Introduction
If you’re like me—someone who’s always looking for that perfect blend of sun, beach, fun and relaxation—then a getaway to Myrtle Beach, SC hit all the right notes. I arrived expecting a typical beach vacation and left with memories of boardwalk rides, sunset strolls, surprise mini‑golf adventures, and more than a few “I’ll come back for this” moments. Below are the 12 Best & Fun Things To Do in Myrtle Beach—the places I enjoyed most and believe you will too.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Myrtle Beach, SC (2025)
1. Lounge on the Sandy Beaches of the Grand Strand
Let’s start where every beach trip begins: the sand, the waves, the sun. Myrtle Beach sits on the famous “Grand Strand,” offering miles of shoreline to stroll, swim, sunbathe or just sit back and listen. According to travel guides, some of the best free things to do are simply enjoying the beach itself.
Why I loved it: On my first morning I walked along the wet‑sand edge at dawn, felt the breeze, saw a pelican glide low over the water—it grounded me.
Tip: Bring a beach towel, sunscreen and maybe a book. For the quieter experience, go early before the crowds arrive.
2. Walk the Iconic Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade
One of the most celebrated spots is the boardwalk: a 1.2‑mile stretch along the oceanfront filled with sights, sounds and fun.
Why I loved it: I spent a late afternoon strolling the boardwalk, stopping at a café overlooking the pier, watching kids ride rides, evening light shimmering on the sea.
Tip: Arrive around sunset for beautiful lighting. Keep some change for a pier walk or maybe a ride on something fun.
See Also: 50 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Pennsylvania
3. Ride the SkyWheel for Ocean Views
For a bird’s‑eye view of the coastline, the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach is hard to beat—nearly 200 feet tall and positioned right on the boardwalk.
Why I loved it: I hopped in a gondola as twilight settled. The coast stretched beneath me, the lights came on, the sea shimmered—pure vacation magic.
Tip: If you’re not a fan of heights, choose a lower‑time slot or sit on the boardwalk below and take in the lights from the ground.
4. Explore Broadway at the Beach & Ripley’s Aquarium
If you’re looking for a mix of shopping, dining and family‑friendly fun, this place delivers. The complex at Broadway at the Beach features luminous attractions including Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach and plenty of photo‑op stops.
Why I loved it: One afternoon I wandered its paths, popped into an interactive exhibit, grabbed a gelato and watched street performers.
Tip: If you’re visiting with family or for a fun afternoon detour, plan 2‑3 hours here.
5. Play Mini Golf—It’s The Mini Golf Capital!
Did you know Myrtle Beach is known as the “mini‑golf capital of the world”? Over 50 themed courses await.
Why I loved it: One evening I joined a 18‑hole pirate ship mini‑golf course—it was goofy, fun, and perfect for a laid‑back competition with friends.
Tip: Evening courses are great when it cools down. Bring some coins or a credit card for the fun extras.
6. Visit State Parks for Nature & Quiet Time
If you crave a little nature adventure away from the hustle, check out Myrtle Beach State Park or Huntington Beach State Park for trails, marshes and peaceful beachfront.
Why I loved it: On a quieter morning I walked a trail shaded by trees, saw birds along a marsh and then emerged by the ocean for a peaceful contrast.
Tip: Bring comfortable shoes, bug spray maybe, and a camera for nature shots. Entrance fees are modest.
7. Catch a Show or Dinner Theatre Experience
When you’re done with the sand and sun, Myrtle Beach offers evening entertainment like Musicals, dinner‑shows and themed theatres. For example, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show delivers acrobatics, pirates and a hearty meal
Why I loved it: One night I dressed up a bit, enjoyed a themed dinner‑show—lights, music, spectacle—all while dining.
Tip: Book ahead especially for peak season. Arrive early to get a good place and enjoy the pre‑show ambiance.
8. Enjoy Wholesome Family Fun (Aquarium, Arcade, Indoor Options)
From indoor amusements to aquariums, you’ll find adult‑friendly and kid‑friendly options. The upside‑down façade of WonderWorks Myrtle Beach invites play, learning and laughs.
Why I loved it: On a rainy afternoon I ducked into WonderWorks, tried out interactive exhibits and enjoying the “kid in an adult body” feeling.
Tip: If weather changes or you want a break from sand, this kind of stop is perfect.
9. Golf, Fishing, & Pier Walks for Active Fun
Whether you’re a golfer or just want a scenic stroll, Myrtle Beach has options. The piers provide fishing, walks or vantage‑points of sea and skyline.
Why I loved it: I walked along a wooden pier at dusk, leaned on the rail, watched the waves and felt the salt air—simple yet impactful.
Tip: Fishing piers often require small admission or rod rental; walking piers might be free or inexpensive.
10. Dine with a View & Savor Local Seafood
No vacation is complete without good meals. Myrtle Beach offers seafood, ocean‑front restaurants, and places where you dine with waves in view.
Why I loved it: On one evening I booked a table overlooking the ocean, ordered shrimp & grits, and watched sunset glow on the water—a perfect bookend to activity‑filled days.
Tip: Sunset dinner tables go quickly—reserve if you can. Ask for the local catch and enjoy a coastal specialty.
11. Take a Sunset Cruise or Water Adventure
For a change of pace, consider a boat trip—sunset cruise, dolphin‑watch, parasailing. The Atlantic coast on the Grand Strand offers water‑based memories.
Why I loved it: I booked a short cruise just after golden hour. The sea breeze, the horizon, the peacefulness—it carved a pause in a busy day.
Tip: Check start times, dress in layers (wind is cooler on water) and bring a camera for that horizon shot.
12. Explore Nearby Nature & Cultural Gems (Brookgreen Gardens)
If you can venture just a little away from the main hub, places like Brookgreen Gardens (in nearby Murrells Inlet) offer sculpture gardens, history and nature.
Why I loved it: I took a half‑day trip there—walking among live‑oak trees draped in moss, sculptures scattered through gardens—an unexpected peacefulness.
Tip: Allocate 2‑3 hours. Bring a picnic maybe. Perfect for a slower day away from the beach bustle.
Final Thoughts
My trip to Myrtle Beach turned out to be a perfect blend of beach‑relaxation and active fun. From sandy strolls and Ferris‑wheel rides to mini‑golf laughter and sunset dinners, the town offered something for every mood. If I were giving quick travel advice: stay at least 3 full days, mix relaxing and activity, and give yourself one “just happen‑upon” stop—those end up being the best memories.
Here are a few travel take‑aways I collected:
- Book early for accommodation especially beachfront or near popular boardwalks.
- Pack for sun + sand (sunscreen, hat) but also something for evening breeze.
- Mix high‑energy stops (rides, mini golf, water parks) with low‑energy ones (sunset walks, nature parks).
- Consider non‑peak times for fewer crowds—early mornings are golden.
- Dine with a view—the ocean‑front restaurants add depth to your beach stay.
- Leave flexibility—some of my favourite moments weren’t planned (a pier stroll, a spontaneous ride, a tiny diner).
If I had to pick one favourite memory from the trip: it was a late evening walk along the boardwalk after dinner, the SkyWheel lights reflecting in the sand, the sea beside me, and a feeling of “yes, this was exactly what I needed.”