Myrtle Beach is one of the most iconic coastal getaways in the Southeast, a place where wide sandy beaches, oceanfront boardwalks, nature preserves, and lively entertainment come together. Whether you’re traveling for relaxation, nightlife, scenic views, or family-friendly fun, this guide highlights the 10 best things to do in Myrtle Beach SC for first-time visitors.

Overview

Set along 60 miles of uninterrupted coastline known as the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach offers a blend of classic beach-town energy and quiet natural escapes. Visitors come for the warm Atlantic waters, boardwalk attractions, golf courses, piers, wildlife viewing, and long days in the sun. It’s an ideal destination for families, couples, solo travelers, and weekend adventurers exploring South Carolina’s coast.

10 Best Things to Do in Myrtle Beach SC

10. Experience a Live Show or Dinner Theater

Myrtle Beach is famous for its entertainment scene. From country music and acrobatics to comedy shows and themed dinner productions like Pirates Voyage or Medieval Times, evenings along the Grand Strand are packed with options. It’s a great way to end a busy day of exploring.

9. Wander Barefoot Landing

Located in North Myrtle Beach, Barefoot Landing blends boardwalks, waterfront dining, boutique shops, wildlife exhibits, and nightly entertainment along the Intracoastal Waterway. Don’t miss a sunset walk or a show at the Alabama Theatre.

8. Explore the Myrtle Beach Piers

The piers each have their own charm. Visit 2nd Avenue Pier for classic oceanfront views, Apache Pier for the longest wooden pier on the East Coast, and Cherry Grove Pier for a peaceful place to watch the sunrise. They’re all great for fishing, photography, or a slow stroll over the water.

7. Visit Murrells Inlet MarshWalk

The famous Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is a historic fishing village that offers fresh seafood, live music, kayaking tours, dolphin cruises, and a relaxing waterfront boardwalk known as the MarshWalk. It’s a scenic sunset spot and one of the best food experiences in the region.

6. Check Out Brookgreen Gardens

A mix of sculpture gardens, wildlife habitats, historic sites, and tranquil pathways, Brookgreen Gardens is one of the most beautiful places in the Southeast. Visitors can explore art installations, oak-lined pathways, butterfly gardens, and boat tours through Lowcountry rivers.

5. Relax at Huntington Beach State Park

South of Myrtle Beach lies a pristine coastal preserve with quiet beaches, marsh boardwalks, birdwatching, and the Spanish-inspired Atalaya Castle. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for photography, wildlife viewing, and uncrowded beach time.

4. Visit Broadway at the Beach

Built around a large lake, Broadway at the Beach is one of the top entertainment complexes in the region. Shop, dine, enjoy amusement rides, or explore attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and WonderWorks. It’s ideal for rainy days or evenings out.

3. Explore Myrtle Beach State Park

Tucked just minutes from downtown, this state park features shaded nature trails, a long fishing pier, picnic shelters, and one of the quietest sections of the Grand Strand. It’s one of the best places for an early-morning beach walk or peaceful afternoon in nature.

2. Ride the SkyWheel

The SkyWheel rises nearly 200 feet above the ocean, offering sweeping views of the Grand Strand. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting, but the wheel’s nighttime light show is also a must-see for first-time visitors.

1. Walk the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The heart of Myrtle Beach, this 1.2-mile oceanfront boardwalk is filled with restaurants, shops, arcades, piers, live music, and scenic viewpoints. Visit early for calm ocean breezes or return at night when the boardwalk comes alive with vibrant beach-town energy.

Hidden Gems

Vereen Memorial Historical Gardens: A quiet coastal escape near the North Carolina border with boardwalk loops, marsh views, and peaceful walking trails.

Waites Island: A beautiful, undeveloped barrier island accessible by kayak or guided tour — perfect for those who love untouched beaches.

Heritage Shores Nature Preserve: A lesser-known boardwalk network in North Myrtle Beach surrounded by wetlands and wildlife.

The Hammock Shops Village: A charming Pawleys Island collection of artisan boutiques, handmade goods, and local food stops.

Horry County Bike & Run Park: Locally known as “The Hulk,” this park offers winding forest trails ideal for biking, running, or escaping the crowds.

Best Time to Visit Myrtle Beach SC

Spring (March–May): Warm weather, fewer crowds, great for beach days.
Summer (June–August): The most popular time — warm ocean water and lively nights.
Fall (September–October): Still warm, less crowded, and great for outdoor activities.
Winter (November–February): Quiet, budget-friendly, and ideal for peaceful coastal visits.

5-Day Sample Myrtle Beach Itinerary

Day 1: Boardwalk + Oceanfront Classics

• Walk the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
• Visit 2nd Avenue Pier
• Ride the SkyWheel
• Explore arcades and shops
• Dinner with oceanfront views

Day 2: Nature + State Parks

• Sunrise at Myrtle Beach State Park
• Afternoon at Huntington Beach State Park
• Explore Atalaya Castle
• Dinner in Murrells Inlet
• Sunset stroll on the MarshWalk

Day 3: Entertainment + Indoor Attractions

• Spend the morning at Broadway at the Beach
• Visit Ripley’s Aquarium or WonderWorks
• Walk around the lakefront shops
• Grab dinner and attend a live show

Day 4: North Myrtle Beach + Coastal Views

• Wander Barefoot Landing
• Explore Heritage Shores Nature Preserve
• Visit Apache Pier or Cherry Grove Pier
• Take a dolphin cruise or kayak tour
• Sunset dinner along the Intracoastal Waterway

Day 5: Culture + Coastal Adventures

• Visit Brookgreen Gardens
• Walk the Lowcountry sculpture trails
• Explore a hidden gem like Vereen Gardens or Waites Island
• Afternoon beach time at your favorite spot
• End with a final boardwalk stroll or dinner show

Where to Stay in Myrtle Beach

Packing List

• Beachwear and swimsuits
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Light layers for evenings
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Beach towel and daypack
• Reusable water bottle
• Camera or phone for photos

Related

• Savannah Georgia
• St. Augustine Florida
• Orange beach Alabama

Final Thoughts

Myrtle Beach is more than a classic beach vacation, it’s a place where lively boardwalks, quiet state parks, scenic piers, and Lowcountry charm meet. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a relaxing coastal escape, these 10 best things to do in Myrtle Beach SC will help you plan an unforgettable first visit to South Carolina’s Grand Strand.

10 Best Things to Do in Charleston SC