Things to Do in Myrtle Beach: The Complete Visitor Guide
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Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast, and for good reason. From oceanfront attractions and live entertainment to beautiful beaches and family activities, the area offers something for every type of traveler.
Located along the famous Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach blends lively attractions with scenic coastal experiences. Many visitors spend their days exploring the boardwalk, enjoying amusement parks, discovering live music, or relaxing on the beach.
This guide highlights some of the best things to do in Myrtle Beach and introduces nearby destinations worth exploring during your visit.
Explore the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade is one of the most iconic attractions in the area. Stretching along the oceanfront in downtown Myrtle Beach, the boardwalk is filled with restaurants, shops, arcades, and entertainment.
Visitors often spend hours walking along the ocean, stopping for ice cream, enjoying live performers, and watching the waves roll in.
Nearby gathering areas also host seasonal events and live entertainment throughout the year. One of the most popular spots for community events is Nance Plaza in downtown Myrtle Beach, where visitors can enjoy festivals, concerts, and special events.
Visit Family Kingdom Amusement Park
Family Kingdom Amusement Park is one of the few oceanfront amusement parks remaining in the United States. Located right beside the beach, it offers classic rides and family-friendly attractions.
The park features roller coasters, carnival rides, and the historic Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster. Across the street, visitors will also find the Splashes Oceanfront Water Park with water slides and splash zones.
Live Music and Nightlife
Myrtle Beach has a vibrant live music scene. Visitors can enjoy local bands, beach music, and concerts at venues across the area.
Popular entertainment spots include beachfront bars, music halls, and outdoor venues that host seasonal performances throughout the summer months.
Live entertainment is a long-standing tradition along the Grand Strand and adds a lively atmosphere to the evenings after a day at the beach.
Enjoy the Beaches of the Grand Strand
The coastline known as the Grand Strand stretches roughly 60 miles along South Carolina’s coast. These wide sandy beaches attract millions of visitors every year.
Many travelers enjoy spending their mornings walking along the shore, swimming, or simply relaxing under an umbrella while listening to the ocean waves.
While the central Myrtle Beach area is lively and energetic, visitors often explore quieter sections of the coastline located just a short drive away.
Explore Downtown Myrtle Beach
Downtown Myrtle Beach continues to grow as a destination for entertainment, dining, and community events.
Visitors can explore restaurants, entertainment venues, beach access points, and public gathering spaces. Throughout the year the area hosts festivals, concerts, and seasonal celebrations.
Public spaces like Nance Plaza have become important gathering areas where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Myrtle Beach.
Discover North Myrtle Beach
Just a short drive north, North Myrtle Beach offers a different pace of coastal life. Many visitors choose this area for its quieter beaches, family-friendly neighborhoods, and classic beach traditions.
North Myrtle Beach is known for wide beaches, fishing piers, waterfront restaurants, and the famous shag dancing culture along Ocean Drive.
Staying in North Myrtle Beach allows visitors to enjoy a peaceful coastal atmosphere while remaining close to all the attractions of Myrtle Beach.
Planning Your Myrtle Beach Vacation
Whether you are looking for lively attractions, oceanfront entertainment, or relaxing beach days, the Myrtle Beach area offers countless experiences.
Many travelers choose to stay just minutes away in North Myrtle Beach, where spacious vacation rentals and oceanfront condos provide the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the Grand Strand.
Thomas Beach Vacations has been helping families plan memorable beach vacations for more than 60 years.
Call (866) 249-2100 or visit northmyrtlebeachvacations.com
to find the perfect North Myrtle Beach vacation rental for your next getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrtle Beach
What are the most popular things to do in Myrtle Beach?
Some of the most popular activities include visiting the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, enjoying the rides at Family Kingdom Amusement Park, relaxing on the beaches of the Grand Strand, attending live music events, and exploring restaurants and entertainment in downtown Myrtle Beach.
Is Myrtle Beach good for family vacations?
Yes. Myrtle Beach is considered one of the best family vacation destinations on the East Coast. Families enjoy the beaches, amusement parks, mini golf courses, water parks, and many entertainment options designed for visitors of all ages.
What is the difference between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach?
Myrtle Beach is the central tourist area known for its busy boardwalk and entertainment districts. North Myrtle Beach is located a short drive north and offers a quieter coastal atmosphere with wide beaches, fishing piers, and family-friendly vacation communities.
What is the best time of year to visit Myrtle Beach?
Spring, summer, and early fall are the most popular times to visit Myrtle Beach. Warm weather, ocean activities, festivals, and live entertainment make these seasons ideal for beach vacations.
Where should families stay when visiting Myrtle Beach?
Many families choose to stay in North Myrtle Beach because it offers a quieter environment while still being close to Myrtle Beach attractions. Oceanfront condos and vacation homes provide comfortable accommodations for families visiting the Grand Strand.