secluded at the northernmost area of Cherry Grove Beach. 

Altogether, Myrtle Beach is a thing of natural beauty with 60 miles of uninterrupted beach. 

Spend hours on the beach soaking up the sun, surfing, or paddleboarding. 

It’s relaxing and one of our favorite free things to do at Myrtle Beach!

An aerial view of Myrtle Beach South Carolina

Final Words

While you might just think of getting a tan and splashing in the sea, there are so many more things to do at Myrtle Beach than just going to the beach!

We hope this guide has been a helpful start to planning your own trip from the sand to the strip and beyond.

Tell us your favorite local spots in the comments below!

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